Louis Licari

"Look Good for Your Baby!"

2011-10-10T12:07:01-04:00

My publicist Leigh Rossini finally had her baby after a seemingly endless 10 1/2-month pregnancy. She was firmly convinced her baby had decided to maintain a permanent residence in her womb. I teased Leigh that the baby was smart not to give up his own bedroom, a rare luxury for most infants living in a space-challenged New York apartment.

I timed my hospital visit perfectly. I arrived about an hour before she was discharged. I was able to spend time with Leigh, her boyfriend Chris, and their new baby, Rome Louis. They looked like they were straight out of central casting. Rome is a beautiful 10-pound baby who came into this world camera-ready. Chris looks like a model found in a Ralph Lauren ad. Leigh was glowing. She looked gloriously womanly. I was overwhelmed by her beauty. I told her how pretty she looked and she looked at me with a devilish smile. I instantly realized Leigh had left nothing to chance. She knew there would be friends coming to welcome her baby and she made sure there would be no undesirable photos appearing on Facebook. I immediately began hammering her with questions about her beauty regime. Here's the 411 straight from the new mom.

1) Make an appointment to have your hair done as close to your delivery date as possible. Avoid blowing your hair straight because no one's hair survives delivery. Better to start with a style that works with your natural texture. If you are having a C-section scheduled, make your hair appointment that morning. You don't sweat during a C-section, so you can finish your hair as straight or curly as you desire.

2) Manicure and pedicure appointments are a must.

3) Lash extension appointments are absolutely mandatory for all those pictures of you looking down at your newborn. Even if you are not wearing a stitch of makeup, the lashes will make it look like you had a team of beauty experts work on you in delivery!

4) Spray tan before you go to the hospital. It will give you a healthy glow that will last throughout your hospital stay.

5) Be sure to have your hair color touched up if your doctor permits. There is nothing more horrible than roots showing in a picture.

6) Photos inevitably will be taken of you and baby by your family immediately after birth. Take the hospital gown and slightly pull it off one shoulder.... Hey, every little thing counts! It will give you an "I just pushed out a kid and still look sexy" look!

Leigh took advantage of every beauty secret she knows. Why wouldn't she? She does spend every day in a beauty salon! If you don't have time for Leigh's checklist, don't worry. Always remember that no matter what you have time for, there is nothing more beautiful than a woman and her newborn child.

Age Blurring

2011-09-27T11:08:22-04:00

I met a young fashion designer friend for lunch Saturday at Barney's. He asked for some advice in starting up his business. I went into my usual pep talk. Believe in your talent, keep working, never give up, and success will come. Then I asked him what I thought was a rather simple question: "Who is your client?" He gazed across the restaurant as if he were searching for an answer. Finally he responded, "Young women in their 20s, 30s or 40s." I was amazed at his definition of "young." Young now crosses over three decades? My first reaction was that this kid must not have a clue. Then I looked across the restaurant. We were in a sea of age-blurred New Yorkers. Certainly there were some who looked older than others, but only a very few looked elderly. I am not a member of the Peter Pan club. I am quite aware that time is passing. In fact, my first thought was that my inability to guess someone's age was indicative of my own age. Then I realized that this was just a very polished crowd. Everyone, from the trendiest to the most classic and conservative, looked great -- and amazingly young. What was their secret?

Observation 1) Young hair is the best age-eraser. The right hair style can make you look years younger. It should have the correct shape to accent your assets and disguise your defects. The color should be vibrant and shiny. It should flatter your skin tone. Think of hair color as makeup that doesn't wash off.

Observation 2) Makeup is essential. When used with moderation, it keeps you looking young as you age. It helps you feel refreshed and pretty, even when you're having a bad day. Most makeup today will also moisturize your skin and protect it from the elements. Simply adding a touch of color to your complexion or lips can make you appear years younger.

Observation 3) Eyebrows should be beautifully shaped and full. They frame and accent your eyes. They should not be too light or overly tweezed. Thin or sparse eyebrows are aging. Softly fill them in with a powder and a brow brush.

Observation 4) Lips should be lush. Lip balm will keep your lips looking moist, plump and young all day and all night long. This doesn't mean you have to use a lip color, but I would highly recommend it. As with makeup, a touch of color on your lips can make you look years younger.

Observation 5) Work hard, play hard and most of all, keep your mind open. A busy person is a happy person. This will keep you young from the inside out. Keeping your mind open to new ideas is essential to continuing the growth process. If you're still growing, you are still young. A closed mind is an old mind.

