Mamma Mia, stop the bus!! Debbie you are a stunner!! Whatever it is that is in your water - send it across the pond!! From “ski bunny blonde” to incredible “icy white - in record time! You look simply smashing!!

Posted by Goldie on 04/28 at 04:28 PM

Brilliant!  I can’t get over the difference… lovely.

Posted by SSaS on 04/28 at 04:38 PM

Debbie,Icy White is so beautiful on you.

Posted by new york on 04/28 at 04:55 PM

Wow! That was a quick transition! What a beautiful icy white! Thanks for sharing your story with us. You were inspired by one silver beauty and now you are inspiring others. The silver chain continues to grow! :o)

Posted by greeneyes on 04/28 at 05:56 PM

Beautiful, just beautiful!  What more can I say!  You are one hot lady!

Posted by Aziza on 04/28 at 07:18 PM

I am speechless! Just beautiful Debbie.

Posted by silvercurl on 04/29 at 04:53 AM

Debbie, you even look much younger. Love the ice!

Posted by Marisa on 04/29 at 04:59 AM

Love the new you!!!! (Great color.)

Posted by grayme on 04/29 at 06:43 AM

Thank you all so much for your lovely comments. It’s a real confidence boost when you have taken such a large step to hear such nice things said. It’s one of the best decisions I have ever made.  I just can’t tell you how fantastic it is not to have to think or worry about colouring my hair anymore.

Posted by Debs on 04/29 at 08:19 AM

Debbie, You are beautiful!!  I’m so happy for you !  Laura

Posted by RunnerGal on 04/29 at 11:02 AM

wow what more can i add??? you look great!!! enjoy the natural look!! and all that comes with it!!

Posted by louann on 04/29 at 04:27 PM

Wow!!!!  Debbie, you certainly are smashing!  As I am just beginning my transition, you have given me renewed hope for what’s underneath all this awful dye.  Thanks for sharing your story!
-Julie

Posted by jules on 04/29 at 05:23 PM

Debbie ... you’ve gone from “pretty” to “POW” !!!!!

What a great look for you!

Posted by RuffDiamond on 04/30 at 06:45 AM

Thanks Sheri.  I was really worried about standing out and at first I was really conscious of people looking at me all the time, but I don’t take any notice now - it just makes me smile!  I’ve got something that nobody else can have - embracing nature’s highlights makes us so individual.  You really notice how much people dye their hair - and how there are so many people that have the ‘blonde highlights’ and seem to look the same.  I hated my ‘granny beige’ as I called it.  It really looked straight out of a box, but I just couldn’t afford to have it done at the hairdressers every 2-3 weeks! It’s sooooooo great to be free!

Posted by Debs on 04/30 at 10:17 AM

Wow Debbie, what a fabulous result in a very short time. You have glorious white hair.

Posted by Sharon on 04/30 at 02:48 PM

incredibly pretty! and fast!!!  I wonder if you have the new gglg record for shortest time in transition!~ well done!

Posted by Thisyear on 05/01 at 05:21 PM

Wow Debbie, what an amazing colour!!  Your icy white is stunning and I especially love the photo of you in the purple.  Gorgeous!! 

Jane xx

Posted by Jane on 05/02 at 08:39 AM

Thanks Jane, Thisyear and Sharon.  I still can’t believe how quick it has happened and how white I was underneath all that colour!  No wonder it was so difficult to keep my roots covered.  It seemed as soon as I coloured it, I had a silver halo shining through! It’s lovely being able to wear different colours though.  I never used to be able to wear blue or hot pink, but any colours with blue in them now look really nice.  Make sure you all try it if you haven’t already.  It’s great fun.

Posted by Debs on 05/02 at 01:02 PM

Icy white!!!  Gorgeous!! 

Posted by graytnw on 05/02 at 06:56 PM

Hi Graytnw

Thanks for your comment.  I have just seen your transition photos in the newbie grads gallery and you managed to transition really quickly like me too.  I think it really helps when you wear it so short.  I think your’s looks wonderful. You couldn’t create those fabulous natural highlights you have even if you tried! Do you think you will keep it short? That is my next dilemma!  Whenever I have had my hair longer in the past it always seemed to go really fluffy because it has some curl in it - but it has always been coloured so I am sure this will not have helped!

