Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Weekly Trend: Multi-Dimensional Color

Bella Bethesda Expert: Demetrios

Whether it's soft pastels, loud hues, or bright florals, colors are in this summer. And that doesn't just go for your clothes. This week's trend is all about rich, multi-dimensional color that will warm you up faster than a sunny beach. Bella stylist Demetrios has the lowdown on this healthful summer look.

Multi-dimensional color uses various techniques that combine two or more colors in similar families for a natural, deep look. This works for all hair types and ages because it's really about enhancing the color that suits you best with some fuller tones. Your stylist can work with you to determine the best color family for your skin tone and hair. Using good maintenance products, such as Redken or Pureology shampoo, is key to ensure lasting multi-dimensional color.

Multi-Dimensional Blonde: Avoid a harsh bleached or streaky blonde do by going for a warmer, multi-dimensional honey color. First time blonde? This is a great way to gradually introduce it into your style.

Multi-Dimensional Brunette: If your brown locks are feeling a little drab, cheer them up with multi-dimensional coloring that shines from every angle. Whether you're a dark chestnut or light cinnamon, this technique will give you a luminous glow inside and out.

Multi-Dimensional Red: The key to redhead success is matching skin tone with the right tint of color. Multi-dimensional reds are a great way to ensure a deep, vivacious look while avoiding any harshness.

Ask about your perfect multi-dimensional color at your next appointment!

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Weekly Trend: Polished Summer Curls

Bella Bethesda Expert: Katie

We love beach hair as much as the next girl, but sometimes we crave a more polished look on those warm summer evenings. Thanks to a few trusty curling tools and products, you can have the best of both worlds. Stylist Katie shares two ways to pull off this sophisticated summer look.

The Curling Iron Approach

When using a curling iron, it helps to have day-old hair so that natural oils can protect your locks from the heat of the iron. For maximum thermal protection, use a fortifying product such as Pureology Fortifying Heat Spray on damp hair before styling.

When you're ready to start curling, divide hair into sections. Working from the nape of your neck, separate one-inch pieces of hair, spray with strong-hold hairspray such as Sebastian Shaper Hairspray, and roll up until the piece is completely around the barrel. Hold for 8-10 seconds and release. Continue working through sections until you've reached your desired curl volume and gently comb fingers through hair to create that polished, yet summery look.

The Diffuser Route           

If you're short on time, a diffuser will help play off your natural texture while still offering a sophisticated look. To prep, simply wash, shampoo and condition like normal, then add a gel such as DevaCurl to damp hair.

Tilt your head to one side, place the diffuser at the tip of your strands, then gently push up to your head. keep there for 30 seconds, release diffuser and repeat on another section of hair, tilting head in other directions as necessary. The longer you spend drying your hair this way, the better the curl will hold. When finished, you'll be ready for a day at the office and a night on the town. Enjoy!

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Weekly Trend: Fashionable Ponytails

Bella Bethesda Expert: Cintia

Ponytails are a busy girl's best friend. This everyday style can be transformed from tomboy to chic in just a few easy steps. The best part is, ponytails are flattering to any age group or hair type - you just need locks long enough to tie up! Bella stylist Cintia recommends starting with slightly dirty hair, which will add body and hold styles best. You should also stock your ponytail toolkit with hairspray such as Pureology's Strengthening Control Hairspray and pomade like Pureology's Cuticle Polisher Serum to keep flyaways in check.

When you're ready to spice up this basic updo, check out some of Cintia's favorite looks:

The Wrapped Ponytail
This subtly elegant look was all over the Fall runways. To get in on the trend, simply create a normal ponytail, then separate a thick strand of hair from the tail and tightly wrap it around the elastic, securing with a bobby pin. You can wear your wrapped ponytail low or high.

The Braided Ponytail
If you have long hair, jazz up your ponytail by braiding it. This style works well on both high and low updos, and can be super sleek.

The Ponytail with Flair
Why let the tail have all the fun? Add flair to the rest of your hair by creating a French braid parted to one side of your head. Combine the styles above by braiding the full strand of hair and then wrapping it around your ponytail.

Cintia's Favorite Quick Tip: To make your hair appear fuller, add extra hair elastics to your ponytail. This secret trick will instantly lift hair out further from your head and add bounce!

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Weekly Trend:  Creative Hair Accessories

Bella Bethesda Expert: Indira
We all dread bad hair days, but when your locks are not cooperating and you have a special event, things go from bad to worse. Whether you’re battling the rain, humidity or just a lack of time, Bella stylist Indira recommends controlling unruly tresses with the help of elegant hair accessories. Just about any item in your jewelry box can be repurposed to add a touch of romance to your hairstyle. Here are a few fun ideas:

Necklace Headbands

Try turning a crystal-studded necklace into a tiara fit for royalty. To get this look, slick back your hair into a loose bun, then take a long necklace and wrap it around the crown of your head (just like a headband). Pin it in place with bobby pins.

Brooch Ponytail

Turn an ordinary ponytail into a show stopper by adding an ornamental brooch. Simply tie back your hair and secure the brooch with the help of bobby pins. For added sophistication and movement, consider curling your hair.
Bejeweled Braid

Add excitement to an updo by threading a sparkling chain into a braid and then rolling it back into a bun. Secure the style with pins. We love this look for weddings.