AFG's Guide to NYC: Path For Life

Over the course of my career in New York, I have met and worked with some incredible people, places and products (And, this list is still growing!). So, I want to give my friends and clients the opportunity to experience them only after I have done my research and approved it for all to enjoy. Look forward to my monthly/bi-weekly updates with the AFG stamp of approval. Enjoy!

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT

We have all tried it – the perfect and most wonderful haircut and it still does not look great. It did a few days ago but today it is just not there. Sounds familiar? Well you might want to take a look at what your food choices were like over that past couple of days. It shows. Both your hair and your skin will tell the tale of how you have been taking care of yourself beyond the hairdresser and the facial. Your nails will show the signs of your long-term nutritional choices and are often used in Eastern Medicine for diagnosis.

Did you know that about 90% of your hair is made up of proteins? Also call amino acids. Within these amino acids are so called essential amino acids and also essential fatty acids. Not only do they feed your brain, the also feed your hair and your skin. So choosing fat free is relative. The greasy fried meal you had the other day will make your hair so as well. You just cannot get a lift after a greasy meal. Too much sugar and alcohol? Well that is going to make it limp and thin looking.

Your skin will show the signs as well. The bad fats give you the oily surface, too much dairy and flour the white pasty look, and the sugars will give you wrinkles.

So can you actually change the quality of your hair? – Yes you can. Not quite from day to day, but over time. Your hair can get thicker and richer as your food choices balance out. And your wrinkles can disappear too, or at least lessen, with the right food choices. No botox necessary, just skip the sugar, the refined flour, and the extra glasses of wine. Add the good fats from fish, nuts and seed, avocado and olive oil.

Of course sleep is essential as well - and so is plently of water. All in all, if you take better care of yourself with mindful choices, you will not only feel better, you will look it as well.

Written by Jeanette Bronée, Nourishment Counselor with Path for Life Self-Nourishment Center in NYC. www.pathforlife.com

Jeanette has developed and teaches the Path for Life 9-point system to her clients. She always looks for how to best help her clients find their way to health and healing, with food, new daily self-caring habits, and emotional healing. She educates about food and guides through change in an upbeat non-dogmatic way. Her wish is for each client to take charge of their life, health, wellbeing, and daily joy.

Health is a journey that we embark on. The philosphy behind Path for Life is that change is like walking the labyrinth. As we enter deeper and deeper into our core, we find what truly nurture us. As we walk back out with this new awareness, we create new choices, habits, and patterns that support and continue to nurture us in our everyday living.

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ASK Antonio

Hello Everyone!

I am excited to offer a place for my clients and future clients to view my weekly happenings in the salon as well as updated information, photos and some of my favorite links.

You are more than welcome to join in on my discussions. If you have any beauty challenges, please feel free to post your questions or comments, and I will be more than happy to answer them.

This is a picture of me and one of my clients, Chris Carrabba. You may recognize his as the lead of singer and guitarist of the band Dashboard Confessional. I have been doing Chris's hair for about five years now. He is an extremely talented man that is driven by his love of music. Seeing him recently has inspired me to delve deeper into providing a resource for men to go to for hair and fashion advice.

This month I have also decided to create my own guide to NYC. Look forward to AFG's guide to NYC that will feature the hidden gems of the city each month!


STAY TUNED FOR JANUARY'S TOPICS!

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Hair Mishaps & How To Fix It: Part II

Last month, we touched upon common mistakes that some women make when making the drastic change from blonde to brunette. Let's now take a look at what could have been done to prevent this situation...

1) Always bring a photo of your desired look with you to your hair appointment

2) Before your color appointment, go into wig shops to try on different color wigs. This give you an opportunity to see how various colors work with your skin tone. Although the wigs may not be the style you want, it will give you an idea of what will and WON'T work for you.

3) Consult with your stylist prior to the the appointment. This puts the idea in motion as well as makes the idea more realistic. This will let you know if you are really ready to make the change or let you know if you need some more time to think about it.

4) Make a gradual change. As a stylist, I know that this is a difficult thing to say to a woman who is convinced she must have her drastic, life altering change now! But low lighting dark color into blonde hair makes the transition less dramatic as opposed to all over dark coverage.

