Oscar's 2011

Reese Witherspoon

Every once in a while, Reese Witherspoon makes me fall in love with her hair "style" all over again. The last time she did this is when she showed up at an awards show with long straight hair, a nice golden blonde colour, and perfectly wispy bangs for her face shape. Well, she has done it once more. Whoever decided to put her hair up in this '60's inspired up-do was genius! It is nice to see a playful change to some of the controlled, stiff looking Oscar hair that we usually see. This style perfectly complements her gown, playing up an otherwise plain look. I am hoping that I see some girls bring in this picture for prom!

Amy Adams

Another one of my favorites this year has to be Amy Adams. Maybe I am being  a little bias because I actually just love her in general, but this wavy soft style is SO Hollywood! I would have thought to pin the hair up, being that this dress has sleeves and covers the shoulders, but I think the loose finger waves add some softness to such an edgy dress. Perfectly done.

Hailee Steinfeld

At 14, the "True Grit" star Hailee Steinfeld is easily the youngest nominee for best supporting actress this year. (I must mention that although she did not win, I believe that she definitely deserved the nomination, she was phenomenal - she made the movie for me!)
I find that so many of Hollywood's young stars end up having hair that is way to mature for them. In this case though, I loved the very simple bun, and the glitzy hairband to pull it all together. She looks her age, she looks beautiful, and I can't wait to see some more from this girl!
 


 

Sandra Bullock 2010

Sandra Bullock 2011

I'm sorry Sandra Bullock, but nothing tops last year's look for me. I must admit, I like the dress better this year, but the hair last year is much softer. Not only in colour, but style as well. I loved the way there were soft hints of medium caramel speckled throughout an nice chocolate base. The sleek parted top is softened by the mini wave at the ends. This years look is a little harsh for me. The hair colour is a huge contrast to the skin tone, and even the dress. It is pulled back a little too tight, maybe some wispy pieces around the face may have changed my mind. On a nicer note, Sandra woke me up from my Oscar coma when she presented for best male lead! With her witty sense of humor, I think she could even host next year! What do you think?!

Anne Hathaway

This is easily my favorite hair "look" for Anne Hathaway at this years Oscar's. (The dress was just gorgeous as well!) I know it is one of the more simple styles that she wore throughout the night, but I think it shows off her beautiful thick hair, and  smooth waves. I love that the volume is focused on the sides of her head instead of the crown, giving her a natural look.

Mila Kunis' dress is getting a standing ovation from everyone, but I have to say that it was not my favorite. This is why I decided to add a photo of something that I did love, and that was her hair. Put together, but loosely,  using the hair texture to create a lovely, soft, up-do. She looked elegant and pretty.

Marisa, Natalie, Amy & Scarlett

These four all wear similar styles, and I think their hair complements each one individually. To be specific, Natalie Portman decided to have some loose curls, but also to sweep up one side, making it a more glamorous look. Scarlett Johansson added some beachy looking waves to her short bob, which I personally loved. (Men, what are your thoughts? My fiance described it as messy and fuzzy!) And although I am not a fan of Marisa Tomei's gown, she nailed it with her Hollywood waves, pinned up on one side for a short hair up-do.


Last but not least, I would like to mention that Natalie Portman gained many more fans out there if they weren't already. By mentioning her hairstylist, makeup artist, and even the people working behind the camera, she made the people who rarely get acknowledged for helping with actor's success (because let's face it, looks matter in Hollywood!) feel loved and appreciated! Thank you Natalie, not only do you look like a goddess, I think you may be one too!

That's it for now folks,
-A

Fresh Start

As an inexperienced blogger, I blindly decided to put up a blog a few weeks ago. I have since posted two stories of "this and that", and I was not feeling completely satisfied, or even compelled to write anything. So, with this in mind, I have "revamped" my blog. Sorry guys, I have deleted the older blog postings due to irrelevance. Now, I'm thinking, what should I blog about? The answer is simple: what I know best! I am a hairstylist by trade, and if there is anything I am interested in, it's definitely the comings and goings of trends, styles, and fashion. So here it is! My opinion and updates on the latest, greatest, and of course, the stylish!

I figure for all of you to value my opinion, first I must tell you a little bit about my experience in hair. For those of you who know me, you are aware that I have "dipped my toes" in all aspects of the hair world. Starting as a youngster in grade ten, my guidance counselor in high school decided to put me in the cosmetology class for an extra credit (ironically, he was known as the worst counselor in our school). As the teachers found me to be quite good, and I was enjoying it as well, I enrolled in the apprenticeship program offered by the school. I entered in as many competitions as they would let me, and did pretty well, placing in a few, and actually winning in a category for bridal updo's.
I went on from school to work as an apprentice at Marco Stefano salon (known as Textures when I started there). I soaked up and learned as much as I could. I modeled and helped in a few of the shop's photo shoots, and finally worked up the courage and skills to work on clients. I switched between a few salon's over the years to find my groove, but I eventually settled in right where I started.
Through the years, I have had the opportunity to enter in a few more competitions, mainly the Contessa's. I haven't placed yet, but I don't plan to stop trying!
I have also worked on photo shoots for advertising, hairstyling at fashion shows and charity events, and makeover winner's for newspapers. I have been able to take many colour courses, which in turn led me to work backstage with major colour companies such as Wella professional. Being backstage at such events, I was able to meet and work alongside elite master stylists and colourists, one more recently being Nick Arrojo! (From TLC's "What not to wear")      
I also work as an extension teacher for First Lady Canada. I am lucky to be able to work at beauty shows across Canada as an extension artist doing demonstrations, and in salons working one on one with with other stylists.
I am lucky to have had all the guidance, confidence from all my teachers and employers along the way. To be successful in my career takes a lot of education and support, and I will never forget those who encouraged and helped me along the way!

With that said.....welcome to my new and improved blog! Just in time for the Oscar's......

Pictures:

Me at work doing what I do best ; Backstage at a Wella show with Nick Arrojo.