Things I Need to Do More Often #9

on September 10, 2009

Try new hairstyles.

I almost always wear my hair down. It’s long, it’s straight, and I don’t do anything to it besides a mandatory post-shower brush. As a result, it looks the exactly same every day — like this:

I think I’m somewhat afraid to do stuff with my hair. I fear I’m going to look silly. Which is pretty silly in itself. It’s just hair.

So… I’m currently rocking a sweet low ponytail and headband. I’m a fashion maven, I know. 🙂

Do you experiment with fashion or hair? Got some tips on for the clueless ladies (like me)?

{ 52 comments }

MareBare September 10, 2009, 2:49 pm
for a very low maintenance switch: braid your hair on both sides after you get out of the shower and when its dry undo and comb through with your fingers for some nice waves. larger braids=wavy hair smaller braids= a more crimped look. just a nice way to switch it up
stefe1202 September 10, 2009, 2:54 pm
I need some help too. My hair is very long and straight and it is hard to style because it wont hold a curl. I am growing mine out to donate to Locks of Love. I am tired of it and can't wait to get it cut. I need a cute new hairstyle that is easy. I am like you, I brush it and let it dry naturally I don't have time to style and play around in the morning. Can't wait to see what you come up with. Maybe I can steel some ideas.
Taylor September 10, 2009, 2:55 pm
You're lucky it's straight! I just spent a sweaty 30 minutes blow-drying and straightening mine. Buttt I do love that I can wear it curly too 🙂 I always feel so self-conscious trying new hair-dos. Like I can't pull it off (head bands, the bumps, cute braids & clips, etc). But it doesn't look stupid on other people, so why would it look stupid on me? Just have to get over that feeling I guess!
theskinnyplate September 10, 2009, 3:01 pm
It took me forever to find my perfect hair style. I don't mess with it. I always go to the same stylist every time. She is the only one I trust. I can skimp everything else, but I tend to splurge on my hair.
Morgan (lifeafterbagels) September 10, 2009, 3:02 pm
Okay I am not an expert so here's a pretty fool proof look if you have medium to long hair (Caitlin your hair will definitely work). Part your hair on the side, gather it in a low pony tail with your hands, start twisting and follow the twist around the base of your pony tail until you've twisted the whole thing around into a bun, secure it with an elastic that you can pull around twice and keep tight. Yeah easy I know – put I do it all the time, like every other day at least, the twisting keeps everything tucked in with no bobby pins. In fact my hair is in the bun right now.
Lainie September 10, 2009, 3:05 pm
I always wear my hair the same way: down, half-up/half-down or in a low pony. I envy girls who rock all sorts of unique hairstyles and make it look effortless.

I love your dog.
eatingmachine September 10, 2009, 3:07 pm
big hot rollers give your hair a lot of oomph (i have longgg straight hair, i'm guessing from the pictures similar to yours) and once they're in you just can do whatever (read, email, put on makeup), so it's decently easy… i just spritz them with hairspray or put some mousse in before i put the rollers in, and maybe another big of hairspray when i take the rollers out.
(i'd borrow someone else's rollers to try it out before you buy a set of course…everyone's hair is different)
Anonymous September 10, 2009, 3:13 pm
I'm a hairstylist, so I feel it's my duty to answer on this post 🙂 #1: Don't make any drastic changes until you are 100% sure you want it! I know it's only hair and it will grow back, but it makes for a long six months if you don't like what you're stuck with. Try parting on one side or the other… you'd be surprised how much doing this can change someone's whole look! Also, you could always call your salon and set up an appointment for a blow dry and style… no haircut… just let a professional give you a few ideas and tips. Usually will be much less than paying for a full cut, and best of all, you'll be ready for a hot date with the hubby that night! 🙂
Nicole September 10, 2009, 3:29 pm
I would love your hair. Straight, smooth and low maintenance. I always like the low pony tail look or half up looks to switch things up.

