Spare Hair – Today’s Fashion Boost

Text by Evelyn Valcourt

The early 60’s rolled in with wig addicts. Business women, career girls, suburban housewives, nearly every woman owned a wig or two or more – different styles and different colors. These wigs gave them a lift and made life a little easier. Everyone knew you had a wig on, but that didn’t matter at that time. The price of ranged at $25 to $100.

Later a different scenario came. With cancer on the rise, chemotherapy – induced alopecia, a condition know as Alopecia Arcata, and also thinning, the need to wear hair became more of a reality. Women who were wearing wigs in the fashion sense quietly stopped wearing the wigs in case of being mistaken for someone who had little or no hair. To this day, the word wig carries a bad rap. Changing the word wig to get the full meaning has been a difficult one. Times have changed and we have more flair words to describe wigs. The millennium hair is know as fashion hair, fashion accents, extended hair, or hair extensions, but the bottom line is that today’s designer wigs have no comparison to the 60’s heavy look. The weight of the wigs today is quite light, the texture is much nicer, and there are many colors and styles to choose from. These can also be shaped into different styles either by thinning or cutting. You can also use either mousse or gel to get a more modern look.

Hi-Tech synthetics range from approximately $200 to $400. Redefined synthetics are homemade with a double monofilament top – meaning the fibers are hand knotted from underneath one by one and covered with a smooth base layered material which matches your own scalp color. They’re cool, comfortable and undetectable. These will range from $350 and up. If you want to look as though you need the roots of your own hair colored, the wigs are also available in gradient colors with or without monotops. For human hair wigs, I recommend 100% Remy hair. They can be highlighted or low lighted, and styled. Costs vary from $600 and up.

You can integrate your own hair with a wig. Also, there are hairpieces with special clips that create the illusion that it’s all your own hair. We hear of hair extensions being used to extend the length of your hair by weaving. A professional hairstylist who specializes with weaves is the one to see for this creative hair.

In the world of fashion, the world of camouflage exists. You can wear ‘spare hair’, as I call it, and wear it without having anyone knowing you have it on.

We are looking for more time for ourselves. By owning at least one ‘spare hair’ you will be able to get ready in a jiffy if something is added to your schedule. You can change your hairstyles or color just because you want a change. History has a way of repeating itself. Maybe things will never be like the 60’s and that’s okay. I am challenging every woman to own as least one wig, and in doing that, we don’t have to wait until we lose hair, for whatever reason, to own a wig. This might also be a gesture of support for all the women who have no choice in this matter. Hair Today – Hair Tomorrow – Hair Always.

Wear the ultimate in fashion hair – ‘spare hair’, that is.

Fabric – Different Types and Their Uses

 Text by Lily Sokhi

Fabrics complete the look of a room. A room could be full of furniture and knickknacks and will still look bare without the use of fabric. You can take the look of a room from rags to riches by changing the soft furnishings. The theme of the room can be changed from bohemian to opulent, just by changing the furniture coverings.

The key to a comfortable and relaxing environment at home is in the kind of upholstery chosen for the sofa, bed covers, curtains and drapes. It is possible to get the right ambience and the desired look by using the right fabric combination. A room that is only used for entertaining can have delicate fabric but a room that is used by toddlers and pets needs sturdy and washable fabric. You also have to keep in mind the amount of sunlight the room gets. Moreover, personal choice, the personality of the owner and the depth of his/her pockets are all-important factors in the selection of a perfect fabric.

Broadly speaking, fabrics fall into two categories. Fabrics are derived from natural sources or manmade fabrics. However, there is a third category that is very popular as well, the blend. As the term suggests, it is a blend of natural and man-made fabric. It offers you the breathability and texture of natural fabric and the sturdiness of manmade fabric. The weave of thread further categorizes the fabric. Due to the quality of the thread, the variation in the weave and the finish of the fabric, the end products look very different from one another.

 

Natural Fabrics

Natural fabrics come from different sources. Cotton and linen come from plants. Both fabrics are cool, soft to the touch and comfortable. They are highly absorbent, breathable, and can withstand high temperatures. Damask, gingham, velvet and tapestry are suitable for upholstery whereas satin and percale are ideal for tablecloths and bed linen. Pima cotton, muslin and lawn are thinner fabrics making them more suitable for curtains, drapes, valances, blinds and tablecloths.

