Trending colours for Winter 2013!

Trending colours this   Winter

People often ask what kind of colours to go for as the season changes to winter. 

Although there are fashion trends It all depends on what your natural hair colour is, what colours suit you best and most importantly what you like.

It's time to say goodbye to the warm weather inspired hair trends and embrace what autumn has to offer.

So what choices do we have this season??

For women with very dark or black hair, unless you go for something quite striking – such as the addition of a vibrant purple for example, you shouldn't veer too far off your natural depth. That pallet should never be 4 or 5 shades lighter than your natural colour, otherwise you are likely to have a colour which does not compliment your natural skin tone. You also risk damaging and drying your hair out. So compliment your natural colour rather than working against it!

I love this mahogany plum colour for naturally dark haired girls! It enhances rather than dramatically changes your hair and shimmers with vibrance!

There are many interesting shades to choose from which work really well at this time of the year. Hair needs toning down from the summer months so auburn and chestnut instead of black and dark golden blonde instead oflight brown will help to revitalise your look.

Auburns, browns and chestnuts can offer both subtle and quite noticeable changes. The key to getting it right is in the application. Fine veils of colour will allow you to create good texture. At this level, you can take larger sections and layer on, this enables light to reflect, giving your hair a natural healthy shine showing off the very best of your new hair colour.

Another simple yet effective technique is to place a few simple lighter strands at the front. This will help to blend in with the lighter ends that many woman will have left over from the summer months. Remember less is more, look at Mila Kunis for inspiration here.

This style is subtle yet flattering with a glow of colour coming through the front to give it depth and prevent a dark colour looking too solid.

Ombre rather than dip-dying, like we have seen on Sienna Miller and Kate Bosworth, is a really popular technique at the moment but again this has to be done correctly. 

Rather than bright or heavily contrasting colours, applying chestnut, caramel and honey shades of blondes or auburns will warm it up and give the ends of your hair a soft feathery feel, making your hair look full of life and tone.

If you have natural hues of auburn or strawberry blondes, its a great idea to compliment your own natural colour by using something that's going to accentuate these tones. Strong coppers, vibrant auburns and deep fiery tones are great with fairer skin and look wicked this Autumn-winter.

Are you brave enough to try out this vibrant Rhianna red? Striking, shiny and full of colour this colour is great for dark or light haired ladies! Although using the correct products, shampoo's etc is important in keeping it looking healthy and rich, if you can pull off this look it is definitely worth that little bit more maintenance! Worn with a full fringe gives a striking dramatic look.



What colours will you opt for this season?
Gemma. :)


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Autumn - Winter Trends 2013-2014

Summer is disappearing and Autumn is here! So what way will you be wearing you hair as the leaves on the trees turn golden again? Here are some the the trends that we will be seeing these next few months as the weather gets cooler!

Fringes!

Full sixties fringes were on show on the catwalk for this upcoming season. Bold, choppy and sweeping for a statement look. The good news is almost all of them were fake so if you want to try out a new fringe you don't necessarily need to get the scissors out! You can now buy clip in fringes if you are a bit wary of changing your hair in this way, or you fancy a bit of a change from day to day.

Having a bold sweeping side fringe for that softer look can also be done "faux!" Why not start a collection of different fringes, that way you can play around with them with different up do's and down do's, classy or casual. 

Va Va Volume!

At the catwalks by Marc Jacobs, big volumised looks were created through setting of pin curls, left to cool then brushed out and backcombed with plenty of spray!

The top part was left out of the pin curls, to give it a 40's feel. I love this look because its big, it's bouncy and tousled without looking too set. Great for day or evening!

Ombre is here to stay!

If you think Ombre is fading away think again, on the catwalk we have seen loads of strong ombre effects in a palette of different colours. Rather than the "dip-dye" look we saw last year, ombre is all about soft, weaved colours, multi-tones that looks less severe or "solid" like the original dip dye result.

Soft caramels, honey blondes and beige browns are used in this ombre effect. It looks sunkissed but with depth and is great because it's low maintenance. 











This ombre style is also great for Autumn as you can play around with different tones to create a colour that suits you. Red's and coppers are great to experiment with for this season. Soft but striking!

Blunt cuts

Whether you are wearing you hair straight and long or shorter and choppy, blunt cuts have been taking off for this upcoming season.
Rather than feathery, wispy ends, cutting your locks more blunt, creates a sharper edgy look that is thick and full of life. For shorter hair a choppy blunt bob will definitely take over the "pobs" that have been around for a long time sporting feathery or more wispy ends.





