March 2006
It's Oscars time again and all eyes are on the styles that have been created for the event. Lots of curl about this year with longer hair being worn in soft and natural waves tied into a low ponytail or bun. Nicole Kidman an exception wearing her naturally curly hair poker straight, so don't throw your ceramic irons away just yet.
Cuts are going shorter and sleek with lashings of healthy shine, well that's what the stylists in the know are predicting for this coming season. Anti frizz and conditioning treatments will be your best friends and getting to grips with your blow drying and hot ironing techniques and products is a must.
If you are thinking of going for a shorter look then maybe take some of our expert advice on the best ways to do this:
February 2006
Check out our updated information on hair extensions this is the kind of information you need to arm yourself with before spending your hard earned cash and to prevent any surprises!
Styling trends to be on the look out for are the lowly pony and pig tails! Whether sleeked back from a centre parting and then chignoned to work with stronger tailored clothes or loose and lived in to complement less structured feminine looks.
January 2006
With the summer heat and humidity affecting all of us living or holidaying in the southern hemisphere its a good time to remind you about looking after your hair in the sun and dealing with humidity. As for styling the biggest tip I can give you is to go with what your hair does naturally. When the weather conditions are extreme to try and fight your natural kicks and curls is time consuming and on the whole futile. If you're at the beach remember that salt is a fantastic styling aid to help define and create a little texture. Links that may help include:
Info for swimmers and sunbathers
How to get rid of frizz
Dealing with dry and damaged hair
What to do about split ends
Curly looks
Creating textured looks
Braiding- always useful for at the beach
December 2005
The latest list of finalists for the 2006 AHFA are in and some of the looks are just stunning. So if you are after inspiration for a new style or even just a simple up do for one of the many Christmas party's then this is the link for you.
Image courtesy of the 2006 AHFA and Mick Luppino, Luppino's Hair, Skin, Body
November 2005
As the publishers of one of the webs richest infomediaries (this great site) we saw a gap for more information rich sites, so we have developed www.VirtualBeautyCare.com. Although a work in progress we already have some great info for you to help with all your beauty and wellness issues in one place. Our goals are the same as with VirtualHairCare to provide you with enough information so that you can make informed buying decisions and feel confident in your choice, so check it out.
Oscar Cullinan is due to open his flagship Oscar Oscar Synergy salon at 320 Oxford St Paddington on the 15 th of November. This will join the Oscar Oscar Salons, that span over five locations in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sydney, and the Azabu luxury resort in Byron Bay. Hope I get an invite to check it out for you all!
The Sylvania Heights Australia based Hairdresser Jamie Carroll was named winner of the2005 Australia Post NSW/ACT Small Business Award in Customer Service. These awards are judged across all types of business making this a real achievement, so you might want to make the trip and check them out if your hairdressing experiences of late have been less service than you would like.
Also in the news was the story that the Mohawk, as sported by David Beckham, has won the title of 'Worst Haircut Of All Time' as reported by the UK's Daily Telegraph. We draw this to your attention just in case you or your man are sporting this look, as we would hate any of our readers to be making a fool of themselves! Of course, if you like this look, the Mohawk may have got so many votes based on it being one of the few haircuts most people can name.
October 2005
Oscar Cullinan of Oscar Oscar and Synergy Salons fame, as well as being the AHFA Hairdresser of the Year sent us this latest image to show off some of the looks we can expect to be wearing this coming season. For more predictions from Oscar use the image as a link.
September 2005
'Stretch and burn crashes' well that's what Sharon Blain of Sydney's Art of Hair salon thinks. Stretch being the straightening of your hair and burn being the numerous heated appliances that you need to burn it into shape. Sharon and her team, that study the international trends, have it on good authority that curl, texture and movement are where we are heading for the foreseeable future.
They also have some strong ideas about blonde not being the shade for this summer, 'red is set to put blonde in the shade, with a variety of warm gold, auburn, copper and apricot tones' tipped to dominate.
What I really loved about the latest release of predictions from these guys are their great mens looks, which we find hard to get for you.
Pic The Art of Hair Artistic Team
August 2005
We asked Belinda Jeffreys, who represents Clairols Nice 'n Easy and is one of Australia’s leading colourist, for her colour predictions for the upcoming months. “Right now haircolour is all about warmth”, explained Belinda. “Cooler ash tones don’t work as well against paler skin, so look for shades with a rich gold base”.
It seems the upcoming season is all about brunettes. “I’m seeing a lot less blondes…”, Belinda commented. ‘It’s definitely the brunettes who are leading the way. And the direction is coming from Hollywood – look at Reese Witherspoon, Drew Barrymore, Charlize Theron and Brittany Murphy - they were all confirmed blondes who’ve now switched to beautiful rich, brunette shades”.
For more from Belinda and info on the Golden Romance collection from Clairol Nice’n Easy check out What's New in Hair Colour.
July 2005
Hair Expo gave me lots of inspiration and plenty of new hair ideas, accessories and general tips to bring all you avid VirtualHairCare readers. By far the biggest inspiration was the newly crowned Hair Expo Hairdresser of the Year Brad Ngata of Brad Ngata Hair Direction in Sydney. I interviewed him on all the latest trends and his predictions so check out the link for some inspiration of your own.
