I'd guess the change to sly was unexpected and they're not sure how to respond. Give them time - as long as you're good with the look (and you should be) you've got nothing to worry about.
I've got a couple of friends who remain wary - but I had an advantage; I let most of my acquaintances know my hair would be getting much shorter very soon so they were not totally unaware.
Rick - 57 - Central Florida