Posted by Debs on 05/03 at 11:36 AM

Hi Debs...Thank you...well at first I thought I’d grow it long...then I thought...no - maybe shoulder length...now I think I want to keep it short..not short, short but you know..and choppy and spiky. My hair has always been straight. I never did like to do much with my hair.  My idea is wash and wear and out the door and if the wind blows it whatever way - oh well it doesn’t matter.  LOL

Posted by graytnw on 05/03 at 11:56 AM

Hi graytnw

I know exactly what you mean.  I have started growing it a bit and I am already having to start to fuss with it on a morning. It’s so easy to look after when it’s short and choppy - I have to wait another 6 weeks before my next haircut which I think is gonna drive me crazy! I think yours looks lovely choppy and spiky.

It can be very damp here in the South West of England, which is not good for my wavy hair - the memories of frizz are coming back to me as I speak and thoughts of Monica in ‘Friends’ on her trip to Barbados - we don’t have the humidity here, but we certainly have our fair share of rain and wind! Hehe!

Posted by Debs on 05/03 at 03:43 PM

Ha! That’s funny...I’m in the Pacific Northwest..our weather is similar to yours. I’m begining to understand now why Jamie Lee Curtis keeps her hair in a really short pixie.
I think the waves in your hair are pretty! There’s that old saying again..people with straight hair want curly hair and
people with curly hair want straight hair. LOL

Posted by graytnw on 05/04 at 08:17 AM

You are so right.  And Jamie Lee Curtis looks stunning.  I find a hairstyle that works really well with my hair type and I want to change it - really - it’s so daft!  I think it’s going to be short and wavy for me. Thanks for your wise words.

Posted by Debs on 05/04 at 12:32 PM

Hey you have the proper facial structure to wear you hair short like Jamie Lee Cutis’ or even Sharon Stone’s short and choopy pixie I say. 

Posted by graytnw on 05/04 at 01:19 PM

You could definitely wear a pixie cut Debbie you lucky thing!!!  Are you familiar with Jane Clarke the nutritionist here in the UK?  She has natural hair and a very short pixie cut and looks so stunning!  I have the wrong hair texture (curly) but envy those who can pull it off. 

Jane xx

Posted by Jane on 05/04 at 01:25 PM

I just went online to see if I could find a picture of Jane Clarke and she is stunning!  I’m so envious of all you ladies that can pull off that pixie! 

You look great with your white pixie Debbie!

Graytnw - Love your spiky pixie too!

Posted by jules on 05/04 at 01:38 PM

Yes she does! and what a wonderful website she has!

Posted by graytnw on 05/04 at 01:41 PM

Graytnw - If only I could look like Sharon Stone - but there’s no harm in trying - haha! LOL

Jane - yes I am familiar with Jane Clarke - and yes she does look stunning - and I make a wicked smoked mackeral and watercress pate that I saw her do on TV some years ago!  I love her philosophy and her hair.

Thanks Jules - I’ve got to be honest - now that it is starting to grow out I am beginning to realise how wonderfully easy it was to have a pixie and with the summer coming this option is seeming more and more appealing.

Posted by Debs on 05/04 at 02:38 PM

I’d like to look like Sharon Stone also!  I Told my hair Stylist one time that I wanted my hair cut like Sharon Stone’s and If she could make my face look like hers there would be an extra large tip! LOL

Posted by graytnw on 05/04 at 02:47 PM

Enjoy the freedom of your stunning white hair!  Now that you don’t have to worry about the dreaded skunk stripe, you can have ANY hairstyle and they’ll all look great!!!! 

Posted by jules on 05/04 at 02:50 PM

Thanks Jules - you are absolutely right.  It’s so easy to take things for granted.  I will be able to tie my hair back if I want to, or wear clips or slides and not worry about regrowth.  I never used to wear hats either because I was worried about it flattening my hair and showing my regrowth!  I never used to tuck my hair behind my ears, because of the regrowth!  I used to hate going swimming because of the regrowth showing when my hair was wet!  OMG I can do what I like now because I have NO REGROWTH!!! 

Posted by Debs on 05/05 at 11:49 AM

What a stunning head of hair you have now!  You must receive compliments all the time. I do, and I NEVER received a one when I was coloring......funny huh? (well, maybe not!)

Posted by SBKaren on 05/05 at 03:26 PM

Hi Debs
What a great transition, loook how sparkling your eyes look with your icy locks.  Very stylish!  I do like that lime top you have on on one of the photos, your new colours look great.  And you’re in lovely Bristol too (where everyone calls you ‘my luvver’) when the wind blows, as it often does, no roots!