I have naturally curly hair so I can wear it like that (which I do when I'm lazy) or take a blow dryer and sttraighter to it. So much work!
Maggie September 10, 2009, 3:33 pm
I always wear my hair differently but its getting really damaged. My problem is that I can't stop using the flat iron and its frying my hair. You hair looks super healthy…maybe just try different types of wave products but don't use irons..they ruin it!

Maggie
becky September 10, 2009, 3:39 pm
If I were you I'd DEFINITELY get a cut, a few inches shorter, tons of layers, maybe even long bangs. makes a TON of difference!
Meghann September 10, 2009, 3:47 pm
haha I am completely opposite. I get so bored with my hair and hate wearing it the same way all the time 🙂
Tami September 10, 2009, 4:00 pm
as straight as your hair is, mine is crazy curly. i haven't brushed my hair in years. i think if you like your hair, stick with it, it's one less thing to worry about.
greensandjeans September 10, 2009, 4:02 pm
I love the braids like MareBare said. I'll even just do one on one side and pull it all back in a ponytail. Try playing with your part, channeling your inner "Blair Waldorf" and wearing headbands, or if you are feeling super brave, go see your hair dresser about chopping off a couple inches! I'm even thinking you could pull off bangs…
Emily September 10, 2009, 4:18 pm
I'm definitely nervous to play with my hair too! However, Kath kind of inspired me to try the low ponytail and headband style. It always looks so good on her (I'm sure it does on you too!). 🙂
Marisa (Trim The Fat) September 10, 2009, 4:20 pm
Gosh, I wish I had straight hair! I spend way too much time blowing it out and when I don't have time, I just slick it back in a ponytail. I always wished I had wash and go hair!
Nicole (anotheronebitesthecrust.wordpress.com) September 10, 2009, 4:24 pm
I love switching up my hair! I just recently cut full straight across bangs and I love them!! Sometimes I braid them back, sometimes I wear them pushed to the side, sometimes full down.. sometimes I let my hair air dry wild and other times I straighten it, but most of the time I pull my hair back and just change up how my bangs look.

I just got this really cool headband and I can't wait to wear it! It's got an awesome 50's vibe.
Mrs. LC September 10, 2009, 4:28 pm
I vote you go talk to Ange about her beach waves style thing she has going on. I think you'd look hot with loose, casual, "beachy" waves/ curls. 🙂
Andrea of Care to Eat September 10, 2009, 4:28 pm
I think you would totally rock some bangs – either short and side swept or short and blunt.
I change my hair all the time because it grows so fast – it's good to mix it up once in a while!
Courtney September 10, 2009, 4:32 pm
I do a different hairstyle every day! Ponytails, buns, just the sides up in a barrette, just the bangs in a bobbi pin, french braids, "supermodel hair" (that is what we call the crazy messy buns) I'm lucky that I have hair that goes curly, wavy or straight fairly easily. I'm a hair chameleon! Never looks the same twice.

Courtney
Adventures in Tri-ing
Liz September 10, 2009, 4:46 pm
I am soo the same way about my hair. It's naturally straight so I just shower and comb. The low pony with headband sounds very pretty!
Barbara September 10, 2009, 4:56 pm
Girl….curl it up and see what happens:). I LOVE doing different things with my hair….one day curly, the next straight…the next a bun. Change is fun!
Laura September 10, 2009, 4:58 pm
I know what you mean- I always end up with my hair up- in what my Mum calls a 'Jane Austen' style. I do it automatically now and can't believe how long my hair is when I get it cut. Have you tried french plaiting it- or making small braids around the sides of your head feeding into a ponytail at the back? Lots of athletes seem to like this- did you see the World Championships? Btw, I wanted to say thank you for inspiring me to take up running again- I gave up a few years ago after a mammoth cramping session during the Great South Run in Portsmouth (in the U.K.). I've picked up loads of tips and motivation from your blog! And I want a skort! Also- your husband and his family definitely have the right idea living over in sunny America, I could count the number of nice summer days we've had in England on one hand ;(
Lauren September 10, 2009, 5:13 pm
I often fall into the same cycle of fashion and hairsytles too! I always wear my hair down and straight to work and then pull it back in a low ponytail at home. However, when I do get crazy and pull out the curling iron, I get soo many compliments. Guess it's good to add a little excitement to your appearence every now and then.

