What should I look like when no one is looking?

My clients are all unique and our chair chats reflect a range of experiences. And still, themes emerge–topics or feelings or a general mood I pick up on over a few weeks. I love it, it makes me stop and think a little deeper on things I might not have spent much time with. Every so often I’ll use the newsletter to share some of these thoughts with you for a little inspiration. And with that, enjoy the first “Off the Cut” musing.

Does a side part make you look old? Do blondes have more fun? Well, as a side-part-having blonde I have some opinions, but on most days I’d like to think my sense of self goes beyond my hair.

And yet, it seems like we’re more emotionally vulnerable and raw during these days of isolation. I hear it from you and I feel it myself. We miss the buzz of confidence that hits when we turn heads with a daring new look. Sure, our pod will say nice things about a fresh haircut, but it’s hard to know what’s real when the compliments come from people who love us.

Not having that outside mirror is unmooring. The internet isn’t short on opinions, and it’s easy to go there for affirmation and inspiration only to spiral into desperation. I’ve seen it in my clients, with some feeling more uninhibited and others understandably feeling a bit more insecure than usual.

But if we trust ourselves this moment can be freeing–embrace the solitude of soul-searching and your decisions become intentional. Being told what to do to look younger or hotter is different than finding that feeling for yourself.

It’s true, changing your hairstyle can make you feel great, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. (Sorry, internet, but parting your hair down the middle won’t magically make you look younger.) And it’s not a high-stakes be-all or end-all. Hair should be a fun and easy mode of self expression.

So even though it might be especially hard right now, trust yourself–because you know yourself the best. And whatever you want to feel when you are sitting in my chair is what we’re going to create for you.

Happy International Women’s Day,

Antje