5) Make sure you and your stylist are on the same page. During your consultation, ask your stylist to look with you through a color swatch book. I have had many clients that have come to me saying that they want no red in the hair. So, I tell them to select a color from the swatch book, and the first thing they point to is a hair color that has a red base. Sometimes describing color is difficult for people to do. Using a swatch book alleviates any confusion.

SOLUTIONS

There are truly only three things that you can do to fix this type of mishap...

1) Give it some time. In many cases, a person needs time to adjust to their new look.

2) If you've given it some time and it still isn't working for you, you may want to consider adding a couple of highlights around the face. This softens the blow of the change.

3) If all else has failed, the truth is... that particular style may not be for you, and you should go back to your natural hair color or the blonde that you loved. I've seen this happen many times before. FYI: going back natural is not a quick fix. It's not a simple one hour process. It can take up to three hours. Recreating natural hair color takes layering of pigments which takes time. If anyone offers you a quick fix, they are looking for quick $$$ and you should run for the hills!

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MEN'S HAIR: What's Age Appropriate?

This is such a touchy topic because there are so many men that are walking around with someone else's hair or a hair style that should never have happened(and have yet to be told of their offenses)!

Men of a certain age (generally between the ages of 40-60) seem to hold fast to the hair styles of the 80's. Unlike most women within the same age range, these men are unable to let go. If you feel that you may be one of these culprits, here are some tips to get you started on your NEW, FRESH, MODERN hair style.

DO NOT'S
- Look at any teen magazines for your hair style
- Try to recapture your look from 20 years ago. You are aging and your hair should age with you!
- Overuse hair gel or styling produts, especially to create slicked-back/ spiked hair styles. These styles are not age appropriate nor are they creative.
- Buy boxed hair color to color the entire head and leave your sideburns gray. This is NOT believable...you're fooling no one!
- Try a mini comb-over with out consulting with a comb-over specialist (FYI...there are none!)

DO'S
- Look around for styles you like. These may be at your place of work, on the street or at your favorite restaurant.
- Ask your significant other what he/she thinks about your hair.
- Find fashion magazines that are age appropriate for hair styles.
- Embrace a creative hair stylist. Haircuts are created with more than just clippers and a comb. Be open. If you are unsure about a technique, ask your stylist.
- Dispel the myth of the 20 minute haircut. A great hair cut takes time. The whole myth of a 20 min men's haircut is just that, a myth!
- Embrace hair lost by wearing shorter hair styles and changing products.
- Consult a stylist about hair colors that are appropriate for you. Such as gray blending products that leave a percentage of gray visable.

TO BE CONTINUED...

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AFG's Guide to NYC: RAFFAELA e PAOLA

Who says I can't have my own guide to the city! Good quality is hard to find! When ever I stumble upon great fashoin and delcious food, you'll be the first to know about it.

As I was walking through my neighborhood, I stumbled upon a RAFFAELE e PAOLA, a store that had displayed this fedora to die for! I entered the boutique and introduced myself to the owner. During our conversation, I asked her what inspired her to open a store, and this is exactly what she said...

"Raffaele e Paola offers fine European fahions accessories for men and women. It was founded with the belief that one item, no matter the size, no matter the bling, can transform an expression of one's self. And, therefore an outfit! At our boutique, that one accessory has to have style, and a unique personality all onto itself...and be European of orgin."

Raffaele e Paola
270 West 19th Street
212-633-0828
www.raffeleepaola.com
Tues-Fri 12-7 PM
Sat/Sun 12-6 PM

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Visual Strategy With Elaine Armstrong

Elaine Armstrong is one of my long-standing clients. She has an incredible sense of style and keen eye for fashion. I would love to share her talent with you!

What is Visual Strategy? In our everyday lives we create strategies for all facets of our

lives; our career, our money, etc. A strategy gives you an advantage in that it is a clear path for what you need to do to get results. One of the areas that people often neglect or don’t understand is the importance of is their own visual strategy, their outward appearance that the world sees. This forms people’s perceptions of who we are and where we are in our lives.

“I see so many clients who get frustrated with their personal appearance – what to wear, what color palette, hairstyles, etc. Clients who understand the importance of image, but no clue as to how to get started or pull it all together. I can make that process so much simpler for you.”

