I really appreciated all of the comments left on that blog entry and the emails. A point was raised that of course, women cutting their hair into particular styles keeps the women going back to the hair salons and that is completely true.
The world of beauty and fashion would be nowhere without changing styles. With regard to hair, new hair cuts and styles leads to more business for hair salons, it creates a need for certain new styling products and appliances, and generally benefits all businesses who have a stake in the hair market.
So I do understand why beauty and fashion editors will discuss the latest trends in hair, which will then in turn benefit their sponsors.
What I don't understand however, is why they can't just show off the latest styles without putting down people who dare to be different. It's one thing to show what's hot right now; it's another to insult an entire group of people.
It seems to be a constant that long-haired women of a certain age are treated as unstable people who are either trying to recreate our youth or to trap a man. There are endless articles trying to uncover the "hidden reasons" why a woman over 35 or so would choose to wear long hair.
The really sad thing is that so many women buy into it. I wouldn't mind if they just bought into it for themselves alone, but it so often seems that women are on a mission to change other women who don't fit into the current fashion mold.
I myself have had hurtful things said to me about the length of my hair and my age, and by people very close to me. For the most part, I get compliments on my hair, but the negative comments, especially from friends and loved ones, do sting. I can't lie.
So once again, I ask you to support your sisters in whatever their style happens to be, whether they wear a brush cut or hair down to their ankles. We women are so much stronger when we are supportive of one another's differences rather than expecting everyone to be the same and belittling those who are not.
Wouldn't a world where we all looked and dressed completely alike be boring? I think so, and I like to celebrate every woman's own unique brand of beauty.
'Til tomorrow, my friends. Much love to all.
xo
Perfect timing, Franny. My husband and I are in Florida for the winter, we come here every winter to the same RV Resort, have done so for the past six years. We have many friends here and each season we all look forward to seeing each other again. This year has been a real eye-opener for me. My hair is quite a bit longer due to a wonderful growth spurt in the last six months. I have a substantial amount of silver mixed in with my natural shades, yes shades, although the silver is quickly taking over! I have been wearing my hair up since we arrived (wrapped hairstick bun of course, lol) Just today I washed it, let it dry naturally and wore it down. Well, let me tell you, the comments have been coming fast and furious. Many have been cautiously positive to downright rude. I went to the laundry room this afternoon only to run into a "friend" who immediately voiced her opinion......"Oh my god, look how long your hair is, how can you stand it, I can't imagine having to deal with that volume of hair every day." Yep, sad but true. I just smiled and said "After the shock and trauma of getting my "down to the wood chop" I decided to let my hair grow long and I love it, you should consider doing the same, you would look far more feminine." I felt completely empowered, it was wonderful! I have come a long way!! YAY ME!!
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, it has become customary to bash other people, women in particular, for their fashion choices :( Although people criticize mature women, girls of my age aren't excluded. Some people have accused me of not being modern enough, so I know what you mean. I guess it's one of those things we have to put up with. Sure, it's hard when a person close to you gives you a hurtful comment, I know... but currently, I couldn't care less. I think it's really sad when someone hasn't got anything encouraging to say to the other person, especially in matters like personal style.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. It would be so boring if we all looked alike.
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