Reality on Bravo

Just in case there was any doubt in your mind…

AE: I’m sure your admirers were thrilled to learn from the reunion show that you’re available, although they weren’t given any indication exactly to whom you were available. Bravo had told us months ago that you are openly gay — why were you not comfortable answering the question at the reunion?
A: I am gay and very proud of being gay. I have lived my life openly as a gay man for most of my life. But, whether I am gay or not should have no bearing on my talent or skills. My personal life is just that - PERSONAL.

Well said, Anthony. You can read the article in its entirety here.

I’m actually really happy that Anthony didn’t answer that question. The show in general could have focused on being gay, and the producers chose not to, which, in my opinion, was really classy. In the final three, Daisy is a lesbian, Anthony is a gay man, and Ben is straight, but none of that had anything to do with how they preformed. It would have been easy to say, “Oh, it’s hairstyling and he’s gay” but they didn’t.

I really enjoyed this new show. I thought that the gay issue was just one of the things that the producers handled very well. The judges were refreshingly accurate (as opposed to the travesty that was Top Design), and the cast was fun and full of legitimately great hairdressers. I also got less of a feel that the show was “staged.” It would have been great tv to see Tabatha and Tyson have a showdown in the finale, but the fact was that they just didn’t preformed and the best level and so, were kicked off.

Their final decision, to give the money/prizes to Anthony, was a good one, I think. I was cheering for Daisy, but her hairstyles this episode were just…bleh. Not good choices at all! Ben really put himself out there and had a great concept, but I think Anthony won because of experience. All in all, it was a fun season, and I hope the show will be back for a second season!

Shear Genius, reality television, reality tv, Bravo, gay, lesbian

This week’s episode of Shear Genius had the “shocker” (that they’d been advertising all week…) of sending two people home instead of one. The contestants were put onto teams, and the worst team effort overall was given to Tabatha and Tyson, who were both sent packing.

The big question in my mind was, “Is that fair to Tabatha?”

Ok, of course I’m a bit biased here because she was my favorite contestant, but at the same time, looking at the situation objectively, I’m not sure she deserved that “final cut” sentence that she was given. At this point, it doesn’t seem fair to me that they had to work on teams. At the beginning it may have worked fine, but when nearing the end of the competition like that, it’s not right to make contestants place their fate in the hands of others. For the shortcut challenge, it was a good idea, but it didn’t need to go any farther than that. I would have rather seen a time increase to 4 hours and them have to do all 3 people themselves. That makes much more sense to me.

On the other hand, Tabatha’s styling work is not usually to to par. She does amazing technical cutting work, but in my opinion, she’s a bit boring with it comes to updos. Not only that, but she has no people stills. She’s consistently rude to clients, and I was downright shocked to hear her cursing out Tyson as she was working on the matron of honor’s hair. If you don’t like the guy, that’s fine, but people don’t need to hear you saying “f this” and “f that.” The judges were right–had this been the real “big day,” her attitude would have ruined the atmosphere. Tyson did not stoop to that level, although that may have been edited out.

Yes, Tyson served to go home. That French twist was horrendous and he didn’t really DO anything with the mother’s hair. Perhaps Ben should have gone home as well, simply because he does not have the skills. However, there are four people going into the finals, so I think that it’s very likely that the short cut next week will also be an elimination.

That said, for her poor attitude, Tabatha going home was a good choice. A hairdresser doesn’t have to be like Dr. Boogie or Daisy to succeed, but she/he does have to have a bit of grace and friendliness.

P.s. Daisy’s bridal hair was AMAZING. I want my hair like that at MY wedding someday!

Shear Genius, Bravo, hairstyles

Today, as I was flipping through the channels, I saw none other than Jim, from top design, doing the hair for make-overs on the Montel Williams show. The end results were fabulous, and I definitely found myself wishing that Jim could do my hair. In fact, there are lots of people on Shear Genius who I would love to meet for a hair stylin’ session!

What about you?

