Many people confine their definition of fashion to clothing and accessories.
However, your "look" should be an amalgamation of all the aspects of your appearance — your hair included.
A good haircut can instantaneously upgrade your style without a lot of effort. Although getting the perfect haircut certainly isn't easy, with the help of a professional stylist, you'll be on your way to finding a style that is low-maintenance and flattering.
Your hair should be versatile and adaptable to different situations. Spending 20 minutes on your style every morning gets annoying rather quickly, especially being a rushed college student.
Great haircuts must complement your face shape and work with your hair's natural texture. Sure, a particular style may look great in a magazine, but you must be realistic and genuinely consider if it will work for you.
Ultimately, your stylist should be your go-to hair consultant. This may sound silly, but I find that people, especially students, too-heavily rely on their friends' opinions when choosing a hairstyle.
Although your friends' recommendations may certainly be worthwhile, friendship often gets in the way of honesty, and your friends really don't know your hair as well as you think they do. Besides, who better to trust with styles than a professional who cuts hair every day?
However, you can't expect a stylist to read your mind. Clearly articulate your needs and reservations, but give the stylist leeway in crafting a look that will work for you.
A good stylist values communication, and will not be offended if you don't like their particular direction.
During my time at Hopkins, I've frequented a lot of different salons trying to find the perfect stylist. I've found that Baltimore has many more great salons than expected, especially outside of Charles Village.
Most upscale salons are concentrated in Hampden, Mount Vernon, or Federal Hill, all easily accessible for the Hopkins student.
Additionally, many offer significant student discounts.
My favorite salon in the Baltimore-area is Neal's, the Hair Studio and Day Spa at 856 Park Avenue in Mount Vernon.
The salon is small and charming, and the staff couldn't be friendlier. The minute you walk in the door, you feel like a part of the Neal's family.
Although all the stylists are great, I'd particularly recommend Becky Levine. Her cuts are modern and chic, yet they work with your natural hair and are easily wearable.
Neal's offers a half-price student discount on Tuesdays. Just bring your J-Card and another form of identification confirming your current enrollment status. A printed out class schedule or tuition bill will work perfectly.
Once you've found the right stylist, pay them a visit every six to eight weeks. Now that you've gotten your perfect cut, take care of it!
Most dermatologists and stylists don't advocate shampooing your hair every day. Three to four times a week should be plenty for most hair types. My general rule? Shampoo after every trip to the gym.
When washing your hair, use about a quarter-size dollop, and lather for no more than thirty seconds to minimize breakage. If your hair feels oily between washes, try out a dry shampoo. It can cut a lot of time out of your morning routine. Also, never brush wet hair. Instead, comb out tangles.
If you choose to use a blow dryer or flat iron, protect your hair with a product designed to guard against heat.
Finding a styling product that works for you can be a trial-and-error process. Consult some reviews online, and then try to procure some samples.
At Sephora, you can get a sample of any product — just ask a sales associate. Our nearest Sephora is at the Towson Town Center. Or if you prefer, you can buy trial-size products on eBay at very reasonable costs, and then buy the full-size product if it suits you.
Also, you probably have some natural hair care products hiding in the cupboards of your kitchenette that are low-cost and effective. Many common foods have essential oils and vitamins that work wonders on your hair. To repair damaged hair, try a concoction of oil and egg yolk. Massage it into your hair, let it sit for ten minutes, and follow with a shampoo.
Allegedly, beer can add shine, body, and strength to your hair. Mix one cup of warm water with six tablespoons of beer, and use it as a final rinse.
Ultimately, everybody has different hair, and only you know your hair best.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different looks and products with the help of your stylist. Why not breech your hair boundaries? It will always grow back!
Got any style or fashion tips or questions? Email me at fashion@jhunewsletter.com!