Blurring age lines requires a combination of living a healthy lifestyle and having a positive attitude. Taking advantage of a few beauty tips doesn't hurt either. It does take an effort on all fronts, but it's worth it.

It Pays to Look Good!

2011-09-06T14:42:50-04:00

I found myself on a plane this weekend and had plenty of time to read the newspapers. This weekend's Wall Street Journal headline read "Job Growth Grinds to a Halt," referring to the zero job growth. Seeing this in bold type nearly made my heart stop. I decided to change to lighter fare, after all it was Labor Day weekend, so I picked up the New York Post. After skimming Page Six, I turned the page only to read about President Obama's presidency. The title of the article was "DIRTY JOB." The article included a laundry list of depressing factoids. It categorized people in different situations, including those who have recently lost their jobs, to those who have been out of work for one year, to those who have already used up their 99 weeks of unemployment benefits. It stated that very many people are out of work and their chances of re-entering the job market are next to nil. Landing a job and holding onto it seems to be almost impossible. It has become quite clear that these are desperate times.

Getting or keeping a job requires you to be at the top of your game. Having the right credentials and/or experience is important, but it isn't enough to secure a place in the job market. You have to present and maintain the best possible all-around package. This includes your actual qualifications and how you present yourself. It is important to be sociable and engaging. Looking good doesn't hurt either. In fact, many studies demonstrate that attractive people have a better chance of being hired and earning larger salaries. All is not lost if you don't look like the movie star de jour. You can still make a good appearance.

Looking good is easier than you might think. If you are seeking employment or a promotion, it is essential. Start with the basics. You don't have to buy a completely new wardrobe or sign up for plastic surgery. Making a checklist is an easy way to organize your grooming routine.

1) Your hair should be freshly cut and colored. Be sure it is clean and styled. If possible, schedule a blow dry the day of your job interview or when you are meeting with your boss for your review.

2) Wear minimal makeup. Keeping it natural is always best.

3) A manicure is definitely a good idea. This shows that you are attentive to detail.

4) Your outfit doesn't have to be new, but it must be cleaned and pressed. Don't forget about your shoes. Make sure they are polished.

5) Smiling is key. Don't forget to brush and floss your teeth.

How successful you are is up to you. Your personal presentation is key to success in any job market. Looking good is easy and essential. Appearing to be at the top of your game will enable you to walk in with confidence. This is the edge that will help guarantee a successful interview or review.

The Last Taboo

2011-08-29T11:13:18-04:00

Older men have been dating younger women for years, raising eyebrows and causing the judgmental snickers of middle-aged women and men for years. In the last decade, the tables have turned. It's no longer unusual for older women to date younger men. The trend has become so prevalent that the term "cougar" is now a commonly used colloquialism. While dating younger partners has become more common, many still consider these age-spanning relationships taboo. I must admit that in the past when I noticed a chronically challenged couple, I, too, have often made a rush to judgment, instantly dismissing them as gold diggers or pitiful sugar daddies or mommies. I would ask myself if they really thought their companions had genuine feelings for them. Were they delusional? What could they have in common? Could they possibly mutually love, care for and respect each other?

Perhaps the readily available information exchange of the Internet, Facebook and Twitter, combined with more people with quality educations, have created a society in which it's possible for multiple age groups to be aligned on the same page. Is the new generation so sophisticated that they can maintain a genuine relationship with a person who has more life experience? Can this age difference be diffused?

The awareness of health, nutrition and exercise is almost universal. Certainly this new sophistication has effected the health and grooming habit of all generations. This, along with the desire to maintain proper grooming routines, has also blurred age lines. The proper hair color, hairstyle, skin care and grooming products have helped to make everyone look vital. Think about it. How often have you had to second guess a person's age?

The growing maturity of the youth culture has evolved over the last generation. The desire to be plugged in to the cutting edge has raised the fascination with a younger partner. These two factors, plus the advantage of today's forever young look and spirit, have helped to make these previously considered dubious relationships valid. Will these relationships soon be viewed without judgment? Only time and age will tell.

No Man's Land...