Posted by silverlake on 05/06 at 01:57 AM

Thanks SBKaren - yes I do receive loads of compliments - lots of people can’t believe it’s my natural colour!  They think I have gone through some funky new colouring process and want to know what it is!!  What a shame they can’t have it too!!

Hi Silverlake and thanks. They don’t call it the wet West for no reason - we certainly get plenty of wind and rain and you’re right - no more roots - as they say here in Bristol my hair is ‘gurt lush’ (translated that means great!)

Posted by Debs on 05/06 at 09:51 AM

My mom was born and raised in the north of England, where most of my relatives still live. I live in Alaska...don’t you think British women are better about being “natural”? All of my aunts and now my cousins, who are my age, are enjoying their gray/silver hair with no need for a support group! I wonder if it’s easier to make that transition...or do you think it’s only applicable to the north ?!

Posted by GeordieBC on 05/08 at 02:20 PM

Hmmm, I’m not sure about British women being better at being natural. I am English and am THE ONLY ONE of my friends and family who has natural hair. My mother still colours, ALL my female relatives colour, including my grandmother who is in her 80s. When I first announced my decision to let the silver grow out I was met with shock and horror from (most of) my family.

Posted by Sharon on 05/08 at 03:38 PM

Oh yes, I should have said I’m in the south.

Posted by Sharon on 05/08 at 03:38 PM

I’m in the south too and I’ll be the only natural one in my family too including those in their 80’s who still dye! 

Jane xx

Posted by Jane on 05/08 at 11:35 PM

Hi GeordieBC, Sharon and Jane - can’t speak for the North of England as I am also in the South.  I too am the only person I know under the age of 50 who is ‘natural’.  I was talking to someone I work with the other day, who whispered the word ‘grey’ when referring to getting older!  It was really hard not to laugh .  There she was, stood in front of me, as white haired as the driven snow, and still not able to say the word ‘grey’ out loud!!!  The people that I meet say mine is great but they could never do it themselves.  But I do catch them looking sometimes - you know, really looking - so perhaps I am making them think about it.  I hope so. 

Posted by Debs on 05/09 at 12:54 PM

Then it’s either a north thing or it’s just MY family!! haha! I wish I could attach a picture of them all - sitting there, basking in their glorious grays and silvers. The whole lot of them! You are all probably thinking either, “oddballs” or “well, they ARE geordies...” That’s okay. I’ll bet it’s just a “family” thing and we all got so used to going gray so young we all gave in to it.

Posted by GeordieBC on 05/09 at 02:29 PM

Well GeordieBC I think they would make a wonderful addition to the Great Greys Gallery as the first entire family group embracing nature’s highlights. Hehe

Posted by Debs on 05/10 at 11:32 AM

Hi Great story you are beautiful! I have a question for you. I have decided today to go gray and am already having a hard time looking at myself. Do you recommend highlights will highlights delay the process?

Thanks Daniela

Posted by danielamb on 06/14 at 07:58 PM

Hi Daniela
I had foil highlights on my blonde to silver transition at about 6 weeks in.  They were just bleach highlights, but my hairdresser did them quite fine and light in colour.  I definitely think they helped break up the regrowth line and now I am fully grown out they didn’t seem to slow things down much.  Hope that helps and look forward to seeing the new you!

Posted by silverlake on 06/15 at 12:52 AM

Hi UK girls GeordieBC, Sharon and Jane
Was chuckling at your North/South divide posts.  I am North but travel a lot and as far as I can see everyone under the age of 60 dyes their hair, even stunning natural colours all seem to have some extra colour going on - And as soon as the first white appears we’re off to cover it up!  But just recently I have noticed quite a few ladies definitely in transition so maybe it’s changing, I wonder why?  Over 60 I think in the UK we are better at being natural silver, compared with say Spain, but the styles hmmm....what do you think?

Posted by silverlake on 06/15 at 01:00 AM

Hi Daniela - personally I would definitely recommend highlights.  They really helped it all blend in more, like silverlake says and eased the transition loads.  I don’t think it delayed the process at all.  I only had highlights the once - loads of really thin ones all over.  I suppose it will depend on your natural colour coming through - mine was really white as you can see, so it blended really well.

Stick with it though - I have never regretted my decision to embrace natures highlights and I’m sure you won’t either.