About Elaine: A design industry veteran with a distinctive approach to fashion and style, Elaine’s 20 years of fashion experience gives her unique insight into helping clients sort through the fashion clutter to define and develop their own personal style and transform it into an attractive, smart reality, suitable for their career, lifestyle and personality.

Email us for more information: info@elainearmstrongco.com

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DON'T SWEAT THE SWEATERS by Anthony Gonzales

Guys it's all about sweaters. The key this season is layering and looking stylish while doing it. I'm getting a lot of requests for sweaters especially cable knits. Make sure any sweater you get is thick enough to keep you warm all day. Color is very important, like hair color it needs to compliment your skin tone. Please stay away from pinks, bright oranges and/or lime greens. Let's face it some colors from the 80's should be left in the 80's. Another one of my personal favorites is the Henley. Henleys are fashionable, flattering to any man reagardless of shape or size and they also layer well with v-neck sweaters.

One item that I can't seem to keep on the shelves, is a brown sweater with a light beige mohair trim around the neck by Burberry. Not only is it comfortable, it fits well. I like sweaters that have a woven texture to them. I'm not much into sweaters that have argyle in them, but if that's your style, go for it!

Lately, I've been seeing men wearing a cardigan with their suit, instead of a vest. I personally like that combo. If you decide to go for that look, make sure you match your colors and you can even try pulling it together with tie.

So, guys get out there! Let's go shopping!

Some of my favorite stores include:

-Burberry (6th Floor)
-Saks 5th Ave
-Macy's
-Hugo Boss
-H&M

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UP DID & I DOs (RECENT WEDDING SHOTS)

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Ask ANTONIO

Hello Everyone!

I am excited to offer a place for my clients and future clients to view my weekly happenings in the salon as well as updated information, photos and some of my favorite links.

You are more than welcome to join in on my discussions. If you have any beauty challenges, please feel free to post your questions or comments, and I will be more than happy to answer them.

I would like to mention a few successful business. This month I would like to highlight the following:

-James Abel Events, Wedding & Events Planning Company


-The Pet Buddy, Premium Pet Boarding & Pet Sitting


For more information, please visit their links!

STAY TUNED FOR DECEMBER'S TOPICS

Posted by Unknown at 8:13 PM - 2 comments

Visual Strategy With Elaine Armstrong

Elaine Armstrong is one of my long-standing clients. She has an incredible sense of style and keen eye for fashion. I would love to share her talent with you!

What is Visual Strategy? In our everyday lives we create strategies for all facets of our

lives; our career, our money, etc. A strategy gives you an advantage in that it is a clear path for what you need to do to get results. One of the areas that people often neglect or don’t understand is the importance of is their own visual strategy, their outward appearance that the world sees. This forms people’s perceptions of who we are and where we are in our lives.

“I see so many clients who get frustrated with their personal appearance – what to wear, what color palette, hairstyles, etc. Clients who understand the importance of image, but no clue as to how to get started or pull it all together. I can make that process so much simpler for you.”

About Elaine: A design industry veteran with a distinctive approach to fashion and style, Elaine’s 20 years of fashion experience gives her unique insight into helping clients sort through the fashion clutter to define and develop their own personal style and transform it into an attractive, smart reality, suitable for their career, lifestyle and personality.

Email us for more information: info@elainearmstrongco.com

Posted by Unknown at 8:07 PM - 0 comments

Men's Fall Fashion Tips by Fashion Expert Anthony Gonzales

Going over the basics of what every man should have in his wardrobe...

BLAZERS

Two-button blazers (in a nice cashmere fabric perhaps) look great on any guy. You may want to consider navy or charcoal for a more casual look. Shades in a tweed blazer such as greens or browns are also wonderful. To really dress youself up, try a black wool or velvet blazer. Remember to choose a blazer that gives you a slender silhouette. Two-button blazers are great for this!

SHIRTS

The white shirt is a must! If you don't have new white shirts or own one at all, you must go buy one now! You should have a few in your wardrobe and at least one with a French cuff and spread collar. These two things make men stand out at any age.