2011-08-08T10:28:28-04:00

Today is the baby shower for my publicist Leigh Rossini. I am the only man
invited. My instructions are to arrive exactly thirty minutes before the shower
ends. I must admit that I am a bit nervous about entering no man's land. I know
that it might seem odd to hear this from someone in my profession, but working at a hair
salon is similar to being a spectator at a sports competition. By comparison,
going to the actual event is like being a professional athlete. I find myself
having the pre-game jitters.

I walk into the restaurant not knowing what to expect. I speak to the maitre d',
who leads me upstairs where the party is happening. As I pass the bar, I hear the
male wait staff whispering something about the hot girls upstairs. I quietly
laugh to myself.

Walking up the stairs, I hear the buzz of the party. As I look across the room, I
instantly see Leigh standing in the middle of a sea of women. She is walking
around with a tiara on her head, chatting and laughing. The party looks a scene
from Sex and the City. The women are gorgeous, chic and impeccably dressed. The party is filled with writers, producers, TV personalities, friends and family. I know most of them, but I almost don't recognize them. They all look incredibly beautiful, with hair and makeup as close to perfect as one can
imagine. No one looks like she tried hard to get ready, but I know
differently. They are wearing everything from Blahnik to Missoni, mixed with
uber-casual wear and one looks more beautiful than the next. I was caught off
guard. I ask myself why would they get so decked out if it's a party only
for girls? I suddenly realize that women dress for each other as much as they do for men.
I find myself wondering how competitive women are with one another.

My baby shower experience caused me to rethink the psychology of looking good.
Women obviously realize the power of making a good appearance. Women check out
other women. They like having smart-looking and glamorous friends. They share
fashion finds and beauty secrets. I think many of the women attending the party
enjoyed showing a side of themselves they don't or can't by day. It is the
perfect opportunity for the world to look at you from a different point of view.
I know I now think of this crowd as being much more glamorous than before
I walked in the door.

On the Case

2011-07-14T17:48:07-04:00

Jury duty is my civic obligation, which I respectably accept. Waiting to be called to serve on a case, however, is nothing short of torture. I have been sitting in this room for almost two days with the exception of the occasional respite. I find myself staring at the other potential jurors. Their heads are bowed as they fidget with their handheld devices or laptops. All I notice is the sea of hair that surrounds me. I find it impossible to ignore the sundry hair colors. What better place to look for the latest hair trends than this snapshot of the denizens of New York?

I quickly realize that overall, brunette is the most popular color. Honey blonds run a close second. The women with red hair are barely peppered throughout the audience, but impossible to ignore. Waiting for my name to be called for a voir dire, I begin my search for the hottest trends in hair color.

BRUNETTES are not boring anymore! Chocolate browns are the dominate color trend of 2011. Catherine Middleton, Kim Kardashian, Penelope Cruz and Mila Kunis all sport the new chocolate shades. They led the trend of making brunette the new "go to" hair color. The new tones are rich, shiny and vibrant. They should never look opaque or monochromatic. Pick a color one shade darker than your natural color. This will allow the nuances of your own hair color to show through, maintaining a soft, natural, and believable hair color. TIP: Short or one-length hair can be worn slightly darker. The dark color will emphasize the shape and shine of your hair. Layered hair styles should be slightly lighter at the tips. This will help to highlight the movement layered hair creates.

BLONDES are sizzling hot! The warm burnished golds and honeys have all but overshadowed ash blond and platinum shades. Cool blonde shades look dull next to the new warm tones. TIP: Your hair color should never be similar in tone to your complexion. Always make your hair color slightly deeper at the roots. This will create contrast with your skin color and give you the flexibility to wear your hair as light as you desire. Madonna started this controversial trend years ago. She proudly wore her uber blond hair with obvious severe dark roots. The glaring roots are now replaced with a softer gradation of color from dark to light, creating a more natural look.

RED HAIR is the quintessential "Look at me!" hair color. It begs to be noticed. This is because there are so few natural redheads. The new red shades are strawberry, copper and auburn. Burgundy and eggplant shades should always be avoided. They almost always look harsh and artificial. TIP: Pale complexions can wear any shade of red. Olive or rosy complexions should choose a deeper auburn hair color. Florence Welch of "Florence and the Machine" and Kristen Stewart from the "Twilight" series have re-ignited the redhead trend.

Remember, hair color is fashion and that means it is always changing. The right hair color choice for you is the shade that flatters your complexion. Hair color should do the same thing that makeup does. It should make you look more beautiful. WARNING: If you find yourself wearing more makeup to keep your new hair color compatible with your complexion, then you have picked the wrong shade. I hear my name being called. I'm off to do my civic duty. Happy coloring!

