Big Hair Days with John Frieda Luxurious Volume Range

Who says short hair girls can't have big hair?

I’ve always loved hair with a bit of texture and volume, which explains why I’ve never rebonded my hair. I feel that texture gives the hair more movement and a more natural look, both on the go and on the red carpet. I used to have long, wavy hair, which looks very luxurious when offset with fitted dresses for events, but since I’ve cut my hair short for 2 years, I’ve still paid attention to creating volume in my hair – it just adds an extra oomph to your whole look, especially when you’re walking down the streets and your hair moves and sways together with you.

The bob style is extremely easy to carry off volume, especially when you curl them in at the ends, or in general when you twist dry it or curl small sections of it to create a wavy bob. But for us straight hair girls, it's also kind of a pain to achieve; very often I find myself waking up with completely flat hair, especially at the crown, since my hair is really fine. And then I'll have to spend the next 10mins blowdrying and curling in the ends to create the volume = me being always late.

That's why I've decided to put John Frieda's newest voluminizing range of haircare products to the challenge and put together the steps below to achieving a voluminous crown of hair.

1. Shampoo and condition with John Frieda Luxurious Volume range.
2. Apply 3-4pumps of John Frieda 7 Day Volume In-Shower Treatment, leave on for 3-5 minutes then rinse out.
3. When blow drying, use a round boar bristle hairbrush to lift your hair up at the roots and blow dry the crown first. Use a curl in motion using the round brush to lift up your roots and aim your hairdryer at a 45 deg angle at the brush, instead of directly on top or in front of it.
4. If you have really fine hair which tends to get oily, you can spray a little bit of dry shampoo at the roots, which will serve to give it more volume as well.

The in-shower treatment is the one that does most of the work for voluminizing. Its formula creates texture by building a polymer network onto hair fibres, hence giving your hair with added texture to build atop each other. The result is light, bouncy hair, which feels fuller, especially when I blow dry my hair right after applying the treatment.

Here’s the before and after photos. I tried to make it easy to compare by wearing the same top and shooting against the same wall in the photos. Before, my hair was easily super flat and straight – basically just hanging straight down from the roots. Obviously, you can see a lot more volume in the After photo, especially at the root area. When I was blowdrying, I could feel that my hair had a thicker texture, and felt more full, making it easier to further style my hair to maintain this curvy bob look.

This treatment lasts for about 3 washes for me, but according to John Frieda, it would last up to 7 days, depending on your original hair condition and texture.

For more info please visit John Frieda on their site here, and like them on Facebook. 

Disclosure: The above content was sponsored by John Frieda but all views are my own.

10 Short Bob Hairstyles for Cool Girls

I’m the type who likes change. I constantly want to be kept occupied doing something new and different, same goes for my hair. But I have kept the classic short-medium length bob hairstyle for more than 2 years already. Since I chopped off my long locks in Dec 2012, I’ve never looked back. 

Why? Because cool girls wear bobs. It’s not only a lot easier to manage - think less time spent blowdrying and styling - but also because it gives you a bit of an edge over all your other friends with long, straight hair. Think Anna Wintour, Alexa Chung, Rihanna (she had the asymmetric straight bob for a while), Miroslava Duma and Karlie Kloss, who all now have stuck to the same bob style over the years. In Singapore, I can think of 987FM DJ Sonia Chew and Yesah Designer Linda Hao.

It takes some confidence to wear a bob well. After all, you no longer have long hair to shield your face, and usually a bob (depending on the cut) will serve to emphasise some of your facial features even more. 

Jan 2013
So here’s me when I first chopped off my locks. I have had long, wavy hair before this, so the hairstylist straightened out my hair and then cut them to shoulder length. In a way it’s not a bob, but because it was the first time I was going short, I wanted to give myself a bit of leeway just in case I didn’t like having short hair. 

May 2013
And then, I went all short as in almost pixie cut short. I had this style cut in Jakarta - I literally just walked into a random salon, pointed to a reference photo and told them to cut it. Now thinking back, I was really quite young and reckless - the older me would never dare to let someone whom I can’t trust cut my hair. 

Dec 2013
The pixie cut grew out when I was in London and I went into a Toni & Guy Training Academy there and had them color it for me for free. I went from black into a ombre copper brown.

Apr 2014
And then in early 2014, I met Avan, my stylist whom I now cannot live without. He was the one who created the bob cut for me. The first style I went for was a classic bob style a la Kiko Mizuhara - the ends were curled in with a “one-curl rebonding” - which made it really easy to style my hair at home. All I have to do was to blow dry the roots first, then the rest of the hair, while curling the ends inwards using my fingers and the curl would stay. I went violet red with this style after a few months.