ACCESSORIES

Now, let's accessorize yourself by adding a silk scarf for a stylish look or regal ascot. Don't get too wild with bright colors. Look for nice warm winter shades that are going to compliment you. Also, consider pulling out the bow tie. It is definitely making a come back in men's fashion. So, catch it while it is still fresh. A bow tie is also a great way to change up your style a bit.

JEANS

We have to talk denim. Always keep a dark blue or black pair of jeans close by. Stay away from heavy stitching or worn/torn looks, these can look sloppy. Finally, remember the rule... straight leg, never flare!

SHOES

Getting down to the foot of the matter. Shoes add the final touches to an outfit. If you don't have a handsome brown or cognac, you should. They put the look together. Guys please match the belt to the shoe!

You look put together (or you should if you've followed these guidelines)! Until next month!

Look forward to next month, we will talk holiday looks and winter wear.

Signing out,

Anthony Gonzales




About Anthony

Anthony Gonzales is highly accredited fashinon consultant. He has worked in the fashion industry for seven years dealing with high-end luxury retailers. His experience is a great blend of west coast relaxation with east coast sophistication. He is a personal stylist for his friends and family.

Posted by Unknown at 7:11 PM - 0 comments

Going Back To Grey: Should I Stop Coloring My Hair??

The challenges with dealing with grey hair include texture change and loss of vitality. These factors can often leave the hair appearing limp and dull; adding years to one's overall appearance. However, there are still women that can defy the rules and naturally have a healthy head of greying hair that suits them. These women typically wear shorter hair styles and are comfortable doing it. They are also aware of the fact that they have to make many other changes to support the look.

I fully support the idea of going back grey, just as I support those that continue to color their hair. With that being said, the question of whether or not a person should go back to grey or if they should continue to color their hair becomes a rather difficult one. I feel that it is something that I cannot give a clear cut answer. The decision to go grey is more than a choice about your color. It is an entire lifestyle change that needs to be made to support your hair style.

I do feel that there are some women that may not be ready to make this sort of a change. These are women that enjoy wearing longer hair styles. Women that like to play with their hair color; dark hair to highlights to blonde. Most importantly, I feel that women who are not quite ready to embrace the effects of aging should not opt to stop coloring their hair.

No matter whether you choose to continue coloring your hair or fully capture the essence of aging gracefully, the important thing is to choose a look that supports your lifestyle!

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Hair Mishaps & How To Fix It: Part I

1. You say you are ready for change, but are you REALLY ready for CHANGE?

Scenario:

You were born with dirty blonde hair, and you survived your teenage years with the color you were blessed with. When the time was right, you finally became the blonde that you always wanted to be, with the right guidance and professional assisance. Many years later after being every shade and tone of blonde under the sun, you woke up and decided that today was the day to become a brunette and the transition could not be put off a minute later.

Excited about your new soon-to-be do (possibly inspired by a magazine or movie you saw), you go into your favorite hair salon and spill the news to your stylist. You spare no details about your ideas and desires for your perfect brunette color. Three hours, 5 pictures and a miracle later, you leave the the salon with a beautiful shade of chestnut precisely selected by you.

You are elated with your new change and cannot wait to show if off to your friends and family. By chance you happen to run into one of your closest friends as you are leaving the salon. "Wow! Your hair is dark," she exclaims in a way that lets you know that she really wanted to scream, "What have you done to your hair?!" Her reaction immediately makes you think that you've made a huge mistake (And, believe me that is all that it takes).

As a hair stylist, I see many cases that are very similar to this scenario with women that make drastic changes to their color and may not be ready to fully committ to the transition. Before making these changes it is important to take several things into considertation...

1. Where is your confidence level? Are you ready to committ to the change?

2. Who is this change being made for? Is it for you, your significant other or professional purposes?

3. Are you doing this as a new means of self-expression?

4. Are you experiencing emotional stress, a break-up or a death in the family?

5. Is because you want to try something you saw in a movie or magazine?

The important thing is to make sure that you fully understand why you are making the drastic change. You have to be prepared mentally and emotionally for change. And, remember that everytime there is a change made, there will always be a comment made about it whether it be good, bad or ugly. Don't let others opinions be the deciding factor for your transition or lack thereof. Embrace change, change is good!