Posted by Debs on 06/17 at 10:31 AM

Hi Silverlake

I don’t know if it’s because I no longer colour and I notice it more, but there definitely seem to be more ladies going natural from about 55 upwards I would say.  I haven’t seen many my age - yet - but I hope things are starting to change. I think some of the styles could be a bit more modern but I have to say I’ve seen a couple of women who look fab - the revolution has to start somewhere, so lets hope it continues to gather momentum!

Posted by Debs on 06/17 at 10:36 AM

Hi Debs
yes I think more women our age are definitely starting to have a rethink about colour.  I don’t think it’s just the economy, I think it has to do with the movement to eat more healthy food (organic), be more eco conscious?  I have a close friend who read the ingredients on the side of the packet one day and binned the dye! What do you think - maybe I’m way off the mark?

Daniela - please let us know if you highlighted or not!

Posted by silverlake on 06/17 at 12:17 PM

I tend to agree - 2 years ago I quit smoking and drinking and really care about what I eat - I always try to eat locally sourced organic foods wherever possible, I rarely eat meat and only eat organic fish.  One of the main reasons to stop colouring for me, was the concern of what chemicals lay inside those boxes and what it was doing to my scalp when I used it every 2-3 weeks.  Surely it can’t be doing us much good and I feel sure we are not the only ones who think this way.

I definitely became more aware of my health and mortality when I hit my forties and I began to see the affects that a less than perfect diet, one or two too many glasses of wine and nicotine addiction were having on me!  The confidence I gained from doing all of this is what helped me ditch the dye and I am sooo glad I don’t have to put that awful stuff on my head any more, or inhale it for that matter - it smells awful and makes your eyes water and the nape of my neck was always itchy.  I certainly don’t want to put myself through that - blindly - having no idea of what the long term consequences may be.

The added bonus to all of that, of course, is that you feel fantastic and have a unique hair colour that no one else can copy!

Posted by Debs on 06/17 at 01:35 PM

Dazzling!!!

Debbie you certainly made a wise choice.

I love the brilliance of your ice white along with the cut.

Are there any special products you recommend or methods in hair care to maintain that stand-out (and sophisticated) clean bright icy white?

I hope you are enjoying the dazzle of the new you look… absolutely fantastic

Posted by magbett on 07/03 at 03:54 PM

Hi Magbett

Thanks for your lovely comments.

I do use a blue shampoo regularly and here in the UK there is a shampoo and conditioner for mature hair by Trevor Sorbie called Rejuvenate which I use as well.  I wash once with the Rejuvenate and once with the blue shampoo (but I don’t leave it on too long - 1-2mins), then I rinse and condition.  It seems to really work and keeps it looking really bright and shiny.

A tip my hairdresser gave me recently was to mix a little of your blue shampoo with water and spray on your hair to protect it from the sun.  The only problem with this is that I do find it makes my hair feel a little dry, so I do this occasionally and at other times I use a UV protection spray by Mark Hill.

Now the summer is here I can’t tell you how lovely it is to have such nice shiny hair and not to have to worry if my roots are showing.  The sun always used to bleach the colour out so quickly when I dyed and it never used to shine like it does now.

How about you?  Are you transitioning, or have you graduated?  I couldn’t see a photo in the members album.

Posted by Debs on 07/04 at 12:20 PM

Debs—you have just confirmed why I didn’t endorse that tip from your hairdresser when you first posted it. Any blue shampoo can be drying, and you should not use them too often. The fact that you use one with every shampoo is ameliorated somewhat by following up with a conditioner rinse. But it does take a while for a yellow cast to build up in gray hair. It just doesn’t happen between shampoos. And, when it does, a blue shampoo takes care of it—immediately. But I must caution against the overuse of these products. Not only because they’re drying, but because the blue can build up. We’ve all seen women who overdo the blue and end up with a bluish cast to their silver or white hair.

Your hair is so radiantly white that I’m not going to argue with success! But, trust me, it would still be shining if you only used a blue shampoo every other time, or every third time. And, because it would be better hydrated, it may even be softer, silkier and shinier. Why not try a little experiment, and see?

Posted by Diana Jewell on 07/04 at 02:24 PM

Thanks for that advice Diana.  I was only using the shampoo once a week, but started using it more often on his suggestion when I last had my hair cut. Perhaps he wants to sell me more of his product!  I think I will do as you say and go back to using it once a week.  I think because I wear my hair short and have it cut every 5 weeks, this is also going to cut down on the likelihood of me turning yellow.  I have definitely noticed that it has been drier of late and my scalp has been more itchy - so this could be why.  My little experiment, as you suggest, is under way and I will let you know how I get on.

