V A is a long standing and recognised digital creative; her voice resonates with many. In the last ten years, the site has developed into an online destination for fashion, beauty and lifestyle advice. Her sense of style, editorial flair and practical counsel offers an inspired and graceful approach to living.

V A is a long standing and recognised digital creative; her voice resonates with many. In the last ten years, the site has developed into an online destination for fashion, beauty and lifestyle advice. Her sense of style, editorial flair and practical counsel offers an inspired and graceful approach to living.

Edit by: Vicki
Mar 18, 2021

The Grey Diaries: Up, Up Or Cut And Away

The Grey Diaries: Up, Up Cut and Away on vickiarcher.com


When it comes to the grey “the more things change the more they stay the same”.

My grey hair or silver journey, as it is now, continues. The 50 shades of grey are becoming lighter and more silvery as the original shades give way to the passage of time. That’s about the only difference.


As time marches my hair is the same in style and length. There has been one major haircut in the last year which I didn’t like – six inches off and an awkward length – and now I will be sticking with the regular one inch trim when hairdressing re-opens. This is unlike me. Historically I was a change the colour and style person on a very regular basis. I have been blonde, brunette and most colours in between; short, long or layered and I’ve tried them all. Short of a pixie cut that is. I was given a version as an impressionable 11-year-old and have never gone back. An accidental cut like that can have long-lasting effects and it certainly did with me.


Now as my hair is fully grey I find I need the length to keep it interesting. It’s the contrast of all grey with a long hair look I like; the unpredictability of the combination. The age + grey = short mood was once upon a time long ago; thankfully those kinds of dictates are a thing of the past.


When the hair is manicured I wear it out and when it’s not I tie it back or wear it up. I’m looking for hairstyles that don’t look matronly with my silver but still retain elegance. A hairstyle that I can do myself is an advantage and the longer length makes it all much more possible.


What kinds of up-do works with a silver mane?

There is the ponytail – low or high, which I like.

And there is a double over high version of the ponytail; I wear this style often.

There is what I call the “cottage-loaf” style bun on top of the head; worn loose or tight it is one of my favourites.

A French roll or twist as it is known – less easy to perfect – but good-looking all the same.


Decorations and braids I am less convinced about at this age. Simple clips and smoother styles work for me. I am such a fan of braiding but I don’t think it’s for me. A bit like a mini skirt – best left as a distant memory. As for any kind of pigtails, bunches or side plaits, the answer is “no”. Any wear-it-up suggestions, I would love to hear?


Hair whether it is the style, length or colour is such a conversation divider. We women generally have firm opinions on what works for us but I am surprised how little I have changed my hair in the last four years. It was a conscious decision to stop colouring and that’s one we reach when we are ready; it is not always an easy transition and nor is it for everyone. I ask myself is my lack of “hair variety” due to boredom or a lack of interest, even with the last year as it has been, I don’t think so.


I believe hair like fashion is an evolution and finds its rightful place. Long or short, silver or crimson – we know what we like. xv



Wearing Black And White

flutter sleeve  ||  b&w collar  ||  **round neck  ||  poet sleeve  ||  balloon sleeve  ||  pussy-bow   ||  **printed woven   ||   silk chiffon polka-dot


with

paige vintage crop white jeans  ||  madewell vintage high waist  ||  heron loafer  ||  starling loafer  ||  queen bee slipper




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Edit by: Vicki
In This Post: Lifestyle , Shopping Stories