How to Speak "Hair Dresser"

Yesterday I attended a workshop on bridal hair or the category could also be described as 'red carpet hair styles' for any special event. One thing I see even with artist that are not locally in my area, we all face the same questions and that is do we understand really what the client is saying? So with that interesting thought I came across this article and thought I would share it as I do find it most helpful.
Because there is NO universal language among stylist and the client here is what we hair stylist's think when you try to describe a style to us (the professionals).

Long Layers: This means you want long hair with some layers in it. Very few layers, at that. Your asking for mostly long hair with a couple of inches of layering at the ends. That means your shortest layer is going to be quite long, depending on how long your hair is.

Soft Curls: This usually means hair is curled with a big iron and little hairspray. Depending on the texture of your hair it might not hold, but it will be soft and if the stylist is good, smooth.

Wave: Wave? What kind of Wave? Jessica Simpson style, messy with straight ends? or Veronica Lake style, big and smooth? Get a picture for this one.

Up-Style: (The name in the 21st century for an up-do). Do you want it high at the crown, centered in the back, or low on the nape? That can also mean something to the side. the term up-do has really changed, because girls stopped getting the crunchy -curl (yes its out dated) high and tight look and started going for low and full. An Up-Style means that the hair is up somehow.

Ringlets: This usually means you want a tight, super firm curl all over. Think Shirley Temple. Be careful with this! If you want a Pin-Up style and ask for ringlets, don't get upset when you come out looking like your off to grammar school.

Half-Up: Pretty self explanatory, but be prepared to explain how high you want the party that is pulled up and how much volume you want to see. It can be brought low and loose for romantic, or with tons of volume and high for a modern sexy effect.

No matter how aptly you describe your style, keep in mind that things can always be misinterpreted. A visual aid (s) the more the better, is always the best when trying to explain how you want your hair, or makeup for that matter, to look. Just keep in mind you looking exactly like those visual aids is impossible, you are not that person in the pictures. Your hair texture, density and length is not the same or is your skin tone, eye shape, ect. Look for ideas that best interest you then be open to creating your signature look and style with your personal hair and makeup artist.