Ask Alzy: She Bangs

So this week continues the Facebook "hair challenges". Up next:

I can't ever seem to get that "swoopy" bang look (http://www.squidoo.com/avon-hair). Instead, my hair wants to go all D.J. Tanner from Full House. I've tried blow drying upside down, I've tried parting it on the the opposite side. No matter what, I get the Baywatch hair look, which is NOT what I'm going for...

 Dear She Bangs,

It's hard to say without seeing your part line and any callicks you may have. The hair needs to lay flat and forward.What you may try is blowdrying your bangs forward, and as you do so, you can rub your fingers back and forth...this will help break up any set pattern it likes to hold.

With some product, like Aveda's Control Force, mist your bangs, one section at a time, and flat iron straight down with a little curve, then brush to the side.

Speak with a stylist or have them do it on you to get a visual or to show you a few other tips!

Hope that helps!

Your friend,

Alzy


Have a question you want to ask alzy? Send it to askalzy@gmail.com or leave it in the comments below!

How To Tuesday: Cover Up a Pimple

Isn't that the worst? When you know you've got somewhere important to be and you wake up and bam! pimple. There's no denying it. It happens to us all.

Now using a little concealor and covering it up might be a no brainer to some of us. But I thought the same thing about braiding and yet I still meet people who don't know how to do it. So here we are, with a tutorial...which I, myself, find very educational.

The trick ladies, or gentlemen, is to find a concealor that has an ance treatment in it. For example, Murad Acne Spot Treatment has a dash of salicylic acid in it to zap that pimple up, plus it adds some nice coverage. Pretty much a miracle in a tube.




What kind of tutorials would you like to see next month? Tell me in the comments below!

Product Cocktails

Remember that time I talked about using too much product? Today I'm kind of on the opposite end of the spectrum, because I want to tell you about product cocktails.

What's a product cocktail you ask? Why, let me tell you!

product cocktail [prod-uhkt kok-teyl] noun: any various sort of mixed products, consisting typically of one or more hair products mixed with another hair product.

Need something simpler than my fancy, made-up definition? Basically a product cocktail is just as it sounds, when you mix two or more products together in your hair. Because let's face it, one product is just never enough, nor is just one pair of shoes. The key is discovering what products to mix. 

Mixology 101:

• light hold mousse + straightening cream = the perfect round brush combo
• curl enhancer + anti-frizz cream + gel = perfect curly hair cocktail
• heat protectant + hair spray + shine serum = your curling iron's best friend

Those are just a few combinations. There are thousands out there I'm sure, but just be aware that some products don't mix well together. So if you get any clumping, color change, or just weirdness in general, ask your hair care professional about it. Or just ask your stylist in the first place. Chances are they used a cocktail on your hair and can recommend the perfect one for you.

Currently I'm loving Aveda's Smooth Infusion Style Prep-Smoother and Glossing Straightener. They come from the same line and practically scream, mix me! What are your favorite products to mix together?

Ask Alzy: Summer Time Blues

Yesterday on our Facebook page , we asked about your hair challenges. Here is what our fans had to say:

For the next three weeks, we'll be answering these lovely ladies questions. First up:

 The gray in my hair grow out too fast, and I really like to wear it long. But during the summer all I ever do is put it in a pony. Suggestions for how to wear longer hair in the summer, without just putting a pony on it and tricks to get the gray at bay, until I get to the salon. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Dear Summer Time Blues,

They make hair mascara in 3 colors that you can put on your part line and around the face. It washes out with shampoo, so it will have to be reapplied on a regular basis. However, it has a wax base so do not use it on the day you get your hair fixed up at the salon because it will resist the color.

Pony's aren't bad, but they do get old! Simple braids, buns, or headbands can be a fun way to spruce it up. You can always call the salon and see about setting up an appointment with a stylist for a lesson on a few quick ways to wear your hair and braiding techniques!  

Hope this helps!

As always,

Alzy

Do you have a hair challenge or a question? Send an email to askalzy@gmail.com

Photo 1, Photo 2

How To Tuesday: Braided Headbands

They say the braided look is going out, but I disagree. I'm still in love with a good ol' braid. So I thought I'd show you a couple of braided headband looks.

Hopefully you know how to french braid...




See? Simple and pretty!


What are your favorite braided looks?

