Breezy Maxi Dress + My New Hair Extensions

A popular trend I am seeing so much of for this Spring and Summer is the simple cut out detail.  

I love how on this maxi dress the cut out breaks up all the black with just a touch of skin showing.  But it’s not so much that I feel uncomfortable.  I think maxi dresses are adorable, but sometimes it’s hard for me to find one that doesn’t drag the ground (I’m only 5’3″).  This one fit perfect, both in length and in the top (wearing an XS).  The material is a breezy, gauzy material, so when the humidity here in the South kicks in, I will still be able to wear it.

I also need to mention this straw bag!!!  It’s a good one.  Like “one you need in your closet now” good.  I was sold on the bamboo handles…such a fun touch.  It also has a strap so it can be worn crossbody which is a big plus for me.  I like having my hands free when I’m out running around town.  The bag also comes in black and coral and is under $50!

    In the world we live in today, there are so many ways to enhance areas of ourselves that we may feel less confident about.  I’m not suggesting that these are right for everyone, but if you are wanting a little boost in an area where you feel less confident, you have options!  The great news is that these are not permanent. 

If you have thin eyebrows – there’s microblading
If you have thin eyelashes – there’s eyelash extensions
For nail polish that lasts 2 weeks – there’s gel polish 
For a safe Summer tan – there’s sunless tanning lotion
If you want longer, thicker hair – there’s hair extensions
It’s been 1 week since I got my hair extensions and just like my hair dresser predicted, I am in love!!  Yes it took a couple days to get used to the extra hair, but now it feels like I’ve had them forever. I’m sharing all about my experience with extensions below.

Black Maxi (20% off) (wearing XS) // Sandals (go up 1/2 size) // Earrings ( 6 colors) // Straw Bag (3 colors, under $50) // Sunglasses sold out, similar here and here

SHOP THE POST:

************************************************
I was recently introduced to DaNae at The Cottage Salon in Durham, NC and was so excited to work with her.  DaNae has been doing hair for years, but loves doing extensions best.  She loves the transformation and being able to give clients the hair they’ve always wished for!!  DaNae has been doing extensions for over 6 years, so she know what she’s doing and how to keep your hair healthy during the process.  If you’re on the fence about extensions or just want to know more, set up a consultation with her.  She can answer all your questions.

DaNae also does cuts, colors, etc.  So even if you aren’t looking for extensions, she’s got you covered.  If you’re in the Raleigh/Cary/Durham area, be sure to give her a call!!
Isn’t the decor in the salon gorgeous?!

(Before hair)
My hair before extensions was ok, it was slowly growing longer, but didn’t have the extra length and volume I really wanted.  

(keratin bonded)
With this type of hair extension, small sections of extensions are attached to small sections of my hair.  There was no heat involved with attaching these.  The goal is obviously to keep my hair as healthy as possible, so I was happy to not have any extra heat used on my hair.  I had 150 pieces of the extensions attached to my hair.  That’s a lot, which is why it can take 1.5 to 2 hours to apply.  
With these extensions, I wash, dry and style as usual.  The bonds are close to the roots, so they really don’t get in the way of brushing or curling, but you do have to be mindful and careful that they are there.  I’ve continued using my 1 in. curling iron because I like tighter curls.  Plus, they always fall a bit throughout the day.  I do miss the top knots on top of my head.   That was my go-to at the end of the day and while sleeping.    

(after hair)
These initial curls fell out pretty quickly because the extensions were so new and hadn’t been washed yet.  Once I washed my hair the following day, they really started holding the curl better.  Actually, once I curl my hair in the morning, it lasts all day, even into the next day! 
* The first few days, my hair/head was a little sore.  Especially at night, when I laid my head on the pillow.  Luckily, that only lasted 3 nights.
*  At night, it’s recommended that you wear your hair in a loose braid, low ponytail or low loose bun to keep the hair from getting tangled.
* It’s best to use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner so the bonds don’t loosen.
*These extensions last about 3 months, maybe longer, depending on how well you take care of them.
Salon pictures taken by TWill Photography

Leave a Comment

25 Comments

  1. 3.12.18
    Cathy said:

    Love your dress and those extensions look fabulous!!

