choose your feathers wisely

Feather Mania-Aztec Gold Grizzly by Tre Chic Hair/amazon.com

I bought a Groupon over the summer for a hair feather.  I was excited about the deal, but I had already been contemplating the idea since I ran into my friend at Zoo Brew in June.

She had the perfect feather.  It beautifully contrasted against her dark hair, complete with tiny black lines defining it’s synthetic capability of looking just like a true-to-life golden Aztec feather.

I originally planned on making the hair feather a part of my summer look, but that didn’t happen. Instead, I decided the last possible day to redeem my Groupon was best. (Obviously not, but I procrastinated, pondering over when this look would be most appropriate, so don’t judge.)

I made my appointment and was excited to see how a simple feather could transform my ‘do.  But, unfortunately, beggars can’t be choosers.  Due to the fact that I waited to act upon my Groupon, all the other lucky Grouponers had already snatched up the Aztec-like feathers I so had my heart set on.

I settled on a thin blue feather.  It stands out against my blonde hair but doesn’t scream ‘look at my feather.’  Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate it, but I would rather have what I had my stylistic visions set on.

Attaching a hair feather is similar to attaching hair extensions.  The feather is attached close to the scalp with a tiny metal clip.  If you have a sensitive scalp, you may want to think twice.  If you don’t have metallic hair, you may want to reconsider.  I find it difficult to hide the clip when I pull my hair back because it’s silver and easily recognizable unless I spend five minutes in the mirror positioning a strand just so.

Sure, a streak of blue looks cute in a ponytail, but not when your clip is showing.

So, is getting a hair feather for the birds?  In my opinion, no.  However, I would advise to choose your feathers wisely.  Don’t just settle on any feather.  Although temporary, you want to be satisfied with what you don yourself with.  And you most definitely don’t want to be uncomfortable while doing so.

novelty — it’s not all about knick knacks

What comes to mind when you think of the word ‘novelty?’  Do you envision something unique, something fresh?  Something that makes a statement?  Or do freakish garden gnomes fill your thoughts?

'gnome man' wildgnomes.com

I’m not going to lie, my initial mental flash zoned out to garden gnomes.  But please, do not confuse the new with the gnomes.

The word ‘novelty’ is derived from the Latin word ‘novus.’  It’s the quality of being new, original or unusual.  Allow that to be your mantra when considering what’s already in your closet and drawers, and what to buy as the seasons turn.

Don’t allow your style to collect cobwebs like mom’s kinck knacks.  Add flair to your wardrobe by accenting it with must-have staples.

This doesn’t necessarily require major cash either. While you may see last fall’s shirt-dress as another passe item to stuff in your closet, find a belt to give it a makeover.  Search for jewelery to make it pop.  Pair it with textured leggings and boots.

Then again, if you have an overly-stuffed closet like I do, making it very difficult to add yet another hanger, maybe it’s time to let go of that which you haven’t worn within the past two years.  If you haven’t touched or missed that cropped lilac polo from American Eagle you wore every Saturday night in 11th grade, it’s probably time to say, “Goodbye, old friend.”

All I need is a little motivation from a Facebook photo, magazine ad, celebs featured in Life & Style or a walk through Brockport’s square and I’m yearning for novelty.  I love making it work.  I love finding that perfect piece I know will compliment my personal style.  I also admire those who inspire me to make it work — to try out a new trend.

And please, this doesn’t make us ‘fashion followers,’ it just proves that we’re also able to recognize and appreciate that which is unique.