Friday Link Love 2/17/2012

• Homemade hair removal wax. Ouch. Let me know if you try this and if it goes well...
• I laughed a long time at this...and then I realized there were 10 more pages. The most entertaining notes to neighbors. 
• Working at a desk all day isn't fun, so try some of these ways to stay active while at your desk.
• It's Girl Scout cookie time! Don't worry if your on a diet, here at the healthiest ones. 
• This website is fantastic and adorable. It shows you a new picture of a kitten after you write so many words. Kittens are enough motivation for me. 
• I haven't heard of using strawberries as a facial toner before, but it sounds interesting! 
• And just for you 90s lovers out there: 10 things 90s kids will have to explain to their children. 
• This bohemian updo is brilliant, and as a bonus, it looks super easy! 
• Cooking mistakes are frequent in my life. I might just have to print out this list of common cooking mistakes. 
• This week, news came out that the FDA found lead in over 400 shades of lipstick, but think it isn't a concern. Not a concern? hmm...
• Filed under "open when bored": catastrophic, and sometimes funny, things that have happened to Reddit readers. 
• All you experienced DIYers out there: how to make your own perfume. 
• Beauty techniques made easy. Thank you Woman's day!
• This website will create any text you want in a "ransom style" note. You know, magazine clippings? Pretty awesome.

What did you see online this week? Send me your link loves to cassidy@onstagehairdesign.com 

The Perfect Cut For Your Face Shape, Part Deux

After reading my post from yesterday, I hope that everyone went home--or to their bathrooms--and measured or drew their way into discovering their face shape. If not, well that's okay too. You get an E for effort. Or is it A for effort? I can never remember.

Now it's time to determine the perfect cut for you and your new face shape.

Oval

All you ovalers out there rejoice! Because having an oval face means you can pull off almost any haircut or any length. Congratulations, you won the face shape lottery. 

But if you want the perfect cut, try something with long layers that enhance your natural body. When your hair is too flat to your head it can make your face look even more elongated. 

Want something more bold? Cut yourself some full bangs! The bangs cover part of your face, which automatically makes it look shorter. 

Round

Rounders, here are the rules:

Way above the jawline, or below it. Cuts that hug the jaw can make your face look wider, but if your hair hits around the collarbone than it helps slim your face down.

Or if your up for it, cut a super cute pixie like Ginnifer's. Choppy pieces on top can help lengthen your face.

Square

Sqaure-ies...think feathered layers. The feathered ends keep things from being too blunt and bringing attention to your sharp features. 

Also, try some side bangs like lovely Salma up there. They soften up your look.

Heart

Hearts, you're going to want to keep things moving and fun. Much like the Square-ies, your jaw is prominent and that is something you'll want your hair to compliment.

Bangs can help conceal the wideness at your forehead and to offset the narrowness at your chin.

A chin length bob that flips will create the illusion of a wider area around your chin as well.



There you have it my friends! Are you following these face shape rules? Or do you make your own rules like I do?

The Perfect Cut For Your Face Shape, Part 1

I hear this a lot: "Is 'x' cut good for my face shape?", and you know what I tell them?

I have no idea.


Mainly I say that because I'm not a hair stylist, but also a little bit because I've never understood exactly how to determine what face shape people have. I makes buying sunglasses a problem.

But I've discovered a couple of ways to figure it out.

Method #1: measure

Measure your face, yes with a ruler, in these four places: brow, cheekbones, jawline, and the length of your face from forehead to chin.

if you're...

• oval: your brow, cheekbones, and jawline will all be roughly the same length
• square: the width will be nearly the same as the length from your forehead to your chin
• round: the width will be nearly the same as the length from your forehead to your chin, but your forehead and jaw are curved at the corners
• heart: your wide at the brow and not so wide at the jawline

Method #2: trace your outline

Look at yourself in the mirror, then grab that lipstick that is always at the bottom of your drawer but never use and trace the outline of your face in the mirror (don't forget to pull your hair back!). Then take a step back and look at your outline. What shape do you see?

Extra Tips:

• You might be a combination of two different shapes. For example, I'm oval with a slight heart shape. So don't try to fit yourself into just one category.
• Get a friend to help! You can measure or trace each other's outlines. Friends make everything more fun!

Now that you know what face shape you have, your ready to pick a cut that works best for you! But... you'll have to wait to tomorrow. Stay tuned to see Part 2 of "The Perfect Cut For Your Face Shape"!

How To Tuesday: Valentine's Updo

Happy Valentine's everyone! Many of you might be running around frantically trying to get ready for your big date tonight. But don't worry! On Stage has you covered for your hair!

Lesley did this look today in under 20 minutes. So you can too! 

