5 Tips for Using Hairstyle Photos for a Consultation

by Ivan Zoot/The Clipper Guy on Monday, July 11th, 2011

Ivan Zoot is the director of education and customer engagement for the Andis Company and the founder of Zoot! Hair professional hair care products. Ivan identifies, recruits, trains and manages Andis’s team of professional beauty industry educators. Ivan continues to be a featured presenter at industry shows and events, sharing his unique blend of information, education and enthusiasm for clipper cutting and the entire professional beauty industry. Ivan’s background includes experiences ranging from salon ownership to achieving 3 Guinness World Haircutting records. Here, he shares his cutting and business-building expertise.

Clients frequently bring hairstyle photos to help visually explain the look they want and stylists frequently have stylebooks lying around, either professionally published or just a personal scrapbook. Using these resources can help to ensure a great experience for both the client and the professional.

Of course, one of the biggest disconnects in the industry arises from unrealistic expectations created by the promise in a discussion around an image.

To avoid this communication disaster, follow these top five tips for using hairstyle photos during a consultation.

1. Seek similar textures

A client with kinky curly hair offering up an image of a sleek, straight style will be setting themselves up for a problem — or setting you up for a big ticket straightening service and a pile of take home hair care products. One scenario is a win/win; the other is a lose/lose. Try to match images and expectations to similar textures.

2. Keep colors close

For the previous reason alone, and then some. The same haircut can appear very different when sculpted on different colors of hair. Issues of depth and dimension reflect quite differently across the range of hair color choices. Encourage clients to share hairstyle photos in target colors that you know can work.

3. Match facial shapes

Many stylists have the ability to imagine a style on different clients. Clients may lack this vision. Compare a client’s facial shape and bone structure to that of a target image. How well will the shape translate? Can you find an image of the cut on a closer matching facial shape? If not, explain your vision to the client and encourage them to seek alternative photos and examples.

4. Align for age

Share hairstyle photos of models of similar age to the client with the client. Female clients generally like to “shop” images only a few years younger than their actual age. Going too young puts them ill at ease with the consultation and change process. Sharing idea images of models noticeably older than the client most always meets with resistance, too. Creating a scrapbook of your work on your clientele’s average aged models will encourage them to choose more visual explanations and help you to give them exactly what they are looking for.

5. Mine Internet galleries

A fast Google search of hair cut length and style keywords reveals an enormous number of valuable image galleries. Other folks did the work of accumulating good shots to work from so use these galleries to build up your stash of images to share.

Update your image collection frequently. Adding new hairstyle photos is needed to keep things fresh. Deleting passé styles is important as well so as to keep clients from getting stuck in the past or from “going retro” before retro becomes hot again.

Remember, you are your client’s last line of defense. Don’t let poor communication and lack of vision ruin an otherwise great appointment.

Easy Curly Hairstyles for Summer

by Alicia Ward on Tuesday, June 7th, 2011

We’ve checked in with veteran hairstylist Anna Craig to get the best curly hairstyles to welcome the summer. The big trend for summer 2011 is natural and loose—great for curlies! Summer curly hairstyles can look very glamorous and beautiful with little to no effort. Summer is the season of sitting poolside, lying on the beach and being outside more that usual—thus, you and your clients need some easy styles to rock this summer.

First, tell your clients to use shampoos, conditioners and hair styling products that contain sunscreens and nourishing agents to help protect their hair from the summer elements. Even better: offer these products at your salon!

Craig, a DevaCurl specialist, has more than nine years of experience and gives us the lowdown on the latest trends and how to achieve these effortless looks. Here is Craig’s list of some of the newest curly hair styles for the hottest months of the year.

Keep it messy!

In fact, the messier the better. You want it to look natural and effortless. The look should be unkempt—loose pieces and curls and waves. Keep it very natural— help your client show off her beautiful curls, kinks and waves!

Side everything!

Help your clients rock their curls to the side. This summer, side ponies and side buns are in. These looks are very easy to achieve, plus they keep our curls off their necks—perfect for those hot summer months.

How to give your client the look:

1: Style her hair as usual. Make sure to apply lots of frizz control products to make this look last.

2: Pull her curls to the side—right behind their ear.

3: Smooth down her curls with your hand and loosely pull them into a ponytail. Don’t pull the hair tightly from the root. Instead, leave it slack and keep it loose.

4: When the ponytail looks right to you, pinch it tightly in place with one hand and then work the elastic band on your wrist over the curls, and secure it tightly so that the ponytail doesn’t flop.