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UP DID & I DOs (RECENT WEDDING SHOTS)

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TREND, TRENDY, TRENDIER

On my trip to London, I attended an advanced hair-cutting seminar hosted by Mahogany, an Austrailian company. This was exciting because I not ony learned a lot, but to my surprise the majority of the people at the seminar were American. I was able to share outlook on the beauty business, gain new insights and explore new creative techniques. Now on to the trends...

The first thing that I noticed was a difference in the hair culturally between the U.S. and the U.K. The difference I saw was that we use hair to recreate the shape of the face. For example, many stylist use a sweeping bang to create more of an oval shape on a round face. In London, the people I was exposed to illustrated that it had nothing to do with the face. It was all about recreating the shape of the head. Women were fearless when it came to their hair. They had no reservations about exposing their foreheads, ears, necks, chins, etc. You name it, it was exposed.

Yes, of course there were women with the common mousey shoulder length hair. To which it was clear, that the hair was their identity. It was refreshing to see women that were bold and willing to take risk. This attitude could be seen across the board regardless of race, hair texture or lifestyle.

Bobs are definitely on trend in the U.K (as well as in the rest of the world thanks to Mrs. Beckham) of all shapes and sizes. The disconnected bob was especially popular. Being that "the bob" is such a hot commodity, I enjoyed seeing trends altered. With trends, you have what I like to call the "followers" and the "creative rebels". Followers are those people that like to copy a look exactly as it appeared on their favorite celeb or magazine shoot. Creative rebels on the other hand, take the same trend and put a spin on it to make it their own.

In terms of color, brunette is the new Blonde. I know that this might upset some of you, but brunettes conquered the scene. Everywhere I went there were far more brunettes than there were blondes. During the day, I saw many brunettes with subtle highlights, and the look transitioned into a bit more dramatic at night with chunkier, bolder highlights and streaks of color. The more the better.

Curly hair was definitely embraced. Ladies pull out the defusers and own your natural beauty!

And, finally for the gents. Men in London across the board seem to appreciate hair, their own that is. Men's hair for the most part was freshly cut and overly caked with product. It was fair to say that there was a clear addiction to hair products.

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Top 15 Products

Having done hair in Europe, L.A. and New York, I thought it would be a good idea to put together a list of products that are great, still on the market and NOT Bumble & Bumble or Kerastase!

1. Tea Tree Shampoo (Paul Mitchell)

2. Lemongrass Shampoo (Mop)

3. Mud (Sebastian)

4. Shaper Hair Spray (Sebastian)

5. Biosilk Therapy (Farouk)

6. Soft Shampoo (Redkin)

7. Color Enhancing Shampoo & Conditioner (Artec)

8. Daily Leave-in Tonic (Biolage)

9. Root Pump Volumizing Spray (Big Sexy Hair)

10. Straightening Balm (KMS)

11. Pear Shampoo (Mop)

12. Leave-in Conditioner (Mop)

13. Decurl Straightening Balm (Mop)

14. Potion No. 9 (Sebastian)

15. Splendore Color Illuminating Crystals (Alfaparf)
* LATEST FAVORITE!!*

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Getting Ready for Fall

In a month or so, the mad rush for the fall change will be happening. This is usually the time we tend to go a little darker. Be it lowlights, darker shades of blonde or back to natural, we all feel the need to change with the season. Also, keep in mind that with fall and winter on the way our skin tones begin to fade, and being too blonde can leave you looking a little washed out. If you are blonde and wish to be a bit richer, why not be creative with your color, rather than simply settling for lowlights.

I like looking at the hair from the back first, then the sides and the front last. I am able to get a complete view of my canvas this way. The head is round, so when we look in the mirror we only see a small piece of the pie. Keep this in mind as you are brainstorming about your color transition.

This a great time to apply some different shades of lowlights. Consider having richer tones in the back then gradually place some deeper blonde pieces through the front. This will give more of a congac or medium golden blonde appearance to the hair with richer lowlights. Another option would be to create depth by working with what you have. This can be done by keeping the entire lower back of the hair at a soft light brown (Not too dark that it looks fake or like you are training in beauty school and finally discoverd hair color! Believe me, I remember my days). This method allows the contrast of the depth in color to bring the focus to the top of the head.