PS- I think you look beautiful however you wear your hair though, so I think you should have no worries. 😉
Kelly September 10, 2009, 5:32 pm
I leave mine the same all the time too, but I have curly hair. I think you would look good with your hair short…not REALLY short but like shoulder length.
Jenna September 10, 2009, 5:37 pm
yeah i used to like always wear my hair up then i would always wear it down, now i swtich off! haha. i think you go in phases as to what to do with your hair.
i agree with you though i am always hesitant on trying new hair styles, but once you try them out they usually look really good!
Erica September 10, 2009, 5:51 pm
Your hair is gorgeous girl! My hair is like a half curly half straight combo so its lots of fun. If I feel lazy (most days), I crunch it with mousse, otherwise I will let it dry on its own and straighten it 😉
Black Kitten September 10, 2009, 5:51 pm
I just cut mine super short, and I think it looks pretty cute. I've got some pics on my blog =D I think short hair would look great on you, too!!
Oh She Glows September 10, 2009, 6:02 pm
Rocking a new hair do and no photo!? Tease! haha

I am like you- wear my hair the same almost all the time. Lately I have been curling it though and that is fun for a change! I'd love to see your hair curled!!!!!
Mica September 10, 2009, 6:08 pm
Um…try Maggie's 'do?

I just figured out how to French braid my hair today. My triceps are still mad at me. It's a good workout, if you want to give it a try.
Deb (Smoothie Girl Eats Too) September 10, 2009, 6:09 pm
I sported a mean Pebbles-Flintstone-with-a-mullet for my workout today 😀
Caitlin at Healthy Tipping Point September 10, 2009, 6:14 pm
GENIUS IDEAS (but seriously, all of these ideas were awesome):

braiding hair when wet = crimps

changing your part!

HEADBANDS a la blair waldorf!

re: cutting my hair short… no way. i looooove my long hair (im not saying short hair is bad, its just not for me) and the husband would cry if i cut it. re: bangs…. maybe?? hmmm.
Jenny September 10, 2009, 6:41 pm
aww maggie has a crush on her daddy 🙂 this is the only form of incest I condone..
Cady September 10, 2009, 6:41 pm
One thing you can ALWAYS do with hair (that I do on a nearly daily basis) is to wear a scarf in it.

I always end up struggling with the tying of the scarf (like getting my hair stuck in it) so the easiest thing to do is to put half of your hair up into a ponytail, and to tie the scarf underneath that, then take down the ponytail.

Leave the ends of the scarf dangling over one shoulder (no necklace needed!) and Voila! More comfortable than a headband, very retro-cute, and it automatically adds some volume and texture. I have over 20 scarves specifically for this purpose!
Paige@ Running Around Normal September 10, 2009, 6:41 pm
Personally I think your hair is beatiful! But I can see why you have the itch to switch it up. Why not try a side braid (if you can french braid)

Orrr maybe you could do it Maggie-style. That is pretty rockin' haha
Lizzy September 10, 2009, 6:41 pm
To be honest girl, i think you would look AMAZING with bangs! if your scared to do that, try it out slowly but surely.
Jenny September 10, 2009, 6:42 pm
I have been known to just spend hours playing around with my hair! I bet you would look fabulous with a loose side braid 🙂 I used to rock that on the daily..until I cut my hair, sigh.
Ali September 10, 2009, 6:48 pm
I always experiment with fashion and hair. I love, love, love fashion! I love playing with colors. Nothing makes an outfit like a pop of color!