We recommend you use a clear rubber band or one that matches your client’s hair color. Another alternative to a rubber band is the Goody Simple Styles Pony Pouf Hair Styling Clip. This is an easy way to get the messy bun look.

5: Optional: Pull some front and side pieces out to give the look a more glamorous appeal.

Braids!

Messy-braid those curls for a quick and easy summer look. The messy side-braid is an effortless, boho chic look for this summer.

How to give your client the look:

1: Spritz in some curl-enhancing spray and scrunch her hair to enhance her curls and reduce the frizz

2: Gather hair to one side and part in three sections

3: Braid hair loosely and secure it at the bottom

4: For a messy effect, pull out some strands and apply a texturizing product, like wax or pomade

5: Spray on a finishing hair spray and scrunch up hair again for extra volume

Silk-wrapped strands

Scarves are the perfect accessory for summer and a great way to protect your hair from the summer heat, which can dry hair out and cause frizz!. Slipping a colorful scarf around your curls is an easy way to glam up simple curly hairstyles this summer.

1: Fold a bright scarf several times until it’s about 3 inches wide. Twist the ends. Check out these beautiful Shimmer & Bliss scarves.

2: Push your client’s curls, kinks and waves back with your hands, then place the scarf 2 to 2.5 inches behind her hairline. Make sure the ends are an even length.

Tip: To prevent the scarf from slipping, tie it twice at your nape underneath your hair. First, knot it horizontally, then do it again, but this time pull each side of the scarf vertically. This will keep the knot tight and also make the ends lay down evenly.

Premiere Orlando Trend Watch: Deconstructed Curls

by Cassadie on Monday, June 6th, 2011

Deconstructed Curls from Matrix

Deconstructed Curls from Matrix

“Curls are cute,” explained the professional stylist on the Matrix stage “but the new look is big, dramatic hair!” The model to his right, he went on to explain had her curls styled using a styling gel from their new Total Results Curl line launching July 15th, which left her curls super defined and shiny. But to get the the high-impact look he desired, he pulled apart the curls, lifting at the roots and teasing her hair into a large and dramatic style.

The Deconstructed Curl was everywhere on the floor of Premiere Orlando and was often used as a foundation for other styles. On the TIGI stage, a stylist applied tiny-coiled extensions to her model and then used her fingers to pull each and every one of the coils apart. Avlon, the makers of Kera Care, had models with deconstructed curls swept into ponytails. Scruples models wore their curls big, loose, and dramatic.

TIGI uses curly extensions as the base of their Deconstructed Curl look. The result is huge hair with drama and volume

In a community that is focused on the definition of curls and fighting frizz, the Deconstructed Curl offers reprieve and brings a new, edgier option for styling. Instead of seeking the perfect curl, aim to create shape, volume, and drama.

How-To:
Get Deconstructed Curls at Home

• Wash and condition hair as usual
• Use a gel to style the curls while wet. The goal here is to define the curls
• Let the curls dry
• Once dry, separate the curls gently with fingers from tip to root
• Flip head upside down and shake for more volume and finish with a shine serum

Voila! Deconstructed Curls!

Once you have the big loose hair, try some fun styling options such as slicking the front back and wearing a big pony tail or use bobby pins to create a bouffant in the front.

Scruples model

KeraCare model

Mizani pairs deconstructed curls with a sleek bouffant

Trendy Curly Updos for Weddings & Proms

by Alicia Ward on Friday, June 3rd, 2011

Wedding and prom season are here! We’ve got the run down on the last curly hairstyle trends for formal events this year. Veteran stylist Anna Craig of Trashy Root Salon & Spa, show us how to achieve two trendy looks for this formal event season. Craig, Pravana Artistic Educator and DevaCurl Specialist, with over nine years of experience loves updos and shows us how to achieve these looks at home with ease.

Updos for Wavies (Type 2) and Curlies (Type 3)

Step 1: Start by diffusing and applying gel. Apply gel first then diffuse till dry completely dry.

Step 2: Start on the bottom half of the hair and pull curl by curl and pin to the side—right behind the ear (slightly to the side).

Step 3: Twist some pieces, while alternating side, keep the hair loose and kind of messy. It shouldn’t be perfect.

Step 4: Part to the side: Then start twisting the top—alternate side to side—keep it loose do not pull on the curl. Pin, alternating side to side.

Step 5: Leave a few pieces in front (only if the client has shorter bang pieces/framing).

