Extensions. Awww. Where to begin? I have a love/hate (more love, not really hate, just frustration) relationship with extensions. My first experience on the extension journey began six years ago. My stylist made my mane longer and fuller with tape-ins. These glorious pieces of hair gave me my new favorite accessory – long hair.
I’ve always struggled with my hair. It is super fine and I’ve kept it very, very blonde. Quickly, I learned that this was not a good combo for growing hair. The bleach used to lift to blonde weakens the hair cuticle making it prone to breaking. I’ve tried everything to get my hair to grow long and healthy – satin pillow cases, deep conditioning treatments, less heat, using only the highest-quality styling tools, limiting ponytails, blah, blah, blah. While I still subscribe to these methods (you can never “baby” your hair too much), I knew I was never going to achieve length without extensions.
So, why do I wear them?
I really struggle with my natural hair. I do not like how thin and fragile it is, although I try to appreciate the good (it is soft and my natural color (dirty blonde) is actually really pretty). I know that without extensions, I will never be able to achieve the length and volume that I love with my natural hair.
Proportionality. Being over six feet tall, I love how extensions create a more proportional “look.” I never really understood the concept of proportionality until recently. I was having a conversation with my stylist (more on her below) and was expressing how I felt like my height was an asset when it came to wearing extensions. She taught me all about proportionality and the importance of understanding how your frame and body type should be considered when choosing hair length and style.
Fun. It may sound silly, but hair really is an amazing accessory. Extensions provide the opportunity to elevate your style in so many ways – curls, braids, and even simple, but chic ponytail options.
Recently, my dear friend and amazing stylist, Shannon Moore, discovered Natural Beaded Row (NBR) hair extensions. I have been wearing them for almost four months now and cannot believe how amazing they are. I consider myself an expert-wearer of hair extensions and these are – by far – my favorite. NBRs have allowed me to wear my hair at a longer length than any other extensions available. They are truly amazing. AND, Shannon is the first certified NBR stylist in Colorado. Check out her You Tube, Instagram and website for more on NBRs.
In the upcoming weeks, I’ll be sharing more about my extension journey, including comparing hair extension methods and the best tips for caring for extensions.
xoxo
Jen
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