For this month and next month only check out my special offer for Autumn and come in and treat yourself to beautiful colours!

http://www.westwoodhair.co.uk/autumn-winter-promotion 

See you soon! Gemma :)

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Tribal Twist!

                                 TRIBAL TWIST!

Models on the Spring/Summer catwalks this year looked like they had just stepped off the plane following a round-the-world journey, having picked up style inspiration from every continent! From springy African texture to thick Nordic rope plaits and narrow twisted cornrows, the runways showcased global influences of style combined with a modern, urban edge.

Far eastern influences have been sporting twisted knots, fishtail plaits, warrior girls, high pony’s, tight plaits, rope texture, african tribes and extreme texture!

With fashion trends constantly taking inspiration from different cultures, mixing two or more styles from different cultures results in a unique look that is bound to appeal to a wide range of people.















I love this braided look, different sized plaits twisted around each other to give an modern version of tribal elegance.

You could try fishtails, inside out plait or a mixture of both.

In the recent years ethnic trends and details are all over the fashion runways as people more or less want to return to their roots.In the recent years ethnic trends and details are all over the fashion runways as people more or less want to return to their roots. 

Internationally, Ethnic fashion is very popular once again, this time with mixed influences – Native American, Indo, African and Chinese.

This tribal style can be incorporated into bridal styles, wedding styles and casual styles for everyday! What will you try out this season?

See you soon!

Gemma :)

The Perfect Ponytail!

Ponytails are supposed to be one of the easiest hairstyles imaginable, but getting them right is just not as straightforward as it sounds. too much texture and it looks messy, too little and it can look limp and flat.

The desirable ponytail has texture, style and a sense of "chic" without looking too done. 

So how do you get the Perfect Ponytail?

Firstly I'd say a ponytail is better on dirty hair - or if you don't like leaving your hair unwashed then you could use some dry shampoo to add texture. You could also use a product to give your hair "guts" if you like. For example our Aveda salt spray texturiser would be perfect. 

Just tip your head upside down and spray through the whole thing. when you lift your head back up you'll look like a mad woman but that's fine!

Don't use a brush, use your fingers to pull the hair back tightly at the sides, it lifts your eyes and is basically an instant facelift if you go for this pony! 

Keep it a bit looser on top, it's more casual and stops you from looking flat headed or like you have too much forehead. 

To fasten the ponytail you could use stretchy ribbons or old cotton hairbands which won't split the hair as much as traditional hair elastics. 

Tie it in place then pull and twist bits of the hair with your fingers using a light hold hairspray. If you need to cover an unattractive hairband you can take strands of hair and wrap them around your ponytail and pin in place.

Avoid scrunchies at all cost though! You want to keep your style looking modern and chic but simple.

Create the ponytail that best suits you! 

You can pull out extra strands of hair around your face to soften the look even more, or to make it look more messy or young. This style is great for the day time or great for a night out as it looks glamourous but casual depending how you wear it.

If you are middle-aged or older then a sleeker ponytail will look great. It looks elegant and simple and is an easy maintenance hairstyle for a night out!

Sometimes your hair can be just to fine and look unsubstantial, or if you're just not a ponytail person then you can just wrap it around and turn it into a topknot!


Let me know how you get on!
See you soon, Gemma.

How to get different gorgeous types of curls and waves DIY!

Ever wondered how to create those different waves and curls yourself at home? From big and bouncy with loads of volume, to sleek and vintage, or tousled messy tumbling waves. All of these styles are flattering on everyone and can give a different edge to your look. 
Well here's how to!

Big bouncy curls.

This look is elegant sophisticated and also easy!

1) Wash hair then blowdry using a volumising spray or mousse then blowdry lifting the roots with a big round brush.
2) Spray dry hair with a heat protecting spray.
3) Section by section using a big barrelled curling tong take 2inch wide sections and curl in place.
4) Repeat all over and leave to cool. Put your fingers through and spray with holding hair spray! 










                                                        Long casual waves.

Natural and flowing, this works well on any length or thickness!
Repeat steps 1 and 2 above.
3) Taking a big barrelled tong take large sections and hold in place.
4) With the next section turn the tong in the opposite direction. This will help the curls look more natural and flowing.
5) Using a soft bristled brush gently brush through the waves to soften the look making it look very natural!













Just at the end waves!

This is a great look for naturally thick, long hair.
1) After blowdrying with volumising spray mist over dry hair with heat protector.
2) Taking large sections of hair, (about ten in total) using a large barrelled tong or wide plate GHD, turn the irons and roll half way up the hair keeping the top smooth.
3) Either leave them as they are of ruffle them out with your fingers.
4) Finish with spray and voila!