For centuries silk has had a reputation as a luxurious and sensuous fabric, one associated with wealth and success. Silk is one of the oldest textile fibers known to man. The Chinese have used it since the 27th century BC. Silk has a rich look and touch to it. It has superb texture and luster. Brocade, damask and taffeta are ideal for tailored curtains, pelmets and cushions, whereas organza is the most suitable for drapes and bed skirts.

Wool comes from fibers of animal coats, such as sheep, goats, rabbits, alpacas and llamas. Woolen fabrics are warm, have a soft feel and fuzzy surface, very little shine or sheen and will not hold a crease. They are heavier and bulkier than other fabrics. Tweed, tartan and mohair can be used for upholstery, curtains and pelmets, whereas jacquard tapestry is only suitable for upholstery.

 

Manmade Fabrics

Nylon, polyester, rayon, viscose and acrylic are manmade fabrics. They are manufactured either as 100% synthetic or are blended with natural fabrics. The blends have a more natural feel to them, are easier to care for and have better fall than the natural ones. Most of the fabrics available in the market are blends. Blends hold their shape and do not need much maintenance. They are colorfast and are washable at home.

Micro fibers are now very popular in the garment and upholstery industry. Their popularity can be attributed to their strength and durability and to their ability to repel moisture. Well-known families of micro fibers are ultra-suede and faux leather. They are highly durable as well as luxurious and imitate real suede and leather very well. These fabrics have revolutionized the textile industry. They are any designer’s first choice; they are Ideal for upholstery, curtain and drapes, pelmets, swags & tails, tiebacks, valances and blinds.

You can get the million-dollar look by spending a fraction of that and still let your children and dogs run amuck on the sofa. After all, all you have to do is wipe it clean and it will be as good as new.

Hairstyles for Her

Hairstyles have changed a lot over the years, as they always do. Look back at old yearbooks or TV shows to see just how fashion dictated styles were – everyone wore the same look whether it suited them or not. The best thing about recent trends however is that instead of focusing on one or two styles, the best hairstyle today is one that is personal and suits you and your look.

For short hair variations on the bob are common, but not a one-style bob as in the past.  Bob cuts now vary from classic looks to more layered creations for finer hair and angles that are longer at the front for more interest and framing of the face.  Bangs may or may not feature in depending on your preference and what your stylist may recommend.  Color and highlights are a great way to make a simple bob outstanding and these days virtually any color goes.

For curly hair, whether short or long, the stress is on curls that are loose and thick rather than tight.  No one wants to go back to that mock-afro look of the 1970s, so curls now are softer and more natural looking.  The emphasis is on styling for definition rather than control.  Long and loose, short and wavy, whatever your curl you can let it do its own thing and be free.  Curly hair or straight, a light tousled look is preferable to something too controlled or fixed.  Wash and wear styles are a must and for once curly hair has the advantage there.

Long hair is back in style but again with variations.  Depending on your face, style and needs long hair can be different things to different people.  One thing that isn’t as common, unless it perfectly suits you of course, is the single layer as long as it can be look that was common a decade or so ago.  Look for layers now to add depth and variety.  Longer layers will still allow for those casual pony tails and braids but give you more texture on days when your wear your hair down.  Up-does-whether professional or casual-are great for evenings out or for work, and are one reason to have longer hair.

Keep an eye on the new hair accessories that come out. They can give you ideas for new styles and looks for your short or long hair, for business or fun casual days.

If you aren’t sure if your look needs updating, check with your stylist or try someone new.  Many salons now will give free consultation to make suggestions and offer alternatives.  In some cases they may even ask questions about your work and lifestyle so they’re sure to make the perfect recommendation to meet your specific needs. And if you do make a change and aren’t happy with the end result, never forget it’s hair that will grow back and now you’ve tried something and don’t have to try it again.

Remember today’s best style is whatever looks best on you.  If you find a look you like you can feel comfortable keeping it knowing it won’t soon be out of date.

Text by Heather Seftel-Kirk

How to Organize Your Wardrobe

Text by Heather Seftel-Kirk

Organizing your wardrobe is a challenge best tackled at least once a year. Thinking it can be put off from year to year and season to season only adds to the job you’ll have to do eventually.

