Amber Waves

Just because it’s different, doesn’t mean it’s scary
Just because it’s different, doesn’t mean we have to be afraid
Just because it’s different, doesn’t mean it’s scary
New things in life can be great

Try new things

–from “Just Because It’s Different” by I’m From Barcelona, via Yo Gabba Gabba

When it comes to fashion and beauty, I’ve never been much of a risk-taker.  I typically like more classic styles, maybe with a little bit of trendy thrown in.  But now that I’m a stay-at-home-mom, I’m not subject to dress codes and office policies, so I’m feeling more adventurous.  I’ve already tried denim leggings, bolder eye makeup, and dark nail polish.  And lately, I’ve really been loving the look of Ombré hair.

My hair has always been a source of pride for me, but I’ve never been especially daring with it.  In high school, I wore it waist-length and curly, and it was kind of my signature look.  People knew me as the girl with long, curly hair.  In college, I kept cutting it shorter and shorter, then growing it out, then cutting it again.  I’ve literally experienced all lengths and lots of styles, though I am a curly girl at heart and prefer to wear it that way.  I started coloring it in my mid-twenties, once my gray hair sprouted.  And last year, with the coaxing of my amazing stylist, Rhiana, at Stylin’ Salon here in Pflugerville, I tried highlights for the very first time, and I fell in love.

But lately, I’ve been itching to try something new, and there’s really only so much you can do with a short, curly bob.  And then I read this article by Harriet Charity Verney (the niece of  Isabella Blow) in September’s Vogue, and was immediately inspired.  Verney calls hair “an accessory,” similar to lipstick and nail polish, and since I’ve already mastered the “caramel-colored highlights” look, it was time to take the next step.

I keep regular hair appointments, typically rotating between color touch-ups and highlights, so I called Rhiana and asked her about trying Ombré, and she agreed that it would work!

So last Thursday, I entered the salon like this:

(Wrangling Rhys on the first day of school.)

And exited looking like this:

(At the salon. Can you see Rhiana’s awesome gold shoes?)

It was definitely a drastic change, and I have to admit that I’m still getting used to the blondness of it, but overall, I’m really pleased.  And here’s how I look with curly hair.

James told me I look like a “different lady,” and I kind of feel like one.  This is definitely the most daring fashion risk I’ve ever taken, but it’s just hair, so why not?  And I really think the look lends itself to curly hair, since it is kind of messy and unstructured, just like my head.

Plus, I already have my next appointment scheduled, and Rhiana assures me I can change things up again easily, like any good accessory.  I’ll keep you posted!