The Power of Hair

Recent university studies validate that your hairstyle dictates the first impression you make, significantly overpowering the impact of facial features.

Dr. Marianne LaFrance, Professor of Psychology at Yale University and director of two recent studies, First Impressions and Hair Impressions, confirms that a Bad Hair Day affects more than your appearance. It impacts performance, self-esteem, social insecurity and self-criticism. It is no wonder then, that the term Bad Hair Day has become part of the vernacular for a bad day. Both men and women experience bad hair days, and both sexes perceive their capabilities to be significantly lower than others when experiencing “bad hair.”

Dr. LaFrance asserts that until now there has been no investigation of the unique effect hairstyle has on first impressions. Sandy Dumont has reported about the importance of hair in articles and in workshops for decades! La France’s studies revealed that different hairstyles quickly lead others to ‘see’ different kinds of people. Thus, the frame around the face – the hair - can significantly alter how a person is seen. Hair is, indeed, more than our crowning glory.

My 30 years experience suggests that a dated hairdo undermines even the most dynamic “power suit.” It is the number one “image killer” of American women today. And it is not just “wash and wear” hair that is the culprit. It is an entire industry that is lagging behind. Even in the largest and most sophisticated cities, old-fashioned pageboys, shags, shaved napes with “stacked” hair, stringy “teenage” hairdos and droopy perms that hang limp are all that is seen. The most polished and professional hairdos are European looks that are somewhat straighter, like Katie Couric’s new hairstyle. They look uncontrived and classy. Hollywood “glamour” looks are out – and “old money” looks are in.

Whether it is long or short, curly or straight, hair needs a precision cut. Of course, your face shape and the quality of your hair will determine which style suits you best. One thing is for sure: your hairstyle will announce that you are head and shoulders above the competition – or that you are just average.

Sandy Dumont

Executive Director

Impression Strategies Institute