Gwyneth Paltrow is a perfect example of an iconic blonde that has never really strayed too far from her comfort level. As I am writing this I have come to learn that Gwyneth and husband Chris Martin (of Coldplay fame) are separating. I am not sure if her separation will make her yearn for a change in her hair colour but I hope it doesn't, as a quick Google image search will show you that she has had almost the exact same shade of blonde forever! 

The secret to Gwyneth's beautiful locks partly has to be credited to her stylist and partly to the fact that she goes with what I call the California blonde. The California blonde is the hue of blonde that is neither too light or too harsh. It has hints of lighter pieces and hints of warmer pieces all blended together which create a blonde that is easy on the eye. The fact that she only alters her shade in subtle ways gives her the ability to keep her hair blonde and healthy. It has always been a debate to change your colour or not to change your colour, but there is nothing wrong with having a "signature" look that works and people identify you with. 

Ultimately there are different ways to achieve this type of look and will vary depending on how light or dark your base is. The key things to get a similar shade of blonde are to make sure your stylist is not overlapping your colour too much as this will lead to breakage and blotchy colour. Also keep in mind that the toning process is probably the most important thing to look for if going for this shade as toners not only act as colour perfection tools, they also work to add a layer of gloss to the hair that would be non existent without. I can't believe how many new clients have told me that the salon they used to go to never toned their hair! I tone my blondes 100% of the time, no compromise. Last but not least taking care of this colour with at home care products will ensure longevity. Colour care is a must and certain products such as shampoos specifically for blonde really help keep your colour looking vibrant for longer. A lightweight hair masque will also help replenish some of the moisture that has been taken out in the lightening process. 

There is something to be said about women who find the perfect colour and wear it confidently without feeling the pressure to reinvent themselves through experimenting with different shades. A close look at Gwyneth is proof that wearing a colour that works for you not only has its benefits such as keeping your hair healthy for long periods of time, but that if it isn't broken then perhaps it doesn't need fixing.