I haven't forgotten about my brunettes! If you are a brunette it's a great idea to foil in a darker color rather than color the entire head. This gives dimension and still leaves you with that summer sparkle. Also try to experiment with shades of brown, and please DO NOT be afraid of warmth!! I have converted many women that were afraid of warmth. It does not have to be that WARM = Red!

Thanks and look forward to October topics!

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STAY TUNED FOR OCTOBER'S TOPICS...

TREND, TRENDY AND TRENDIER

New trends in cut and color in Europe ( I will be fresh back from my
hair related trip to London and Paris)!

TOP 15 PRODUCTS

My 15 favorite products before I started using Kerastase and Bumble and Bumble. :oP

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MANAGING YOUR EXPECTATIONS

We all have great ideas on what we should look like and we should. We know our hair better than anyone else. We have worked with it for a long time, but when it comes to changing your style and working with your
best assets trust me, work with the professional. Together it can be a colabration of a lifetime.

OK, so we're ready to get our hair done. We remember our last experience. We know what our hair's like. Heaven knows we have styled it so many times.

Before meeting with your stylist, it is important to have some ideas about what you REALLY want. For example, have an idea of how much effort you would like to put into styling your hair. Do you want to style your hair 4 times a week or do you actually prefer doing it only once a week? Do you want to keep it simple? Finally, make sure you have a photo from a magazine or some other source. The next step is meeting with your existing stylist or someone new. You sit and the consultation begins.

This is where you need to really listen to your stylist. Sometimes photos can be so misleading. The lighting makes the color appear to be much different, the cut is actually blown out and the hair texture is so different than what you have to work with and unrealistic to your lifestyle. Allow the stylist to be honest and be open to ideas. You both should keep in mind the up keep you prefer, but at the same time, really being open to a little challange. I feel the consultation is the most important part of the visit. This is when we find out what's important; we figure out the do's and the dont's, get help with recovering from bad experience's and gently move you forward to a new, realistc, managable new style. This style could be very sexy! I would recommend taking in your favorite products (so your stylist can advise you on what works or not), photos of what you like and don't like, as well as an expectation of tips on applying product, styling and finishing your hair.

I wish you great hair.

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MENDING RELATIONSHIPS WITH OLD HAIR STYLIST

It's really simple,from a stylist point of view. We know that it's so much more than the hair cut (although it is a big part) it's also about the energy and the commitment put towards the realtionship. If you feel for change (a change in stylist that is), do it! It's all about you, not the stylist.

There are several ways of going about breaking the news to your stylist. Sometimes sending a card thanking your stylist for years of service is a great way to end the relationship maybe until a later date. Or maybe you would like to return to your stylist to tell the truth,"I travelled around a bit and here I am ! I love your work!! That's one way to put it. There are countless ways to communicate this with your stylist, but at the end of the day YOU choose what is most comfortable for YOU!

As a stylist I don't take it personally,I know that not everyone I touch will be happy. As a stylist it's important to love what we do, get lots of education and always have an open mind. It's about the client, not us!

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New Cuts

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CLEANING HOUSE

Often in my conversations with clients while recommending products, the first thing they say is, "I already have so many products, and I never use them!" It's important to know the shelf life of your products is only recommended for up to a year. So, DON'T LET THE PRODUCTS THAT YOU HAVE STOP YOU FROM GETTING THE PRODUCTS THAT YOU NEED! We clean house with fashion and cosmetics, we need to make sure we are doing the same thing with haircare products as well. There are times when I change the color or cuts of my clients. Especially when changing to a new cut, I make sure to recommend a change in products because the new cut often needs a new support. It is impossible to style a short haircut with products used to style a shoulder length haircut and vice versa. It is also impossible to duplicate the same style that is done in the stylist's chair with the wrong products or products not recommended to support the haircut.

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PROFESSIONAL HAIRCARE PRODUCTS VS. EVERYTHING ELSE

The standards for haircare products are set by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Take shampoos, for instance, the FDA ensures that the detergents (such as Sodium Laureth Sulfate) and other additives used in shampoos SHOULD be safe enough for the hair and scalp. You can actually use the same drugstore shampoo to wash your sock, your dog and your carpet because it's strong enough! Whereas professional haircare products are specifically made with the health of the hair and scalp in mind. These products are generally backed by intense research including taking into consideration the day-to-day stresses that people subject to their hair (i.e. coloring, perming, blow-drying, etc.).

