My first experience with ultra-long hair was exhilarating. I found myself drawn to a new style of dressing, abandoning my traditional dresses for ’70s flares and unbuttoned vests. Friends and strangers alike were fascinated by my lengthy locks, bombarding me with questions about the process, my feelings, and whether I planned to keep it. Even a male coworker was taken aback by my transformation, expressing confusion about my new look. As I settled into my long-haired world, I envied those who naturally possessed such length, like Tish Weinstock and Nell Diamond, who both embraced their long hair as part of their identity.
Weinstock shared that she has been drawn to long hair since childhood, finding strength and comfort in her dark, straggly locks that serve as a shield and a source of empowerment. On the other hand, Diamond humorously acknowledged that her hair exudes a pre-Raphaelite elegance, far from the boho aesthetic she once attempted. Both women expressed a reluctance to part with their long locks, feeling exposed and out of place without them. As I embraced my own long hair journey, I realized the power and confidence that comes with having such a distinctive feature.
Inspired by my new mermaid-like hair, I took a trip to the French Riviera with a plan to showcase it in a unique way. Channeling my inner French flair, I used my flowing locks as a prop for topless beach photos at the prestigious Eden Roc Hotel du Cap. During my trip, I encountered actress Anya Taylor-Joy and her stylist Gregory Russell, who recommended a keratin treatment to seamlessly blend my natural hair with the new extensions. Seven weeks later, after a lengthy visit to the salon, I bid farewell to my ultra-long hair and returned to my “normal” self.
The transition back to my original shorter bob was a mixed experience. While I felt lighter and noticed a decrease in volume, I also observed that my natural hair had grown substantially underneath the extensions. As I adjusted to the change, I reflected on the temporary transformation and the impact that long hair had on my confidence and sense of identity. While I missed the length and flair of my extensions, I also appreciated the simplicity and elegance of my shorter bob, bringing me one step closer to finding my true hair style.
Overall, my journey with ultra-long hair was a whirlwind of excitement, self-discovery, and transformation. From embracing a new style to attracting attention and admiration, I navigated the world of long locks with a newfound sense of confidence and individuality. While the journey ultimately came to an end, the memories and lessons learned from this experience will continue to influence my style choices and sense of self. Ultimately, my brief encounter with ultra-long hair allowed me to explore different facets of my personality and style, leading to a greater appreciation for the versatility and power of hair as a form of self-expression.