The first thing to do to organize your wardrobe is to see it – all of it. Take everything out of your closet, drawers, dressers or whichever corner you happen to be working on. Lay it out where you can see it. Then How to Organize Your Wardrobe Article Imagedecide on categories – keeping, haven’t worn lately but really love, needs fixing or tailoring, haven’t worn and hate, throw out. This latter category may include pieces that are stained or damaged beyond being fixable.

The keeping pile is easy; it’s for all of the favorite pieces you wear regularly and rely on. Haven’t worn lately but love is for exactly that. The way styles change and things go out of fashion only to come back in, this category will help you sort and store away things you’ll miss if you give away. How many times have you thought…. “If only I had kept that sweater from 10 years ago. I loved it and it’s back in style again.” Pack these items away under the bed or in the basement in well labeled boxed so they’re easy to find when you want them.

Things that need fixing or tailoring include pieces needing buttons that won’t be worn until they’re fixed or pieces that just don’t fit the right way anymore but could with a little tailoring. Get them repaired and perhaps you won’t have to go shopping this season.

Anything that gives you a sense of, what was I thinking; gifts you were given that never really made your day; styles you hope never come back; or pieces that make you look too anything are all bound for the donation pile. What was once your mistake can one day be someone’s treasure. If you can’t think of a place to donate your items, shelters for women in many areas are happy to take gently used clothing for both women and children. Remember though, if it’s stained or damaged to the point you don’t want it, no one else will either.

Once your wardrobe is sorted, and I mean right down to shoes and lingerie, you’ll have a much better picture of what you have and what you might need. Now, before you put it all back consider whether your closet is organized the best it can be. If things are hidden or packed too tightly you may lose track of some of the great finds you’ve rediscovered. Perhaps some closet organizers or space savers can help you keep track of your clothing better.

As you put things back, try to keep them organized by season, style and usage. This will make it easier to find things when you want them and will make it less likely that things will be forgotten.

Once your wardrobe is organized and well sorted out you’re ready to take on the season ahead – perhaps with a little shopping along the way to fill in what you now know are the missing elements.

Kids Fashion – What’s In?

Text by Heather Seftel-Kirk

Kids’ fashions and styles can change as quickly as they do for adults. What’s in for this year? How can you shop for kids so their clothes aren’t out of fashion before they’ve grown out of them?

The first thing you need to understand is that kids can be stylish without being trendy. If you start at an early age helping kids find their own style rather than following all the latest trends and gimmicks, you may actually end up with an older child who doesn’t need the latest this and that, but is happy to find their own style.

Colors aren’t as much an issue with kids – as in, “This year’s must have color is….” Looking at what’s new for spring this year, you’ll find lots of variety. Pastels are big and always work for both boys and girls. Along with the pastels, there are lots of great bold colors and retro prints that are stylish and not likely to be “out” by next year.

For girls, especially little girls, dresses work as well for play as they do for an outing with Mom or a visit to Grandma. Styles this year range from tank style to shirt-dresses and everything in between. You can’t go wrong with a dress in whatever style suits her taste, in a pretty pastel or bold and fun retro print.

If your little one likes being a princess, there are also lots of styles with ruffles, ties and pretty flowers to make your little girl feel girly.

Simple shirts, tanks and sweaters combined with basic shorts, tights, Capri’s or pants will round out her wardrobe nicely. Chances are when little girls dress according to their age, you’ll both be happy with the results. It’s when little girls dress to look like big girls that you can almost guarantee either they won’t be happy because their clothes aren’t in style a few months down the road, or you won’t be happy with the end result. Help girls find clothes they can throw on and feel comfortable in, and that express something about who they are and you’ll be right on track with whatever else is out there.

For boys the new styles are fun and perfectly suited to staying in style for the long haul. T-shirts with sports logos, surfer modes and witty wordplay are all the rage and it pretty much guarantees your child will outgrow these pieces before they lose favor. Layering continues to be the trend and for fun, you can add in funky patterns and colors to mix things up.

Shorts and pants in cargo style are easy to pair with for a look that is classic and lasting and works well for casual as it does for dress up. Retro prints and plaids are also in for bottoms but may not have the same wear in terms of style and fashion.

Kids and fashion – keep it simple, keep it fun and you’ll all be happy.