Chapter 20 - Now, Be An Angel

While there's nothing so attractive as a head with every hair in place, there's nothing so unappealing as one which resembles chaos—especially when it lands in somebody else's soup. When you're on your way to a very special appointment and the wind wreaks havoc with your hair, there's always a nearby tearoom or hotel powder room to slip into in order to repair the damages.

One exception to the combing-in-public rule is at the beach after a dip. But if you do comb at the beach, do it discreetly. And remember, if you wear your hair seasonally short for the summer, and if it's well styled, you'll be able to whip it into beautiful shape seconds after a swim.

Always be prepared for emergencies, and be sure your comb—in fact all of your beauty tools—are constantly immaculate. Many women would be embarrassed today if their purses were to slip from their hands and an unsightly comb were to fall out.

Keeping your hair secrets from the world also means wearing your hair clips exclusively in the privacy of your own home. Surely there's a more attractive way to arrive at work than to parade through the streets looking like a hardware display counter.

Resist, also, the temptation of playing with wisps of your hair when you're nervous or uncomfortable because you know your hair isn't looking its best. And bear in mind that the secret of hair etiquette is good styling. When hair is well shaped, it stays in place.

The facts contained in this book may seem like a tremendous amount of information to put under your hairdo, but don't be alarmed; remember that most of the information in these pages can be summed up in two words: common sense. Always remember that your hair is your most versatile feature, and it can be not merely your most attractive one, but you can depend on it to make your other features appear more attractive. Make the most of it!

Only a foolish woman lets her hair down. Scrimp where you can to give your hair First Lady care. Your husband won't think any more of you for trying to cut corners on beauty. In fact, chances are if you do, he'll think of you less.

This doesn't mean you must spend a fortune on hairdressers. Quite the opposite. It means getting at least two expert stylings a year—or four if you can afford them—and maintaining them in perfect shape.

It's your responsibility to learn how to make your hair look salon perfect between appointments. And only you can keep it shiningly healthy by eating wisely, brushing your hair carefully and regularly, and being sure you get ample rest and fresh air. The most celebrated hairdresser can't accomplish miracles with neglected hair.

The best hairdresser for you is not the most widely publicized one. He's the man who best understands the texture of your hair, the shape of your face, your personality, and way of life.

Practice using pin curls   and rollers until you can set your hair as well as your hairdresser does. Practice often enough and you'll soon be creating your own styles.

Insist on only the best permanents and hair color jobs— they are the most economical in the long run.

Keep your fingers on the pulse of fashion, but don't follow it slavishly—adopt only those features of current fashion which will be most flattering to you.

Try new products. Who knows, the product which will solve one of your special hair problems may at this very moment be on the production line. And always buy sample sizes of new products before investing in giant, economy sizes.

Remember it's no longer naughty to color. It is naughty not to take advantage of the beautiful effects color can create in your hair.

Read directions carefully, and follow them faithfully. And never apply products recklessly one on top of the other. Think before you take a step. Avoid shampoos that are too strong, and use sprays sparingly.

Keep an open mind about styles—be willing to experiment with new ones. Hair, fortunately, does grow out again. Keep a good head on your shoulders—remember all this—and a good-looking head of hair should be yours.