Forget the hair extensions faux pas—we’ve got you

Short hair oozes IT-girl. It's stylish and easy to manage, but sometimes, a girl just wants to switch things up and add a little extra length and volume. That’s where extensions come in! They can transform your look in minutes, giving you the luscious locks you've always dreamt of. However, if not blended properly, extensions can look anything but natural. And let's be real—no one wants to end up with extensions that scream "tacky."

Blending short hair with extensions is an art, but it's an art that anyone can master with the right tips and tricks. Whether you're aiming for subtle volume or dramatic length, the key to a flawless finish lies in the *details*. From choosing the right type and color of extensions to mastering the application techniques—every step is as important as the other in achieving that seamless blend.

Remember Angelina Jolie's infamous hair extension mishap at the Rome Film Festival in 2021? That’s exactly what we’re here to help you avoid—sorry Ange! We want you to feel confident and fabulous every time you rock your extensions. So, whether you're a newbie experimenting for the first time or a hair extension queen looking for new tricks—our ultimate guide is designed to help you blend short hair with extensions like a true cool girl.

 

Before blending, here is everything you need to know about extensions 

 

Alright, babes, let’s talk extensions! Before learning the ins, outs, and magic of blending, we need to get the basics right. Picking the right type of extensions is like choosing the perfect pair of jeans—fit, comfort, and style are everything. Just ask Levi’s. 

 

Types of extensions

Clip-ins: These are the BFFs of the extension world. Perfect for quick changes and zero commitment. Clip-ins snap in and out with ease, making them ideal for those spontaneous nights out or when you just feel like adding some glam. The downside? If you don't place them just right, they might feel bulky and unblended. But don’t worry, we’ll get to the placement tricks later!

 

Tape-ins: These are your low-key, semi-permanent friends. They lie flat and blend seamlessly, making them perfect for that “is it her hair or just magic?” look. They’re lightweight and comfy, but you’ll need a pro to put them in and take them out—and your stylist needs to get that blend absolutely *perfect*.

 

Sew-ins: Also known as weaves, these are for the committed girlies among us. Sew-ins offer stability and are fab for thicker hair types. They last a while, so if you’re planning on rocking extensions for a longer period, these are your go-to. Just remember, a salon visit is a must for both the application and removal—meaning you don’t need to stress about the blending on this one. 

 

Other types: There’s also micro-link and fusion extensions for those who want to go all out. They offer long-lasting results but definitely need a pro touch for both putting them in and maintenance. Perfect for those who love a more permanent hair romance.

 

Choosing the right colors

Color matching is like finding your soulmate—it’s the biggest part of getting that perfect blend. Here’s how to get it just right when it comes to color.

 

Match your shade: Though it may sound obvious, extensions should be a seamless continuation of your natural hair. If your hair is a blend of highlights and lowlights, pick extensions that mirror this. Multi-tonal extensions are a lifesaver here!

 

Custom-dyed extensions: Got a unique color? No problem! Custom-dyed extensions are the way to go for you girls. This ensures they match perfectly and blend like a dream.

 

Tips for color blending: When in doubt, go slightly darker with your extensions. They blend better with your roots and give a natural shadow effect. Plus, it’s always easier to darken extensions than lighten them—because bleach is a point of no return (tell it to our teenage selves!). 

 

Quality matters

Let’s state the obvious—quality is everything, just like with our purses. High-quality extensions not only look more natural, but they also last longer and blend better with your hair. Here’s why you should invest in the best quality extensions when you’re looking for a seamless, salon-worthy blend.

 

Why quality counts: Cheap extensions might seem like a bargain, but they can end up looking synthetic and tangle easily. High-quality extensions, like ours from The Lauren Ashtyn Collection, are made from premium materials that look and feel like your own hair. Oh, and those synthetic choices? You’ll be spending hours getting through those knots, trust us. 

 

Durability: Quality extensions put up with all the stresses of styling and washing much better, keeping you looking fab all night long. They’re less prone to shedding and tangling—which means less maintenance for you and more time doing things you love (glass of wine, anyone?). 

 

Comfort: You invest in your extensions, then you’ll be investing in yourself. Brilliant quality extensions are far more comfortable to wear day in and out. They’re lighter, less bulky, and integrate seamlessly with your natural hair—making you forget you’re even wearing them.

 

Right, you’ve been there, got the T-shirt (or in our case, extensions), and now you’re ready to blend like a haircare queen. Let’s get going on everything you need to know to skip the mishaps and have the hair that swishes perfectly. 

 

It’s all about the prep

Okay, glam squad. It’s time to prep your hair for those gorgeous extensions. Just like painting your face starts with a primed canvas, blending extensions flawlessly begins with your natural hair being in tip-top shape. Here are our pointers to get it looking fresh and ready for those mermaid extensions. 

 

Cutting and trimming

Trimming your natural hair: If your hair is super short, you might think skipping a trim is the way to go, but hear us out. A neat, shaped cut can actually help extensions blend *way* better. Consider soft layers or a textured end to help your short strands melt seamlessly with your extensions.

