Category Archives: hair

Experiments with Extensions with Dirty Looks

24th September 2014
It probably hasn’t escaped anyone’s notice that I’m a bit of a novice (to say the least) when it comes to hair, I take a wash and go approach- perhaps venturing in to the world of straighteners or tongs when I’m feeling really brave.

Dirty Looks asked me to do a “how-to” guide using some of their clip in hair extensions . I was a little reluctant at first, I’ve never considered using hair extensions before and I assumed they would be far beyond my capabilities, but in the spirit of things I decided to give it a go.

I had intended to do a step-by-step picture guide on how to use the extensions, but what I actually ended up with was a written guide + a few end results photos. Have you ever attempted to photograph yourself doing your own hair when your tripod has gone AWOL and no-one is around to help you? One word: impossible!
The first hurdle to overcome with the extensions was picking the right shade. I went for the colour “spiced auburn” in a 16″ to 18″ length. It turned out to be a pretty good match, although my current hair colour is currently a little darker, but as my hair is quite multi-tonal they blended in pretty well.

The box that arrived contained 7 wefts of various sizes- from one clip, to four. I wasn’t really sure where to start, but decided to try and work things out for my self and started by brushing out my hair so it was mostly straight, rather than my usual mass of waves as I felt things would blend better.

I used clips to divide my hair in to two sections, roughly top half and bottom half. My hair is really thick so I knew there would be plenty for the clips to grip on to, but people with finer hair might need to create some volume first!

I took the largest of the wefts, which contained four clips and positioned that along the divide in my hair, carefully snapping it in place. I found the clips really easy to use, both getting the extensions in and out- that was a relief as anything complex makes me want to give up! I then released the top section of my hair and gave it shake so it fell naturally over the extensions before adding in smaller wefts under my pre-existing layers to add volume and length.

These photos are after my first ever attempt so things aren’t looking their absolute best but I have promised myself I will practice and get to grips with these as it was brilliant to have longer, healthier looking hair and that bit of added volume.

If you have used clip-in extensions before then I’d really appreciate some hints and tips from you! If you haven’t then I would say don’t be afraid, invest in a decent set (mine was £89.99 for the full set but looked and felt amazing, and I do believe you get what you pay for) and have a play around. In hind sight I would have gone for the home-dye colour option for a more natural effect, but red hair is so variable anyway I think I got away with it!

This post was bought to you in collaboration with Dirty Looks. I wish I had managed to do a better guide for you and for them, but I don’t have a fancy photography set up or a live in photographer any more…hopefully someone will find it helpful though!

end

Posted in hair

Permalink 5 Comments

An old wives tail

23rd August 2014
I was blessed/cursed with super thick and naturally frizzy hair- thanks Mum! Over the years I have spent a fortune on products and tools to try and tame it to no avail. On a standard day I’ll just wash it and scrunch some mousse through it, give it a blast with the hair dryer then spritz with a sea-salt spray and call it styled. Embracing my natural waves, and having the bulk cut out of it every time I book in for a trim (rarely, oops!) means I now have some element of control over how my hair looks but the one thing I’ve never managed to achieve without the help of my smooth hair obsessive mother is silky and frizz free straightened hair.
I was recently contacted by Old Wives Tail who sell a selection of hair oils and treatments to cure all hair nightmares. They offered to send me one of their oil treatments to review which was kind of perfect timing, as having recently had my hair stripped and recoloured on top of my usual frizz battles I was in need of a helping hand!
I chose the Organic Clove & Jojoba Oil treatment (£13.99 for 100ml) which promises to provide hydration for dull, thinning, brittle or broken hair. Having very dry hair plays a massive role in my taming troubles so this sounded perfect, and despite having only used it once I am suitably impressed.
This was sat around for a while in my room before I got a chance to use it (hence why it’s a little split in photos) as it requires at least an hour on your head to really work, before washing as normal. Having an entire hour to do nothing much is a rare luxury these days but in the name of blogging I set some time aside and got testing.

First up this treatment smells amazing! I love the spicy scent of clove and enjoyed the somewhat calming smell of this the whole time it was sat on my head- and for a day or more after too. I had reservations about using something that is literally oil on my hair, especially as it sits around for so long, but by the time you come to shampooing this out it slips away easily leaving no greasy residue behind.

