Personal Branding | Frankie Hair Toppers and Wigs

You know that feeling you get when you meet someone and you just click?

Well, then you know what it was like connecting with Karen from Frankie Human Hair Toppers & Wigs. I was so intrigued by what she does and to discover just how life changing her real human hair toppers and wigs can be for someone living with any kind of hair loss.

Karen really wanted to portray confidence, positivity and happiness - the key message being that you can still live a normal and full life despite experiencing hair loss.

Karen herself, is the epitome of her customer. She is vibrant, full of life and has such a warmth about her that is contagious.

Make sure to check out her beautiful wigs at www.frankiehairtoppers.com

Follow her here @frankiehairtoppers in Instagram.

We also did product shots for her wigs and toppers, packaging, care card and a few sponsored items like sun hats from Canopy Bay by Deborah Hutton and hair care from Pure Haircare

I also invited Karen to be part of the Becoming project - scroll down for her interview.

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Shot at the gorgeous Casa Blanca Location House Sydney

Hair & make up & assist by our lovely Leora Bekk Artistry

How Karen made her images work for her website (not designed by me).

What would you like the world to know about you?

(Karen, 56) I began my career in the financial sector overseas but was ultimately drawn to the healthcare profession.I’ve always been passionate about helping others and work to strive for a good outcome for healthcare clients, particularly those suffering Mental Health. Working in a hospital setting and due to COVID-19, I have seen a huge increase in MH presentations and we need to provide further support for those suffering this condition.  

My hobby is cooking, it gives me a chance to be imaginative and indulge in some ‘play’ time for adults.

That I suffer from a condition called Female Pattern Hair Loss and have done for over 30 years.

What do you do for a living?

I work as an ED Nurse at a small but very busy hospital in Sydney.  Prior to this, I was in Palliative Care.  I am also the owner of Frankie Hair Toppers which produces beautiful 100% remy human hair toppers and wigs for women undergoing any type of hair loss. I've suffered with female pattern hair loss for over 30 years and I know that it can be very disempowering and a lonely place it can be hence the creation of Frankie.  Frankie aims to bring back self-education, self-confidence and happiness to women who suffer hair loss.

I also am a role model, taxi and counsellor to my 20 year old daughter :)

What do you think are the best and worst parts about ageing?

The best part about ageing is that I've grown into myself and have become more confident as the years roll by.  I've gotten to know my true self and tend not to worry about what others think or try to please or impress them.

Becoming more aware of and listening to my body and giving it what it needs.  I'm focusing on trying to keep in good shape for the future especially with declining hormone levels and the associated risks we are prone to.  When I look in the mirror, I now smile at my lines and wrinkles, realising they are a part of who I am.

Having so much more respect for your parents and particularly now having my own family, I can associate what they sacrificed for us.  They were wonderful role models and am very thankful.  

The worst part of ageing is realising how quickly time flies in the blink of an eye.  When you are young, you are carefree and worry free.  When you get to a certain age and you think to yourself "where have all the years gone?". To me, it only feels like yesterday I had no cares, worries or responsibilities.

Not being as agile as I once used to be!

Working in ED/Palliative Care, I've come to realise how fragile we are as human beings and how life can be taken from us so quickly and the devastation it leaves behind. I have become more grateful and feel blessed as each year passes.

How do you look after yourself and do you have a self-care go-to?

Over the years, I have found that my self-care, go-to regime is yoga, meditation and walking.  I have 2 beautiful rescue dogs and I walk with them on a daily basis by the river. I find that this works wonders when I have had the busiest of days.  It's also important to recognise that there are times when you are able to totally switch off - that includes your mobile too!

Having such fair skin, I tend to burn very easily so I ensure I use an SPF 40 on a daily basis as well as a broad-brimmed hat.  I only use a natural skin care range and ensure I have regular facials.

I treat my body as a temple and with respect by only putting the best into it.

I try not to be too hard on myself and frequently reflect on what was done and how I can improve next time.

What is your most treasured memory and why?

My most treasured memory is that of my Mother who I lost to suicide 25 years ago.  I have missed having a Mother in my life especially since having a family.

Do you have any regrets in life?

That I didn't start nursing earlier in my life.

If you could spend a day with someone you admire, who would that be and why?

It would be a privilege to spend the day with Malala Yousafzai. I admire what a young and strong woman Malala is and what she has so far achieved for females.  Like Malala, I believe that every girl has the right to a free, safe and quality education and that she can decide on her future career.

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Stine x