The Decades

2011-06-27T06:32:18-04:00

There are no truer words than the adage "time flies." I can tell you from personal experience that the decades slip into each other. And with each new decade, a woman needs to think about changing her style and her hair to keep looking her best. This means always staying ahead of the curve. It's easier to do than you might expect.

In your 30s, beauty maintenance is minimal. This is the perfect time to experiment with your hair color and style. Most women will start to notice some grey hair in this period. Non-peroxide semi-permanent hair color is translucent, making it the perfect solution to make grey hairs look like highlights. It's also the best way to try on a new hair color. Semi-permanent color looks incredibly natural and slowly washes away, preventing harsh roots. (NOTE: Some trace of hair color will remain if your hair is fine or porous.) The 30s are often a time of personal discovery. Most women are giving their all to their careers and/or families. Being busy doesn't mean you don't want to look fashionable. In fact, it's more important than ever to look your best. This is the perfect time to experiment with trends that work with your hair texture and face shape in search of your signature look that is easy to maintain.

Your 40s is usually when hair color is no longer optional. Your hair is beginning to look dull. Sprays of grey hair have probably started to appear. Returning your color to its natural vibrancy is key to looking your most vital. Pick a natural hue; extreme hair colors are harsh and aging. Going a little lighter is often best, but too light will drain the color from your complexion. Bangs and layers are your best friends in your 40s. Hair can be almost any reasonable length. but it should have softness around the face. Side-swept bangs and face-framing layers disguise the onset of a wrinkly forehead and crows feet around the eyes. Hair lengths between the chin and top of shoulders will camouflage a softening jaw line.

Michelle Pfeiffer, Ellen Barkin, Sharon Stone and a long list of other women have proved that 50 isn't old anymore. More beauty maintenance is needed at this age to look as young as you feel. Hair color requires frequent touch ups. There is nothing more unattractive or aging than grey roots. The most flattering hairstyles for women in their 50s are chin-length or shorter. They provide movement and look full. Flat hair is harsh and should be avoided. Dry or brittle hair looks dull. Conditioning your hair should be done frequently. Blow dryers, flat irons and curling irons must be used with care not to damage the hair.

There is a solution to the beauty challenges of every decade. No matter what your age, embrace it. This is the key to looking perpetually beautiful.

Interview Hair

2011-06-13T21:09:43-04:00

It's already the middle of June and college graduations are over. The quest for jobs has begun. Right about now there is always an influx of college graduates making appointments at the salon. Most are in a real quandary about their hair even as they sit in my chair. They realize how imperative it is to look appropriate for their job interviews.

They are right to be nervous. The job market is tight. The candidate who interviews best always gets the job. The image they project is the first thing the employer notices. Looking right is key to landing employment.

1) Your hair is as important as the clothes you wear to the interview. Make sure your hair is clean and simply styled. Cut your hair if it is excessively long or scraggly. Avoid extreme styles or cuts that leave hair hiding your face. Make an appointment with your hairdresser for a blow dry the day of your interview. If you color your hair, make sure it looks natural and that your roots are not noticeable. Now is not the time to experiment with a new hair color.

2) Your makeup should look pretty without being obvious.It should be light and transparent. Avoid heavy eyeliner or smoky eyes. Dark or too-bright lips are always inappropriate.

3) Don't forget about your nails. Well manicured nails are noticed and essential. Trendy colors (purple, turquoise), decorative or chipped nails are not advisable.

4) Perfume should be minimal. Be careful not to use a heavy scent. You do not want to give the person who is interviewing you a headache. The safest bet is to use only deodorant.

4) Wear clothes that will cover all tattoos. If you have one on the back of your neck, wear your hair down or disguise the tattoo with makeup. It's also a good idea to remove all piercings.

5) Dress in attire that is appropriate for your desired position. It is best to err on the conservative side. Always avoid clothes that are revealing, flamboyant or overly trendy.

Your appearance is the first thing a potential employer notices. It defines you as much as your resume. Always remember that you are preparing for a job interview and not a night on the town. Walk in with confidence and don't forget to smile.

Good luck!

Summer in the City

2011-05-31T11:36:37-04:00

I immediately felt the heat and humidity as I walked the streets of New York this past holiday weekend. I thought the city would be quiet, but to my surprise there were more people in town than I had expected. Almost everyone was smiling as they ambled by, probably because the cool and rainy spring weather had finally ended. The women looked beautiful, their hair shining in the radiant sun. This was our first picture-perfect weekend of the summer.

