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Winter Colour Hair Inspiration
At some point, we all have to crawl out from under the doona and so I take solace in a few winter rituals to make this bearable.
My mood can get a little low in the dark days of mid-winter. On days when the temperature never gets to double figures, it's easy to think laying in bed is the best way to spend the day. But inevitably, at some point, we all have to crawl out from under the doona and so I take solace in a few winter rituals to make this bearable.
Each morning I enjoy a few moments sitting quietly in the sunshine. The sun pours into our spare bedroom at this time of year. It really brightens my outlook and helps me get a good dose of vitamin D. I'll also have a mug of my new favourite winter drink - roasted dandelion and chicory with milk and sugar. It's my coffee alternative and warms me up in the morning.
Then it's usually time to gear up and head out to meet one of my beautiful clients. Which brings me to the subject of this post - the winter colour inspirations clients are sharing with me.
I really believe these rich hair colours can transform your mood and everyone around you. Winter doesn't have to be a time for boring hair. We often wear a lot of dark colours this time of year, and your hair can really complement your wardrobe with some winter inspired tones.
Cinnamon chocolate
Cinnamon and chocolate are classic flavours to savour in warm milk on a cold evening just before bed. But they can also create a stunning effect in hair. This example is rich and warm. It's full of texture and would look great tied up, braided or worn long and loose.
Sunset spectrum
Canberra sunsets are just so spectacular, particularly in winter when the crisp air and high clouds radiate colours from bright pink and magenta to burnt orange and reds. Pretty much any colour on this spectrum is ripe for hair colour inspiration. Debra Messing nailed this back in February (her winter) with this stunning burnt orange full colour. Blown out like this it's simply radiant and will turn heads on the dreariest of winter days.
Caramel ombre
And then there is caramel...the most delicious of colours! Maybe my love of caramel fudge sundaes makes me a little biased but I believe this hair, with dark roasted coffee roots fading to a light caramel towards the ends is almost perfect. It's playful, stylish and easy to maintain.
So there you have it; Three winter colour inspirations to warm you up. But there is plenty of other inspiration out there. I recommend taking some time out of your day to sit in the sun, enjoy a warm drink and unleash your creativity. You might decide it's time for a fresh new colour yourself. And, if so I would be delighted to help :)
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
A Cheap Hairdresser or a Great Value Hair Service?
Less money spent on your hair today means more in your pocket tomorrow. But is a cheap haircut going to be worth it?
There is a big difference between a cheap hairdresser and a great value hair cut or colour. On the one hand, cheap sounds good. Less money spent on your hair today means more in your pocket tomorrow. But is a cheap haircut going to be worth it?
To see my current prices head over to my mobile hairdressing services.
What services do you need? Just a haircut? A full head of foils? Maybe you're trying to rescue your hair from previous damage? Each requires specialised skills and the costs vary greatly.
And there is more to consider than just $$$. What about your time? With travel, waiting and the time to complete your service many people spend up to five hours having their hair done every six weeks. That's more than a full day each year!
So, are you looking for a cheap hairdresser or are you looking for a great value hair service?
The difference between a cheap hairdresser and great value
A cheap hairdresser is like buying a shirt from Supré. Sure it covers your boobs (well mostly), but you know it won't ever be the same after a wash. Great value is buying a pair of G-Star jeans. You know they'll hold their shape long after you've donated them to Vinnie's. Cheap is McDonalds Loose Change Menu. Great value is the buffet at the Burn's Club. I think you get the picture.
When it comes to hairdressing, value is a combination of:
skills and experience of the hairdresser
quality of products used
attention you receive during the service
value of your time
results
and price (obviously).
A more expensive hair service isn't automatically better either. For example, I use ColourDesign to colour most clients. It's a professional brand with a 20-year history of vibrancy, shine, and rich lustrous results. But, it's also one of the least expensive professional products on the market. For the same reason, I don't use Olaplex because I don't feel it significantly improves the quality of my service.