Step 6: Complete the look with aerosol hair spray.

Updos for Kinkies (Type 4)

Step 1: Take small sections and French braid them around the head.

Step 2: Angle the pattern toward one side to give it more style.

Step 3: Pin the ends into the braids. It’s a very simple style.

Step 4: Can add flowers or a clip to accentuate the look.

Move Over Mickey: Premiere Orlando is Coming to Town!

by Cassadie on Thursday, June 2nd, 2011

This weekend, beauty professionals from all over the world will be taking over the land-o-Disney for Premiere Orlando, the largest beauty industry event of the year! I’ll be on the ground chatting with vendors, snapping pictures, and interviewing stylists to bring YOU, yes you, you NaturallyCurly-ites, the latest, greatest, and hottest from the show!

Out of the the hundreds upon hundreds of vendors and education programs here are a few things that I’m really excited to check out:

Curly Hair Tips/Tricks/Products/Styles: A no-brainer, yes, but flat irons, blow dryers, extensions, and straightening treatments still reign supreme. With a keen eye, however, there are always textured diamonds in the rough waiting to be discovered. I can’t wait to unearth this year’s gems!

The Main Stage: I fully expect to be dazzled by the world’s leading stylists who will be taking center stage and showing off their inspired looks at the “International Hair and Fashion Theater”. Nick Arrojo, Ted Gibson (of What Not To Wear), and the Paul Mitchell team to name a few who I’m looking forward to seeing.

The ”Upside Down Speed Cutting” seminar: Really!? Never thought I would use those words together in a sentence, but I’m intrigued and must know what this is all about. Must.

The Fight or Flight of the Keratin Treatment Series: Currently the Premiere Orlando program lists at least 10 different sessions on different Keratin treatments. But these popular - yet polarizing- straightening treatments have recently been under federal fire in the media for their allegedly high levels of formaldahyde. I’m interested to see how this recent news is being handled by these companies and stylists.

BONUS EXTRA CURRICULAR EVENT:The Curly Nikki meet up on Saturday June 4th! Curls!Mingling!Cocktails!Ohmy! I’m totally there so if you’re in Orlando, be sure to stop through! I would love to meet you!

Hot Summer 2011 Hair Trends

by Trash Talk with Anna Craig on Wednesday, June 1st, 2011

From coast-to-coast, hair extensions and faded color is all the rage this season. Here’s a look at two hot summer 2011 hair trends.

Hilary Duff

Feather Hair Extensions

Right now you cannot go anywhere without seeing people with feather hair extensions. You can dress them up or dress them down which makes them very versatile. They’re also huge at all the schools because the kids can get away with them; schools haven’t outlawed them because they’re a hair accessory. They can be washed, blow dried, curled, and flat ironed, and are safe for hair since they attach with a simple hair extension clamp.

You care for feather hair extensions just like a regular hair extension. The feathers come in all lengths, colors, sizes, and designs. However, if you’ve ever tried to order some for your salon, you’ll find out that they’re sold out almost everywhere. My salon was even approached by another salon to see if they could buy ours! But if you’re lucky enough to order some, you know that there are slim pickings right now because of the high demand. Feather hair extensions started out as fly fishing feathers from roosters, peacocks and various other birds. The poor fishermen are probably a little peeved at all the crazy hair stylists out there buying their stock.

Jessica Biel

Ombre Hair Color

Ombre hair color, reverse highlights, or balayaging or whatever you call it is also hot this year. Jessica Biel, Sarah Jessica Parker, Drew Barrymore, Hillary Duff are some of the celebrities who have been rocking this look for a while. This look means having a grown-out bleachy and dark-to-light fade of hair color, with the root starting dark and gradually lightening to the ends.

This look is achieved by coloring halfway up the hair strand to create a natural, sun-kissed highlight. Foils cannot be used because they will cause the hair to look too streaky. If the hair has previous highlights and the highlights are too high up on the hair shaft, you will have to create a dark root by coloring the roots to the midshaft their natural color, and sweeping the color down almost half way. Then you will have to go back and color the midshaft to create a natural highlight and to break up the line. Ombre hair color is more economical for many clients because they are able to go between appointments a lot longer.

8 Tips for Creating Perfect Wedding Hairstyles

by Alicia Ward on Tuesday, May 31st, 2011

Veteran stylist Anna Craig of Trashy Root Salon & Spa offers 8 tips to help your client get the perfect wedding hairstyle.

