Have you ever been in a situation where someone thinks they are knowledgeable about a topic because they watched a YouTube video? Or saw it on Pinterest? I mean, if its on the internet its 100% accurate right? Now imagine you're a stylist and your client tells you how to cut the blunt bob they want because the non-licensed influencer they follow swore its THE BEST way to cut it. Only to realize they want a very layered lob.... I know you see my face palm. Terminology is very important when consulting with a stylist, what we hear and what you are visualizing can be two totally different images. It's always best (and we are not offended) to show us pictures! So let's cut to the chase and decode the terms!
LAYERS: Let's first address the elephant in the room....there is no such thing as haircut with 3 layers *gasp*. So PLEASE stop asking for it!! The purpose of layers are to give fullness and movement to the hair. They can be left longer to take weight off of the ends, or cut shorter for a funky rock-star look. Either way the hair is pulled away from the scalp in varying degrees the entire way around the head. Front to back, top to bottom, every hair is accounted for when we execute the cut. Layers can add interest to long hair around the face. Face framing layers are usually cut a wee bit shorter than the rest of the hair and can give a slimming effect to a wider face. A shag cut incorporates shorter, choppier layers, while a bob, or lob, has longer layers.
BLUNT: Blunt cuts are created by cutting the hair straight with no elevation/layers. This is a very basic cut and may appear flat on the top and full at the bottom, but can be visually striking. Blunt cuts are a base for most classic bob. If cut properly, it is easy to style and maintain.
BOBS/LOBS: Ahhhh this classic beauty never goes out of style. Bobs are so simple, yet so diverse and really allows a stylist to explore creative techniques for cutting. The appearance of this cut can differ, from a sharp blunt bob, to a piecey and long-layered lob (long bob). Add bangs for for a french inspired chic look. A bob can ease the pain of growing out from a short cut, while keeping you on trend!
A-LINE: Also known as an angled, stacked, wedge, inverted cut, this style usually has a bob shape. A-lines can be tricky to execute, and not everyone can wear this style. Your natural hair line and head shape will dictate if this type of cut is right for you. Strong occipital bones make for a natural wedge shape, while flatter heads require some trickery to create the look of an angle. The layering and look can vary tremendously, so pictures and a thorough consult are important when asking for this timeless cut.
PIXIE: Who doesn't admire the woman confident enough to rock a super short pixie! Pixie cuts emulate a masculine feel, so accessories and makeup can help soften and feminize this style. Product is key to styling. Waxes, pomades, pastes can all help you create the desired look. A pixie requires a lot of maintenance, so expect to be in the chair every 3-6 weeks. But as they grow it can fun to play around with different looks. Every week will look different!
RAZORED: Razored cuts are pretty self explanatory. By cutting with a razor, the stylist can reduce thickness and soften a blunt line, or carve out an edgy, wispy look. Most people refer to razoring when they talk about thinning, texturizing, or removing bulk. Razored cuts are quite versatile, however they may not be suitable for everyone.
BANGS: Textured, blunt, curtain, side swept, wispy, baby, bumper, face framing.......and you thought bangs were just bangs. Bangs are an easy way to change up the look of your existing cut. Simple, but they definitely require a commitment! Bangs can minimize the appearance of a larger forehead, they're cheaper than Botox and most stylist offer free bang trims to keep them looking their best! Faux bangs can be ordered and used to try out the look before committing, because growing them back out can be a frustrating experience!
Whatever style you are looking for, make sure you have a thorough consultation with your stylist. This will ensure you both have the same end result in mind. Your hair dictates what cut will work, and your stylist is gifted in reading your hair. And while pictures are great, your stylist may tell you no. We don't want to promise you a style that is unachievable and risk you leaving unhappy. So trust us!
Until next time, keep your hair game strong!