Until recently, pop sensation Rihanna had been sporting fiery red hair extensions. Now, for a celebrity one might say it was a bold choice to make because it definitely got a lot of attention but for an everyday person, it was a bit over the top and quite unnatural looking. If she had sported the look for a specific show or event, it would have been understandable because showbiz is all about over the top glitz and glamour but she rocked this look for a considerable amount of time on and off stage.
We all know that celebrities set trends and push the envelope in terms of their looks but I believe that there should be some balance. I love the idea of incorporating colour in hair extensions and when properly applied, colour adds depth and texture to hair and can really bring a hairstyle alive. But when it begins to look like you have lost the battle with hair dye or worse, a bucket of paint, I say reign it in, get a mirror and tell yourself, “I am not an alien on an intergalactic sojourn”.
Having said that, Rihanna wore her scarlet tresses in very interesting styles; from a long straight fringed do, to an extremely short edgy bob. Of course the weaves were all impeccably installed and suited her quite well; the main let down of course was the startling scarlet colour.
So you may wonder to yourself, how then does one wear colour without looking like the colour is wearing me? Well, simply put, moderation is key; use colour to accentuate your hairstyle, lifestyle and skin tone and this will ensure that your look compliments you and does not upstage you.
Using the right colour palette in your weave could really improve the appearance of your hairstyle and prevent it from looking flat. Also, when choosing colours remember your lifestyle vis a vis where you work etc. It is highly unlikely that a Law Firm would welcome an employee sporting electric blue streaks in her hair. On the other hand if you work as, say a chef for example, you would probably have your hair covered for hygiene purposes so electric blue streaks shouldn’t pose a problem in your work place. It is crucial to understand your skin tone so that your hair and your skin don’t clash (remember, you are NOT an alien). If in doubt ask your stylist for guidance before making your selection. Finally, don’t forget that you may need to lighten your eye brows so that it blends nicely with your coif.
Rihanna started a trend by putting red hair colour front and center for African/African American women. However, it would be more desirable if the colour had been muted and more natural looking, that way the end result would have been edgy as well as sophisticated.
There truly is no justification for sporting hair extensions in bright red unless you are performing in a sold out concert or got caught in some acid rain.
