Extensions or weaves? Which Spring/Summer look will you choose?

I decided on an unusual braid with a unique colour I’d been trying out on some of my family and friends. If your like me and change your hair, make-up and overall look on a regular basis, or not, this season we have so many hair trends you won’t be able to resist.

Yes, oh yes not only are the looks HOT but, they can be inexpensively achieved with extensions and/or weaves. Aaaahh!! I know the question on the tip of your tongue and the answer is NO! Extensions and weaves do not damage your hair. Just be sure to go to a reputable Beauty Salon/Hairdresser.

Don’t be afraid to check out your stylist before letting them loose in your hair. CHECK THEM OUT – just as you would a car mechanic or insurance broker.

Make sure they are experts in the field of extensions and weaves. How? Go to the salon and watch them at work. Check out there portfolio and certificates. Speak to other users, and finally after your consultations see how you feel about what they are suggesting they need to do to achieve the look you want.

My Golden Rule is IF IN DOUBT WALK OUT… Trust your instincts. You know the vibe you’re getting is always right! SO LISTEN TO IT…

Okay now the fun begins where shall we start? Well a key trend for spring/summer 2008 is curls. Yes! I said curls, short, long, distressed and neat.

Both Phillip Lim and Derek Lam’s spring/summer fashion shows had a strong curl influence. This trend has been picked up by a number of celebrity’s including Halle Berry (above).

This celeb is always changing her look and since giving birth we can probably expect to see her come with a new amazing look. Halle likes to wear precise curls, that give her that sexy elegant look we all covert.

If your vibe is that of a ‘sexy siren’ then the disgruntled curls worn by actress Jessica Alba (below) maybe for you.

There are a number of ways you can achieve both of these looks. I would recommend the following techniques: a micro link extensions, a full house weave, or a strand by strand extension.

TALK TO YOUR STYLIST FIRST. They should be able to tell you the best technique to use for your hair type.

There is a wide range of curly hair types: synthetic, human, long and short, loose, tight and soft. As you can see there are far too many to mention here. So go into a hair retail shop and try on a number of wigs to see which type of curl you’re most happy with.

REMEMBER if you are doing the micro link extensions or strand by strand, the weave hair quality needs to match your hair quality for that seamless result. That’s the only way you’ll keep everyone guessing is she or isn’t she!

Over the next few weeks I shall be delving into the world of extensions, braids, weaves, natural and relaxed hair. Why? Because most women today, regardless of race, regard these hair accessories as a “must have” beauty item. I will be sharing information on the latest trends, maintenance tips, hair products and so much more with you.

So there you have it! Whether you have short or flowing, limp or voluminous hair this blog will make those hair decisions much easier for you.

I have to run now… meeting one of the region’s best bag designers over a skinny latte.

If you have any questions, queries, topics you’d like considered then post a comment and I’ll be in touch sooner than you think.

Happy Hair Days… Shaz

All words by Sharon Davis.

Credit for Halle Berry photograph – Lisa O Connor/Zuma Press (©) Copyright 2004.

Credit for Jessica Alba photograph – Lisa O Connor/Zuma Press (©) Copyright 2006.