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Shear Genius, Bravo, hairstyles, hair

This week’s show was one of my favorites so far! In the short cut challenge, the contestants were asked to take a long-haired “geek” guy and turn him into someone “sheek.” Ok, a little cheesy, but I was impressed by the results! In the end, my girl Tab came out victorious, although truth be told, I think Dr. Boogie deserved to win. Tabatha’s haircut was impressive, but Boogie’s overall change was AMAZING. I don’t think that his guy will have a problem getting the ladies now!

For the elimination challenge, the contestants each got a box filled with hair accessories that were from a specific period. As the winner, Tabatha got to assign the boxes. I think she made good choices in general, because she gave a lot of the more difficult styles to her major competitors. Here are the runway results:

Tyson

I was soooo impressed with this. Tyson ended up winning the challenge (which means he’ll be eliminated next week if you look at the trends). I could totally see this hairstyle in any period movie, and although I think “weasel” is a good nickname for him, he did deserve to win this one. Tab’s comment that he’s a Figjam (F*** I’m good, just ask me) is spot on, though! I actually laughed out loud during the short cut challenge listening to him talk!

Tabatha

Having first pick, I was surprised that Tabatha choose 80s Punk Rock. I mean, it’s fun, but not really impressive because, like she said, people generally did this style at home. I do think that it took some talent to get the hair to stand on end, but there were so many other less predictable things she could have done, so I was a bit disappointed.

Danna

Did Danna crack under pressure or what? This hairstyle was sad. I mean, it had a 1940s feel, but in a way that makes you want to forget the 1940s. There were really so many sexy things she could have done. I’m sad to see her go, but it was the right choice.

Dr. Boogie

It’s pretty clear that Dr. Boogie didn’t really know want medieval was, and yet he busted it out. I didn’t like how the braids looked in the front–if he wanted to do that many, he should have kept the part down the middle. However, it was a good attempt and pretty in the end, so I’m glad that he’s staying

Anthony

Oh Anthony. How could you forget the bump? When I saw her walking down the runway, I was like “Where’s the bump??” Which was then also asked by the judges. His style was cute, but a little blah. It looked easy–like I could do it to myself at home.

Ben

It’s pretty clear that Ben doesn’t have a lot of updo skills–his curls were falling flat and such–but overall, this was cute, and totally reminded me of the 1920s. Ben has a great spirit, too. Again, I was laughing out loud when he made the comment about the dancing frog! I’m glad he’s still around, but I don’t see him being a contended in the end.

Daisy

Spectacular. This was soooooo pretty and, like Tyson’s, I could see it in any period movie. I think she got a good box from Tabatha, because this is totally her style, and I think Daisy will be sticking around (if she doesn’t crack under pressure or talk to much!)

Shear Genius, Bravo, hairstyles, reality television

With Shear Genius’ popularity, its only natural that the blogosphere (and other news sources) are buzzing with excitement about the contestants on the show. One that has been getting some press time for the wrong reasons, in my opinion, is Dr. Boogie.

The controversy is surrounding the comment Boogie made during the first episode where he said he wasn’t gay. That’s being called into question, not because he’s been shown to have a boyfriend or has come out saying that he was gay. Most bloggers (myself included) have joked about certain people (like Matt, from Top Design) being gay. Looking at things more closely, though, where do the jokes end and the seriousness begin? Some reports about Boogie’s sexuality, I feel, are going a bit to far.

The real problem here is that “being gay” is riddled with stereotypes. Dr. Boogie fits into these stereotypes, but that make him gay. Some of these stereotypes include:

1. A feminine career (Dr. Boogie is a hairdresser)

2. A lisp

3. Being “oversexed” (Dr. Boogie has made sexual-ish comments)

4. Joking in a homosexual way

5. Not talking about a straight significant other

I guess, what I’m trying to say is that just because someone fits into stereotypes does not make them gay. It can be hurtful to assume otherwise, and although most people just joke around, sometimes the jokes go too far. Too many people still think that being gay is wrong and offensive, and calling someone gay (or anything else stereotypical) just furthers these poor public opinions. If I’ve been hurtful in any way, my apologies.

Otherwise, please be careful about what you say and write on and off line!