    XOXO
    Cathy

  2. 3.12.18
    Kate Koutures said:

    Your hair looks gorgeous!!! And I love that subtle cutout. It adds a sexy touch without going overboard
    Kate || KATE KOUTURES

  3. 3.12.18
    Oh to Be a Muse said:

    I'm totally A-Ok with hair extensions, microblading (I want to do it), gel polish and the like. And I love your straw bag.

    http://www.ohtobeamuse.com

  4. 3.12.18
    Tanvi from tanvii.com said:

    I have never tried on extensions but have always wanted to. Your's look SO natural. Loving the Maxi too.

    ❥ tanvii.com

  5. 3.13.18
    Shira said:

    I get the maxi struggle being just under 5'2 haha. This one is perfecttttt on you!

    https://asequinloveaffair.com

  6. 3.13.18
    Unknown said:

    I love the cutouts in this dress! So pretty babe!

  7. 3.13.18
    Client said:

    Your extensions looks great! And I love this maxi on you!

    Megan | http://www.pipmegan.com

  8. 3.13.18
    Unknown said:

    This dress is so cute babe! And your hair and extensions look amazing!

    Kileen
    cute & little

  9. 3.13.18
    Maggie said:

    That dress is so cute! I've been looking at long maxi dresses right now– this one is definitely a contender!

  10. 3.15.18
    DTKAustin said:

    That dress is the cutest! I live in maxi dresses year round! And girl, your hair looks AMAZE!!

  11. 3.15.18
    Stesha said:

    I have always wanted hair extensions but have never gotten them, yours look great!

    xo

    Stesha

    http://www.stesharose.com

  12. 3.17.18
    Unknown said:

    Cute maxi dress- love the cutout (and your extensions look great too!

    Lauren
    http://www.anexplorersheart.com

  13. 3.22.18
    DEVELOPERS said:

    This is a great inspiring article.I am pretty much pleased with your good work.You put really very helpful information… clip hair

  14. 1.6.19
    Jack Son said:

    If you want to be able to cut your hair in the bathroom, where there isn't a plug socket, cordless might be just what you need.read more

  15. 1.30.19
    BURHAN said:

    Superbly written article, if only all bloggers offered the same content as you, the internet would be a far better place.. high-quality hair extensions in Dallas

  16. 2.4.19
    Unknown said:

    Always so interesting to visit your site.What a great info, thank you for sharing. this will help me so much in my learning pink lace front wig

  17. 4.18.19
    Mental health Centennial said:

    I appreciated your work very thanks Kappersopleiding

  18. 5.13.19
    SkOffical said:

    Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with extra information? It is extremely helpful for me. best Hair Straighteners

  19. 5.23.19
    rashid said:

    I am very enjoyed for this blog. Its an informative topic. It help me very much to solve some problems. Its opportunity are so fantastic and working style so speedy. perruques

  20. 7.15.19
    Troy Farmer said:

    You make so many great points here that I read your article a couple of times. Your views are in accordance with my own for the most part. This is great content for your readers. HairStraightenerlab.com

  21. 9.7.19
    puffingbird said:

    I enjoy your writing style really enjoying this web site . latex dress

  22. 11.30.19
    New SEO said:

    I have read all the comments and suggestions posted by the visitors for this article are very fine,We will wait for your next article so only.Thanks! cheap nose hair trimmers

  23. 12.8.19
    Peter said:

    Without a doubt, they would prefer not to be test objects of your hair cutting trial, accordingly ensure you know the nuts and bolts and you have aced the aptitude. Taking in some hair cutting tips from specialists and those that have been around in the hairdressing industry for long can be of huge assistance also.
    best hair clipper india

  24. 12.28.19
    D. James Anderson said:

    With the persistent approach of new innovation, there are presently an assortment of choices accessible today to help in expelling hair, all of which makes hair cutting simpler and more secure for everybody.best shaver for men in india

  25. 1.12.20
    Lewis said:

    Luckily, cordless hedge trimmers are by now generally fairly standard, and many have a great deal of bells and whistles without being over done.philips bg1025/15 showerproof body groomer for men