Many thanks.

Posted by Debs on 07/04 at 03:15 PM

Yup—all signs of dryness. Good, glad you’re going to experiment, and we DO want to know how it goes.

Posted by Diana Jewell on 07/04 at 03:18 PM

Debs & Jewell

Thanks for info Debs...and yes, I will be careful re dryness when using a blue shampoo.  I plan to try every other time plus have embarked on hair/scalp health program.

I don’t have a “white” photo yet…. look to the future as I work to achieve goals.

For the last two years I have been dealing with an incapacitating illness (though thankfully not life threatening though was debilitating and limited activities to point where I was in bed most of the time) Further aggravation came from back and balance problems with disk degeneration and worsening stenosis due to being in bed as well as having vertigo thus several falls.  All was exacerbated by large amount of prednisone prescribed.  Thankfully progress has been made on the illness.  Now PT and other rehab hopefully will improve walking and muscle strength.

The result though was an inability to get to my hairdresser for frequent touch-ups so I just let hair go natural. Wigs were a help during the grow out stage then a short cut when enough white.

Though born with black hair, I switched to red when when choosing to cover white at age 30. I loved my red hair with highlights. Then in recent years I moved to blonde with highlights due to roots showing so quickly.  I started to grey/white in teens/twenties (family trait) and now am 99.9 percent white with a few black hairs left.  I have very fair skin and hazel eyes (leans greenish) and can easily look washed out.  This was why the blonde was never as flattering as the red and adds a challenge with solid white

I do have snow white color (or is that “uncolor”?).  Many people say it is a beautiful white though I am not yet happy with it.

Part is the shock of seeing the startling white in the mirror. Part is feeling it is an “old ladies” monotone white plus am feeling older since the prednisone added pounds which I am just starting to lose and will be slow until I can walk more.  I may never be able to completely cut the prednisone but at least reduce amount.

Since I have to use a cane or walker with seat or even occasionally a wheel chair, I do not want to add to appearing older by the solid monotone white

Sooo
I would like to “sharpen” whiteness or “ice” and add some zing along with style change
- Possibly have some contrast to break monotone of the white …am considering high/low lights …suggestions are welcome
- Keep white very clean/icy to achieve more sophisticated, younger look versus what I am referring to as “old ladies white”
- Continue to play with hair cut/style to best compliment the white. It seems that a modern style is very important.  Fringiness has helped in shorted style…. Chunking bangs and fringe at sides going onto face … some tossle effect too with layering… works best for me.
-Continue to strengthen and thicken hair…moisturize hair and scali.
- Keep hair very “clean” looking.  I can only wash about every 10 days (wonder if boars head brush with a bit of pomade would keep it shiny clean???)

I will try a blue shampoo....carefully.  By the way. my dog is a Maltese (breed has hair not fur) and her “blue” shampoo really makes her hair sparkle yet silky and healthy –not dry. I hope I find equivalent human shampoo (any suggestions for best brand to try?)
My hair is only now regaining strength.  It is thick though fine so can go limp … has a nice wave.  I did lose some hair during illness plus w/o coloring some of thebody has been lost. Hair is still a little fragile with split ends occurring more than in the past. 

I’ve used some of the products recommended on this site plus in the book. Great suggestions though would love rating as to best (or what to try first) for specific grey/white “color” and hair type/condition.

I have not yet tried a “blue” shampoo and need to decide which one would be best for me.

As noted, my first focus was to restore hair health: strength, thickness and “life” …. stop hair loss.  The illness and meds certainly played havoc.  Additionally dandruff increased...scalp needed cleansing and nourishment.

As to the dandruff, I found a great natural product “JustNatural” dandruff treatment which really works well.  I also use their dandruff apple cider rinse - provides shine plus fights dandruff. 

I’m happy with Minardi pre-wash for conditioning, Aveda volumizer tonic for thickening, and two good wash out conditioners. A Shine hairspray helps.

I now use the dandruff treatment only as needed for the dandruff apple cider rinse seems to keep under control.

Perhaps others who have or are dealing with illness (and meds) which affect hair might want to chime in.  Looking good especially when ill does help one to feel better and that’s a step in the right direction.

I’ve been inspired by many of the stories, photos and ideas here...Thanks all!

