Over the course of the last couple years, I have found some interesting lessons that can be learned from the art of vintage hairstyling. All of these have relevance in the hairdressing environment today.
Number One: Have patience.
Good hairstyling and structure takes time. You need to work in less of a rush. Take the time to enjoy the process and make the whole experience enjoyable.
Number Two: Create a solid base.
You can get away with a lot less work in the comb out after you've created a solid set and base to build off. This can even be utilized in heat styling. Building a good base almost always ensures that you will have an excellent finished hairstyle.
Number Three: Accept imperfection.
The chances that your work will be perfect are very slim, but the imperfections can create visual interest. You may find that you have created something totally unique, even though it is not what you imagined it to be in the beginning.
Number Four: Practice, practice, practice.
You will only get good if you practice your craft. If you don't have a knowledge and muscle memory base, you may not be able to execute what you want. Get good enough to be able to feel like you could do the activity with your eyes closed.
Number Five: Enjoy the process.
You won't go anywhere if all you can think of is rushing to the final step. I have found that the best work is done when I get "zen" about the whole process. Enjoying crafting the perfect pin curl or roller curl, instead of seeing them as a chore to get done will make the process much nicer.
Number Six: Share your enthusiasm.
In working on vintage hair, I have found that people respond positively if you are enthusiastic about the whole project. If you can have a sense of excitement and joy, you can have a great time creating something new from an "old" style.