My choice of product means, I don't have to charge my clients for unnecessary product costs, but I can still offer a high-quality service.
The extra value of mobile hairdressing
For many people, mobile hairdressing offers a value that you won't find in a salon. Mobile hairdressing saves you time and lots of hassle. It's flexible with your schedule. Plus, you can have a private and personal service at home without the noise and distraction of a salon.
Saving you time (and potentially money)
What's the value of your time? Is it just your hourly wage? Is it worth more to avoid busy car parks, being asked to wait long after your appointment time, the constant whine of a hairdryer, the nosey looks of strangers in mirrors? Do you have to find someone to look after kids? Or do you have to sacrifice your own work to fit in with a salons schedule?
You avoid all this when a hairdresser comes to your home. That traffic and parking is my problem. Plus, you could check your kid's homework, catch up on MAFS or mix a mojito while your hair processes. Seriously, I've had clients book their colour appointments together and it was more like a party than a visit to a salon!
How much time you spend on your hair starts to add up quickly. Having your hair cut or coloured at home can save you time and money.
100% about you
In a Salon, to maximise income, your hairdresser may be working on up to three clients at the same time. You're certainly not their priority at every moment. Not to mention the salons where you are passed on from one staff member to another and you hope everyone is on the same page.
Most salon staff, most of the time, will be able to handle this and give you their best services, but sadly I've heard many stories from clients of toner left on too long, or even the wrong colour being used when instructions have been confused with a client in another chair.
In these situations, no-one has ownership of the final product, and that product is your hair! It's a little scary. You wouldn't accept the same things from your dentist so why should you be okay with it at a salon?
When you have an appointment with me you get 100 per cent of my time and attention. My only goal is delivering you outstanding hair every time and this level of attention comes at no extra cost.
You have plenty of choices
There are over 200 hairdressers listed in Canberra. Some are more expensive than others but to stay busy, most salons price their services competitively, and I am no exception.
Although I have fewer overheads (no rent, chair fee, rates etc), I do have to run my vehicle and I can't benefit from stacking up multiple clients at the same time. Also, I have to consider the time I spend travelling between appointments. I don't charge a travel fee because travelling is part of being a mobile hairdresser but I do have a minimum service fee of $50.
Always ask for a quote up front. You have a right to know the expected costs of a service, before that service commences. In a salon, a price list is just a guide so you should check the cost with your hairdresser after they've consulted you on what you want done.
If you're offered additional services during the appointment (such as a treatment or massage) check if it's included in quoted price. You should never be surprised with additional costs when it's time to pay.
So, while a cheap hairdresser will set you back a little less, you have to consider if it's the best value hair service. Does it save you time, are you getting a personal service and 100 per cent focus from your hairdresser.
I really feel the value my mobile hairdressing service offers easily matches any comparable salon service.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
Going Blond (Part 2)
First, do not attempt it yourself...please. Box colours are dangerous and can cause scalp burns, chemical haircuts and even brain damage.
How do you get to blonde?
First, do not attempt it yourself...please. Box colours are dangerous and can damage hair that is already compromised. More seriously, they can cause scalp burns, chemical haircuts and even brain damage.
When I'm colouring your hair I will assess:
your hair condition. I will never use a bleaching product stronger than necessary. I will sometimes add a treatment into the bleach to help maintain protein structure and hair integrity
your inspo pic. I will be able to give you a fairly good idea if the colour you chose will suit your colouring and skin tone
These considerations will then affect the amount of time it will take to achieve your look.
Things that will also affect your treatment plan:
Have you previously coloured your hair? Box dyed? This shouldn't a problem but please be honest about what you've put in your hair.
Naturally, dark hair will take (usually) more than one session to achieve a true blonde
Damaged hair - It is rare that I will flat out refuse to bleach hair, but if I do it is for good reason. I will be genuinely concerned your hair/scalp is at risk of being burned or hair breaking off.
A few notes about chemistry.