Mary Ann

Posted by magbett on 07/04 at 05:40 PM

Mary Ann—I am Diana, or “OZ,” the founder of this site. Jewell is my last name. I know very well what you have experienced with steroids.  I was given massive doses intravenously for a time, then continued with oral doses. When all was said and done, my legs would not support me.  It is called steroid myopathy. Simply, muscle weakness. De-toxing from steroids is bad enough, but then you’re faced with that!  Four months of PT, three times a week, and all was right as rain. It’s tough work to go through, but the good news is, it works.

During this time, I wonder why you equate white hair with “old lady hair?” Yes, you may be feeling a little bit like an old lady, but it’s not your hair. It’s your physical limitations right now. You’ve been through a lot, you have an uphill battle going on right now, and your hair has become the enemy—a sign of feeling just—well, old.  Perhaps if you think of it as the ultimate platinum blonde, half the battle will be won. Did you see our article on CoolGirls? People actually TRY to have this shade. If you think it is monotone, sure, have some steely lowlights put in, to lend a little depth. Since you have the book, I’ll refer you to Patricia Moscou’s story in the Special Effects chapter.  But I tell you, most of us would be very envious of your white-white!

It sounds like you are doing all the right things, having a modern choppy cut, addressing shine issues, using moisturizing treatments. As far as the “best” products to use, the book offers several choices. And it does break it down by hair type and condition. But within that, there are multiple choices.  It cannot be personalized any closer than that, because, in the end, every woman’s hair is unique—including a different pigment modality. For instance, I use Artec blue shampoos, primarily. Can I recommend them across the board for everybody? No. Perhaps a violet or a purple shampoo would be better. Or maybe a blending of violet and blue. Ask your colorist for a recommendation suited just to you.

But if your hair tends to go limp, look for products with ceramides, not silicones, in the ingredient list. If your hair seems to lack body, that’s natural. You’ve come out from under the dye. Dye coats the hair shaft, hence, there is more body. Natural hair is free of that. Coating your hair with pommade will only result in a waxy build-up. It won’t keep it “shiny clean.” And it may weigh it down. As far as appearing paled out, the blonde shade (with fair skin) could have made you look sallow, which is why you didn’t like it. The red tones added warmth to your face. Yellow can drain it.

Adjusting your makeup to white hair can be addressed by following some of the makeup tips on this site, but there are lots more tips in the book, including “Shopbox” lists of products to help restore life, vitality and subtle color to your skin. If nothing else, try a very sheer bronzing gel. You can control the amount of color, and you won’t feel overly made up. Look for some of the newest under the Beauty Basics tab, Products You Should Know About. Scroll down to the article “Be Just Beachy in a Flash.”

You’ve got some great goals, and they sound very thought-through. You are so right that looking your best is magic medicine!  I think if you look at your natural haircolor as a “bonus,” rather than an old lady thing, you’ll have a whole new attitude about it. We wish you WELL.

Posted by Diana Jewell on 07/04 at 10:27 PM

Dear Magbett- I am admiring your obvious tenacity at facing health issues. Everyone facing them sooner or later. But when we face them sooner, and they are debilitating..well, they can make you feel old. I deal with joint issues from time to time and so I know.

Ahhh..white hair.  It’s everyone’s ultimate goal here. I think you are right on target about a modern cut. Recently, I got one myself.  It was like a breath of fresh air!  I have obvious dyed ends left, but I find that they don’t bother me at all. 

Diana gave you the best product advice.  Isn’t she a gem?! 

I’m so glad you found this site, Mary Ann.  It sounds like you are on the road to recovery for your health. And your attitude and hair sound beautiful!!

Posted by Goldie on 07/05 at 05:40 AM

good morning...i don’t know how i missed this “story”...i remember seeing picture of deb but not the story...oh well glad to have found it now!!! better late than never..

well deb you look fantastic and love the icy/white…
sorry to hear about your health issues magbett but it sounds like you are over the hump and on the road to recovery...just look at our fearless leader!!!

welcome aboard…

Posted by louann on 07/05 at 05:42 AM

Hi Mary Ann

Thanks for sharing your story with us.  I can only imagine how difficult it has been for you of late.