Don't get me wrong, there are shampoos and conditioners that are sold in drugstores and supermarkets that can perform just as well as professional products, but this is when you have to decide who knows best; the person behind the counter/ register at your local drugstore or your stylist? You be the judge.

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Fringes or Not?

One statement that I often hear is, "The last time I had bangs I was six and my mother cut them." Well, you WILL NOT be reliving that experience. I myself am still recovering from the bowl cut my mother gave me. A great fringe depends on who's behind the chair, the shape of your face, and on how willing you are to maintain the look (being realistic with yourself). The first information I get from my clients is their type of lifestyle and an idea of what level of commitment they are willing to devote to their hair.

I recommend bangs for any shape of face, but you have to remember that it is not all about the fringes! It's also about having a good haircut to support them. For example, if I am doing a haircut on someone with a round face, and they would like short bangs, I would support the change by adding in layers around the face for softness.

LADIES, IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT BANGS AND HOW THEY CAN WORK FOR YOU, PLEASE CONTACT ME!

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New Cuts

Posted by Unknown at 7:09 AM - 0 comments

A Shearly Natural Look

Christina is a natural red head with extremely curly hair. We decided to cut and color her hair keeping in mind that she wears it both curly and straight. We also took into consideration that it will be humid for the next couple of months, so I had to be gently with the layering. I chose to bailiage her hair because curly or straight she would get the same effect which is a more natural application with little committment (meaning that she would not have to process her hair as often as a result of the placement of the highlights), The challenge was coloring her hair and removing a lot of the red with the end result being a contrasted natural beige blonde. I used the razor to cut her hair (Yes, you can cut curly hair with the razor!) layering and removing bulk while keeping length. So, that she can wear her hair naturally without it being too short.

Products used were Oleo Relax Shampoo and Nutridefense Conditioner (#2) both by Kerastase. To style the hair I used Tonic by Bumble & Bumble followed by Lait Nutri-Sculpt by Kerastase. After blow drying, I applied a pea-sized amount of Nutri-Scuplt Serum by Kerastase.

Posted by Unknown at 8:34 AM - 0 comments

I have a very diverse clientele. So, I am fortunate to work with people of all walks of life including actors, muscians, homemakers, students, etc. Thus allowing me to be creative on different levels. This particular cut was about achieving a look that has versatility. Being an actor, he needed to be able to work with his hair texture for auditions and still have a life and just be himself. Working with his face shape, hair texture and the razor, I was able to create a cut that was not only easy to manage, but had the flexibility to be air dried, blow dried or flat ironed; still leaving an edge of masculinity.

Posted by Unknown at 5:42 PM - 2 comments

Color also plays an important part in the finshed look of bridal hair. It's nice to have that extra sparkle in your hair as you're walking down the isle. This look was achieved by using 3 ponytails and lots of bobby pins!

Posted by Unknown at 5:17 AM - 0 comments

Clients often comment that hair coloring is very similar to the art of painting. I agree; however, the advantage that a painter is given is the ability to continuously add color, and some colorist are not given the same liberty due to the constraints of scheduling and high volume of clientele. I personally like to incorporate a "painter's frame of mind" into my coloring. I like to work with my clients to achieve their desired look. As I have done with this color. She was a platinum blonde for some time and kicked open the salon door begging for a change. She came to me with a strong idea of what she had in mind, and we worked together to custom blend her color. I used 3 to 4 shades from the Alfaparf Semi-Permanent line (an Italian color line that adds great shine to color).

Posted by Unknown at 6:37 PM - 2 comments

Ask Antonio

Hello Everyone!

I am excited to offer a place for my clients and future clients to view my weekly happenings in the salon as well as updated information, photos and some of my favorite links.

You are more than welcome to join in on my discussions. If you have any beauty challenges, please feel free to post your questions or comments, and I will be more than happy to answer them.


-Antonio

Posted by Unknown at 7:28 PM - 27 comments