(With a few exceptions) BLEACH is the only way to lighten hair. Peroxide is not bleach. It is used to ''activate'' bleaching powder.
Your hair will most likely go yellow. Toner is used to remedy this. Toner is a very light hair colour that will rectify the 'tone'.
yellow -> purple
orange -> blue
red -> green
Toner will not damage your hair at all. It contains no bleach and will fade in time.
Getting Blonde Hair Ready For Summer
Although Canberra doesn't have much by way of an ocean it doesn't mean you can't have that summery, sun-kissed look!
Although Canberra doesn't have much by way of an ocean it doesn't mean you can't have that summery, sun-kissed look! When the warmer months roll around you might start considering brilliant blonde hair.
If you have naturally light hair, going blonde can be pretty straightforward. Often, if you're swimming and spending lots of time outside the sun will do some of the work for you. But, if like me, you have very dark hair, you can only be blonde with the help of a few chemical processes and some patience.
Today I'll answer the most common question I'm asked:
How blonde should I go?
If you've never had blonde hair, once you start to actually look, you'll realise there are a thousand 'blondes' to consider. In celebrity magazines and Instagram, you find blonde ranging from a few highlights and foils in darker hair all the way to the full platinum end of the scale. It can look natural, incorporating thick roots and darker layers, or rival the power of the sun in its brilliance.
In fact, there is probably no end to variations of blonde and each summer there are many 'new' trends led by Hollywood starlets and football WAGS.
But, not all styles and colours suit everyone. When you're considering colour, pay attention to:
the shape of your face
your skin tone
natural hair colour
hair condition
and everyday hairstyle.
This will help you find the blonde that suits you. Or you can message me and we can discuss the best options for you.
What to consider before you go blonde
Face shape
If you have a round face, bob length or very short styles can exacerbate the roundness. However, a long bob or layers can elongate your face. To begin with, choose a style that suits your face. You will be much happier with the overall look after having your hair coloured.
Skin tone and colour
There are two types of skin tone; warm undertone and cool undertone. Generally, people with warm undertone skin are complemented with cool tone hair and vice versa.
Tones are very subtle though. Don't be concerned that you will have to have yellow hair if your skin is cool toned. Also, fake and real tans can change this equation. So be sure to let your hairdresser know if you're also going to get a strong tan.
Natural hair colour
Naturally lighter hair has less defined regrowth and needs less maintenance to keep your hair looking fantastic all summer long.
The statement you want to make is also a big factor. Consider styles that look natural, with subtle foils or balayage, compared to full ash blonde hair. More natural looks are more forgiving to damage and casual styles. Statement hair generally needs to be carefully styled and maintained.
I can help you consider different options to suit your lifestyle and hair routine.
Hair condition
Every time your hair is coloured it is slightly damaged. This is unavoidable but not always a bad thing.
The chemistry involved in removing your hair's natural pigment and embedding new colour affects the proteins in your hair. A little bit of damage actually softens hair and can make it easier to manage. A lot of damage will cause scalp irritation, hair loss, breakage and failed colour processing.
Moving from very dark hair to very light hair can be achieved without harmful effects. It's necessary though to do this in a responsible, staged approach and give the hair time between appointments to recover. This can take two or more sessions depending on your starting colour and hair condition.
Everyday hairstyle
To help you select the style and colour that suits you, use images as inspiration. You should consider the styling and lighting of the photo and how this will compare with your usual hairstyle. At the end of the day, which blonde tone and style you go for really is personal preference. And, with a little research you'll be able to select a style that matches you perfectly.
In a future update, I will explain the process of going blonde. I'll show you how get to lighter shades without compromising your hair or safety.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
Fresh Spring Hair Styles
Although spring has arrived it's still pretty chilly around my place. That hasn't stopped me going crazy in the garden, preparing our small veggie patch for new plantings.
Spring is a period of renewal, so it's a great time to consider a shorter style or a fresh colour. Now is a good time to try something new because you have a few months before the silly season to play with the style.
