It’s Not a Fad, It’s Ombré

Definition of Ombré

French Origin; Having colors or tones that shade into each other —used especially of fabrics in which the color is graduated from light to dark.

Most women would be lying if they were to say that they have never used the word "ombré" when discussing hair color ideas with their stylist. From drastic differences in color to gradual changes the look has been around for quite a while. I personally think the ombré hair color trend first arrived on the scene in the Sex and the City series. Carrie Bradshaw rocked this look in the later episodes of the show. The series ended in 2004 which means roughly about seven to eight years later the look really took off again. Lauren Conrad, The Kardashians, and every Victoria Secret model have been huge influences of this look.

So, why won't the look ever be just a fad? The answer is really quite simple. If done right; a gradual difference from dark to light and avoiding brassy tones, creates a look that is effortless and easy. Every woman wants to have that hair color that looks done but not too done, you know, perfect but not too perfect. Ombré creates that image. As ombré moves forward into the future you will notice a subtle difference from dark to light with maybe a few highlights through the top and sides to break up the color. So whether you like this look or not it is here to stay and who knows maybe like the very own definition of the word, ombré will gradually grow on you. 

Check out the following link to see what Cosmopolitan says are some of the best looks. I am loving look 1 and 10.

Cosmopolitan: The 12 Best Ombre Hair Looks Of All Time

Are You a "Mad" Woman?

Is anyone else as excited as I am for the Mad Men season 7 premiere this Sunday? I can't wait to see how the final season will end. Will Joan and Roger become an item? (I mean they have a love-child) Will Don find peace with himself by going back to his childhood home and those memories? What about Peggy, will she stay at the office? So many questions to be answered and you can bet I will be tuning into AMC to find them out.
Not only am I looking forward to the return of the Mad Men characters, I am also looking forward to the return of the Mad Men hairstyles. Don Draper has an excellent quote from the series which says, "Make it simple, but significant." However, when it comes to the hair on the show, there is nothing "simple" about it. Mad Men has captured the decade of 50's and 60's fashion to perfection. This is no easy task because this hair needs to be curled, set, teased, styled, pinned, brushed and hair-sprayed to a permanent hold. But every episode and every season the Mad Men hair stylists deliver a changing and evolving look that is a true reflection of the times.
For fun, I have included the memorable hair looks of Betty, Joan, Peggy and Megan, and want to know "What Mad Men Woman Are You?"

Are you a Betty? Classic beauty, Grace Kelly look-a-like and you only brake the mold when you're on a hot date.

Are you a Joan? Up-tight and professional. Your hair is always perfectly in its place because you are the type of woman who wants that in your hair and in your life.

Are you a Peggy? Despite some child-like tendencies to place your hair in a pony-tail, you are working your way up in the world and have the hairstyle to prove it.

Are you a Megan? You are stylish and Paris-chic! You are not afraid to try the fashion-forward trends of the decade.

I am looking forward to hearing your comments on what Mad Men woman you are! I have classified myself as a Megan Draper. Now, I just need to get to styling my hair and find that amazing wardrobe she has.

If you can't get enough of Mad Men fashion, I have also included the link to Mad Men Yourself which is a game that allows for you to create your own personal avatar from the show! Check it out.
Mad Men Yourself

I Spy Something I Like; The Half-Up Topknot

Let's be honest, since the topknot gained recognition as an acceptable and wearable hair style we have not let it go. Topknots are easy and effortless, well at least they look that way. Pinterest and hairstylists have been offering advice and tips on how to create the perfect topknot. But now the topknot has a sister, the half-up topknot and she is fun and worth trying out this spring and summer.

Whitney Port - Photo Courtesy of Birchbox.com

I have noticed appearances of this look on stylish celebrities and musicians from Kate Mara and London Grammar's front woman, Hanna Reid. The always fashionable Whitney Port is another endorser of the half-up topknot.

Kate Mara - Photo Courtesy of HawtCelebs.com

Hanna Reid - Photo Courtesy of Mads-Perch.com

These three looks show a variety of ways in which you can wear the half-up topknot.

For Kate: Start with a loose curl in the hair. Then section the hair down the middle and pull the sides back into a ponytail, placing the ponytail at the lower crown of the head. Then twist the hair into a bun and finish with a hairspray for hold.

For Whitney: Again, start with a loose curl throughout the hair. Then take a section from ear to ear, letting the hair fall loose and into a natural part. Secure the section with a ponytail and twist around to form a messy bun/knot. Finish by securing with bobby pins and hairspray.

For Hannah; Same idea as Whitney's look just leave out a few pieces in front for a bit of fringe. I also love the wave in her hair, a great undone but done look.

 I love how it takes the hair up and away from the face while still creating an easy and sexy-cool girl look. So of course I had to try it out. What do you think? Will you rock this look with me?

Yes.... or No?

I think YES!