June 2005
This is the month of Hair Expo at Sydney's Darling Harbour the biggest event on the hair calendar. Whether your a hair professional or interested in keeping up with all of the latest trends this is the place to be on the Queens Birthday long weekend (that's June 11/12/13th). If you are into picking up some bargain products, samples and accessories this is also the place to do it as many items will be a trade prices.
As we know many of you would also be interested in getting a free makeover we thought we would offer you the chance to become a Hair Expo model. As you can imagine many will be needed so simply e-mail Gabrielle@VirtualHairCare.com and mark the subject EXPO MODEL. We will mail you back a form to fill in and should warn you that you need to open minded and prepared to strut your stuff. These forms will be passed onto the organisers and you never know you may be getting a call!
May 2005
We suggested last month that you get some layers and enhance your natural waves and curls the next move is to get some lift and volume and those layers should make it all the easier. For those of you that think big hair is something that should only populate the American 80's soap opera then you are oh so wrong. The hair products companies on mass have been updating their ranges with root lift sprays, volume pumping mousse and good old super strong spray (now ozone friendly of course).
So no need for a new cut just pump up the one you've got!
April 2005
With the change of season everyone is thinking about change and your hair is no exception. The looks for autumn/winter are all about layers and lots of them. Layers give your hair freedom to move and encourage any curl or wave you may have, it's this texture that you want. You may hear the term 'disconnected' layers on your next trip to the salon, don't worry they are simply talking about short areas sitting right next to longer areas and it really is the look.
If colour is your thing when you contemplate change then think chocolate richness with a drizzling of honey and amber. I just want to eat it!
March 2005
This month we cover the Australian Hair Fashion Awards sponsored by Schwarzkopf and held every year at the Sydney Town Hall. As usual, an unflawed presentation with some excellent acts that didn't drag on all night selected the winners who are really the trendsetters when it comes to the latest looks.
We weren't surprised that AHFA Australian Hairdresser of the Year was awared to Oscar Cullinan for some truely superior work. He has been a busy man this year, having taken on ownership of legendary Darlinghurst salon, Synergy Hair, adding to the successful Oscar Oscar quiver of salons in Queensland.
If you want a full list of winners, click on this link for a closer look!
February 2005
Mahogany Hair one of the UK's foremost salons has brought its brand of hairdressing know how to Sydney with the opening of its first international salon. Imports include not only the owner and style director Hamish Glianos (a returning Aussie actually) but head colourist Derren and their unique version of a style to suit your individual needs know as "signature styling". The one thing they did not bring with them are London prices so we can see many of you checking out this new salon. Stand by for a profile on Mahogany, coming soon.
January 2005
Everyone but everyone is getting into the textured, messed up curl look and if you haven’t yet then now is the time as there are an array of new and fun products just out to help.
Beach hair is the real hit with many of the salon-only ranges launching whole summer style and care ranges. PPS have Sea Salt Mist (a spray) and Beach Styler (a texturising gum) as well as a deep cleansing shampoo, rich moisturizer for all the necessary aftercare that is needed after spending time in the sun in their Life’s a Beach product.
The brand better known for its ceramic straighteners, GHD, have put together a summer range also including styling and nourishing options with great names like Sun Survivor and Sun Worshipper. Wella and Matrix feel that the wet look is another styling option for those with shorter hair and Kevin Murphy the original beach hair style company, has moved forward with the Hair Screen, Simply Sun Screen and Light styling and Hold in one.
Before investing in any of the new beach stylers and sun care products my best suggestion is to check with your hairdresser that it is suitable for you and to ask for a demo on how to use it as nothing works if you don’t have the know-how!
Here are more tips from earlier months, that are useful no matter if you live in either the Northern or Southern hemisphere.
December 2004
Firstly we would like to announce our new section the "Virtualhaircare Collections Series" where we showcase some of the best complete collections of the quarter. This month we feature Anthony Nader, Phillip Gallo and Gritti Palace. Click this link to see the whole lot.
November 2004
Think sexy, flirty, soft and loose, tousled and wavy and you start to get the picture or at least the feel of hair for this season. That's not to say that curly and afro don't get a look in, as they do, anything as long as your hair is not smooth flat and stick straight!
Colours are light and reflective with blondes of Nordic proportions forming the bulk of all the colour that we will want to be wearing.
So feeling inspired for change or just a little updating your in the right spot so check out some of our tips and images before you make any decisions.
October 2004
As we move into the season of formals and events we encourage you to get practicing, as getting a sexy up-do or tousled look is not that easy for most of us. So check out our special section, including helpful diagrams, on hair-up. If you are not a do-it-yourself type then a visit to your hairdresser will be needed at some point and ensuring you get what you want is also something we can help you with.
September 2004
As fashion gets a touch of 50's glamour so will hair to complement it.
The 50's are all about femininity with tailored jackets and little 'cardi's, everything working to enhance the curvaceous waistline. Hair is also glamorous with low side partings allowing hair to be swept over to the side in waves. Curl is soft and sleek and straight looks have volume. Hair colour means a pastel hue of all varieties, that's the champagne or pink blondes, apricots, the muted soft browns and dusty reds.
To get these looks with your hair VirtualHairCare has 3 valuable tips:
-
Use non/semi/demi-permanent hair colour or toners, if going light try not to go too much lighter than your natural colour. This is because your hair gets more orange or gold the more you try to lighten it, making it really difficult to achieve soft pastel shades.
-
If your hair tends to frizz then try using an oil or serum combed through your wet hair before styling.