The best part about this look is that it can work for almost any hair length. Take Lesley for example. She's got short/medium length in the front, and short in the back. But I on the other hand, have long hair. But both of us could do it. If your hair is longer like mine, you'll just have to loop and curl your hair around a bit more in the back. It will create the perfect chignon.

Enjoy your night my friends.

Sebastian Giveaway Winners

Congratulations to Kristin Sims, Kelly Munoz, and Shayna. You all won the Sebastian Single Tone Conditioner!

Email me :)

Friday Link Love 2/10/2012

• There is something about seeing celebrities in bad outfits that makes me happy. 
• I've been dying for a really great vintage hair tutorial. Here's one to add to the "to try" list. 
• My brain doesn't function well before the sun comes up, so finding easy ways to fix my hair always makes my mornings go a bit smoother. 
• There's new scientific evidence that says bad hair days are bad for your health. Uh oh. We're all in trouble. 
• I haven't really seen much of waxed denim, but now that I know how to do it by myself, I might try it. 
• Men don't call our purses "luggage" for no reason ladies. How to easily lighten your load. 
• 10 ways to wake up gorgeous. Thank you The Fashion Spot! 
• Want to make your Valentine laugh this V-day? Tell 'em one of these jokes. 
• Also Valentine related: Although I might be spending Tuesday by myself, you can bet your bottom-dollar that I'll be eating one of these delicious desserts. 
• Easy-breezy curls. Now that's the kind of tutorial that I like!
• Need a quick way to relax? Try this tune which scientists have proved to be the most relaxing one out there. 
• I have a lot of issues trying to get my eyeliner to match on both eyes, but this girl sure does it well!
• Good mood foods. Yes please.  
• I think we all know of my obsession with bow ties. *coughdoctorwhocough*
• A look back on the history of tanning. An interesting read. 
• Although a little creepy at first, this article on "zombie boy goes bare" has a beautiful message. 
• I didn't know many brides did their own hair on their wedding day, but this tutorial is perfect for...well...your wedding day. 

What did you see online this week? 

Also, don't forget to enter to win this week's giveaway! 

It's Giveaway Time!

I've decided to start giving away some loot here on the blog. I know, how nice of me right? Well...you can thank the Powers That Be for it. They like you to be happy just as much as I like you to be happy. 

So here's what you can win:

1 of 3 Sebastian Color Ignite conditioner for single toned hair. Meaning, if you have highlights, then this product isn't for you.

The Color Ignite system is designed specifically for colored hair. The Sebastian website says, "Micro-bubble conditioner whips the shine on single tone color for even-surface color shine and long-lasting vibrancy." Pretty cool right? 

So here's how you win it:

1. Leave a comment below telling me what your favorite Sebastian product is. 
2. Receive an extra entry if you become a follower of this blog.
3. Receive a third entry if you like us on Facebook. 

Then, on Tuesday, I will draw three winners. 

May the odds be ever in your favor. 

How To Tuesday: Date Night Makeup

With V-day just around the corner, and many of you lovely people celebrating, I thought for this week's tutorial, I would do that a makeup look that's perfect for the big day.

These scream, "Diamonds, they're a girl's best friend. So hand 'em over."

Everyone knows that red is the color of Valentine's, so why would you go out without some bold red lips? I can't think of any reason. But sometimes it's hard to wear red lips. What kind of eye shadow do I wear? Can I wear eyeliner? What about lip liner, do I need that too? Well, ladies...I think this tutorial gives you the perfect date night look.

Our lovely friends over at Jane Iredale made this tutorial. I couldn't see any reason to remake one myself, so just take a look at theirs.


 


Here are the steps written out:

1. Of course, you want to start with your normal foundation routine.
2. Then apply PurePressed Blush to your cheeks. The lady in the video is using Tawny, but I'm a Cotton Candy type of girl. 
3. Use the Citrine Mystikol to line your botton lash line, and if you're feeling frisky, your top one as well.
4. Apply Gold 24K Gold Dust to your eyelid using a pressing or patting motion. Jane Iredale suggests to try not to sweep or flick it across the lid or the gold dust will end up everywhere.
5. Apply the highlighter end of your Mystikol to the inner corner of your eye and your brow bone, then smooth it out with your finger.
6. Eyelash conditioner, then your jet black mascara. Girlfriend in the video doesn't put a whole lot on, but I say layer it up girl!
7. And for those red lips: Passion Lip Fixation, topped with Chili Pepper Chocoholicks, which by the way, smells like actuall chocolate. 

That's it. Easy as pie. Now go and enjoy your night!

You can check out Jane Iredale's original post on this look here. 

