Hairstyles | Hairstyle | Personality | Appearance

Research has demonstrated that we begin to form an impression of an individual's
personality and character within seconds of first meeting them. While a multitude of
factors ranging from makeup to clothing choices contributes to the impressions we
create, hairstyle has been shown to be one of the most prominent factors in impression
making. In real life, however, people have complex personalities that cannot be
summarized or fully described simply by hairstyle. Because of this, it is important to
consider the various aspects of your appearance, including hairstyle as well as clothing
and makeup, in order to be sure that your appearance is accurately conveying your true
personality. This can be especially important in situations where a good first impression
is vital, such as job interviews or dates.

So what do your hairstyle and clothing choices say about your
personality? What type of image are you trying to convey? A study
conducted by Yale University researchers indicates that it is essential to
consider these factors when choosing a hairstyle. Experimenters
discovered that women with sexy hairstyles were perceived as less
intelligent, while women with short hair were viewed as more confident
and outgoing. These stereotypes were influenced by other factors
including hair length and hair color. Women with long blonde hair such
as Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Winslet were viewed as more affluent and
sexier while women with medium-length darker hair such as Sandra
Bullock and Jennifer Garner were perceived as smarter and more fun loving.

Women are not the only ones burdened with these appearance-related stereotypes.
Men with short hair that is longer in the front were described as sexier and more
confident, but were also seen as more self-absorbed. Those with medium-length hair
parted on the side were described as being more intelligent and competent, yet were
considered more narrow-minded. Men with extremely long hair were viewed as less
intelligent but more good-natured.

These descriptions of personality and character reveal how influential a hairstyle can be
on creating an impression. In order to avoid becoming stereotyped based solely on a
hairstyle, it is important to consider other factors that contribute to the response that
we create. Selecting clothing and accessories that offset negative reactions and express
your true personality are an excellent way to create an accurate view of your character.
Consider the following personality descriptions that are based on hairstyle, clothing, and
general physical appearance. Which category does your current look fit into? Are you
projecting the image that you want to convey? If not, consider incorporating other
elements into your look that will reinforce the personality traits you want people to
notice.

1. Ingénue and Romantic Styles

Women described as ingénue's often appear very girlish and young. They tend to have
a delicate bone structure, with fine features and large eyes. If your look falls into this
category, you usually look good with long hair that creates a very soft, feminine look.

Because of your sometimes-dainty appearance, however, it is important to avoid
hairstyles and clothing that are too "cutesy." Such choices can cause you to look almost
childlike, which can lead people to perceive you as immature and irresponsible. However,
do not try to compensate for this by wearing excessively bold clothing that will
overpower your small frame.

As your look becomes more mature, you may develop a more romantic style. Romantic
looks are often very sexy and extremely feminine. Select accessories that are small and
feminine in order to avoid overpowering your delicate features. Choose fabrics that are
lightweight and soft, such as chiffon or cashmere. These choices will help you achieve
a classic, sophisticated look that conveys your maturity and intelligence.

2. Classic Looks

Women with this look tend to be conservative and appreciate simple elegance that
flatter average-sized, balanced figures. If you fall into this category, neat and well-
styled haircuts are complementary to your look. Stay away from angular haircuts in order
to avoid looking harsh or severe. Select accessories that are simple but graceful, such
as pearl necklaces or plain gold chains. When choosing clothing, avoid trendy styles in
favor of timeless garments in quality fabrics. These choices will allow others to see your
classic, intelligent style without viewing you as stodgy or dull.

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First Impressions

What does your appearance say about your personality?