-
Invest in a good pair of ceramic straightening irons to help with all your styling needs even curling your hair!
August 2004
We have interviews with Jayne Wild on the latest in haircuts and Dieter Mersmann on colouring your hair. So if you are in need of some tips or a change from the recent winners of Hair Expo Hairdresser and Colourist of the Year respectively we have it on VirtualHairCare, check them out.
If you feel that high fashion is not what you are after then you may want to see what a haircut and colour can do for 'real' people then look no further than our make-over page thanks to the guys at Maurice Mead.
Finally, if all you want to do is to get what you really want from your hairdresser then check out what Oscar Cullan has to say on the subject.
July 2004
After taking in all the sights and sounds of Hair Expo 2004 the VirtualHairCare team came away full of new ideas and all the latest products to test on your behalf. So over the next few months look out for our updates.
As for an overview of what to expect in the next 12 months the look is curl and wave rather than stick straight, but don't throw away your flat irons yet as they make a great tool to create all sorts or curls with a little know how. On the colour side highlights are out and solid colour with the odd flash of interest in the form of a panel of something lighter or darker is the go.
June 2004
To keep your hair current this month get a fringe (bangs for our US readers). Long heavy fringes sweeping the top of the eye will give your hairstyle the edge. Fringes of this type are not for everyone though as some face shapes won't suit it as you can make your face look too small. To see if it is a look for you check out our pages on cuts to suit your face.
If changing your haircut is not your thing but you are looking for a change why not consider a colour change? To make sure you know what you are letting yourself in for see our colour section.
The biggest hairdressing event in the Southern Hemisphere takes place in Sydney on the 12th, 13th and 14th of June at Hair Expo, Darling Harbour. So if you are looking for some inspired new looks from your hairdresser it is always a good time to visit them after they have had their 'inspiration injection'. See the shots that made the finals here and check out who won!
Congratulations to Jayne Wild and Dieter Mersmann of Wild Life Hairdressing in Milsons Point Sydney on winning the coverted titles of Hair Expo Hairdresser of the Year 2004 and Colour Technician of the Year respectively.
May 2004
It's all about glamour and whilst gorgeous dresses head down the runway at MAFW we also predict that we will be seeing some very glamorous hair. You really can't show off a beautiful dress without having the hair to match. So start growing your locks and work on your your-up styling techniques this month to keep ahead of the trends.
June is the month for all things new on the hair front with new product releases and all the latest looks out in force at Australia's major hair event, Hair Expo. So whether you're a hairdresser or not, head for the Sydney Harbour Convention Centre on either the 12th, 13th or 14th of June.
Some links that may help you this month:
Hair-up styles
Growing your hair
April 2004
Last month saw the official opening of the new flagship Raw Salon in Sydney. It was a big month on the whole for the guys, with salon owner Anthony Nader also picking up the title of 2004 NSW Hairdresser of the Year at the Australian Hair Fashion Awards. If you're looking for the most happening salon in Sydney right now, Raw could be the place to head for.
Anthony Nader with one of his high profile clients, Sophie Monk
------------
If keeping up with the latest hair trends and salons is why you visit VirtualHairCare then this months tip is about '60's' styling with a twist. Think back to the classic Vidal Sassoon looks of heavy fringes that sit right on top of your eye and blunt lines, the twist being that the 2004 variety also have lots of internal choppy layers.
Here is a good example from 
:
Hair by Ella Reed of Hair Do We Do for Goldwell. Mouse over to find out how it was done.
March 2004
This is the month of the product launch or it feels like that around our office! Check out the new Sexy Hair range featured in this months competition and the new Volume Extreme from L'Oreal Professional which really hits the mark with fine hair featuring as a problem for many of you. Advances in colour products are moving us away from solid heavy looking colours and what can sometimes look wig-like has been transformed to more translucent colours that allow natural differences or highlights to shine through without having to go to the expence of having them. Ask your hairdresser when you next visit a salon. The 1st of the month saw the AHF Awards winners announced. So for those of you who want to see what new or those in the hairdressing industry who want to be the first to know who won the coveted titles, we have all the winners and finalists here for you.
Congratulations to Lee Cohen of Reds Salon Cairns: AHF Australian Hairdresser of the year!
Courtesy of Lee Cohen and AHJ
February 2004
Afro style frizz is the look of the moment according to what has been evident on the runways of the world this season. Although if you look at the shapes and styles that have graced this years Golden Globe awards you may be forgiven in thinking that this was true. What was evident was the almost total lack of straight locks, the beautiful Charlize Theron summed up the look for me with her hair groomed into waves 40's style.
For some examples of this and many more hair predictions for the coming year check out our new page on the finalists of the 2004 AHF Awards. These hairdressing awards are judged on editorial images that combine hair and fashion to form a complete look and are a great guide to finding yourself a hairdresser with their finger really on the pulse.
January 2004
It's all about fringes so if you want the look get a fringe! That's the advice of Alex Treloar session stylist and makeup artist.
For the girls we are talking the large round rolled fringe like that in the image to the left from Hair Machine. You can create this look by backcombing your hair to give height and then rolling your fringe around a large round brush whilst blowdrying or setting it over a large round velcro roller.
And guys needn't miss out on this latest trend with your version of fringe styling being the 'quiff'. Wear it messy with the sides of your hair pulled slightly forwards for the true effect. If the quiff is not for you, try a heavy fringe similar to this look below from Hair Machine in Adelaide:
For a VirtualHairCare article that may help you create these looks for yourself, check out these pages:
Creating a quiff
Rollers setting
Back combing
December 2003
With summer knocking on the door, the blonde look is in, click on this link to see our article this month on going blonde!
