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I was just curious on this as there are several references in threads to wearing a pony or otherwise tying hair back for work and some people seem to feel annoyed at the suggestion, others do it voluntarily but sometimes this appears to come from a sense of obligation and avoiding confrontation rather than a positive choice. I nearly always tie my hair back for work - when it is down I often find it annoying (although strangely when it gets in the way in my own time I don't mind!).
However, by far the overriding feeling for me is that I love my hair so much that I feel it is "too good" for work, lol. I don't WANT to share it with mere mortals, hair-cut addicts, who don't understand the importance of it, lol. I often leave work and undo my hair on the way home; I think it actually helps keep work and private life separate. The idea that it's somehow more professional or "neat" (neither of which I agree with in the slightest BTW) is furthest from my mind, although I'm sure colleagues probably think that's the reason.
So, next time you feel you're being forced into tying your hair back, think of it more as keeping it for yourself and those you care about. It might even turn out to be an advantage - someone you don't like might not even recognise you in the street with your hair down OR someone you DO like might be well impressed when they see it in its full glory!
Good posting.
Thanks for replying and giving some great advice about braiding, cheers. I will try some of those things.
" I often leave work and undo my hair on the way home; I think it actually helps keep work and private life separate. The idea that it's somehow more professional or "neat" ".
Very good point. I agree and can relate to this aswell. Hence the phrase "let your hair down", which is commonly used.
I do believe there is a certain psychological factor in the wearing of a ponytail style.
It is a bit of a generalisation to say tied = work/profesional, down = relaxation/leisure/fun but it does make sense.
You could also associate tied back hair with many other things but i don't wanna over analyse something that usually doesn't have any deeper meaning. Some guys simple love the look of a ponytail, period. For myself, it is one of great practical value. I tie a pony when i work to avoid getting hair in my face. It is such a relief instead of fussing over hair and repeatedly tucking my bangs behind ears.
I am sure that in conservative office jobs there may be a pressure to 'conform' and have a professional image on display. I have not had this experience as of yet. So mine is one of practibility.
You should also consider the working environment. Food or machinery, for example. In these cases, tying it back or even covering it with a hairnet is essential for both health& safety and hygiene reasons.
Personally, I tie it back anyway as it keeps it out of my face when moving about.
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