1 of 6
Bb_BoardroomImage_AE1_0780.tif
Longer, textured hair that shows movement is a trend in men's hair.
2 of 6
Bb_BoardroomImage_AE1_0801.tif
Longer, textured hair that shows movement is a trend in men's hair.
3 of 6
Bb_BoardroomImage_AE1_9875.tif
Longer, textured hair that shows movement is a trend in men's hair.
4 of 6
Textured, shag, and asymmetrical cuts are trending in women's hair.
5 of 6
Many women are also embracing their natural curls.
6 of 6
Pops of color and texture are becoming more accepted in office settings.
The COVID-19 pandemic changed a lot about business — and we’re not just talking about, well, business.
Workplace fashion is changing, too. Months of working from home and phased reentry back to the office have made some companies more accepting of relaxed looks, easing the rules when it comes to employee self-expression in exchange for better productivity.
“Bring your full self to the workplace.” That sort of thing.
That doesn’t just go for clothing but also for hair. Boardroom Salon for Men head stylist Vicky Pena and Salon Dexterity stylist Michaela Manuel say they’ve both seen corporate clients embrace offbeat looks, particularly when it comes to texture and color, but there’s a way to go nontraditional without looking unprofessional.
Here, Pena talks men's hair, and Manuel, women’s hair, sounding off on what’s trendy — and acceptable — for the office.
Inc: What are some overall trends you’ve been seeing when it comes to work-appropriate hairstyles?
MM: Fashion color, vivids, naturally curly hair — along with textured, shag, or asymmetrical cuts — are trendy and can be an expression of personality and confidence. While many professionals are limited by rules of wearing “natural” hair colors only, there are many ways to style these looks and be professional.
VP: During the pandemic, a lot of men changed up their look to a more casual, low-maintenance style, including their hairstyle. Now, despite returning to the office, many men are not in a rush to go back to their old ways.
Casual Fridays are a thing of the past, as business professionals are adopting a more low-maintenance style every day of the week. Men have traded their pressed suits, shiny leather shoes, and clean-shaven faces for longer, textured hair, jeans, and beards. We cater to all styles at Boardroom Salon for Men — whether traditional or trendy. Our mission is to ensure our clientele leave our salons looking good and feeling confident.
MM: Although various styles are becoming more professionally accepted, many are concerned about loss of respect in their workplaces and decide against their personal hair dreams. The way you carry yourself should determine your professionalism — not your hairstyle. Stylists are creative artists who can help you achieve a “new do” and give you tips for confident presentation.
Inc: What specific styles should folks try to go for?
VP: Since quarantine, we are now seeing men keeping their longer hair for easier maintenance and a trendier look. However, long hair does not mean that you can just let it grow and leave it alone. Longer hair needs some pampering, including regular trims and deep conditioning treatments. We encourage all men to get into a styling regimen to maintain their locks as they return to the office.
We are also seeing men feel more comfortable with curls and a more textured look that provides movement. This is different from a lot of the razor cuts men have been used to for decades. The key to this look is to pay attention to your specific hair type — whether curly, thin, stick-straight, or anything in between — and apply products catered to your type of hair.
MM: For women — peekaboos, which are pops of color hidden beneath the top layer of hair, are one creative way to incorporate fashion colors and not be too flashy. Other options are to add highlights or blend the vivid color into a natural-colored root. Another alternative is adding violet to red which results in a deep wine color with purple reflection. Seek out a professional in fashion colors, who will not only give you a fun change but share knowledge on how to meet the workplace criteria as well.
Inc.: What are your tips for everyday styling and maintenance? Any products you recommend?
VP: For longer men’s hair, we recommend Bumble and Bumble’s Creme de Coco shampoo and conditioner or any moisturizing shampoo and conditioner that will start your look off with a great foundation of moisture. Next, you should incorporate a leave-in product, such as Bumble and Bumble's Grooming Creme that tames any flyaways and will leave you with that intentional look at work.
For men’s curly hair, we recommend Bumble and Bumble’s Curl shampoo and conditioner that help create a foundation of moisture. Next, we suggest Bumble and Bumble’s Curl Defining Cream that tames and adds a lightweight control that most often textured hair needs. If you have the texture but are working with less density, we recommend using Bumble and Bumble's Thickening Contour Creme to add fullness and polish that texture.
MM: Curly-haired women often feel the need to smooth their locks rather than embrace the volume and texture. Flat irons and hot tools can lead to damaged ends, which are more difficult to control. Frizz is caused when the outer layer of your hair strand — that is, the cuticle — opens up. Oftentimes, this is a result of your hair seeking moisture in the air — humidity — or being roughed up with a regular towel. Drying with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt and using hydrating creams, such as Kérastase Crème De Jour Fondamentale or Keratine Thermique, is a great start to minimize frizz and define natural curls.
When it comes to a shaggy or asymmetrical cut, add some loose, wavy curls to soften your look. Remember to always use a heat protectant and workable hairspray, such as Kérastase Discipline Oil and Kérastase Laque Couture. Some asymmetrical cuts can be symmetrical when parted in the middle and styled with a side part for a more edgy appearance. Also, try clipping the longer section or side up or back to hide the disconnected look in the office. Remember, your stylist has knowledge to share and expertise with different products and hair textures.