Courtesy of Cataldo's, Canberra ACT
--------------------------
November
2003
Look
out for 60’s style bobs is the VirtualHairCare tip. Strong
bold asymmetric fringes with concave backs very Vidal Sassoon
at his best, with strong bold colours to match. The bob has
become a classic hairstyle, it also has the advantage, in
all of its many and varied forms to suit nearly all of us.
So don't be affraid to give this trend a try and remember
being mid way between long and short you are leaving your
options open for your next style change!
This month check
out our What's New pages on hair and colour with predictions
from some of the hotest stylists around inclunding Emilio
Cataldo, Mick Luppino and Shane Henning.
October
2003
Virtualhaircare
turns 3 years old this month! Thanks very much to our
loyal readers for all your support, it has made Virtualhaircare.com
a leading global hair care title and will continue to provide
the best info and promotions so that you can always look your
best! Here's a couple for for the month of October:
We
said it a couple of months ago but it's now here and very
happening, yes curl is truly back with a vengeance. All those
kinks we have been ironing out for months are now your saviour,
but don't throw away your straightening irons yet as many
of them are very useful to help you create some unstructured
curls and natural kinks (with a few tips from us).
The
look is very natural large loose curls, sort of half way between
'just got out of bed' and Sarah Jessica Parker. Keep all of
your length but get lots of layers to encourage natural curl
and dry it using a diffuser and curling balm or mousse. If
your curl is too strong (i.e. closer to SJP) get this look
by using a hair straightening balm like Paul Brown Stay
Straight. Comb your hair straight and then leave it to
dry naturally. Your curl will eventually return but will be
far less bouncy and have a loose, more unstructured feel.
All this adds up to great news for everyone because if you
are heading into summer right now this look is far more "beach
friendly" than stick straight hair.
If you are heading into winter then curl is a very sexy look
for the party season and draws attention away from things
like "you would like a new colour for every party but
you can't get your roots done that often"!
September
2003
September
feels like a month for all things new. As editor of VirtualHairCare
I get to go to all the product launches and recently I have
been to a fair few. Look out for GHD ceramic flat irons,
available only from salons. At around $AU300 they are not
cheap but worth every cent! The proof is in my new super straight
shiny hair! The real test will be over the long term and whether
with with regular use (not normally recommended with flat
irons) my hair stays in good condition.
Looks
like a common or garden flat iron but doesn't perfom like
one!
It's
not often that an entirely new range of products gets launched
but this month the bright orange bottles of Play will
appear on hairdressers shelves. With playful names like, well,
Playfull, for root lift, this range really is fun and funky.
If
anyone who reads this column has anything new, do let me know
as I love to try it all out and I know all our readers love
to know what's hot.
August
2003
It
seems to me that no sooner have you opted for the latest look
than that look is already over! Well straight hair is not
over yet but maybe we should start to prepare ourselves for
the next trend. You guessed it curls are coming back! Music
to my ears as a curly top myself.
For
more on what's happening as far as hair fashion is concerned,
who better to ask that Mick Luppino the current AHFA Hairdresser
of the Year. Check out his article in What's
New in Hair.
Never
let us be accused of not being through and doing our research.
You may have noticed our look at the new range of hairdryers,
irons and other electrical items from Sunbeam. Well it's not
just a simple review of the range as we thought we would ask
some of the best hairdressers to put the equipment through
its paces. See their comments coming up soon in our new Professional
Reviews page.
July
2003
I
imagine that almost all of our visitors look us up because
they are suffering from or want to avoid bad hair days. In
the big scheme of things you can be forgiven for thinking
that if bad hair is all a person has to worry about then their
life can't be all that bad! However, when you look at the
effects a so called 'bad hair day' can have then you can see
why hair is so important.
Those
smart guys over at Yale have even studied the effects which
include low self-esteem, increasing self doubt, intensified
social insecurities and a tendency to self criticism, basically
finding faults with ourselves that go way beyond simple appearance.
Even worrying about the possibility of a bad hair day can
lead to low self-esteem!
Proctor
and Gamble found that men are just as likely to have a bad
hair day as women, a point that may come as a surprise to
most women! They also discovered that the effect on each of
us can vary greatly with feelings of increased self consciousness,
irritability and depression being the main ones.
With
job interviews, Weddings and all manner of important occasions
known to bring on acute cases of bad hair it really does pay
to avoid them. So check out our bad
hair day page and the useful links.
We
have had so many questions about permanent hair straightening.
Look out this month for some great information on Paul
Brown Hawaii's revolutionary thermal hair straightening
system, Hair At Rest Plus
Before
and after images (above and below) are provided courtesy of
Paul Brown Hawaii
June
2003
Hair
Expo 2003 
June
is the big month in the hairdressers calendar in Australia,
as the annual Hair Expo takes place over the Queens
Birthday long weekend. We will be bringing you all the news
on what's new and hot from not only Australia but around the
world. Look out for our features if you can't get down to
Sydney!
As
for what's hot right now, in more ways than one, the topic
of 'ionics" is definitely it. This new method
of drying hair whilst increasing moisture content, so building
condition, is really changing long-held beliefs on what is
good or bad for the hair. Our special
feature on Ionisation Technology helps to put you
in the picture and enable you to make the right buying choices.