If you're considering going blonde for summer, now is the time to start the process. It could take a few sessions to get the colour you want while preserving the health of your hair.
To get you inspired for change here is a round up of my favourite styles this spring.
The bob
I just love Ladylike. If you haven't checked these girls out you should do yourself a favour and binge on their Youtube fabulousness.
But more importantly, I wish I could pull off Devin's casually perfect bob. The dark roots, blunt fringe and length somewhere between chin and shoulders always look relaxed and fun. But with the right product and styling, it becomes red-carpet glamorousness.
At shoulder length, you'll still be able to put your hair up in a ponytail when you need to. Shorter hair will be perfect for swimming and playing outdoors. Plus it'll dry that much quicker after a wash :)
For darker hair, Nina Dobrev demonstrates just how slick this can look.
Wash and wear
Okay so this isn't really a single style but often it's all I have time for in the morning.
As it gets warmer and Canberra stirs from its winter hibernation I'm sure you don't want to spend time blow-drying, straightening and styling your hair when you could be out having an adventure. Wash and wear is the answer but it isn't as simple as it sounds.
What makes or breaks this style is the right haircut. You're looking for a longer natural style. Trimming split ends and taking the weight out of hair will make it easier to care for. And adding long layers gives hair shape and creates instant style.
Introducing different colour tones also adds sophistication to your hair. Lighter tones will catch the light and darker tones give depth and body.
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are the queens of wash and wear hair. It is their go-to style and matches their boho attitude to being papped.
When she doesn't have a full hair and makeup crew on hand, Valentina Zelyaeva is also no stranger to wash and wear.
Medium cut highlights
This is a perfect mid-way point for those who've had long hair and now want to experiment with something a little shorter. Adding messy layers will feel fresh and new but you'll still have the length and texture of longer hair.
You can also add a little colour to your hair with a few highlights towards the front. It's a good baby step if you haven't coloured hair in a while and can be enhanced later in the season with balayage throughout the rest of your hair.
This cut offers heaps of variety and can be styled easily in a loose bun, braided or worn loose and carefree around the shoulders. The cut and colour will frame your face and certainly be noticed.
This beautiful example is from Canadian hairdresser Brae Erickson.
If you've been inspired to make a change this spring get in touch for a no-obligation quote. We can work together to select a fresh cut and colour for the season.
I hope you get out and enjoy the warmer weather and longer days now that winter is behind us :)
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
What Is a Mobile Hairdresser?
A mobile hairdresser is a convenient alternative to visiting a hair salon. If you have children or work full-time it can be hard to fit into a salon's schedule. That's why mobile hairdressing (or home hairdresser) services are becoming so popular.
As a mobile service, there are a few differences to visiting a hair salon but you'll get the same beautiful hair with some extra benefits.
Convenience
You can have your hair done at a time and place that suits you.
Home Hair Canberra offers appointments seven days a week and can visit you anywhere in the Canberra region. You won't have to worry about taking time off work, running late, finding a park or child minding. You can drink a glass of wine, play your favourite music, and keep an eye on the dinner.
Usually, I come to your home but I've also been asked to visit hotel rooms, hospitals, workplaces and even Parliament House.
Privacy
A mobile hairdressing appointment is a private and personal service.
Salons can be loud and busy and we all know those mirrors mean nothing is private. Home Hair Canberra's services are a discreet and professional way to get fantastic hair.
Comfort
You'll have all the comforts of home. You can stay in your pyjamas and slippers, and a chair in your kitchen is the perfect place for a cut, colour or blow wave.
Washing your hair is a whole lot easier too when you can just pop into the shower. This is how you'll prepare for a mobile hairdressing visit and how you'll rinse any colour, toner and treatments applied during your appointment.
Mobile hairdresser services
A mobile hairdresser offers most of the services available in a salon.
