SoZo HAIR Salon Tips
Loose Waves, Messy Buns and Braids
With prom season rapidly approaching, we thought this would be the perfect time to feature an article on “Catwalk Hair”, or loose waves and up-dos perfect for your big night out. Formal hair styling has changed vastly over the last 20 years Not so long ago formal hair styling involved several hours of curling, a small ton of bobby pins and massive amounts of strong hold hairspray. Some current styles can still become rather intricate but, in general, the look of loose waves, messy buns, braids and hair left down, or, partially down rather than pinned up are all the rage, cutting your prep time and headache in half.
Prep That Hair
Pretty much any formal style will start with prepping the hair by adding a thermal protectant, a soft styling spray, and possibly a bit of dry shampoo to give the hair grit, and help it to hold its finished style. Next, your entire head will be set in large waves, or curls that will suit your finished style and give the hair added texture, making it easier to style. Your stylist will then break your hair into sections, making it easier for her to create your finished formal look, whether it’s a messy bun, a ponytail with a braid or a modern version of the classic french twist. After you are styled and pinned securely into place, your stylist will apply a finishing spray to hold everything for your big night out. If you have decided to wear your hair down, she will likely gently brush your curls or waves and skip right to the finishing spray, because no further styling would be required. The entire process should take roughly 45 minutes to an hour, with exceptions being made for longer lengths of hair, or additional services such as a wash and blow dry before styling.
Choosing A Style You’ll Be Comfortable With
There are a few important things to consider when picking your formal style, being that people have different hair lengths and textures. Try to pick something that you feel will properly suit both your hair length and texture, as well as the occasion. Hair extensions are often desired for special looks and can be put in for just the night. These will need to be purchased ahead of time and it helps to consult with your hair designer ahead of time so the extra time is allowed for adding them. It is NEVER a bad idea to bring your stylist a picture, and possibly have more than one option for her to look at. Not only does this help with the ease and speed of your consultation, but it will also give your stylist a creative idea of what you are looking for. She can then take different components from your choices and create a style for you that will not only be beautiful, but also unique. If you decide upon incorporating any type of flowers, ribbons or ornamentation into your style, be sure to purchase these items ahead of time and bring them with you. Not all salons or stylists keep items like this available and in stock, and if they do, your choices will likely be limited.
Meeting with your stylist and having a consultation prior to your big day will also benefit you, both in knowing what will work for your hair and also to ensure that there are no hiccups on your special day. This is also a great time to let your stylist know if you are unsure of what you are looking for. She can take this time to talk to you about likes and dislikes, as well as looking through photos to help the two of you create a beautiful style for your special occasion.
Caring For The Hair After A Formal Style
Formal styling can often be hard on your hair. There is usually a fair amount of heat, teasing, pinning and excessive product usage involved. Asking your stylist how to care for your hair after your big night is our last recommendation. Your stylist will be able to instruct you on the most gentle ways to take your hair down and cleanse it without creating damage from ripping a brush or comb through your product filled hair. Following these simple suggestions will make preparing for your special celebration much easier, and will also help with the aftermath of sticky, slept on hair the morning after. We look forward to servicing you and helping you create part of the magic of your big day!
About SoZo HAIR:
SoZo Salon Tips is a blog about beauty salon tips, tricks, and hints. SoZo HAIR by Bajon Salon & Spa serves the greater Cincinnati area. We are located in Olde West Chester at the corner of Cincinnati-Dayton and West Chester Rds. We’re just a short drive from Mason Oh and Fairfield Oh….a big city hair salon without the big drive and big traffic.
Karen Welch has 30 years of experience in the Hair Fashion Industry and is considered an expert in hair design and hair color and beauty makeovers.