I was wandering through Bergdorf Goodman, shopping for a friend's birthday. The chic women of Fifth Avenue maintained their confident and cool summer look, even as the temperature continued to rise. Not one looked like she was melting in the heat. I immediately realized how important it is to maintain a casual and fresh look no matter what the temperature. What did these women know that the rest of us damp and sticky mere mortals did not? I immediately started to take note.

1) The best looking hair has a definite shape, whether short or long. This means that it's a good idea to start the summer with a haircut.

2) Hair should looked controlled but never done. This might seem to be an impossible challenge in the heat and humidity, but the solution is simple: Styles that incorporate the natural texture of your hair work best. This minimizes the effects of humidity and lets you maintain your style. Don't fight the loosing battle of styling wavy/curly hair smooth or attempting to add curl and wave to straight hair. Humidity will almost always cause your hair to revert back to its natural state.

3) Use styling products minimally. Excessive use of creams and gels will weigh down straight hair and make curly hair look coated. To add volume to straight hair, a spritz of root lift styling product with a quick hit of the blow dryer works best. A touch of hair cream is a good way to hold curly hair in place. Arrange hair and don't touch curl until dry. This will keep the curl controlled and not frizzy.

4) A surefire way to look carefree and add shape and style to hair is to wear it in a partial or full up 'do. A twist, braids or a simple headband will hold hair off the face while allowing the rest to fall free. Loose buns and low ponytails will keep all hair up and off the face.

5) Keep your hair color close to natural. Changing your color dramatically will guarantee brassy hair in the fall. The sun will quickly make your hair lighter and brighter, especially once it's been color treated.

6) Faking the tan is the best skin plan. A suntan looks good for too short of a time considering the skin damage that occurs from even minimal exposure to the skin. Wear tinted moisturizers that contain vitamins and SPF protection. My favorite is "The Glow by Enid'O." Eyes look best in a light, barely-there palette of creams, peaches and tans. Lips should be sheer with a touch of color.

Staying in town on a holiday weekend is a real insider's secret. It is easier to shop, go to the movies or theater, and snap up the most difficult restaurant reservations. The sidewalk cafes are perfect for people-watching, which is my favorite sport and best learning tool. There is always something to see and learn whether you are uptown or downtown. Keep your eyes open, and look good all summer long.

Pretty and Pregnant

2011-05-09T12:59:45-04:00

Every day at the salon, I find that another woman is bursting at the seams to tell me she is with child. I am often one of the first to know and am sworn to secrecy. They sometimes tell me even before anyone else outside of their immediate family, and I think it is because they can finally say the words, "I'm pregnant!" They always have that slight smile that radiates with peace and gratitude. The other reason they talk to me is because they are wondering how to manage their hair during pregnancy. The most frequently asked question is what they should do differently now that they are expecting. Should they change their cut and/or color routine? These women are curious and concerned and want to have a graceful and healthy pregnancy. They also want to look their most beautiful during this very happy time. Here are some of my favorite hair tips for pregnant women.

1) Avoid very short or very long hairstyles. Your face shape and body proportions will obviously change during pregnancy. Excessively short or long hairstyles can make your face look fuller and emphasize your changing body shape. Hair is best worn chin- to shoulder-length with a long bang and soft lines on the side to disguise any pregnancy weight.

2) Always part your hair off to the side, instead of in the middle. This is usually the most flattering and slimming style for women who are pregnant.

3) Cut your hair in long layers to give you added height and body at the root of your hair. Use a styling product such as a root lift or body-building spray.

4) Keep your hair in a loose high ponytail or in a messy up-'do. If a few tendrils fall, don't fret. The height and wisp around your face will instantly help you look thinner.

5) Should you color your hair during pregnancy? This is the million-dollar question. I always recommend that the woman talk to her doctor and ask his opinion. The doctors make the rules; I follow them. Make sure your doctor is aware of the type of color you are planning. Most women wait out their first trimester and then rush to make an appointment. Talk to your hair colorist about alternative means of coloring your hair. You can choose a temporary color, such as a crayon, mascara wand or hair-color powder, in which the results will only last one shampoo. If you make your hair lighter, I would suggest you highlight your hair using foils. This color technique will prevent any hair color from touching your scalp. Obviously, by following these guidelines, your hair will end up being closer to its natural hue until you can resume your normal routine.