Let me just give you a quick rundown of the show, in case you missed it: The shortcut challenge is to create an easy day to night look. Danna wins. Dr. Boogie’s poor model loses all of her hair. They go to the spa. Tabatha has confirmed that she pretty much hates Tyson, Evangeline, and Daisy, but likes Anthony and thinks Danna and Ben are ok. She doesn’t know what to think of Dr. Boogie. Evangelina has decided to use hedge clippers from now on because she thinks…it’s cool? Everyone else disagrees, especially Tab. The elimination challenge is to create a red carpet hairstyle. Ben panics. Boogie is overly confident. Here are the finished styles:

Tyson

This just looks a little unfinished to me. I’m not a fan of Tyson for the same reasons Tabatha dislikes him–he thinks that he’s too cool for school.

Evangelin

Hedge clipper fiasco or not, I liked this. Ok, the tendrils were a little much…but out of all of the styles, this is one of the few that I’d actually wear. I didn’t like the blonde back, but I liked that she used curly and straight together.

Tabatha

Eh. It’s ok. Not really my style, and not really something that looks refined enough for the red carpet.

Danna

The style is nice…for my grandmother. Really, it looks sophisticated, but too old lady for me. I was surprised that Danna won.

Dr. Boogie

Boogie really thought his style all the way through, which was nice, but with the overall package, her head looked like it was shaped weird! I would let him style my hair for a red carpet event, though. If nothing else, he has great precision with his styling–there is not a hair out of place, ever.

Anthony

I agreed with the judges on this one–it would have been great for a fashion shoot, but red carpet? Nah.

Ben

I am glad that Ben stayed. He was cute when he got the giggles at the end during elimination! Oh, I definitely thought that his style was the worst by far, but you know what? This challenge asked him to work with an African American (which he has not done), do a red carpet up do (which he has not done), and work with…what was that, a weave? In any case, it would be like asking a chef on Top Chef to do pastry when he’s never tried it before.

Daisy

I liked this concept, and I think that with a little more time, it could have been perfect. I’d where it, and it was my boyfriend’s favorite of the night.

So, Evangeline went home, bawling (saw that coming), and with humility. I had to say, I’ll miss her antics. Who was your favorite of the show?

Shear Genius, Bravo, hairstyles, reality television

As part of national Take Our Sons and Daughters to Work Day, I’ve invited my younger sister, Jess, and my younger cousin, Katie, to review this week’s episode of Shear Genius! Neither of them get Bravo channel at home, but they went online to view the pictures of the finished product, and I have to say–some of their comments match up exactly to what the judges had to say!

And so, without further ado, the Shear Genius review by Katie and Jess:

Tyson

Katie: This hair style looks like bed-head and not done. It looks flat. I don’t like the color ether.

Jess: At first glance, I thought “Oh that’s really cute!” But then I looked at it again and the proportions started to bother me. The one side is nice and flowing, but the other looks very square and clean cut. Pick one or the other dude.

My two cents? Katie and Jess are right on! Tyson had first pick of model and of cutting instrument, and his hairstyle ended up looking flat and uneven. How does this guy always win the short cut challenge and they fail miserably at the elimination challenge?

Evangelin

Katie: I like a lot but it is not MY style. It looks great on her though!!

Jess: I like the idea of this one but not the execution. The color is beautiful really brings out her eyes but you can’t really see one of them because it’s hiding in the shadow of her bangs. It also bothers me that some of her hair is flipped in and some of it is flipped out.

My two cents? This was my favorite cut of the night and I still can’t believe she did it with hedge clippers! I think Katie hit the nail on the head when she said that even if its not your style, you can appreciate it!

Tabatha

Katie: I like this one a lot to! I love the layers and the length.

Jess: I like this one. It looks nice on her. Finally a cut with a cute set of bangs! I only thing I would have done differently is make it I little bit shorter so it’s above her shoulders, but that’s just my preference.

My two cents? Tab’s in it to win it. She gets my vote–she’s frank and hardworking, and I can really admire her tenacity.

Theodore

Katie: I do not like this at all. Especially with the high lights! NOT FOR ME OR ANY ONE ELSE!!