Home Hair Canberra offers trims, cuts, colour and styles. I specialise in colour refresh and colour correction including foils, balayage, ombre and full colour. Unfortunately, I'm unable to offer permanent curls or hair extensions as this isn't practical for my business.
So, if you want a convenient, private and comfortable mobile hairdresser service, contact me for a quote or appointment. Don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions and take a look at other posts on this website for advice, news and offers from Home Hair Canberra.
You can also connect with me on Facebook where you can see recent client results and reviews.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
How We Plan and Prepare for Your Appointment
I’m committed to giving professional advice and mobile hairdressing services. So before your hair appointment (and to give you the most accurate quote), I need to get to know you and your hair a little better.
Getting to know your hair
For starters, what does your hair look like right now? Pictures of the front, side and back are ideal. These should be taken in strong light (sunlight is best) and with no filters. Don’t be shy, your bad hair day and daggy pyjamas will be our secret.
You will need to tell me your hair history too. When was it last coloured? Has it been layered before? Have you coloured, bleached or treated it at home? Your answers can dramatically change how I approach your hair and the fewer surprises during your appointment the better the outcome.
Of course, you also need to tell me what you want done with your hair. Pictures are worth a thousand words. Do you want the style of a certain celebrity? Have you been stalking someone on Facebook with the perfect blonde tones? If you can provide me with photo examples I’ll know what to bring to the appointment and provide advice to ensure you get the best results. You can also have a look at my Facebook page to see some of my recent clients for inspiration. Of course, if you just don’t know what to do with your hair, I can help there too. We can find a fresh style and colour to suit you.
Preparing for your appointment
I might ask you to prepare your hair just before I arrive. In some cases working with freshly washed and slightly damp hair is easiest particularly if we’re starting with a trim or cut. Your hair is easiest to work with if it is clean and hasn’t recently been crimped or curled. If in doubt, just ask me a few days before your appointment.
By now, if we’ve covered everything above you should have an accurate quote and if we stick to the plan it’s very rare for this to change during an appointment. Take a look at information about my mobile hairdressing services to get a rough guide for what I charge for different services.
At the moment I only accept payment in cash so you may need to make a trip to the ATM.
Cancellations
If you can’t keep your appointment for any reason please try to give me at least 24 hours notice. This allows me, not only to schedule in other clients but also to reschedule a more appropriate time for you.
Preventing Dry and Fly-away Hair
Is your hair dry and fly away? It may be time to lay off the shampoo. Let the natural oils build up a bit and combat oily roots by tipping your head upside down at night and brushing your hair from the underside. Give it time and your hair will adjust.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
Keeping Coloured Hair Healthy
Frequent dramatic changes will damage your hair. So stay consistent with your colour. Keep it easy with minimal foils and lots of toner. Try an ombre or balayage look to help keep your hair looking healthy.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
Your Everyday Hair Style Should Make You Smile
I wear my hair up in a bun every single day. It’s not fancy, but it saves me time every morning and keeps my hair out of my way. My boyfriend begs me to wear it out sometimes but I’m a creature of habit so he has to be patient ;)
Whenever I meet a new client one of the first things I ask them is ‘what’s your everyday style?’. No matter what you want done with your hair, if it's not going to look great paired with your everyday style, you’re heading towards disaster.
Some styles that are really popular at the moment like ombre and balayage are intended to be worn out. When they’re worn up, in a bun or a ponytail, they just don’t have the same stunning effect. Of course that’s doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have those styles. You just need to be aware of how your hair will look in different situations. If it does bother you, I might suggest some subtle highlights instead. They will blend in no matter how you wear your hair.
We all have our everyday style. Sometimes it’s based on convenience or how we had to wear it for twelve years of schooling. Sometimes it is corporate expectations or a jumbled mix of reasons. When I work on your hair I want to make sure you’re excited by your everyday hair too. Because it’s the hair you have to live with. It’s the hair you’ll pull into shape in the lift up to work. And it’s the hair you’ll rock at that post-gym coffee date with the cutie from yoga.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.