For one afternoon a year, the Ihloff Fall Show transforms the Tulsa Convention Center into a fun, stylish hub of hair design.

Ihloff's hair designers shape inspired, unusual and incredible coifs on their models, who strut their fierce hair creations on the runway.

The high-fashion, high-energy show is gathering inspiration from animals and their environments this year.

For their "Wild at Art" hair-extravaganza, think tiger-striped mohawks, drippy blue rainforest-y locks and lioness attitude.

Plus, there will be makeovers. And that's where the Urban Tulsa Weekly comes in.

The story behind the story

I'm sure this won't be a big draw to anyone but my mom, but I will be at the Ihloff Fall Show this year for a sweet makeover.

I am thrilled by the idea of a scrumptious change in my usual routine. On a normal day, I either throw my hair into a trademark lazy bun or blow-dry it into a free-flowing mess I think creates "volume," but really looks more like I drove to work with the windows down during a freakish Oklahoma weather event.

I am not a Superwoman. My two sons whoop, holler, stomp and jump through my busy days. Our puppy, Mona, eats all my shoes. I love girlie stuff like glitter and fun eyeshadow and cute vintage dresses, but don't often get around to shopping.

When I do shop -- forced at lipgloss wandpoint by my weary mom -- I pick out the black items at Gap and call it a day.

Looking respectable is overrated. Lazy is the new black. Yoga pants are totally acceptable attire for the Tulsa International Film Festival. And so on.

I've got an arsenal of excuses cocked and ready to answer for my appearance, which doesn't say much for the state of gender identity in American culture.

Sure, girls, you can be a professional writer when you grow up, but try to look pretty while you do it, m'kay? Yes, the content of your character is important, but a little lipstick complements your charming personality, dear.

Being a reporter is one of the most fun and fascinating jobs around, though glamorous it is not. Most days, about the best I can shoot for is what I like to call the "casual librarian gone mad" look.

I hide behind my words. So here I am, ready to submit to a killer makeover by the Ihloff style mavens, ready to entrust my messy bun, boring pants and excuses to their care.

Back to your regularly scheduled story

Before the show, Ihloff will get you in the mood to roar with live Tulsa Zoo animals in the lobby and even artwork made by the animals themselves.

Between hair segments, the Monte Cassino choir, musicians from Barthelmes Conservatory of Music, hip-hop dancing kids and high school slam poets provide entertainment and inspiration.

Proceeds from all of the show's sponsorships will benefit the Arts & Humanities Council of Tulsa's arts education programs.

A VIP area will offer hors d'oeuvres and mini spa treatments.

2011 Ihloff Creative Team Fall Show

WHERE: Tulsa Convention Center - Assembly Hall

WHEN: Thursday, November 10, 2011

TIME: 7p-9p