Jess: I don’t really like this one, but I’m not really sure why. I think it looks too much like a giant mass of hair. You can’t really see what the cut looks like. It reminds me of my hair in the morning if I wash it the night before and forget about brushing it. A giant puffball. The color looks nice though. Other than that I just don’t really know what to think.

My two cents? Sorry, having trouble giving it–I’m still laughing of the image in my head of my little sister’s hair in the morning! Let’s just say I totally agree with the girls on this one. It was Theo’s night to go!

Danna

Katie: I do not like it at all! What were they thinking when they put her hair in front of her face like that? Also it is to short. I would not wear that at all.

Jess: I don’t really liking this one at all. Her hair is completely covering half of her face. The color isn’t bad except she looks like she hasn’t gotten her hair colored in a while and her roots are growing out. It looks a little sloppy.

My two cents? Again, I have to agree with the girls. Danna, what have you been thinking lately? I had high hopes for you!

Dr. Boogie

Katie: It’s okay. It’s to short but I do like the little bit of hair in her face though.

Jess: I like the idea of this cut but not the execution. It looks really sloppy. The part isn’t straight and it’s really frizzy. It’s not a lot wrong, but it make a big impact on how the style looks.

My two cents? What the girls didn’t see is that Dr. Boogie admits that he’s been playing it safe. They picked up on that, though–Boogie’s hair is “ok,” but not that great. He has potential that he’s not showing us!

Anthony

Katie: I don’t like the bangs but I like the style of layers. I would wear it if there were no bangs.

Jess: This hairstyle is definitely not my favorite. After just looking at it for a second or so I already am not a fan of it. The bangs are to long. The rest of the hair cut doesn’t even look even. When you look at the camera straight on, the haircut should look mostly symmetrical.

My two cents? His cut was an improvement on the original hair. It’s ok. I do think that Anthony has the potential to make it to the finals now that I’ve seen a few of his cuts.

Ben

Katie: I love it! The color and the style of her bangs to the side tike that. I would wear that style.

Jess: This hair cut looks really nice for the model. The color looks very natural and it makes her eye color stand out. The style seems to fit her very well. I wouldn’t really want this style myself but it looks great on this women.

My two cents? I tend to disagree a bit to the girls–it’s ok, but not my favorite. It is better than many of the others, howerver!

Daisy

Katie: I like the choppy look. I would wear it gladly.

Jess: This style reminds me of Ben’s only more youthful and carefree. If I could pull it off I’d get my hair cut like that. The only problem I see is that her hair is a little frizzy. Daisy’s hairstyle is my favorite by far. It’s youthful and flowing. But
best of all the bangs look nice! Most of the styles that with bangs didn’t look right because the bangs looked funny. Daisy got the bangs and the whole picture just right.

My two cents? Is Jess channeling the judges or what?!?! That is pretty much exactly what they said about Daisy. The “choppy” look Katie is talking about is due to Daisy using box cutter to cutting the hair. I’m impressed, and even though she talks a lot, I like Daisy.

Thanks, girls, for a GREAT review! I love you both!

hair style, Shear Genius, Jaclyn Smith, Bravo, reality television

This Thursday is Take Our Sons and Daughters to Work Day in the United States. As part of the celebration, may blogs on the 451 Press network will be written by kids–our guests for the day! Reality on Bravo is part of this celebration, and my little sister, Jessica, and younger cousin, Kaitlyn, will be signing on this Thursday to give you their review of Shear Genius!

It should be a lot of fun, so write yourself a note to check back then for their take on the Dos and Donts of the Day!