May
2003
The look of the moment is heavily layered with a fringe (or
bangs) and the more texture the better. The length is around
the shoulders, but not passed them. Although the bob is still
a popular style it has to be a layered version to give it
a current edge. So if your looking for a change of hair style
we hope our tips come in useful.
May
is a time for change in fashion directions generally with
MAFW between the 4th and 8th, along with next seasons clothes,
some of Australia's best hairdressers will be coming up with
looks to complement them. All takes place down at Sydney's
famous Circular Quay this year with a new section titled The
Source @ MAFW especially to show case up and coming designers
we can expect to see some interesting trends.
We
also have the newly announced finalists for the Hair
Expo awards. The winners will be announced in June but
to have become a finalist you really have your finger on the
pulse. So if you want to know whose hot check out the finalists
and maybe choose a hairdresser for your new layered (with
fringe) hair cut! Use the link above.
Image
from Shane Henning @ NOK Sydney.
-------------
April
2003
As we change the clocks and turn the seasons so should we
think about our ever changing hair. Each season brings with
it different needs for hair, how to look good on the beach
and dealing with those dry end problems in summer followed
by static and dry scalps in winter. A few simple steps before
we get problems that we know about can make all the difference
to a season of bad hair days. It's a bit like no matter how
many times you change those clocks you are never quite certain
as to whether its forwards or back an hour! So for those of
us about to head into winter check out our Winter
Hair Special. And for those visitors about to head the
other way, check out our Summer
Hair Tips.
As
promised we have our new feature on the Japanese
method of permanent hair straightening. Great information
for those of us with unwanted kinks and curls and hairdressers
looking for the low-down on new developments.
March
2003
You have
been asking us all about the new straightening products from
Japan. Well never let it be said that we don't go out there
and find out all the facts so that we can bring you the best
advice. These really are different and leave the hair in great,
if not better, condition! As a hairdresser that has always
shied away from straightening on the grounds that for many
clients the condition it left the hair in was too poor to
warrant it, I have been converted! I have a new religion!
So look out in April for a feature spread on this very new
and exciting option for any one with a kink to a curl.
As for
March check out the latest looks from the winners of the Australian
Hair Fashion Awards. I hope you get inspired and can find
something for your new look.
Winner
Mick Luppino of Luppino's, Fairfield, Sydney, Australia.
With
all the new year resolutions and other good intentions probably
broken by now, I don't suppose many of you are thinking about
doing good things for your hair, but maybe you should. Whether
the holiday season means lots of sun or lots of blow-drying
and generally teasing your hair to within an inch of its life,
now's the time to think about a treatment or two! Check out
this little lot for tips, help and know how:
Shampooing,
conditioning and treating.
Frizz,
how not to.
Are
you dry and damaged?
Post
holiday hair.
Information
for swimmers.
A
final thought for all of us image conscious fashionistas and
the rest of us who often find we are a little too negative
in our judgment of self. I bring this up, due to the number
of questions I am constantly asked along the lines of 'how
can I look like this model/actor'. In this world of technical
wizardry the camera always lies, well not exactly the camera
but the image altering software by which the original photograph
is 'enhanced'. Has anyone else noticed that stars don't age
any more or that those snaps of stars at their local supermarket
look so different from our image of them on the cover of say
'Vogue', that you would think even their mother would not
recognise them! It's all due to image enhancement or put another
way, completely altering a photo to portray that person as
being so perfect that you can only feel inferior.
So
next time you ask your hairdresser to turn you into 'Townsvilles'
answer to Meg Ryan, remember to retain a little bit of reality
about it and to remember non of us look that good really!
Tip of the Month:
December 2002
The
party season brings with it the need to look fabulous and
possibly even try something new. A new cut or colour is guaranteed
to get you in the mood for all the events that the season
brings, but not if it's a disaster. So to help ensure you
get what you want have a quick read through some or all of
these pages:
Consultations
are free!
Making
sure your hairdresser understands you.
Help!
It's not what I wanted!
Finding
the cut to suit you.
What
colouring method do I ask for?
Choosing
a colour that suits you.
Wishing
you all the joys of the holiday season from the VirtualHairCare
team.
Tip of the Month:
November 2002
Whether
your in the Southern or Northern hemisphere the change of
season brings with it 'frizz'. This most common of hair problems
can leave even the best haircut looking drab and ordinary.
Check
out these pages to make sure you don't fall victim to the
dreaded frizz:
Dealing
with frizz
Dry
and damaged hair
Get
more shine
Tip of the Month:
October 2002
A
retro 50's influence is to have an effect on our wardrobe
and these trends are going to carry through to how we do our
hair.
If
you think smooth, sleek and above all, neat, then you're already
on your way to understanding how to achieve this look. We
probably won't be seeing these trends on the high street until
after Christmas but if you want to keep up with the 'in crowd'
then get practising now with your hair.
Perfectly
structured waves or "smooth styles" are not easy
to create without a little know-how and practice, especially
after a period of tousled 'peasant' looks and soft curls where
our styling skills have been made a little redundant.
To
help you brush up on these skills, next month we'll be interviewing
the pro's who will be giving us tips on how do it. And we
will be featuring the latest pictures of these new yet retro
trends. Here's a great example below from Caterina Di Biase
of Heading Out Hair & Beauty in Melbourne Australia.
