Fall is the ultimate fresh start. After three months of carefree summer days, where the dress code is as relaxed as your plans for a long weekend, fall signals the time to get back to work or school. Just as important as updating your wardrobe for the change in season is updating the way you care for and style your hair.
Assess the Damage
Summer plans probably took priority over hitting the salon for regular trims and color touch ups. Now’s the time to take a good look at the condition of your hair.
Split ends, brassy or sun-faded highlights and chlorine-damaged locks are three common afflictions you may be suffering from. To get the healing process started, give yourself a deep conditioning treatment.
Choose an extra-thick deep conditioner; coat your hair from root to tip. Cover your head with a shower cap. If you don’t have one, wrap your head in plastic wrap.
Blast your entire head with a warm hairdryer for 3-5 minutes. The shower cap will seal in the heat from the hairdryer, helping your hair follicles open up and take on more of the moisture from the deep conditioner.
Update Your Cut and Color
The classic fall color palette, which you’ll see in clothes, makeup and even jewelry, combines rich reds, warm browns and jewel tones. Use your hair color to compliment these colors.
If you’re a brunette, think about going a shade darker – like a chocolate or chestnut brown. If you’re a blonde, add a few lowlights to infuse depth into your color. For redheads, color fade is always an issue. Invest in a color-enhancing shampoo to keep your red as rich as possible.
Fall haircuts and styles are typically more structured than those worn throughout spring and summer. Humidity and frizz are less of a concern, so now’s the time to pull out the flat iron for long, straight hair.
Experiment with blunt bangs or a short bob. If you’re not up for a major cut, try one of these easy sophisticated styles.
Chignon
A chignon is one of the most classic of all hairstyles. While the polished result may seem complicated, you can create this knot in just a few simple steps.
- Start with dry, smooth hair. Spray it all over with hairspray to add some texture; this will ensure the knot stays in place.
- Pull hair into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck. Secure the ponytail with an elastic band.
- Divide ponytail into two sections. Take one section and twist it, as if you are twisting a rope. Wrap the twisted section around the elastic band, tuck and secure the tail with a bobby pin. Repeat with second section.
- Pin stray hairs into the knot with additional bobby pins if necessary, or let the ends stick out for a more casual version. You can add jeweled pins or a headband for added impact.
Sleek Side Ponytail
A sleek side ponytail is a flattering style that’s easy to pull off. By keeping the tail low (right below the ear is best), you’ll look stylish instead of looking juvenile.
- Start with dry hair. Using a 1” curling iron, curl large sections of your hair. This will give your side ponytail a little bounce.
- Create a deep side part. Use a paddle brush to smooth the hair on either side of the part.
- With the brush and your hands, pull hair from one side of your head to the other, forming a ponytail.
- Secure the ponytail with an elastic right below your ear.
- Finish the look with a shot of shine-enhancing spray.
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Thanks to Sara of Bombshell Beauty for writing this article for Misikko!
Chignon photo courtesy of InStyle.