Lacey

Nice, but a little blah. I mean, anyone can really do that if you ask me. I feel like I could do that style with a box of hair color and a curling iron on myself. It was Jennifer-ish…but not really. Blah.
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Tyson

I have the same gripe about Tyson–it’s just a little boring for me. Honestly, I think that he’s someone with lots of potential, but he’s kinda getting lost in this competition because his personality isn’t standing out. You look at him and are like “What was his name again?” Nothing makes him that special.
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Jim

Good lord. Honestly, if I were going to Gwen someone in 2 hours, I would bleach the front as much as possible and worry about style. Gwen is ALL about style. I mean, who cares about color? Here hair’s been every single color under the sun.
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Evangelin

Cute, cute cute! I knew Evangelin would be in the top three this week–she made a good choice looking at the wall of contestants, and the cut was fabulous. I’d totally let her do my hair!
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Tabatha

I have to admit it–as scary as this lady seem to be, she knows her stuff. In my opinion, she should have won. Her color was beautiful, and that cut was amazing…and all in two hours.
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Theodore

*laughs at judge’s armpit comment* Oh gee, Theodore…what happened tonight. First, he was so cocky about his color, and then he did this hurried plain-Jane look. I’m not a fan of this hair cut at all. The color is cute, but I also think he got lucky and it turned out alright at the last minute. It looks nothing like Jessica Simpson.
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Danna

I like this hairstyle, but really, it’s not all that different than the model’s original hair. I mean, it’s lightened, and of course it’s styled, but when the girl washes it out at home and does it herself…it won’t look much different. I think she’ll be disappointed. There’s some real potential here, so I hope to see better things from Danna.
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Dr. Boogie

Dr. Boogie is constantly playing it safe. He amazed me in the coloring short cut competition tonight, because he made a mistake and turned her hair blue and then had enough time to fix it. That said, I think he needs to step it up a little bit. I like his cuts and styles, and if he boosts just one notch, I think he can really blow everyone away.
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Anthony

Sexy. Polished. Fun. Anthony’s cut really was great. Top three? Definitely. Winner? Eh. I still think Tabatha deserved the win on this one. I do have faith in Anthony’s instincts, though, and I think he’ll make it to the end.
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Ben

I loved Ben’s color, but the style was just off…which is really fun because Ben said early in the show tonight that he doesn’t do a lot of color, he’s more into cut and style. Here, thought, it just doesn’t work for the girl. It’s Ok. It isn’t hideous. I just think he could have done better, especially since he was one of the three that knew ahead of time what his client wanted.
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Daisy

Hunny, if that was my client, I would have said “Look, some people might think I’m a bitch, but this is a competition and you’re going to listen to me. Her client was a total jerk though, especially on the runway. I mean, even if you aren’t happy with the style, you work it. I’m glad Daisy stayed though…I like her, even if she does talk a lot!
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Ok, as is usual from the second episode of a reality show, my clear favorites/least favorites are beginning to appear. They’re still changing a bit as I get to know the stylists’ personalities a bit more (which may not even be their true personalities, because we all know how Bravo likes to play the characters!).

hair style, Shear Genius, Jaclyn Smith, Bravo, reality television

Don’t forget to tune in to Shear Genius tomorrow night and every Wednesday at 10 on Bravo!

Bravo, Shear Genius

Jaclyn Smith, one of the original Charlie’s Angels, is the new host of Bravo’s Shear Genius. In a recent interview With Zap 2 It, she talked about the show and her personal hair style.

“When I saw the garden shears, the box cutters, I was then in awe of all the stylists,” Smith tells Zap2it.com. “I thought that was fun. I really, really liked that. That probably was my favorite.” READ MORE

Garden shears!?! Box cutters!?! I’m pretty open about my hair style, but there’s not why I’d let someone come at me with that kind of thing!

Jaclyn Smith, Charlie’s Angels, Shear Genius, hair styles, Bravo, reality television

Bravo’s Top Design is coming to an end (thank God), but its being replaced with what looks like an equally horrible reality show, Shear Genius. C’mon people, bring back Project Runway and Top Chef for more seasons and forget the other crap. And where is Queer Eye?!?

Whatever.

Anyway, although most of Bravo’s reality shows have had a few international players, Shear Genius is really mixing it up with 4 of the 12 contestants being from overseas (France, England, South Africa, and Australia). One of the judges is also originally from Denmark. You can head over to Pop Buzz UK for an international viewpoint on reality television and all things pop culture.

Look for more on Shear Genius in the coming weeks as Top Design comes to an end. And by end, I mean death. And by death, I mean suicide.

Shear Genius, Top Design, pop culture