Dye for Your 'Do

BSB Subscribers: Apologies for the double postings as of late. Working on fixing this glitch!



This look recently hit the runway and was even embraced by celebs. For many of us, the first one causes a raised brow. More than that and most of us go into panic mode. What causes this random uproar? A gray hair (GASP)!

Whether you have some early strands or a head full, you can keep your hair looking salon fab with at-home maintenance.

To camouflage a few strands, try a semi-permanent dye which provides coverage but is ammonia free. Cover roots til your next pro job with CLAIROL's NICE N EASY AT HOME ROOT TOUCH-UP/$6.99 at www.drugstore.com. For complete coverage, choose a permanent color with low ammonia like CLAIROL's NICE 'N EASY PERFECT 10 HAIR COLOR/$14. Avail in 20 shades.

If you're fully gray, the PANTENE PRO-V SILVER EXPRESSIONS SHAMPOO and CONDITIONER will add vibrancy to dull hair. Only $6 each. Use this duo no more than twice weekly to avoid your hair taking on a purple tone.

Since gray hair follicles produce little oil and are generally dry, a glossing treatment can help. Try JOHN FREIDA LUMINOUS COLOR GLAZE/$10 in five shades. Be sure to hydrate with a rich hair masque. Keep hair shiny and smooth with KERASTASE OLEO-RELAX SERUM/$36. Tames wiry strands.

Society doesn't often equate gray hair with glam. No matter how you choose to wear your hair, be confident in your choice. Depending on the texture, hue, and style, I think it looks rather chic.


(Photo credits: incelebritynews.com; instyle.com and more.com)

The UBS Polished Preference

Every company has a certain image to present in order to attract clients. There are stated guidelines and an unspoken climate that most adhere to. However, UBS, the Swiss bank, is making their "preferences" known in a 43-page code with recommendations for a polished appearance, according to the Wall Street Journal. The list of "Do's & Don'ts" for staff members cover everything: beauty, style and diet!

Among the list of "Do's" for women:
Get regular hair color touch-ups -- no skunky hair here!
Wear knee length skirts.
Keep makeup simple: foundation, mascara and discreet lipstick.

"Do's" for men:
Schedule barber appointments at least once a month.
Wear black dress socks.
Invest in good quality underwear (blank stare).

The list of "Don'ts" are a bit more detailed. Read more here.

So that means she can't rock a soft smoky eye or a classic red lip? And he can't cover his greying temples (the ultimate boost in confidence)? Or sport a pocket square? Then will textured hose get you a pink slip? The code is said to be "in line with Swiss precision" and originally set for new hires and temps. But if the test proves successful, it will roll out for all of the Swiss staff. I feel for those folks. Your wardrobe and style make a statement. Guidelines are one thing...stark rules are another. Most of our day is spent at work and I think individuality and diversity are things a company should seek out, not deter. That's my two cents. Your thoughts?