Tip of the Month:
September 2002
The
"Curl" is offically in once more. It has to be the
right type of curl though!
Large
loose irregular curls are the look and if your hair does that
all on it's own lucky you, but as we all know next season
you will be the one having to work hard at changing your hair.
For the rest of us check out these links that may help you
to curl up straighter hair or smooth out very culy hair:
For
getting some curl see our pages on Perming,
Hot
Tonging or Roller
Setting your Hair
For
relaxing very curly hair see Straightening
your Hair
If
you have anything from a wave to a bend check out Scrunching
and Diffuse drying, textured
messy looks and Twisting
and Ringlets for how to make the most of what you have
got.
Tip of the Month:
August 2002
It's
all about getting the right 'look' and 'the look' has never
been more user friendly than the latest trend for shaded "under-colour"
in your hair.
No
matter what your style, this colour technique can add thickness,
texture and definition to almost all hair cuts. With the move
away from the short sharp gemometric shapes to the out-grown
styles we have seen gracing the catwalks, this type of colour
work adds a definite edge to what could otherwise look as
if you just didn't get your regular cut.
For
more information, see this month's "What's
New in Colour" section.
Tip of the Month:
July 2002
We
checked out Sharon Maher, of Synergy Hair and her latest looks
at this years Hair Expo. Renowned for her editorial work,
this is one hairdresser who sets the benchmark for others
by gracing the pages of all the top glossy magazines.
The
looks that she produced really stood out, with heavy strong
fringes framing the face, curving 'monk' style around from
ear to ear. These strong solid fringes then contrasted with
hair that was left longer and wispy, and was even permed to
give it a fly away texture at the back. Combined with edgy
make-up and 80's style fashions, these looks stood out on
the catwalk and are going to look great on the street!
Tip of the Month:
June 2002
Mercedes'
Australian Fashion Week is over for another year, well for
6 months as it's just become a biannual event! We went, we
saw and now we can predict what's going to happen on the hair
side of things!
Hair
is all about complementing your look, and that is exactly
the brief the hairdressers are given when working with clothes
designers on their catwalk shows. So if we are going to be
wearing the latest fashions, then our hair better be looking
the part too. This coming season hair, like the clothes, is
getting all crafty! Twist it, plait it, corn row it or even
basket weave it, if you want to get real tricky, any of these
will bring you right up to the minute in the latest hair looks.
So
get practising, you may need some tips from our pages on plaiting
and braiding or click into our fashion
week run down.
Tip of the Month:
May 2002
Flavour
of the Year hairdresser, Anthony Nader of Sydney's Raw Hair
has an exclusive tip to share with us this month and he should
know what's hot! He's just been down in Melbourne applying
his skills to a bevy of top celebrities at this years Logies
awards including host Wendy Harmer, Jackie O, Sigrid Thornton
and the girls from Bardot.
So
what does he predict for us mere mortals? "Strong, heavy
fringes in long wavy hair". Don't forget you heard it
here first!
And
look out for Anthony and his team as they prepare to strut
their stuff in the Worlds longest fashion parade, directing
hair for the Bowie Wong's 'Bowie' label (also sponsored by
BMW and deLorenzo. This parade will take place on the 4th
of May from Bondi to Crows Nest and will give everyone the
chance to see an early glimpse of what's to come at Australian
Fashion Week (from 6th to the 9th of May).
Tip of the Month:
April 2002
It
can seem that choosing a salon or stylist for your needs is
one of the hardest things to do. But, after all, a good or
a bad haircut will effect the way you feel and therefore the
image you portray to other people far more than any item of
clothing or accessory.
So
it always pays to try and identify the best. The hair industry
has a number of awards for hairdressing so look out for those
little statues in your local salon. During recent interviews
with some of the most talented stylists out there, I was asking
the question "do awards in the hair industry really mean
anything?". Australian Hairdresser of the Year, Adam
Noble from Next Hair in Canberra, summed it up when he said
"Awards reflect a range of talents, not necessarily who
is the best. What they do show is who is looking at what and
what is actually going on in fashion and style".
So
for those looking for a stylist to give them a new look that
is up to date and suitable for your lifestyle, look out for
those little awards statues and plaques on the wall and check
out that they are not 10 years old. Make sure that the salon
stocks the latest fashion and hair magazines (not old tatty
ones) or you might end up with an out of date hairstyle! And
of course, always check us out, because we carry the very
latest shots.
Tip of the Month:
March 2002
With the
Australian Hair Fashion Awards in mid February we have had
a preview of what will be gracing our heads over the coming
season. Predictions from the winners include:
Adam Noble,
Next Hair in the ACT, Australian Hairdresser of the Year.
"Look out for longer fringes and an asymmetric look,
which does not have to be as radical as it sounds" says
Adam. His other tips include making your next purchase a pair
of flat irons as straight hair is what we will all be wearing
shortly.
Tracy
Hughes, Mieka Hairdressing Victoria, Creative Colourist and
Victorian Hairdresser of the Year. "Everything will have
a stronger geometric feel". Tracey also supports the
opinion that hair is heading towards asymmetric shapes. "Colour
also will be strong and dramatic, keep away from highlights
go for more colour peeping through the rest of your hair.
The colours themselves will be bold like red and back and
lots of violet tones, blonde will be less prevalent and used
more to exaggerate other colours in your hair".
For more
on the awards and the latest looks see our What's
New and Members
sections.