Friday Link Love 02/03/2012

• This short article has several different--and all amazing!--hair tutorials in it. 
• Cracked always makes me laugh. But I couldn't stop laughing at the 7 most baffling things about women's clothes, or stop nodding along while I read. 
• Have you tried facial exercises? They're suppose to keep you looking young, and that's without any cosmetic surgery! 
• You called it. Hipster Disney Princesses. Please internet, don't stop making Disney Princess stuff. 
• This is one of the best eyeshadow education posts I've seen. Very helpful when reading DIY stuff. 
• And as if Jessica Quirk couldn't get any more awesome. She made her own blazer. 
• I'm all about this article on embracing your natural beauty. 
• 16 of the best dry shampoos. Did your favorite make the list? 
• 10 ways to boost your metabolism. Did I see drink water on that list? 
• Holy-moly! Those red carpet looks are expensive! 
• A color palette generator. It's not a game, and yet, now I go to waste time playing on it. 
• Ever wonder what the person behind the camera looks like? Here are some chilling shots of famous photogs with their own iconic images. 
• After being in Las Vegas last week my lips are so dry. I'm definitely trying this at home lip scrub. 
• These pictures of Marilyn Monroe are absolutely beautiful, just like the woman herself. 
• Hey, this is fun! 

Did you see anything worthy of link love this week? Tell me in the comments below! 

Diet and Exercise: They're Pretty Important

Remember that John Mayer song "Your Body is a Wonderland"? Well, it's kind of true.

"Something 'bout the way the hair falls in your face..."

 Maybe you've studied anatomy and physiology, maybe you haven't, but the human body is amazing. Just take my word for it. It works in perfect harmony. Meaning, you need to have a good diet and exercise to have good hair and skin. Here are a couple of easy changes that you can do today.

Drink more water.
Water is great for your skin. Water is great for living, but it is also great for your skin. Some people say that their skin glows after drinking water. I'm not so sure about that, but one things certain...start drinking water and you'll see an improvement in your skin. Not overnight though. It's a process.

Exercise
Exercise, not only makes your body look good, but it can also make you thirsty, thus making you drink water, thus making your skin look nice. See how that works? Circle of life people. Circle of life.

Veggies
Especially veggies that have a lot of water in it. Unfortunately drinking a lot of water isn't enough because you pass a lot of it in the bathroom. But when you eat the water, it stays with you for longer.


Three things. Not so hard. Give them a try next week and see how it goes.

What are your little tips to keep your skin looking nice?

February Spotlight Stylist

Last week I was talking with the manager at On Stage II in Beaumont. She was telling me about how one of her stylists is currently taking classes to become a Wella Master Color Expert. I thought, hey that's cool, but then I found out that there are only 13 people in the United States who are Wella Master Color Experts. Now that's cool! So who better to be February's spotlight stylist then Katie Bonura? No one, I tell you. No one.


Katie's road to become stylist began when she was just a junior in highschool. The girl's got drive. But all the hardwork and long hours paid off. In May 2007 she landed a job at On Stage II. Since then, Katie has worked her way up the ladder to become a master stylist, one of the highest levels at On Stage. But she still has some room to grow, and grow she will. This Fall, Katie will begin the first phase to become a Wella Master Color Expert. Not only will she be a premier colorist within the company, but also within the world. I can tell her dreams of becoming an Artistic Director and Educator will pay off soon.

Maybe you don't know Katie, but you should.

Hello, Katie!

What you consider yourself a specialist in? 

Color is my passion.

What do you have the most fun doing? 

I enjoy getting to know the clients and establishing a relationship with them.

What awards have you won?  

I won 2007 Skill USA Customer Service for the state of Texas.

What kind of special classes have you taken? 

I am a Sebastian advocate, certified in essential foiling, essential color, creative color, color correction, and a Wella colorist.

What do you think is your favorite look for the new year? 

Doing creative color that is outside the box, yet professional for the work place.

What is your least favorite hairstyle of all time? 

My least favorite hairstyle I had was this mushroom hairstyle. It was shaved up the back everyone called me a boy.

How would you describe your personal style and hair style?  

I like to keep it simple with a little bit of edginess.

If you could have anyone's hair instead of your own, who would you have? 

I like my hair for the most part but sometimes its too much hair to work with, so I would like to say Jennifer Aniston 

Do you have a message that you would like to tell all your clients?

Once you have a great hairstylist, trust in them. And make sure you give them a chance to use their creative side.

Check out some of Katie's color work below, and corrective color at that!

After

Before

Live in the Beaumont area and want to make an appointment with Katie? Call (409)899-2109.