Street fashion: Head start

Style coach Elana Shap and photographer Natalie Muallem are on the lookout for hairstyle statements in Tel Aviv.

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
Style coach Elana Shap and photographer Natalie Muallem are on the lookout for hairstyle statements in Tel Aviv. (photo credit: PR)
Style coach Elana Shap and photographer Natalie Muallem are on the lookout for hairstyle statements in Tel Aviv.
(photo credit: PR)
A hairstyle should be approached in exactly the same way as clothing. Ask yourself the following questions: does the color wash you out or make you look vibrant; does the style flatter you and reflect your personality; is the cut outdated or trendy; and does the upkeep suit your lifestyle? Changing a hairstyle is one of the quickest and least costly ways to revitalize your look.
Off-beat style
With a rainbow of colors in her hair, Einav, a hat designer from Tel Aviv, immediately attracts our attention.
Are the stripes of color in your hair just a one-time look?
“No, for the last two years I have been putting gradients of color in my hair and before that I was blonde.
Usually I wear a lacy headband as well.”
You must pay a lot at the hairdresser?
“I actually cut and dye my hair myself as I wouldn’t be able to afford going to the salon all the time.”
Is your hair coordinated with your total look?
“Yes, it’s a look I work very hard to achieve and take seriously as I am part of a group of girls who hang out together and is into Lolita/Gyaru fashion. It started out as a Japanese street fashion craze where girls dye or bleach their hair, have dramatic makeup and wear dresses and skirts with lots of lace and bows. I hope to visit Japan this year.”
Dramatic style
Nilli, an architect from Ramat Chen, grabs our attention with her bold look.
How long have you had this tuft of white hair?
“At least for the last 15 years. It really makes me stand out from other people and I like that. People remember me.”
Your glasses also add a bold statement, don’t they?
“Yes, they are Tom Ford and I love them.
I alternate them with a pair by Theo.”
The rest of your look is classic with quirky touches, which makes a nice contrast.
“Yes, my shirt is from Bond Street and is very well tailored, but the trim keeps it from looking too conservative. And I am wearing moccasins that are comfortable and relaxed.”
Arty style
Tie your hair back if you don’t have time, but add a nice touch like a flower or hair accessory. Take Karen, owner of the Café Colette on Basel Square, as an example.
The red flower in your hair and red painted toenails are a nice touch. Where does this style come from?
“Before I opened Café Colette two years ago I was in the hotel business and was an artist. This could be my artistic streak coming out.”
Do you always wear your hair up?
 “Although I like to look sexy I also go for comfort and ease, and this is the easiest way to deal with my hair.”
Do you have any other signature look?
“I always wear high heels and paint my toenails red. Some people have nicknamed me the ‘Madame of the Neighborhood.’”
Any favorite stores?
“I love Agnes B when I am in Paris.”
Forever-young style
We would never be so intrusive as to ask a woman her age, but Miri is proud to tell us she is 72 and a grandmother of four. Her secret to looking good, she says, is exercise and taking care of herself.
Your asymmetrical bob is very trendy, so you keep up with hairstyle fashion?
 “I owe my hairstyle to David at I.D. on Ben-Yehuda Street. He’s fantastic and keeps me looking up to date. He’s also great with doing the color. I was born a redhead, as you can see by my skin tone, but now I’ve gone more blonde.”
The cut has very clean lines and is sporty, like your style of clothing.
“Yes, I like to dress in a classic but sporty way. Then I accessorize with bracelets and necklaces. I love accessories, which is why I am so happy working at [designer accessories store] Daniella Lehavi. I’ve worked here for the last 14 years.”
The orange on your nails is a surprising element.
“I always paint my nail in this bright orange color. It’s very happy looking.”
Where do you shop?
“I am happy buying items from an upmarket, designer store like Comme il Faut, and mixing them with Zara.”
What do you think of Israeli style?
“There’s a lot of freedom here to dress as you please. It’s a democracy of fashion and it keeps things fresh and interesting.”