Tip of the Month:
February 2002
Think
70's and Bohemian and you are on the right track for the next
six months. We saw a move to 70's styling about eighteen months
ago with the "Farrah Fawcett" look but this seasons
looks are way more 'flower power' than the fairly conservative
"flicks" of last year..
We predict
that hair will have a soft, loose, sexy, feminine feel. Forget
sleek and straight think unstructured curl. Check out our
pages on perming
and tonging
for how to recreate these looks for yourself.
Plaits
or braids are also going to make a comeback. Check out
the latest looks from the worlds catwalks to see what we mean.
The addition of a small section of your hair made into a simple
plait amongst your soft curls will be the it look!
Tip of the Month:
January 2002
To keep
your hair current and to give yourself a change that is simple
yet effect 'move your parting'! The hidden eye is back! Make
your parting low and on a slight diagonal then sweep your
hair across one eye for a really sexy finish to any style.
Moving
your parting from its natural position to the side that it
does not normally fall on can also give added height and volume
to your hair.
Tip of the Month: December
2001
After
a recent trip to London to check out what is happening in
the World of Hair at Salon International, it seems that the
under cut a la Kate Moss is still the look of the moment.
So if you've not already tried it maybe it's time for a consultation
with your favourite hairdresser as to whether or not it's
the look for you? The punkish 80's shapes are still a dominant
fashion look with the 'mullet' (long at the back short at
the sides) another variation.
As for
the next set of hair colours look out for all the woody, burnt,
and muted tones. More in keeping with the punkish styles than
these colours sound they are applied to look almost grown
out, defiantly no nice highlights!
Tip of the Month: November
2001
Look after
your colour! Whilst those UV rays are tanning our skins they
are busy having the exact opposite effect, lightening our
hair. If your hair is coloured this effect is enhanced and
your 'just stepped out of the salon' look can be gone in a
couple of hours at the beach.
If you
want to be lighter, that's great, but make sure you keep your
hair topped up with moisture and nourishment so that you don't
end up dry and frizzy.
If you've
paid a fortune for a beautiful copper or rich honey look,
and want your hair to remain that way, then you need to think
about protecting it. This can take the form of a hat, a hairspray
or other finishing product with UV filters or a more specialist
shampoo or conditioner with colour enhances added to suit
your individual colour needs. So don't forget to ask when
you are next in the salon about your best options. Also see
our What's
New in hair colour pages for some more tips.
Tip of the Month: October
2001
Blonde,
blonde, blonde is what those in the know are saying. "But
two or three different shades can be used to create shadows
and bring out definition to each area of your cut" says
Isabelle Edet of Ménage a Trois, Neutral Bay,
Sydney. "Colours for summer will be radical".
The
80's revival is giving way to the 70's and recent fashion
shows from London to Milan are heralding this change of look.
In hair we are going to see a comeback of the 70's "Shake"
say the guys at Maurice Meade in Perth Australia. Look out
for their new collection on our What's
New in hair page.
Tip of the Month:
September 2001
Here
in the Southern hemisphere, the first of September marks the
start of Spring and that means blonde for your hair. This
season think of golden corn fields and soft light strawberry
copper blondes all mingled together. This means that highlights
of two, three or even four colours run through your hair.
If you have not tried colour before, opt for a few highlights
around the face to give that sun-kissed look.
For
the guys as well, blonde is it, but simply brushed onto the
tips of your hair again leaving you with the look that the
sun has lightened it rather than you spent time at the salon.
Tip of the Month:
August 2001
It's
time to start getting your hair and scalp in shape for the
changing of the seasons. We have been hibernating long enough
so let's start to think about regular weekly treatments to
restore that lost shine and bounce. Having your hair in good
shape for summer stops the sun taking such a toll, and means
that when you fancy a few added highlights, they are not likely
to end up dry looking as the summer goes on.
A
big consequence of winter is that your scalp has become dry
with the combination of hot showers and not enough time to
rinse thoroughly. It seems that we are more prone to late
rising and rushing out the door which, besides the dry weather
is part of the problem. For some solutions on how to handle
this check out our dry
flaky scalps page for some tips.
Knots
are the go when styling your hair, That's if you have enough
hair to knot. It's all about experimenting with your hair
to achieve a knotted messy style so try not to focus on each
section as you twist, knot and pin it into shape but on the
overall silhouette that you are creating with your efforts.
Practice makes perfect, so instead of staying in to wash your
hair, stay in to tie it in knots! See our What's
New in Hair page for more detail.
Tip of the Month:
July 2001
Hair
extensions are not new, but using them to add bright and vibrant
pieces of colour to your look is the latest in hair accessories.
For those of us that like a regular change this could be the
answer. We are talking really bright here pink, red or blue
take your pick and give it a go. With the added benefit of
zero fade from washing you can get up to 3 months of funky
looking hair out of a few extensions. For more information
on this and hair extensions generally see:
Hair
Extensions, The Long and The Short of It!
Tip of the Month:
June 2001
With
June being HairExpo month, there are a huge amount of predictions
and new styles about. So who better to ask what will be happening
in colour than the winner of last years title of Perming and
Colouring Technician of the Year, Alyson
Schoer of BBR in Surry Hills, Sydney. "Colours
will be rich and velvety but still very wearable. Intense
plums and garnet reds, with just a hint of gold added into
them to take the pink edge off, are the colours of the season".