For hair I love using fun headbands and adorable clips!!!!
angieinatlanta September 10, 2009, 6:51 pm
Try curling it! I love that for an extra something-something. Or tease it at the crown for volume!

I have long straight hair as well and sometimes I just tease the very front and pint it back with bobby pins or put little braids in on the side. It's subtle but freshens it up!
traveleatlove September 10, 2009, 6:59 pm
I wish I was better at doing my hair, but I feel like I have 2 left hands or something. I love it when stylists straighten it, but when I try its a disaster!
Sheri September 10, 2009, 7:00 pm
Oh gosh I have changed my hair some much it is crazy! My thought is it is just hair and it will grow back. I have had it ultra short, short, medium and the longest was when I got married.

I have had highlights and almost every color of red, brown and golden brown. Plus when I was young blonde!

My hair is quite fine but I have lots of it. But the best way for me to wear it is not too long and usually with layers.

I think you have great hair and are lucky you don't need to do too much to look great. But I know that a change is sometimes fun. I think your length on you is really nice. I think some bangs might look really nice on you or a style that frames your face.
Kath September 10, 2009, 7:32 pm
HEADBAND 🙂
Amanda September 10, 2009, 7:40 pm
I have long, straight hair too. My new fav look is the side part and then braiding just the front of your hair along the crown of your head and securing it with a bobby pin behind the ear. Look it up, it's really in right now!!
cookinfanatic September 10, 2009, 7:58 pm
I love to take a chunk of hair on each side and twist, wrapping in more hair as you carry the twist past each ear and down, tie them together in the back with a p-tail holder and tada, princess lea look alike! Great "date" hair if you will 🙂 !!
Jolene - EverydayFoodie September 10, 2009, 8:04 pm
My hair is just like yours, long, brown and straight … and always down!
veganvegan September 10, 2009, 8:17 pm
mah hairss are long and straight and NEVER CURL (so frustrating!) but one thing that I do a lottt is after you take a shower at night, let your hair dry ALMOST all the way, and put it in 2 frenchie braids.. then in the morning it will be all crimpy and lovely 😉 and usually stays curlycurly all day!
megan @ megzz wins at life September 11, 2009, 4:18 am
I know for myself curling my hair takes forever to curl.. Therefore I went out and bought jumbo hot rollars and they are GREAT!!! They heat up in two minutes and u leave them in for ten while you are doing your makeup or whatnot.. They give you soo much volume and just enough girl! I get so many compliments whenever I wear my hair with them! Personally usuing the hot rollars is easier than blowing my hair!
Rachel September 11, 2009, 7:18 am
bahaha I love the picture of Maggie
Laura@FindingAHealthyBalance September 11, 2009, 9:00 am
Oh, I totally feel you girl! I have let my hair grow recently and not it is VERY LONG, which I like but it also makes it hard to do things with. I typically just shower, comb and let it air dry and then either pull it back in a pony tail type thing or straighen it if something special is planned that day and leave it down. Always the same for me though!

=) Laura

http://findingahealthybalance.wordpress.com/
Anita September 11, 2009, 11:23 am
I change my hair color and/or style every 5 weeks! I get bored with things very quickly…except for my husband. I've kept him for more than 25 years! LOL!
Julia September 11, 2009, 2:00 pm
I am totally hair clueless as well. In fact, until this past weekend, I had not cut my hair for 10 months. Yikes! But what I do, is sleep with my hair in a bun sometimes, and I wake up to perfectly wavy hair! It's so simple and totally changes up the way I look. And store bought hair dye to add highlights, or cutting side bangs (I do all my hair stuff myself, haha I'm too cheap to pay someone else)
seesaraheat September 22, 2009, 11:06 am
Oh my gosh, that picture of Maggie made me laugh out loud at work, haha. I suck at my hair, I almost always have a ponytail, so boring!

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