6) Try a zigzag part. Straight parts will showcase your roots, especially if you have straight hair. A zigzag part will break up the line of demarcation and help make your roots less obvious. If you have natural curls or waves, let them show. They will add a natural lift and will disguise your new growth.

7) Avoid slicked-back hairstyles because they will only emphasis your roots. Loose, soft styles will help your hair to grow out gracefully until you can color it again.

As you know, pregnant women are famous for their inner glow and beauty. Modifying your beauty routine will guarantee a beautiful appearance inside and out throughout your pregnancy.

Face Time

2011-04-25T20:18:04-04:00

Do you remember when you could talk to anyone on the phone and not think for a second about the way you looked? Thanks to modern technology, those days are over. Now, because of smart phones, Skype and cameras on all handheld devices, we can no longer hide behind our voices. Soon we will all be seen and heard with each conversation short of a text. Who would have thought that our phones and computers would one day resemble a new reality TV show?

This is good news and bad. Seeing the person you are talking to is definitely more intimate. The question is do you always want to be seen? Think about it. Are you ready to look good 24/7? Is this too much to ask of anyone? I know you're thinking that video chat is an option. I also know you won't be surprised when it becomes an automatic component of communication. Here are some suggestions to take the pressure off visual communications.

Don't try to look perfect, just look good. Always put your best self forward. This can literally mean running your fingers through your hair to place it properly or putting on a pinch of lip gloss. Think of this as a 10-second touch-up.

Posture and body language count. Think about the way you are sitting or standing. This speaks volumes about you and your appearance.

Find a good angle and practice your pose. We all have a side or angle of our face that is the most photogenic. Know it but do your best to look natural. Using a mirror, find the perimeters of your best angle and try to keep your face in this range. This will take practice.

You must always be aware that you are on camera. Don't multi-task while face timing. This sends the message that you don't think your conversation is important and is rude to the person you are video talking.

It is most important to remember your natural smile. A pleasant facial expression makes a huge difference on video. Sometimes being pensive can make you look like you're angry.

Ready or not, technology is changing the way we conduct our lives. Its original purpose was to make life easier and less complicated. Sometimes this new way of life works in reverse and makes our lives more unmanageable. If this happens to you, remember there is always an easy way out.

Just turn off your phone.

Tara Tara Tara

2011-04-11T13:58:52-04:00

I just finished this week's "Ambush Makeover" on the Today Show. On my way to the airport, I noticed the new billboards for the third series of United States of Tara. I love this show. It is a comedy-drama series created by Diablo Cody that follows the life of Tara, brilliantly played by Toni Collette. Tara is a suburban wife and mother who has been diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder. Under duress, she transforms into different personalities. She has three other distinct personalities and glimpses of many others pop up from time to time. Each personality is unique and distinct. This is obviously due to the hugely talented Toni Collette and the writers of the show, but the hair and makeup team are also key to the development of each personality.

Tara is the most attractive when she is not in a state of duress. In her "normal" state, she is a happily married woman with a great husband and two colorful teenage children. She then transforms into three different looks and personalities. One is a wild promiscuous teenager named "T," another, the quintessential 1950's housewife Alice, and the third, a macho male Vietnam vet called Buck.

As I was driving by the billboards, they reinforced how change in appearance helped to create the look of each character and how each was perceived. It also made me realize that our general appearance speaks volumes about all of us. This is similar to what I do every Friday on "Ambush Makeover." It is my goal to find the hidden beauty and glamor of the person to be made over.

The world does initially judge you by your personal presentation. This is especially important in today's world -- it has never been more crucial to be at your best. Competition is stiff on the professional and personal fronts. There is no room for beauty faux pas. We must always do our best to present our better self. Here are some tips to always look your best.

Start with a good HAIRCUT. A good haircut is one that suits your hair's texture and complements your face shape. It should be versatile and easy to manage. In theory, from any one haircut, you should be able to create many looks. Each should give you instant style and tone.

Never underestimate the power of HAIR COLOR. It can change your appearance from drab to dynamic. Hair color is the easiest and quickest way create a look, erase years and look your most beautiful. Not all color changes have to be dramatic. In fact, the best changes are often those that enhance your natural hair color. Hair color often fades and becomes drab and dull. Sometimes it only need to be refreshed. Other times, hair color does need more brightness and lightness to literally create the illusion of a innate inner glow. This can happen simply by painting a few strokes of subtly lighter color around your face or adding warmth to your color.

