As an appendix to the Should-You-Make-a-Really-Big-Hair-Change Checklist™ (spoiler: you should if you can be a grown-ass woman about it), here is the bit where we discuss all the different and significant ways a dramatic dye or scissor job can affect your wardrobe. But before we dive in, a caveat: Know that this is the one and only aspect of The Big Hair Change in which winging it won't necessarily result in disaster and/or enough tears to send a 2016 Dodge Ram 3500 hydroplaning. You can get it wrong—because, TBH, you've probably been getting it wrong before (but less and less wrong), so a BHC just keeps you (sartorially) on your toes. Like sudoku!
How have your proportions changed?
A post shared by Guido Palau (@guidopalau)
A photo posted by on
Joan Juliet Buck wrote that "when you cut your hair, you lose a nose and gain a neck," both great things. But you could also gain a pair of ears or lose your built-in chest minimizers, both outwardly not-so-great things. If you're reading this, it's too late anyway, so Fix Your Life with Clothes: The Chelsea Peng Story. Ears now too perpendicular to your head? Embrace the sticky-outty-ness and put statement earrings on them! Boobs suddenly too visible? Get thee a better bra. And don't listen to them when they say "Long hair for tall girls, short for short girls." Have you SEEN Shrimps designer Hannah Weiland? Void.
What about your coloring?
A post shared by Lauren Valenti (@lauren_valenti)
A photo posted by on
Before I had green hair, the world was my oyster. Now, oftentimes, with my low-rent Gucci method of dressing, it is simply Too Much, something this diehard maximalist would have never thought possible. Even if a BHC to you is getting some blonde-ish balayage, this could still change how the light hits your face, therefore changing what shades work with your complexion and eye color. Like beauty editor Lauren Valenti, who made the rounds this Fashion Week in a white bodysuit and jeans to complement her peach sorbet curls, I've found that I have to resort to much simpler pieces (A black T-shirt and GRLFRND Helenas? Moi?)—less Leandra Medine on acid, more Phoebe Philo (on a slightly lower dose of acid).
Vibe check?
Though you could call my temperament saturnine, nobody could ever accuse my *aesthetic* of being too goth—until now. The jet-beaded, strong-shouldered Saint Laurent-ish dress I'd planned to wear on my birthday? Now a bit too Elvira. Depending on the clothes you pair with them, a blunt bob could be too severe, and an orange dye job too futuristic-Fifth Element. But the fix? Think opposites—and accessories, as always. With modish white boots and perhaps a Pat MacGrath-ian glitter lip, for example, my vintage birthday outfit goes from sepulcher to Marc Jacobs.
Follow Marie Claire on Facebook for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Chelsea Peng is a writer and editor who was formerly the assistant editor at MarieClaire.com. She's also worked for The Strategist and Refinery29, and is a graduate of Northwestern University. On her tombstone, she would like a GIF of herself that's better than the one that already exists on the Internet and a free fro-yo machine. Besides frozen dairy products, she's into pirates, carbs, Balzac, and snacking so hard she has to go lie down.
-
Celebrate Earth Month With Our Feel-Good Fashion Report
Your guide to being more sustainable in 2024.
By Anneliese Henderson Published
-
Anne Hathaway Details the "Gross" Audition Request She Once Endured
"Now we know better."
By Meghan De Maria Published
-
The Emotional Ending of 'Baby Reindeer,' Explained
Netflix's latest miniseries from Richard Gadd is based on the true story of the comedian and his stalker.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Stylists on Why Leather Jackets Are a Great Investment
Fashion insiders weigh in on their favorite styles.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Grown-Ups Are Rediscovering the Charm of Peter Pan Collars
From bibbed button-downs to round-neck leather jackets, this year's takes feel more sophisticated than sweet.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Sabrina Carpenter Wears Vintage Victoria's Secret Lingerie to Tease Upcoming Coachella Performance
Her look was pulled from the brand's 1997 archives.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Best Chunky Sandals Prove Minimalism Is Out
Another footwear trend embracing maximalism in 2024.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Brands to Shop for the Best Swimsuits
From size-inclusive labels to sustainable and designer options, this list is all-encompassing.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Best Vacation-Worthy Beach Dresses
From barely-there to playful fringe.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Could a 'Shirt Sandwich' Pull You Out of a Fashion Rut?
The gourmet styling trick may help you fall back in love with your wardrobe.
By Emma Childs Published
-
The Best Spring Dresses Simplify Any Outfit Formula
Style this wardrobe staple for any occasion, from farmer's markets to formal affairs.
By Lauren Tappan Published