Whether you’re a recent graduate or well on your way up the corporate ladder, choosing the best hairstyle for the workplace requires a delicate balance between personal style and professionalism. Many women fresh out of college might feel pressure to shorten long locks, but today’s workplace environment isn’t always as stringent as it once was.
Instead of feeling pressured to look more mature, remember that your hairstyle should always be a reflection of you as an individual, not just what you do. “As far as styles for young women in their 20s and 30s go, a lot of decision-making comes from hair type, face shape and how much time they have to work on their hair in the mornings,” says Priscilla Brinkman, a stylist and makeup artist at Christopher’s Hair Salon in Clayton.
“I’m a 32-year-old hairdresser and a mother of a 5-year-old, so easy and trendy work for me,” she adds. “But I see a wide variety of looks, from short pixie to a classy bob to long layers. It depends on the person, their personality and what they can pull off.”
Work with your hairstylist to create a look that you feel comfortable with but that is still professional, whether that means short, beachy waves or a long and straight style.
Jordan Fox, hairstylist and makeup artist at Blown Away Blow Dry Bar, recommends that whatever style you choose, keep it clean and well-groomed. It should go without saying that some looks are counterproductive, when it comes to the office—or pretty much any workplace. For example, don’t over-tease or get too aggressive with hairspray, no matter your age or position. Maintaining a look that is equal parts clean and comfortable, as well as put-together, are the key elements
for a successful style.
If your current hairstyle is in need of a lift or you’re in the midst of a workplace shift, Fox recommends YouTube as a wonderful source for finding simple, at-home hair techniques you can use on a daily basis. From the sock bun trend to mastering the use of hot tools, a quick YouTube search is a great resource for easy touch-ups if you can’t get to the salon as often as you’d like.
Then there’s the flip side of that: Sometimes we need a better work-life balance, which is what has given rise to blow-dry bars like Blown Away. Some women need to that time once spent in front of the mirror by taking advantage of regular no-fuss salon visits. A 30-minute appointment will have you in and out the door with perfect hair. “Our 7 , 8 and 9 a.m. slots are always booked by working women,” says Fox. “We have a lot of women who come in before they have to give big presentations. And many regulars who don’t want to deal with their hair before work come into the salon early in the week, and they’re good to go for the rest of the work week.”
by Marylyn Simpson