MAKEUP can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one. Like hair color, a little can make an immense difference in your appearance. A touch of color on the lips can make you look vivacious -- even on a day you feel a bit spent. Place a dash of your face base all over and don't forget to apply to your lips! It will make lip gloss/stick/stain last longer and it will help to give your skin the illusion of a flawless look. This will help to make you look your most beautiful and vital.

I am not suggesting or encouraging the ever-changing chameleon that Tara is on United States of Tara, but we do all have the ability to present our best persona with a little bit of effort. Experiment with your looks to make sure you are making the most of your natural assets. Remember, small changes are often all that are necessary to make big differences in our appearance. Making the slightest effort is all it takes to create a new you.

Pink Tweets She Hates Her Haircut

2011-03-21T12:54:12-04:00

Pink recently showed up at the premiere of The Lincoln Lawyer with a new hairstyle. She hated it. She tweeted "The woman that did my hair butchered it." To Pink's credit, she did not mention her by name, which would not have been the best moment of the hairdresser's career. Unfortunately, Pink was photographed by the press looking less than her usual glam rock self. Luckily, she wears her hair short and it will not take long for her to go back to looking like her spectacular self. This woman has the fashion savvy to make her transition fun and fabulous. Who knows? She might even start a few new trends as her hair grows back.

Many of us have experienced a bad haircut. It can be a heartbreaking experience that leaves you feeling hopeless. It is incredibly frustrating to go to a professional in order to look and feel better after your haircut and walk out wishing you had never sat in your hairdresser's chair. Now is not the time to have an emotional collapse. It is the time to figure out the best way to style your hair in the most flattering way possible until it grows out. Don't panic! Make the best of a difficult situation. Here are some solutions to disguise a less-than-attractive cut.

1) Talk to the hairdresser who cut your hair. Let the person know that you are not satisfied. Try to explain why you think the haircut doesn't look right on you. Ask if there are any solutions to make it more to your liking. If you feel like you have developed a line of communication and trust, give the hairdresser another chance. If not, you should move on and interview other hairdressers.

2) Clip-on extensions, bangs or a pony, are minor investments that look incredibly real. They can change the shape and look of any haircut in seconds and are perfectly safe. You can easily take them off every night and put them back in the morning. They will never pull on or break your hair while you are sleeping.

6) Grow it out -- but keep it in shape. Trims are necessary even when you are growing your hair out. There is nothing worse than hair that is out of proportion when you already hate your haircut. Remember I said trim your hair only. Don't let your hairdresser go scissor happy, which will usually only exaggerate the trouble. Small trims are the most immediate way to solve your hair problem.

Own the haircut and act like you love it even if you don't. Having confidence wearing any hairstyle will make it -- and you -- more attractive. Remember that even if you dread what your hair will look like while it's growing, try to have fun with the different looks during the process. Who knows? You might stumble on a style that was long overdue and that you love.

From Lagerfeld to The Real Housewives of Orange County

2011-03-14T11:20:48-04:00

The other day in the middle of taking care of a client's color, I was called to the phone. A very respected beauty editor needed to speak to me urgently. I called her back as soon I was finished with my client. She had called to ask me about the new trend of women choosing to wear their blond hair grey. Karl Lagerfeld set the beauty and fashion world abuzz when he recently sent many of his models down the catwalk sporting grey hair. The models looked incredibly edgy and chic. Immediately I was questioned if this is a new trend, the beginning of women proudly wearing grey hair.

My immediate answer was "yes," this is a new trend for models. The key word being trend. A trend is a passing phase. It is a temporary state of being that is not meant to last forever. Following trends is a quick and easy way to create a look. Sometimes the look is appropriate and can effect a more captivating style. At other times, trends do not only not work for the individual but are completely unappealing. Grey hair on a model can look like a fabulous fashion statement. The problem is that except for very young women with perfect quality skin texture and tone, grey hair usually looks dull, drab and unkempt. This grey-hair trend is most appropriate for the runways or editorial photo shoots. I doubt that this will be a huge trend. I think the very young fashionistas will be drawn to this look for about 10 minutes. In the real world, this look is most likely a no go.

