How do you know you’re stuck in a hair rut? I’m asking for a friend, aka me, ha ha ha!
I think I might be in the throes of one, and I have mixed feelings about it.
A little backstory –– I’ve had the same long, layered, salt-and-pepper hairdo for a few years now.
Before Connor, I was much more adventurous in terms of color and length. For the past few years, though, I’ve held onto this style because it’s less work.
At least that’s what I keep telling myself.
Long hair has always been lower maintenance for me; I can twist it up into a bun or throw it into a ponytail easily, and if I want to wear it down, all I have to do is curl a few pieces with a curling iron and that’s it.
I totally know what it feels like to want a big hair change. Over the years, I’ve answered the call many times, chopping and highlighting and doing all the things to my hair.
I haven’t felt that way in ages, though. Sure, every once in a while I get antsy to color it again, but someone (usually a hair stylist) talks me out of it.
One of my theories is I’m currently in a season where I need a security blanket, and that’s what this particular style is doing for me right now — comforting me in ways that I subconsciously want and need.
Or perhaps I’m more fearful of change than I used to be.
I’m not sure what the true answer is right now.
Side note, for some reason being in a hair rut makes me think of the teachers I had in middle school. All my teachers, and I mean ALL OF THEM, seemed to have dated hairdos from the ’60s and ’70s. The middle school version of me couldn’t fathom why they didn’t just go for something more hip and modern. I’m realizing now they might’ve been in a season where big changes seemed daunting to them, too.
Anywho, I know it’s just hair, and in the grand scheme of things it’s not that big a deal. But it feels so much deeper than that sometimes.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
P.S. Happy Thursday to you! I hope something wonderful comes your way today.
I just cut my hair after spending a year in my own hair rut. Like you , I always revert to long hair (mid-back) with long layers and waves. (I’ve been following you since 2005 or 2006 and this seems true.) I got a collar-bone length shag 2 weeks ago and I’m loving it! Looks great blown out or air dried with mouse/curl cream, and my look feels revived! Plus it still goes back in a ponytail so it’s convenient when I want to workout or wash my face. These were my was my inspo pics if you’re looking for ideas. I think mine is a bit shorter, but same vibe. Good luck wiht your hair rut! It’s just hair 🙂 https://www.instagram.com/p/Cbfi7j7FcCA/
Hi Colleen,
I love the side-swept bangs in your inspo pic. What made you decide on getting a new cut?
Thank you for following the blog since waaaaay back when!
Mainly that when I don’t style my long hair I always end up with a half up look, which is ok for work but reads kinda Little House on the Prairie/elementary school. I was feeling locked into heat styling, but it takes so much time on long hair! I have wavy hair, so with the right product the air dry option feels modern with this cut.
But if you still like your go-to and it gives you a sense of peace and control then no need to change it. Your hair is beautiful and classic ❤️
I have wavy hair, too, so I feel ya. I’m glad you found a style that is updated and super cute. That’s half the battle. 🙂
I had my hair BSL for probably ten years. A little over a year ago, I got a bob slightly below chin length. I use so much less conditioner and styling product, it air dries faster (not fast, went from 6 hours to 3-4 hours) and I can still pull it back if I need to.
I’ve never had bangs (curly hair with a nonuniform pattern) but I’m thinking about it for my next appointment.