hair thursday makeover 80

I declare today Hair Tuesday, so let’s get rolling.

Marie’s hair:
Dark brown, normal condition
Thick and straight with a minimal amount of wave
Willing to try something different
Loves ponytails because they’re easy

From Marie’s email:

I have a hair dilemma that I’d love to get your advice on. I’m a graduate student and I’m going on the academic job market this year for the first time. I’m 31 but frequently get mistaken for being an undergrad (by both professors and undergrads), and I’m looking for a hairstyle that will help me to look more like a potential colleague and less like a student.

The problem might be related to the fact that I’m very low-maintenance when it comes to my hair, nearly always putting it up in a half-ponytail or a ponytail, and often neglecting cutting it until I can’t stand it anymore. I’d be willing to try something dramatically different–bangs (which I haven’t had since 6th grade) or a much shorter length–and am willing to put more time and care into maintaining a hairstyle.

I think we can definitely find a more sophisticated look for Marie under one condition. Marie will need to keep her word and put more time into maintaining and styling her hair, because no matter what style I suggest, if she continually wears a ponytail like the above, she will continually look like an undergrad. (Hey, at least you look young, Marie!) However, it sounds to me that she is definitely ready for a change, so let’s look at the options.

Be sure to check out other gorgeous celebrity hairstyles and tips at Daily Makeover!

Ohhhhh, I think Option #1 could be it. America Ferrera‘s shoulder length cut with cheekbone-grazing, sideswept bangs is total sophistication. The shape would work beautifully with Marie’s bone structure, don’t you think? All Marie would need is a large round brush, a blow dryer and a shine serum to achieve this look.

Option #2 is another great look if Marie chooses to keep her hair longer. Lindsay Price‘s piecey bangs add a whole new element to the look and would give Marie a style that could go both ways – sophisticated for work, but fun and flirty for when she’s not on the clock. (Click here to learn how to replicate Lindsay’s style.)

What do you think?