Thank you Sara L. For me (and I am happy to be in such great company) there has been a lot to the process and transition. For others, I think the process of going gray is much simpler. I think my journey might have been simpler if I was ready to let myself go gray when the hairs began to lose pigment. I had just had my first baby and at 27 I was not ready to let the grays show.
Danusia, your plan sounds like a good one for you. I am discovering that sections of my hair are graying at different rates. That is why my stylist has been adding the highlights. To break up the really dark patches. I think I may try to step away from the highlights and just keep working with the grow out and the toner. If I can’t stand it, we can go back to highlights.
LaPedestrienne, I think you are wise. If you are already salt and pepper, your hair is just going to get better with minimal work. Lucky girl!
Suz, yes! IKWYM. All around me in differnent settings and in photos, I see gorgeous women with various shades of gray hair. They inspired me, but I still vacillated about going gray for a long time. Then my twin sister took the plunge. She lives in a different state, so I got Photo updates each time she went to the salon. She was my ultimate inspiration. I began my process about 3 months after she did. It has been much easier to travel this road with her leading the way.
Jenni and efbgen, I understand! For years, I thought coloring my hair was worth every penny and every minute in the chair. I do still spend some money and time in the chair to help me feel comfortable with this transition, but I am spending far less of both. It is a team effort keeping me looking and feeling my best and worth it to me. I do appreciate fewer appointments and like the extra currency.
Joy, thank you for sharing your observations about your skin. I am noticing that I look paler than ever before. By late winter and early spring my skin has reached its winter white stage, where any hint of sun kissed glow has long disappeared. This is the first spring I have had light hair and I think I need to try some tinted moisturize or a little self tanner to give me a boost. I like a stronger lip color and have some nice shades to try.
Donna F it is interesting about the gray hair of your family. My parents both went gray very early. Both were completely gray in their 30s. Both had gorgeous thick hair. My dad’s was silver. He was a clever man and well known for his wit. He was nicknamed the Silver Fox. My mom’s hair was silver and white and is now pure white. Her hair is stunning. I hope you find some black and white shoes you like. Maybe try some white and tan? Perhaps you are going to like bookending with variations of white and other colors.
Thank you Colette and Anne. Isn’t it amazing the amount of knowledge and support here on YLF? I am so pleased to be a part of this group of Fabbers.