I found it really really weird when my I first grew out my hair.  Every time I walked past the mirror I was like ‘oh my - how white is my hair!!’ But do you know what, I absolutely love it.  I agree that a funky hair cut works wonders - well it has for me and talking of skin tone - my skin tone looks fantastic now.  I too have been very blonde in the past and the blonder I got, the more sallow my skin looked.  I have hazel green eyes and wear smokey grey eyeliner - which I never used to!  I wear blusher that is much more pink based and it’s looks great.  And a raspberry lipstick really does the trick for me.  So I think you should take yourself off for a great new hair style, and treat yourself to some new makeup - I promise you it’s instant and makes you feel all sparkly and nice.  Try out some new colours in your wardrobe too - I don’t wear any of the colours I used to - my wardrobe is all turquoise, raspberry and lilac - and wearing these colours really lifts my spirits.  It’s summer now and white looks fantastic on us with a little silver jewellery.

I feel so lucky to have this hair colour - so I wear it with attitude.

You owe it to yourself Mary Ann - you deserve a gift - you have been through so much - so look at that beautiful white hair as an asset and go spoil yourself and let me know how you get on.  I think you’ll start to feel much better very soon.

Posted by Debs on 07/05 at 08:36 AM

Hi Louann - thanks for your kind comments.

Posted by Debs on 07/05 at 08:37 AM

ALL,

Thank you very much for your supportive comments along with the great tips/ideas and perspectives!

Diana, you are a Jewel.  Reading your book was one of the key reasons I decided to stay with my white hair at the very time I was considering going back to blonde. 

I have to be honest and say that I am not yet satisfied with my snow white hair though the info, pictures along with principles noted in your book plus recently finding this site have given me pause for continued consideration coupled with ideas to try out.

The photos of so many women looking fabulous with their grey/silver/white hair have been most helpful.  Debs “dazzle” shows that a “solid” white can be most distinctively attractive.  Other pics also reinforce this.  It also seems that those writing on this site and choosing natural have a wonderful sense of self.

Thanks for relating your own experience with prednisone and the “de-tox”. The fact that you were able to strengthen muscles after all the PT gives me encouragement. Hopefully I will be able to continue to reduce the prednisone to just a small amount or find a good alternative.  I’m working on that now with my wonderful “team” of doctors, PT, neuro-muscular specialists etc. If not presumptuous, I’m viewing this site and members as part of team recovery.  As noted, feeling that one looks well helps in feeling better.

I do have a “thing” about what I call the “solidness” or “monotone” ... “old ladies white”...of my hair.  Yes, part has to do with illness and now having to walk with assistance.  My hair is so white, it is more like my Aunts and still a mirror shock. I definitely want to find some “zing” or break-up monotone.

I’m pleased to see many women choosing to go natural and finding ways to look vibrantly attractive. I like the principle of being authentic. Yet grey/white can seem to add years thus info and suggestions are needed and appreciated. 

One of my brothers recently had to relocate and then had to go job hunting in a tough economy.  He had beautiful white hair (age 45) and was often taken as older.  He dyed his hair and now appears much younger. The difference is quite noticeable.

My Mother let her hair go grey and when she was ill, I had her try going back to light ash blonde.  It made a big improvement in look and outlook.  Her hair though had more grey than white and though fair skinned, blonde always looked great whereas blonde washed me out versus red.

There are cases where coloring may be best choice at the time. Also there are situations where becoming a “silver fox” - many shown here - is fabulous.

My own challenge now is to keep experimenting, with possibly some shading, ways to offset monotone or in lieu, up the “ice”, strengthen and brighten hair while playing with style, make-up and clothes/accessories colors till I feel happy with the choice of white.

By the way, the attention to improving health of my hair and especially scalp has been most beneficial… an important first priority. 

I look forward to hearing from others along with more stories and info on this site.

Thanks again
Mary Ann

Posted by magbett on 07/05 at 01:51 PM

PS, yes I did note the high/low lights in your book.  Patricia change is great.

Posted by magbett on 07/05 at 02:04 PM

Hi Debbie,

As a “Story Girl,” you’ve inspired so many of us here on GGLG. But imagine what your story could do on Oprah! As you may or may not know, Goldie is doing a write-in campaign. But it’s more than that.  As a former Oprah makeover girl herself, she knows the producers to reach and is going to send in a book of our “Letters to Oprah.” I know some of us have written individually to Oprah before, but these can get easily lost in the 20,000 emails a day the show receives.  This effort will be carefully targeted, and we will have strength in numbers. I urge you to go to the homepage, and see the “Hello, Oprah” link. Called Goldie’s Campaign, it will tell you all you need to know to share your story, once again, only this time, you may have Oprah herself reading it! Please join us in this campaign. Begin your letter “Dear Oprah,"-- and don’t forget to mention the website and/or book. Doesn’t have to be long, just from the heart. Thanks,

Posted by SoCalSilver on 08/03 at 01:09 PM

Debbie, your hair is absolutely gorgeous.  It’s the color I want (which my grandmother had) but at the age of almost 54, I don’t think I’ll live long enough to have all white.  Lucky you!!!!