June 2015
As my hair grew out a bit more, I kept a chin-length bob which I think would probably remain as my classic style for the rest of my life. (Or not, till I get bored of it.) I went from violet red to honey-brown with copper brown highlights interspersed. 

Oct 2015
I also tried a wavy bob through a digital perm. 

I changed my color slightly each time I visited Avan but generally stuck to the same color family - Dark chestnut brown, light honey brown, dark red, violet etc. Generally, Avan gives me highlights each time to really show off the color and add layers to the hair, especially in sunlight. I've gotten compliments from people each time with the color and cut, so I pretty much trust Avan and Selyn (who usually handles my coloring) for anything. 

I keep my hair healthy after so many chemical treatments by religiously applying hair oil every night. I use Morrocan Oil, which I apply on damp hair and then blow dry. It keeps my hair smooth and shiny on a day-to-day basis. On top of that, I also visit Pro Trim regularly for Japanese Mukota Treatments, which works wonders when you have dry, frizzy and tangled hair. And also, Kerastase Scalp Treatment to restore the health of our scalp, to ensure healthy hair regrowth. 

I'm sharing my stylist with you! If you'd like Avan to handle your hair, simply drop by Pro Trim Hair Salon at 313@Somerset, or call at 6238 7027. Quote my name and receive 20% off any hair services. 

Summer Resort Look I

Wearing Staple the Label Spray Dye Dress from The Wyld Shop, Silver Strappy Heels from Zalora and Blue Tinted Shades from T.O.T

Photography by Jonathan Liu

The long weekend is coming up next week 26 - 28 August and then subsequently National Day again on 9 August. To pre-empt you for your weekend getaway, I have a series of resort looks. Ahhhh resort - just the idea of it makes me sigh and elicit a dreamy smile.

I feel like resort is the easiest on-location look to pull off - there are just so many lazy possibilities! Top resort favourites would probably be:

• Maxi dress, plus giant sunhat
• A colorblock/ print romper in light silk crepe fabric, with oversized sunnies and lots of braided bracelets
• A good bikini and sheer coverall, such as a crochet kaftan
• An easy one-piece dress such as this spray dye dress that I'm wearing

I would advise you against wearing crocs or ugly flip flops (which will totally kill the look), and instead slipping on some pool slippers or those Birkenstocks with oversized metallic buckles. Sandals with interesting details or straps would also look great paired with any of the above.


On a side note, I had my hair color updated again at Pro Trim Hair Salon. My stylist, Avan, gave me light brown color as the base color this time round, with reddish brown low lights hidden within my bob and copper highlights. You can see that's why my hair looks light brown and then copper reddish brown in different photos. The highlights and low lights were always done very meticulously by the what the stylists term as the "Weaving" technique. Basically, the hair is first separated into different layers and then a lock of hair is taken out and then using a rattail comb, strands of hair is selected out from that one lock and applied color. This makes the highlight looks really natural.

I love that Pro Trim usually finishes off the color with a color-locking shampoo from Kerastase, and then a leave-in color treatment for another 30 minutes. I feel that it really helps to maintain the color in the long run. Avan also updated my bob slightly by giving it a slight trim, and some layering done to create volume. Originally I had an asymmetric bob, but now I can give my hair middle, left or right parting however I want it! I personally really believe in Pro Trim's expertise in both color and cut, so I've been recommending it to all my friends.

Call them at 6238 7027 to make an appointment!

AFF 2014 Day Four - Walking on Water with Petzval Lens

Wearing Rose print Bustier from Cameo of Eclecticism, White wide leg pants from Mango and White vest from Zara 

It was great fun shooting with Samantha of FEElim Photography with the really gorgeously gold Petzval lens. Re-released by Lomography, this great lens gives off a cool, swirling bokeh effect, while still maintaining a sharp subject.

We shot this on film at a secret location which Sam introduced me to, with me literally walking on water to get some of the shots. I'm really loving this beautiful rose print bustier from Cameo - it fits me beautifully despite my rather skinny upper body frame and I paired this with an all white color palette to complement the prints of the bustier.

You can see from the closeups that my hair is now a deep chestnut brown, but it still gives off some glow! This is due to the really subtle, clever highlights that Selyn from Protrim Hair Salon did - he had to meticulously section my hair into different portions, then with each portion, he picked up literally a few strands of hair by a rat tail comb and then applied the color. The lower portion of my head has a violet red highlights, while the crown of my head takes a brighter copper red highlights and the rest of my hair is colored a deep chestnut brown. This makes the highlights look really really natural and gives greater dimension to the overall color.

