Why didn't anyone warn me that wigs aren't all that comfortable? While I'm a true believer in the saying "comfort for the sake of fashion"-- having endured salsa dancing in 3-inch spiked heels, bare legs in 30-degree weather, and bras that wear like a boa constricter-- I've learned that everyone has their limits. I reached mine on Friday after less than one day of wigging it.
I made it through eight hours at the office with the brunette tresses, but later in the day and especially at the pub, I'd grown weary of running to the bathroom to check on the hair. So, I approached the four tables I was serving.
"Hi, this is a little awkward but... Do you mind if I lose the rug? See, I shaved my head the other day and this wig is about to drive me crazy..."
After a few strange looks and a couple laughs, my customers graciously agreed that the wig should come off. And, it's stayed off ever since. Cocktail waitressing, eating out at a trendy sushi restaurant, grocery shopping, running meetings at the office, banking, housecleaning -- I'm doing it all in the raw. And, it isn't as bad as you'd think.
Sure, I have gotten more than my share of double takes. I have heard parents whispering to children warning them not to stare. But overall, I am surprised by how positive most folks have been. Maybe it's more that friends and strangers are just being kind. But that, in itself, is a wonderful statement about people.
Bolstered by all the goodwill, I decided to e-mail Max the photos from Thursday night's head shaving and then anxiously waited for his phone call.
"Wow! I knew you'd look good, but you're sexier than I imagined," he said.
"Huh? Very funny, Max." I retorted,
"I'm being serious. Better be glad that I'm in California right now, because you'd be in so much trouble," Max teased. "Hey! Do you mind if I e-mail these to my friends? I want them to see how beautiful you are. I am so proud of you."
Maybe Max was just being kind, too. Though, I am not so sure. All weekend at the pub I was bombarded by men trying to hit on me. Personally, I don't see the attraction and could easily blame it on alcohol consumption. But then again, perhaps my change in hairstyle sends a signal that I am the adventurous sort of gal. What do you think? Why is it that men (other than Utenzi) seem to be digging the new look?
Regardless, there are a few things I am sure about when it comes to my bald head. First, I am probably going to have to hit someone the next time he or she calls me Sinead O'Conner or goes to rub my head without permission. And second, that it will be a very sweet, if not adventurous, reunion with Max come Sunday.
Credits
2 comments:
The positive vibe coming from strangers might be due to their assumption that you're having chemo or radiation, Diane. It's what I assume when I see a woman over 30 without hair--unless it's obviously a cultural statement.
As for the men--well, as you insinuate, I just don't get it. Most black men do shaved head very well, some white guys can pull it off but not many women.
I'm quite curious to see if you reach any conclusions, Diane, about why so many guys are hitting on you now that you're bold and bald. By the way, I'm very happy that you're adapting to the new look so well, Diane, and that Max is quite supportive as well.
Wow Mandy, You are so amazing. I'm shocked that you are surprised that you would be beautiful without hair. I knew you would and I think it's really cool that you have decided to bare it all. I have to say that you are the coolest chick in the blogosphere and I am so happy to have been able to read about these things. You really do inspire me. I'm sending warm wishes your way!
Post a Comment