Ann Van Weaver is style crush material. She’s 33, lives in Eastown and is a stylist at Brindle & Blonde salon, 600 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids. A stylist for more than 10 years, she creates with her hands, enjoys craft beer and likes to see as many bands as possible.
What’s a current hair trend that you like these days?
I like lived-in hair, nothing too coiffed. Soft wave, melted color, ombré and sombre. ’90s influence, shaved underneath, neon, pastel. Straight iron is out. Don’t fight your hair. Learn to live with what you have. I love the direction hair is going. People are seeing hair for what it is — an accessory, you wear it every day. But just like accessories, you need to change it up. It is something you should not be afraid to spend good money on. If you can rock designer handbags and shoes, you should also go to a high end hair salon.
You recently had a neon yellow, shaved side hairstyle. Where did you get the inspiration to do that?
A lot of hot tattoo gals wear their hair like mine is now. I probably stole the look from one of them. My sides are so fine; I might as well shave them. I don’t really take my hair too serious. It’s more like play.
Why did you get into styling hair?
I am a hands-on creative. I would need finishing school if corporate America ever were to accept me in.
Who are some style icons you keep an eye on or look to for inspiration?
Women like Iris Apfel and Tilda Swinton — because style is ageless. I don’t want to be put into an “age appropriate” bracket. And I don’t mean I want to wear miniskirts and crop tops in my sixties. I just want to have green hair, piercings and tattoos and wear whatever feels right at any age. I also like to keep an eye on these ladies: Rachel Zoe, Nicole Richie and Gwen Stefani.
Can you breakdown your personal style into three words?
Rock ‘n’ roll, grunge, boho.
Should people push boundaries with their personal fashion picks?
I like experimental looks. When you look at something and question it you may be on to something. I think this area tends to play it safe with fashion. I would like to see more self-expression out there. It has a ripple effect.
We all want to improve on our personal style. What advice do you have in that area?
Start by asking yourself the questions, “who am I?” and “what expresses that?” Trends come and go, but what makes you uniquely you? Get the basics and work from there. You can always play things up or down with accessories.
Visit brindleandblonde.com to book an appointment with Ann.
More at @Annthensome on Instagram.
