Hairbrained – History Repeats with Hair by Beauty Expert, Gina Rivera

It’s been so fun growing up in the salon business and having a father that is incredibly talented. I have always felt blessed that he and my mother, who was also a hairstylist, introduced me to this amazing industry.

My Dad did hair most of his life.  He began when he was just 19 years old and didn’t retire until he was 73. As a young girl I spent a lot of time in his salon. I realize now that I was very lucky to have this experience because it provided a solid foundation for my future. I literally witnessed style history in the making.

Now, a hairstylist myself for 25 years, it’s been a lot of fun to see the trends returning that I watched my father cut and style as a child. I am talking styles that were popular in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s.  I have many memories of watching my dad cut bobs, shags and pixies. I also remember watching my parents do a symmetrical haircuts along with highlights that were chunky and perms that were curlier than you can imagine. So, I know you may think that this is cliché;’ but history really does repeats itself!

Now keep in mind that it took me awhile to adopt this opinion. I recall testing for my cosmetology license. The State Board required everyone at the time to demonstrate finger waves. I remember thinking “This is the silliest requirement ever. Why in the world would I need to learn how to do finger waves? I’ll never use these.” Well, low and behold, finger waves are currently a big trend as we saw on the runways of Fashion Week earlier this season.

How about Shags? They are trending hard right now, and again, who would have thought? Here’s what we are seeing this fall and winter; Bobs anywhere from one length to A line. Asymmetrical shaggier bobs with lots of texture and movement are also hip and cool. Geez, I remember seeing these looks some place before…like in several of our past decades.

Shags with bangs resembling the looks of the 60’s, 80’s and 90’s rock bands are also modish this year.  Longer shags as well as shorter shags are popular, too.  Kind of reminds me of the 70’s era with faint hints of the early 80’s peeking through.

One thing that crosses all time boundaries is the desire for texture, movement and volume. This year is no different than the past. The season is set for sexy and textured hair as well as bangs that frame the face providing a lot of movement.  Similar to the 70’s, hair is not over styled, the color is very soft, yet stunning. Just as with others, it’s an era that is repeating itself with a modern twist. And, I for one, am enjoying every moment!