So a big thank you once again to Selyn and Avan from Protrim Hair 313@Somerset for giving me such luscious locks when I had no idea what I wanted at all! You guys really know your stuff and never fail to surprise me.

Mini twist braids short hair tutorial - TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe Creative

Tools of the Trade:
1. Prep - Volume Plumping Mousse
2. Creative - Extreme Hold Hairspray
3. Classic - Shine Gloss Serum

1. After blow-drying your hair, apply Volume Plumping Mousse thoroughly to the roots of your hair (as usual).
2. Backcomb your hair to give it some more volume and texture so that your bobby pins will hold more easily later on when you twist all your hair into small braids. 
3. Start from the center of your head and then work to the sides, twisting small braids and then pinning them down with bobby pins.
4. Secure the look with generous sprays of Extreme Hold Hairspray - this hairspray is really effective in helping you hold your look throughout the day; great for dramatic hairstyles!
5. Finally, apply a few drops of Shine Gloss Serum to the ends of your hair to help control frizz and boost your hairstyle with some extra shine!

And that marks the end of my four part series with TONI & GUY! Thank you everyone for all your support in voting for me, and for following me throughout this journey! :)

Faux Updo for Short Hair Tutorial - TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe Glamour

I'm finally going to reveal how I make a faux updo from short hair! This is great for formal occasions, or simply when you want to change up your look.
If you try this out, please let me see your results on Instagram by tagging #verafauxupdo!

Tools of the Trade (in order of sequence):
1. Prep - Volume Plumping Mousse
2. Casual - Forming Spray Gel
3. Glamour - Moisturising Shine Spray
4. Glamour - Firm Hold Hairspray

1. As always, towel dry your wet hair, then apply Volume Plumping Mousse generously to the roots of your hair to give your hair some volume and definition for styling later. 
2. Apply Forming Spray Gel to the ends of your hair, where you will be twisting into a faux updo later on. You can either spray the gel directly onto your hair, or spray them onto your hands first and then applying them onto your hair. The gel enhances your hair layers for texture, on top of giving your hair some flexible hold and movement, that will make your hair easier to work with. 
3. Using bobby pins, take sections of your hair and twist them inwards, tuck them in and then pin down. Work around half of your head first and then move on to the other side. The trick is to twist the hair inwards to make it look like a bun of sorts. 
4. Leave the fringe for the last and twist them away from your face. 
5. Tuck any excess baby hairs or loose strands at the back into the twist. Secure with extra bobby pins. 
6. Apply Moisturising Shine Spray to give your hair some natural shine and long-lasting smoothness.
7. Finish off with Firm Hold Hairspray generously, especially over the twist. This hairspray provides you with firm, staying hold without stiffness that makes it ideal for updos. 

Let me know if you have any questions with regards to this tutorial and I hope you try this out! 

Muted Contrast - TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe Creative

Wearing In Good Company Hannah Camisole from Front Row, Lowry's Farm Ripped Denim Jeans, Pazzion Bandage Heels, Topshop Ear Cuff

Photos by Gwen Janelle

This is the last of the my series with TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe. Looking back, despite the slight stress in getting the post out on time and creating impactful visuals, I must say that I really enjoyed the journey. The creative process each week is very fun - challenging myself to take on a new hairstyle that I've never tried before, pairing up the right hairstyles to complete my look for the theme... It is only after this whole series that I realize how much I, as well as so many other women, neglect to style our hair! How many of you are guilty of waking up, giving your hair a rough comb and then going out to town or to work/school just with your hair let down or tied up in a ponytail? After all, hair is one of the most important things which affects the way you look and how people judge you.

I had fun playing with the various TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe ranges and I must say I especially like the Sea Salt Texturizing Spray from the Casual range as it creates texture and natural movement within your hair easily, while the Spritz and Shine Liquid Mousse from the Glamour range is great for giving your hair some healthy shine.

For this last creative look, I have chosen to pull all the hair away from my face by creating tiny twist braids from the crown to the sides of my head. This hairstyle is very easy to create and is great for girls on a weekend out to town, or even when you want to look good while hitting up the gym! (Side note - I really need to do something about those roots growing out, my hair is now caught between black and copper red-brown.)