We also discussed a trend for blondes to be going 'au natural'
after years of homage to the saying 'always a blonde'. It
seems we just don't have the time for high maintenance colour
like blonde any more and a simple natural look is the big
request at the moment.
Tip of the Month:
May 2001
With Australian
fashion week upon us we look to the Hair Directors of some
of the biggest shows for our tips this month.
It is the hair
directors job to design a signature hair image or concept
for the hair styling that will complement the latest collection
of each clothes designer. Fashion after all is all about the
whole look and hair, make-up and clothes must all come together
to make any collection work.
Sharon Maher
of Synergy Hair in Darlinghurst is directing hair for
several top designers but she is probably most well known
for her work with Akira Isogawa. She even travelled with him
to his Paris show this year to ensure all went well. Sharon
forecasts "hair is getting shorter and for fashion week
if we can't cut it we are making long hair look shorter with
clever styling. The feeling is late 70's and early 80's. Undercuts
and buzz cuts are back". We tried to press her for more
details but it's all very hush hush until the event has happened!
She did add though that we should look out for the new look
she just created for Michelle Janks.
Anthony Nader
of Raw Hair Sydney is directing hair for Anna Sui and
although it is all quiet on the exact styling, check out these
fabulous new images he sent us:
Tip of the Month:
April 2001
As the seasons change
so does our hair, problems like frizz are an issue for many
of us at this time. Our favourite product of the month for
frizz control is:
|
Magic
this really is what it's name suggests. Use the smallest
amount to prevent frizzy flyaway hair and define curl.
You also get an incredibly shiny finish to your hair
as well. The push down type applicator means you can
get as much as you need without 'over doing it' which
are the big watch words. Less is more!
|
|
Tip of the Month:
March 2001
At
the Australian Hairdressing Industry Awards (held on Feb.
11th in Sydney) Anthony
Nader of Raw Hair, Sydney,
was credited with creating the 'Image of the Year 2001'. So
who better to ask what is about to happen to our hair. "Fashion
for 2001 is all 80's style blouses with ruffles, soft fabrics
and knee high boots, but with hair keep it loose soft and
feminine as women today have no need to be aggressive in their
look to assert their position". Anthony is known
for his low maintenance and sexy styles and says "it
still has to suit your face, so I work with that first".
On the colour side of things Anthony sees "woody browns
and toffees" applied to all of your hair "in
a solid fashion".
Tip of the Month:
February 2001
The
Deconstructed Bob, Strong Colour and Fringes (Bangs)
Rob
Hastie and
Tracey Colebrook of
Shibui are predicting
"a year of strong bold hair colour and the return
of the fringe" for 2001.
"Deconstructed Bob's"
(that's hairdresser speak for the looks Kate Moss and Jennifer
Aniston are sporting of late) will be the shape of the year.
Rob had a few words of wisdom to share with you when choosing
a hairdresser to give you that 'deconstructed look'. "Structure
is easy, it's what you first learn when training to be a hairdresser,
but unstructured cuts like the Deconstructed Bob are much
harder, it takes a hairdresser a long while to learn how to
break the rules successfully. Pick a top salon that does looks
that are 'trendy', but are not ruled by having to be trendy.
That way you will get a look that really suits you. Also look
for someone with a few years experience under their belt who
has had more time to practice 'breaking the rules' ".
And here a couple
of highlights from the past few months if this is the first
time you have been here!
Tip of the Month:
January 2001
The
Return of the "Quiff"
If
you want to keep up with the latest on what to do with your
hair then just look to the catwalks of Paris, Milan, London
and New York. Add about six months, take out the completely
weird elements then imagine the look on the average head of
hair/face and you will have a pretty accurate idea of what's
to come.
So
without quite as much fanfare or the expense of employing
your own hair director, we suggest you start to practice the
art of creating the quiff, as all roads seem to point to this
for the new look for 2001.
It's
not a sixties style quiff rather a 1940's post war number
coupled with a lot more make-up as really dressed hair demands.
Oh, and don't forget the black eyeliner!
To
create it for yourself follow these basic instructions (if
you have short hair start growing it now, you still have time!):
- Blow-dry
your hair straight or very loose long waves.
- Take
out the front section of your hair across your forehead
from temple to temple, about 6cm deep. It does not matter
if you have a fringe as this can be incorporated into the
look, but you may need to take the section slightly deeper
if you do. Clip out of the way for now.
- Draw
the sides of your hair back off your face smoothly and either
pin or ponytail using a covered band at the crown. Leave
the back of your hair to fall loosely over your shoulders.
See
more about this in our "What'
New" Section
Late last year we
welcomed one of the top London salons, MacMillan
to VirtualHairCare.com. We will be featuring some of their
great pictures throughout the site on an ongoing basis.
Tip
of the Month: November/December 2000: What's New in Party
Hair?
It's time to get your tongs out to take you and your hair
on a trip back to the early eighties! The release of the remake
of the Charlie's Angels movie starring Cameron Diaz will have
us all trying to recreate those Farrah Fawcett flicks for
an up-to-the-minute party look.
Right now you are either wondering who the heck Farrah Fawcett
is or you're (just) old enough to remember those flicks but
not how to do them. It's all about finding the right product
with the firmest hold. We love products like Redken Traction
and Sebastian Switch Craft for styling and then lashings
of hairspray to finish, hold and keep those flicks for the
whole evening, not just until you've walked in the door!