I can’t remember the last time my hair felt so silky soft and I’m determined to set aside more time to use this on a regular basis as the whole experience was lovely. The 100ml pot is going to last quite some time too as I found I didn’t need to use much, so it’s a bit of a bargain for such a luxurious feeling treat. With no animal testing, and being suitable for vegetarians and vegans this is a product that everyone can enjoy and I highly recommend checking out the entire range on the website. The next time I have some spare cash for treats I’m going to be picking up the Coco Loco organic Coconut Oil Hair Mask (£14.99 for 150ml) and I’ll be sure to report back

Have you tried any products from Old Wives Tail yet? I’d love to know what you’re loving.

end

Posted in hair, review

Permalink 4 Comments

Top 5 Wedding Hairstyles (a guest post)

24th July 2014
*Disclaimer: I’m not getting married, but I know lots of people who are so I hope you find some inspiration from this!
We all have bad hair days from time to time, but troublesome tresses are a big no no on your wedding day. When it comes time for you to walk down the aisle, you’ll no doubt want luxurious locks that perfectly complement your outfit. There are plenty of gorgeous styles to choose from, and here are five of the most popular.
1) Elegant waves

If you don’t like over complicating things, elegant waves might be just what you’re after. With this style, there’s no need for hundreds of hair pins. With some practice, you might feel confident enough to attempt the look yourself, or to get one of your bridesmaids to have a go. Just make sure you have your curling tongs and plenty of hairspray to hand. For a summer wedding, you can add a floral note by weaving some flowers in.

2) Classic bun

Another wedding favourite is the classic bun. This can be ideal if you want to keep your hair off your face and buns are great for hanging wedding veils off too. You can choose whether to go for neat versions or softer, looser arrangements. To boost volume and to achieve the perfect shape, use a sponge hair ring.

3) Understated side ponytail

If you’re not sure whether to have your hair up or down, a side ponytail could offer the ideal compromise. You get the benefit of having your hair tied back, which can be especially handy if you’re getting hitched outdoors, but you can also let your locks fall around your face. You may decide to curl your ponytail or wear it straight and sleek instead.

4) Simple chignon

It’s also worth considering the simple chignon. This sophisticated style works especially well with side partings and you add detail to it by plaiting sections of your hair. Kate Middleton is a fan of this style and she can often be seen sporting it to events.

5) Glamorous bouffant

For something a little more glam, you can opt for a bouffant style. These voluminous creations are certainly eye-catching. To get this look right though, you’ll need expert help. After all, it’s not easy to backcomb and arrange your hair from behind and, if this look goes wrong, it can go very wrong! Also, bear in mind that while you can wear a veil with these styles, it’s not wise to choose one that covers your hair. Instead, it’s best to attach your veil at the bottom of your bouffant and let it flow down your back.

Practice makes perfect
Whichever style you decide to go for on your big day, make sure you practice it. You’ll have enough to worry about when you’re getting ready to walk down the aisle without suffering last-minute panics about your hair.

If you’re styling your locks yourself or getting a friend to help, make sure you have at least one practice run. Meanwhile, even if you’re getting a professional to fix your hair, it pays off to have a trial. This way, you can make sure you’re totally satisfied with the end results.

Author bio: Anna Longdin writes regularly about fashion and beauty, and she visits sites including Marlows Diamonds to stay in touch with the top trends.

end

Posted in guest post, hair

Permalink 1 Comment

Sharing the Luck giveaway

02nd May 2014
Recently I was lucky enough to win a Facebook giveaway that Liz Earle were running and the prize was two bottles of the Botanical Shine Nourishing Hair Oil which I am absolutely loving. It’s going to last me a life time though, as you only need the teeny tiniest bit each time, so being the good natured person that I am, I thought I’d give the other bottle away to one of you guys!
Seriously, my hair loves this stuff. I used to be so hesitant to add oil to my hair incase it made it feel dirty or greasy, but since I started using this a couple of weeks ago I have noticed such an improvement in the condition of my hair!
If you fancy your chances at winning a bottle then just follow the simple instructions below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

end

Posted in giveaway, hair

Permalink 2 Comments

Wild and Free

13th January 2014

Dress: Pop Boutique at ASOS | Boots: New Look | Bag: c/o Flights of Nancy

Apart from looking like I’ve been dragged through a hedge backwards and therefore feeling a little less than satisfied with these photos it was really good fun to start taking some in a place other than my home or garden and I was glad I’d packed my camera when I went for some retail therapy with Trudi after work last Tuesday.

I’d coveted this dress for so long, so as soon as I saw it down to around £15 in the ASOS sale I knew I wanted it. It’s more fitted around the waist than I usually go for (trying to ditch the habit of always sizing up) but apart from the fact it’s super creased from a frantic morning at work I really love it. There’s something very Wednesday Addams about it.
To brighten up the otherwise all black outfit I added in my beloved Flights of Nancy satchel which was a generous gift from the girl herself the Christmas before last. I will never not love what she sells, my overnight bag comes with me on every weekend trip to Ben’s as well as on any other travels.
As you can see my hair has developed a mind of it’s own at the moment and just won’t settle down and behave. I’m kind of loving the colour right now, where my ends were bleached before there is now a pink tinge from the new colour fading out….but as ever, I’m wondering what to do next. Part of me wants to bleach it all out and go pastel, or stay red but chop it all off.
Will I ever be brave enough?
I really want to start taking more photos outside of the home but I think I’ll try and make sure I’m not pulling odd faces or have hair that looks like there is a ten force gale blowing next time!
Where are your favourite places to get photos?
P.S. I finally have my appointment with the neurosurgeon today, wish me luck! I really need to get my back sorted, it’s dragging me down.

Posted in hair, life stuff, outfits

Permalink 16 Comments