I must admit my favorite part of this trend is that it demonstrates how people are thinking out of the box. This kind of approach often leads us to stumble onto a completely new way of looking at or thinking about beauty. It forces us to rethink everything, from our hemlines to our hair color. This is how fashion and beauty continue to evolve.

The other end of the blond spectrum can be easily illustrated by The Real Housewives of Orange County. Anyone watching this show would think that being a Barbie Doll blonde is a prerequisite to living in Orange County. There are many women who choose to wear varied hair colors in shades that look natural in this community. This aesthetic is present but is on the wane. The world has grown smaller and smaller. We all have access to the same information. Fashion and beauty looks have become more of an individual's personal statement about the image they want to project. The women on this show are extreme stereotypes that are not exclusive to Orange County. Variations of this look can be found from coast to coast.

Obviously each shade of blond denotes a definite personal sense of style. Depending on the shade you choose, it can determine how some people perceive your character and personality. Your hair color can make you look like an earthy granola girl, a washed-out nondescript individual, a well-bred tasteful beauty, or the ultimate bombshell blonde. After many years behind the chair, I have found this often not to be an accurate perception. I have learned it best never to judge a book by its cover.

To help guarantee that you pick the most flattering shade, I highly recommend a consultation with your hair colorist. The shade of blond you chose should always be determined by your skin tone, texture and the condition of your hair. You should always bring in pictures of colors that you like to be sure you share a similar vision to your hairdresser. Color is hard to describe. Bringing in pictures will help eliminate any miscommunication. You should also bring in a list of questions that should always include maintenance, condition and cost.

Blond can be a very beautiful color for many women. If this is a color that is appropriate for you, you should definitely try it out. Remember, no color choice has to be forever.

Your Hairstylist Is Leaving the Salon? Say It Isn't So!

2011-03-10T11:27:26-05:00

Life is full of unexpected twist and turns. Fortunately or not, this is the nature of life. Sometimes the changes make life easier and at other times, they just create yet another aggravation to make things more difficult. Often at the very moment your life is in order, something goes awry to make it a bit more complicated. Not all of these changes have to be the insurmountable difficulties. In fact, they are usually just minor annoyances. Having your favorite hairdresser leave your salon is a perfect example of this kind of upsetting situation.

To have most or all of your beauty maintenance taken care of in one salon is a great convenience. You can make one stop and have your hair colored, cut and blown dry, plus get manicures, pedicures and any other beauty services the salon provides. This is one part of your life that should be a pleasure and is easy to manage. You know what to expect. You feel in control.

Just when everything seems to be copasetic, you get that shockingly unexpected phone call or letter: Your favorite hairdresser has moved to another salon. Your beauty maintenance team has split up. Does this mean you will have to schlep from salon to salon or that you will have to find another special person to take care of your beauty needs within the original salon? This can be a difficult call. When you find someone who understands what your hair needs, the thought of giving this person up is extremely overwhelming. The sudden need to run from salon to salon is equally repulsive. What is the best solution to this perhaps petty but definitely problematic situation? Do you remain loyal to your hairdresser or to the salon?

Here are some questions you should ask yourself: Does your salon make you feel welcomed and like your home away from home? Is there other talent at the salon with a similar aesthetic who can service you and needs that you have previously ignored or always wanted to try? Do you feel like you can check into your salon and feel consistently confident about the results? The beauty business is a service business. Your answer should be yes to all the above questions. Are you being treated -- and you should be -- like you are the salon's most special and extraordinary client? Or do you just feel like the next appointment on your hairdresser's schedule and that your hair has become routine? If you are in doubt about any of the above questions, it might be time to move on.

Moving with your hairdresser to a new salon is understandable if you feel you have developed a special bond or that no one else could make you and your hair look and feel as beautiful. Unless you have these strong feelings, I would recommend you stay put. Your salon will be so grateful for your loyalty that they will do their best to make each future visit more memorable.

Before you make your decision, talk to the salon managers or a receptionist you deal with the most. Ask them for advice concerning who would be most appropriate for your beauty needs. They know you and your hair. They often understand you and your beauty needs even more than you do. This unique liaison will be sure to help you find the perfect fit.

I don't know if I always go along with the adage "Change is good." I do know that things will always change. The salon and hairdresser you pick are very personal decisions. Chose the person or place that works best for you and keeps your life easy and beautiful. This is one of the rare times when you let yourself be pampered. You made your decision. Now all you have to do is relax and enjoy yourself.