                                                       Wanded curls.

I love this look as it is tighter curls without being fluffy frizzy or "ringlety." These curls can last for a few days also!
1) Wash and blowdry using volumising spray and heat protector once dry.
2) Using a wand, (these come in various sizes) take each section and wrap hair up onto the wand and hold for a few seconds. The longer it is held the tighter the curl.
3) Once all hair is wanded either leave them separated from a texturised look and brush through for soft beachy waves and finish with either hairspray or texturising spray!










40's Vintage waves.
This look is most suitable for hair that is long and thick with long or no layers. Sophisticated and stylish this will glam up your evening look!

1) Using a GHD styler, take 2inch wide sections and turn the hair around the GHD at a VERTICAL angle. This is important that you don't change this angle the whole way around the head.
2) Once the curls have all been created they will look very set which is what you are looking for.
3) Now taking either a paddle brush or a large brush with soft bristles, slowly brush all the hair through a few times until all the curls are flowing together! Finish with hold or shine spray.





Try these out and let me know how you get on with them and which is your favourite!
Speak soon, Gemma. :)

How to keep your hair looking amazing in this summer heat PART 2.

PART 2 
How to keep your hair looking amazing in the summer heat....quick and easy up styles!


Messy bun - Spice up a boring bun by adding height to the crown or adding in a french or fishtail plait. Pin it up loosely to keep it simple and easy! To prevent it looking too done pull out some bits of hair from the sides of your face! 











Left loose beach waves - No styling tools required! Surfer hair looks perfectly imperfect. Go to sleep with your hair in braids then tease them out and mess it up in the morning. Alternatively wash your hair and spray in either a sea salt spray or a texturiser spray, scrunch and let air dry. 










Slick it back - A high, tight pony tail not only looks sophisticated, its great to have your hair away from your neck on a hot day! After washing your hair let it air dry or roughly blow dry it. Using a dollop of mousse to slick it back into a high pony with give it a nice sheen rather than using gel which will look glued to your head! Scrunch a bit of sea salt spray in the ends to rough it up a bit!

Ballerina bun - A high knot or chignon looks super-fresh and fashionable. Flip your head upside down and gather your hair, flip your hair back up and secure with a hair band and pins. It doesn't matter if it looks messy or a few bits hang out - this style looks better with fly-aways! 












On the side - Create a deep side parting and sweep your hair over to one side. The key is to keep it lose and not too tight or severe. Pull a few strands out around your face to soften this look. This is a great style to wear a few days after you wash your hair if you want to get an extra day out of your blowdry!












Feel free to comment or ask questions, I would love to hear your feedback!
Gemma :) x

How to keep your hair looking amazing in this summer heat! PART 1

Hi guys, the sun is here and I hope you're all enjoying it!!










Want beautiful summer hair?
PART 1

Who doesn't?! Before you can have beautiful hair it has to be healthy! So here is some advice to keep your hair in tip top condition, looking shiny and healthy with some easy tricks to achieve beautiful summer up-styles and beach waves in part 2!

1) Use the heat of the summer to your hair’s advantage! While you’re at the beach or poolside, treat your hair to a deep-conditioning mask such as Aveda's Damage Remedy Restructuring Treatment. Then comb your hair into a bun and let the product go to work while you lounge. This trick can protect your hair from salt or chlorinated water and give you an extra boost of softness and shine.

Just as your body needs water to survive, your hair must replenish its moisture to stay healthy. "Conditioner for hair is like water for the body: You're always going to need it."

2) Use a sun protector or use a shampoo and conditioner that has sun screen in it! 

Effects of direct sun rays on hair can be harsh on your lovely hair! Exposing your hair for even 10 minutes can produce 70-80 degrees Celsius heat and this can crack your cuticle. It can do harm, suck out moisture and can even burn your scalp so remember this when your laying out or on holidays! Aveda sun veil is perfect.

3) Wash your locks with lukewarm water. However, some people put ice in the water to make it cold which is wrong. Water temperature should neither be too hot nor too cold; it should be balanced.

4) A well-balanced diet is the key to keeping your hair healthy and strong. Eat lots of fruit and vegetables, nuts, brown rice, beans and pulses to have those healthy and lustrous tresses. Also, drink plenty of water. 

5) Have regular trims! Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks will help keep the split ends at bay, prevent further breakage or damage and will keep your hair looking perfect from root to tip!

If you follow this advice you'll have the health in your hair to keep it looking gorgeous!

Keep enjoying the sun! Gemma x