 

Trimming your extensions: Yes, sometimes even your extensions need a little haircut. If they’re a tad too long or the ends are too blunt, a quick trim can work wonders. For the best results, have your stylist tailor them while they're clipped into your hair. This personalized approach ensures that the extensions mirror the natural fall of your hair and blend like a dream.

 

Styling tools and products

It’s a no-brainer that you’ll need a hair tool to blend those extensions from home, so here’s our rundown on all things *hot*. 

 

– Flat iron: Perfect for sleek styles and making sure your natural hair and extensions are on the same sleek page.

– Curling iron or wand: Ideal for creating waves that will disguise the line between your hair and the extensions.

– Blow dryer: With a round brush, you can add volume and blend the roots seamlessly.

 

Products to help with blending

– Heat protectant: If there is one thing you can learn from us, it’s that you should always, always, always start with a heat protectant. This is crucial for preventing damage to both your natural hair and your extensions.

– Volumizing mousse: Apply it at the roots to give your hair a little lift and texture, which helps in camouflaging the clips of the extensions.

– Lightweight serum or oil: Use this to smooth out the ends and add that extra silky touch that makes your locks look naturally blended.

 

Our top tip—When styling, remember that heat can be your bestie, but only when used correctly. Keep the temperature on medium-low to avoid damaging the extensions. We promise, your hair will thank you!

 

We’re *almost* there, and by now, your hair should be perfectly prepped and primed—ready to take on those extensions like a girl boss. With your natural haircut to blend and your beauty cabinet of tools at the ready, let’s get to the bottom of extension blending.

 

How to blend extensions 

Now that your hair is snipped and styled to perfection, it's showtime—let’s get those extensions in place. Oh, and this isn't just about clipping them in randomly. It's about strategic placement and savvy sectioning. Here’s how to make sure your mane transformation looks utterly effortless and the main goal? Natural. 

 

Sectioning 

It’s all about sectioning: Proper sectioning is the secret sauce to natural-looking extensions. It ensures each clip-in blends smoothly with your hair, hiding the fact that not all that volume and length is yours (shh, it’ll be our little secret).

 

How to do it: Start by sectioning off your hair from the bottom up. Use a tail comb to create clean lines around your scalp, and clip the rest of your hair away. This bottom layer is where your first set of extensions will clip in. Think of it as laying the foundation of a building—stable and well-placed.

 

Layering 

Creating the illusion: Remember, the goal is for no one to guess you’ve got helpers in your hair. Layering your extensions is key. Clip them at different lengths and slightly overlap them as you move up your head. This staggered placement helps to create a natural flow of hair that mimics how your real hair grows and layers.

 

How to do it: Just like adding highlights to your hair, think about where the sun would naturally lighten your hair and apply the extensions in a way that mimics this natural layering. It’s all about visual deception—making it look as though your hair suddenly has more volume and length naturally. This may be tricky, so take this to your stylist and watch them work their magic. 

 

Positioning 

The worst thing is having someone spot your extensions because they weren’t placed right—it’s what nightmares are made of. To avoid this, never place extensions too close to the hairline or near the temples. Keep them under wraps by positioning them where your natural hair can cover them easily, especially when you pull your hair up or tuck it behind your ears.

 

Make sure each clip snaps securely onto your hair and feels comfortable for you. They shouldn’t pull at your roots or slide down, and by adding a little backcombing at the root where you’re about to clip in can provide extra grip and security for your extensions.

 

These application techniques will make your new length and volume look like they've always been a part of your natural hair. Learning the nuances of sectioning, layering, and positioning may not be the funnest part of your day, but mark our words—this is your haircare Bible and can do no wrong. 

 

How to blend extensions with short blunt hair

Once your extensions are securely in place, the next step is all about making everything look like it naturally belongs to you. Whether you're rocking a chic blunt cut or just want that seamless celebrity-style blend, the right styling techniques can be your best, best friends. 

The challenge: Blunt cuts can be tricky because the sharp, straight ends tend to showcase where your natural hair stops and the extensions begin. But fear not, there’s a stylish solution for everything.

How to do it: Grab your trusty curling iron or straightener. Start by curling or straightening your natural hair and the extensions together. This helps the textures merge, creating a more blended, picture-perfect look. Think of it as blending your foundation with a beauty blender—you can’t have that concealer not melting in under the eye, now can we?

 

Set, style, and conquer

And there you have it! Just like with your makeup, you’re now a blending pro ready to ditch any hair care woes. With your newfound knowledge on blending short hair with extensions, you’re not just clued up on looking good—you’re ready to make every day a standout hair day. Let’s be honest, blending extensions seamlessly into short hair transforms not just your look, but your whole vibe—turning a basic hair day into one that looks like you’ve gone and had a fresh blowout. 

From the extensions you choose to the cut and color, every decision matters when it comes to achieving that flawless blend. Consult with a stylist, ensure your extensions are expertly blended, and you’ll never have to worry about a red carpet disaster—hallelujah!  Ready, set, conquer, your best hair day is just a blend away.