I offset this hairstyle with some contrasting elements in my outfit choice. Hannah, the runched bust strap camisole, from In Good Company is really very comfortable, with a suede-like treated fabric. It's very understatedly chic, and I paired it here with a pair of ripped denims for some street cred. The designers behind In Good Company are the same creative force that used to be behind alldressedup, and I love their designs for their functionality (comfort) and versatility (from day to night) with the pairing of the right accessories. Their designs offer today's working women with simple, yet chic classics and is flattering on the body, with subtle draping done at the right places.

Shot at National Museum on a cloudy Sunday morning, that's how I like to spend my weekends. Wait - I guess that's how I'd like to spend the rest of my life - with art, fashion, good wholesome food and my own space and freedom to do some creative work that can preferably help some other people to better their lives at the same time too.

PS - Would appreciate if you can click LIKEY LIKE to vote for my photo over at the Toni & Guy Facebook page to help me realize my dreams of going to London Fashion Week!

Resort Glamazon - TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe Glamour

Wearing H&M Resort print dress, Rubi mirror court heels, H&M  Ear cuff and Lovisa Ear studs

Photos by Katherine from Tanjong Bazaar

Glamour, to me, is not about ostentatious outfits with adorned with sequins, jewels or over-the-top organza and trailing tulle. Granted, the outfit needs to be stand out, but it needs to complement your figure and your "attitude" well. I believe it's more important to get a dress that makes you feel comfortable, so that you will exude natural confidence and carry yourself differently, instead of constantly worrying if you're going to get a wardrobe malfunction.

For my third installation of TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe, I take on the Glamour look with a resort print dress from H&M, paired with just simple accessories. I love this dress for its amazing print, and also its cut - I'm a sucker for halter neck dresses because I personally find that it draws emphasis onto my shoulders and attention away from my heavier bottom. Shot in Fort Canning, the lush greens bring out the beauty of this dress even more.

Do not think that short hair can't go glam - in fact short hair looks very good when slicked back, or with a curled wavy fringe, or even in a faux updo! In my next tutorial post, I'm showing you how to achieve a 'twist braid' above the nape of your neck that looks like you have your hair tucked in a updo.

Styling Short Hair - TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe Classic

Wearing American Apparel Long Sleeve Crop Top, OwnMuse Highwaist Maxi Skirt, Dorothy Perkins Hydrangea Print Court Heels, Mint Jewel Necklace c/o Curated Editions

Photos by Gwen Janelle

A lone girl crossing a deserted street with a purpose. She's exploring, searching, playful yet cautious of her surroundings. Where are these people on a hot Sunday afternoon? Maybe they're strolling along the corridors of air-conditioned malls, and come Monday, they'll all be back to pound these streets again.

What is a classic hairstyle? To me, that is something that will never go out of trend and is able compliment almost everyone. For long hair, that's easy - braids, chignons, top knots, bouffant/beehive and ponytails come into mind. But for short hair, not so easy. After all, there are very limited things you can do with short hair.

For this second installation of  TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe, I'm giving you my own interpretation of classic - center parted hair with side twist braids and lots of volume. 

I paired this look with a elegant, long highwaist maxi skirt from local label OwnMuse that drapes beautifully down the body and even more beautiful when in motion. The long silhouette is complemented with a tight cropped longsleeves top and feminine accessories - light mint jewel necklace and ear studs with hydrangea print court heels.

Here's how to get this look: 

Tools of the Trade (in order of sequence):

1. Prep - Volume Plumping Mousse

2. Classic - Medium Hold Hairspray

3. Classic - Shine Gloss Serum

1. Same as last week's tutorial, to damp hair, apply Volume Plumping Mousse liberally to your roots to prepare your hair for volume and hold later on. 
2. Apply Medium Hold Hairspray to the inner layers of your hair, then immediately backcomb the hair after each spray. This helps to create volume faster than just backcombing and then applying hairspray after. Backcomb until you obtain your desired volume. 
3. Make a center parting, then grab a small section of your hair and twist it away from your face. Secure it down with two bobby pins. 
4. Do the same for the other side.
5. Add some Shine Gloss Serum, concentrating on the ends of your hair, but also throughout your hair.
6. Finally, using your fingers, scrunch up portions of your hair to 'fluff' it up further, and set the look again with Medium Hold Hairspray. 

This look is great even for those of you with long hair - you just have to make the side twist braid longer towards the middle of your crown.

What is your interpretation of a classic hairstyle?

If you've enjoyed this tutorial, please vote for me by LIKING my photo on TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe Facebook page! Your support is greatly appreciated ^_^