Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Ombre Or not to Ombre?





My friends, I come to you today to discuss an exciting hair color technique that took the country by storm. For some, the storm hit four years ago and ran its course. Others got swept away by the storm just over a year ago. And for the rest of the population, well, they are just now realizing that there was a storm (and they want their share!).


I am talking about the Ombré hair color technique. For those of you who don't know, “Ombré” is a French word that describes hair color that transitions from light to dark or from one color to another. It has long been used to describe fabric colors, but has recently been applied to describe hair color as well.




Many celebrities embraced the Ombré with the help of their hair masters, creating dynamic personalized hair colors suited to their hair texture, skin tone and lifestyle.


I am sure you have seen it, women with dark roots and ends that gradually get lighter. Even women with very dark hair are enjoying this fad, complimenting their tresses with a lighter tone on the ends of their hair. Now, this doesn’t just apply to dark haired lovelies; the Ombré technique can work for light brown ladies as well, and you can even change your root color for more color effect. Ombré gives a fresh, sun-kissed appearance with a little more punch! Many women embraced this color technique with open arms, pushing aside the foiled highlights or the baliage (French hair painting technique).


As I researched the topic online, I saw that some are swearing that it’s over, saying it’s time to move on. I am all about individuality and personalized self-expression, and I still do ombré if I feel the client’s hair, together with my talent, can bring something special to the table.


Many of my very talented friends in Manhattan who are great colorists are giving their clients beautiful, personalized Ombré. So ladies what it comes down to is this:


1) No one can tell you how you should wear your hair.

2) This hair color technique may not be the most current anymore, but that doesn’t mean it’s off-limits.

3) If hairstylists think it’s becoming overdone, will we be willing to refuse clients the ombré? Hardly likely.


You all know I am an advocate of individuality and self expression, but here's the challenge: hairstylists and clients alike are saying “It’s too much already!” Is it? Of course it’s for you to decide for yourself, but keep in mind a few things:

1) Although it’s a beautiful effect, are you going to end up looking just like the girl next to you?


2) Maybe it has run its course and it’s time for variety to return, moving away from the Ombré helmet.

3) As a hairstylist, I can't tell you how many women are coming into the salon asking for this hair color technique. Soon everyone and their Poodle will be wearing it!

4) There are so many versions of ombre I'm seeing walking down the street – some of it’s not even proper Ombré! Its like if Ombre slept with a single process and some chunky highlights and they gave birth to a hot mess!!

5)
Do you, the client, still want to have it done after all you now know?



So ladies, here we have it. I promise we will be touching on this topic again, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts.


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