Posted by Leni on 08/08 at 06:45 AM

Hi Leni

Sorry for the delay in my reply - I have been away in sunny France for a 3 week holiday - lucky me - it was great and I didn’t have to worry about roots growing through, my hair looked as good when I came home as when I went!

Thanks for your lovely comment.

Posted by Debs on 08/24 at 10:38 AM

Hi SoCalSilver

I would have loved to have made a contribution to the Letters to Oprah, but I can’t see this link on the home page and fear that I have probably missed it now.  My summer holiday in France is to blame, but if I am missing something and I can still do this, perhaps you could let me know.

Thanks.

Posted by Debs on 08/24 at 12:08 PM

I saw a lady who looked just like you in Bristol today Debbie.  I couldn’t remember if you lived in Bristol or knew if indeed it was you but the lady I saw looked so similar to your photos.  I wonder if it was you?? 

Jane xx

Posted by Jane on 11/07 at 12:09 PM

Hi Jane

Yes I do live in Bristol.  I was in Emersons Green this morning and out at the Mall in Cribbs Causeway this afternoon, so if that’s where you were too, then it probably was me you saw!  If you see me again, then say hello it would be great to meet another great grey. 

Posted by Debs on 11/07 at 01:52 PM

YES - I saw you in Cribbs Causeway then!!!  Sat halfway along the mall having a coffee this afternoon?  I thought I recognised you but was way to shy to come over and ask just in case I got it wrong.  I thought your face was familiar and remembered you were called Debbie, but wasn’t sure if you lived in Bristol.  If you were sat having a coffee then I walked right past you.  I’m sorry now I never said hello! 

Jane xx

Posted by Jane on 11/07 at 01:56 PM

Oh, too bad. It could have been a mini meet, and I would have sent you a fine GGLG baseball cap! Why don’t you guys plan one? Along with any UKer somewhere near Bristol!

Posted by Diana Jewell on 11/07 at 02:25 PM

England isn’t that small and I don’t live anywhere near Bristol!  I wasn’t 100% sure and didn’t want to appear like a nutter by going up and talking to a complete stranger!  Debbie your hair does look beautiful by the way - that’s the first thing I noticed as I am always on “grey hair alert\” even though I have brown hair and only sport a few greys. 

Jane xx

Posted by Jane on 11/07 at 03:31 PM

YES THAT WAS ME! Oh what a coincidence and what a shame you felt too shy to speak, but I know what you mean, I probably would have been exactly the same.

Do you live locally too?  If so, then perhaps we could do what Diana says and have a mini meet.  I am out the Mall every week because my daughter has a job out there and my husband and I are her taxi service!!!

I know my hair is rather white, but I am surprised I stand out that much

Debs x

Posted by Debs on 11/07 at 03:31 PM

Hi Jane

Your latest comment jumped in as I placed mine so I can see you don’t live near Bristol.  Us Brits are far too reserved sometimes aren’t we!!!

And thanks for the compliment - I can see that I do stand out in a crowd.

Debs x

Posted by Debs on 11/07 at 03:37 PM

I live in Torquay so a good two hour drive away.  I was at Cribbs raiding your John Lewis and enjoying your new Carluccio’s.  Life is not glamorous enough for such places in Torquay!!!  Am so chuffed to have seen you.  So you see - you are famous! 

Jane xx

Posted by Jane on 11/07 at 03:43 PM

We may have John Lewis and Carluccio’s but you have palm trees and life in the Riviera.

Not sure about famous - don’t think I need to worry to much about getting an agent yet

Great to hear from you though Jane - let me know if you are near Bristol again and I will let you know if I am near Torquay.

Debs x

Posted by Debs on 11/07 at 03:53 PM

Well done Debbie, I can ID with you as I decided this November and wear my hair short, so I hope my transition goes as fast as yours.  My hair also grow fast.  Your color is fabulous - I love it.

Posted by "Dare"lene on 01/07 at 06:18 AM