1. Ask for a photo

Always help your client select a picture to show you of someone with a similar hair type.

2. Think length

Talk to your client about length right away! Remind her if she want to rock longer locks on her wedding day make sure you are open to clip in or permanent extensions.

3. Suggest something new

Make sure to give your client a different look. It’s her BIG day—go fancy!

4. Keep her dry

Make sure to use a product that fights frizz and humidity. Look for products that contain anti-humectants.

5. Ask her to show up ready

Remind your client to wear her hair into the salon straight or curly, depending on the final style.

6. Apply more product than normal

7. Remind her to book a trial

Encourage your client to book a trial run. This will give her an idea of what her final look with be.

8. Hands off the hair!

Tell your client not to mess with her hair when it’s wet to keep frizz at a minimum.

Natural Prom Hairstyles for 2011

by Alicia Ward on Thursday, May 26th, 2011

This year’s prom hairstyles are all about natural, messy and casual looks. Perfectly placed updos have been replaced by long waves, curls and kinks pinned back, braids, twists, romantic, soft updos and messy buns.

Low Curly Ponytail

This look is great for prom because it keeps your hair out of your face during dinner and dancing, but still looks amazing in pics!

Tip: Use a frizz fighting gel to seal your locks so they stay defined and frizz free all night. Another tip is to use clear rubber bands so your look is more elegant.

Side Curly/wavy Ponytail

This is a flirty and fun look—another great look for prom. Easy to achieve and great for dancing. Just grab your curls or wavy pull the hair into a low side pony and put your rubber band on.

Tip: To make this look even more elegant or fancy, grab a few strands out of the ponytail and wrap it around your rubber band. This hides the rubber band and gives you a sophisticated look.

Messy is trendy. These prom hairstyles are incredibly stylish, yet aren’t sprayed in place, which is exactly why we went curl happy over them!

Selling Products: It IS Your Job

by Trash Talk with Anna Craig on Monday, March 28th, 2011

Hair has been Anna Craig’s passion since she was 12 years old; this has always been her path in life. In 2001, she went to school in Tempe, AZ, at the Carsten Aveda Institute. After doing hair for about 5 years, she realized that precision haircuts were her specialty, after years of thinking that color was her calling. After doing hair in Arizona for several years, she took the plunge and moved to Texas, and her career took off. She soon opened her own salon, Trashy Roots Salon & Spa. There she became a Certified Deva Stylist, specializing in Curly Girl haircuts. She is also an Artistic Educator for Pravana, which gives her the opportunity to go out to different salons in the area and educate them on new products and techniques. She is very involved in her community—holding annual cut-a-thons, participating in benefit hair shows, and helping with local beauty schools.

It’s crazy the number of stylists out there that don’t sell or know how to sell retail to their clients. A common thing that I hear is “I’m not a salesperson.” But you are—sales is our business. Not only do you want your clients to use the best products out there for their hair, but you want them to come back to you. If a client can’t replicate her hair at home like you did in the salon, she’s more likely to find another stylist because her hair never looks good. If you show her how to style her hair with the proper products and educate her on how to use the products, she will keep coming back.

From the moment a client sits in my chair, I ask them about what products they have been using on their hair. This will also give you an idea of what kind of client they are. If they use tons of different salon brand products then you know they probably frequent a salon more often. If they use generic grocery store products just based on price, you might have a harder sell, but if the product is right you might have a deal. I then educate my client about what type of product my salon carries and how our products differ. I also let them know about any specials we might have going on. I talk to them about the different products I am using on their hair when I start to style their hair. Then, when I walk them up front to check out, I go over to the retail section and show them exactly what I recommend for their hair—and why. This is the chance to put products in the client’s hands so they can look at it. If a client touches the product they are more apt to buy it. I will again go over special sales when I am up front.

Salons should always have a product on sale or have a special. This helps put a focus on different products every month. If a particular product isn’t moving off the shelf, highlight that product this month so clients can get interested. If you receive a new product line, put a special on it, like 10% off, to get people to try it. Once they see how spectacular the products are, they’ll be hooked. Offering a trade-up program helps get the ball rolling—trade in 1 generic grocery store product for $5 off a salon product. Make sure your shelves are fully stocked, especially on the most popular products.

Retail plays such an important role in our salons. Salon products to a stylist are like a prescription to a doctor—they keep the clients looking good and happy just like a medicine keeps a patient healthy. It’s your job to keep your clients looking good at all times.