Can wavy longish hair be professional?

[Anonymous]

I am (at age 47) beginning to apply for jobs after a 5 year absence from the job market...and I have really stubborn hair. Wavy, brown, some grey at temples, currently below my shoulders, and prone to frizz and flyaway. Styling falls out rapidly and it frizzes and becomes wavy. It's getting slightly thinner in front, cut in layers, and has some blonde highlights that are growing out. Am thinking about having it cut into more long layers, but ending at my shoulders. Is this a good look for interviews? Not sure what to do about the color.

My hair texture similar to the celebrity in the links below, but my face is fatter. I am plus size, 5'10" (6 feet in heels) and built like a linebacker (think plus size plainer-looking Brooke Shields)--and have defaulted to long hair most of my life because it makes me look "not butch" and usually has received a lot of positive comments. I've thought about pulling it back to look more professional, but I really look like an "old lady" (thanks Mom) and you can definitely tell it's thinner and grayer in front.

On a good day, it might look something like this: http://www.crushable.com/2013/12/04/entertainment/keira-knightley-wedding-dress-recycled/ On a bad day: http://famousface.us/wp-content/gallery/keira-knightley/keira-knightley-2.jpg

Keep it longer? Cut shorter? Pull it into some sort of updo/ponytail?

Have worked for state government in other more relaxed areas and don't know if my style is polished enough to withstand scrutiny by the private sector or the DC metro area, so would appreciate feedback and salon recommendations in MD / DC. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Cut it blunt and try to flatten it a bit or put curl creme on to soften it. The examples look like it hasn't been brushed and it's just sticking out in places. A good look for a concert, but not for the office.

[Anonymous]

If you're applying for jobs, time to deal with the greys. Either put it up or use lots of product on the interview days.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Cut it blunt and try to flatten it a bit or put curl creme on to soften it. The examples look like it hasn't been brushed and it's just sticking out in places. A good look for a concert, but not for the office.

+1 Don't add more layers, is will make thin hair look thinner. I would keep the length, it sounds like it flatters you and the weight probably helps keep your hair from frizzing out more.

[Anonymous]

Get to a good stylist and consult on flattering color and a professional looking cut. Grays with highlights growing out is not a good look at all. You need to make an investment in your appearance if you're going back into the workforce. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

I agree that a single-process flattering color is best and most youthful. And I would go with a semi-permanent formula so it doesn't damage your hair too much. I can't speak to covering grays, but I use Clairol Complements (buy it at Sally - color and developer separate) in a shade of red and it lasts a long time and fades nicely.

Also, what sort of styling products do you use? That can make all the difference. I go the natural route with a little bit of coconut oil, sometimes with a drop of olive oil mixed in. My hair is thick but a bit fine and wavy/curly.

And for style - how do you feel about a bun? It's certainly low-maintenance. I got bangs this year and now wear a bun on top of my head with thick bangs that I blow out.

[Anonymous]

If you've got a round face, buns look aging. I wish I looked better in them.