Getting a new cut is an exciting, transformative moment – there’s a reason people often trial a new hairstyle during turning points in their life. Experimenting can be great, but it’s also important to do your research so you don’t end up with a fashion faux pas. When you finally get back to the salon, arrive well prepared so you can confidently answer questions on how you’d like the length, style or colour. Here are our top five tips to consider before taking the plunge.
1. Your face shape
This should be a key factor when considering the style of cut to go for. Choosing a style that complements your face shape can do wonders for your confidence, so here are the best hairstyles for a variety of face shapes.
- Best hairstyles for oval faces:
If you have an oval shaped face, you’re lucky as most hairstyles will suit you. Go for a style where hair isn’t in the face too much to show off your best features – a side-swept fringe is ideal here. Avoid a heavy, full fringe as this may shorten the appearance of your face.
- Best hairstyles for square faces:
If you want to accentuate your features, a modern bob that sits above the cheekbones suits those with long faces, but avoid anything too blunt by asking for some layers. Alternatively, focus on texture to soften a strong jawline – a chop that emphasises curls and waves does the trick. Layered longer styles are another great option as they can give the illusion of a longer face.
- Best hairstyles for round faces:
Round faces suit medium-length hairstyles, ideally below the chin, especially if you have wavy or curly hair. If you do prefer short hairstyles, a cut with more volume on top works best – for example, a pixie cut or choppy, layered bob – as they minimise roundness in the face.
- Best hairstyles for long faces:
Go for a shorter style, or one that adds volume. Curls are a great trick for widening the appearance of your face, so talk to your stylist for advice on a hairstyle that adds volume. It’s best to avoid styles that are long, as these can lengthen your face, so short or mid-length is the way to go.
- Best hairstyles for heart-shaped faces:
Longer styles suit heart-shaped faces best, as they add balance to a narrow chin. Make sure you also incorporate some layers for a youthful look. If you fancy going shorter, a pixie cut with choppy layers is great for balancing the face.
- Best hairstyles for a diamond face shape:
Similar to styles that suit a heart-shaped face, go for haircuts that widen the chin and minimise the forehead. It’s best to opt for a youthful bob that comes down to the chin, so the focus is on your hair. Side partings also look great on those with diamond-shaped faces. Try to avoid styles with more volume on top.
2. Your personal taste
The most important thing is how your new haircut makes you feel. Think about what you like. What kind of hairstyles do you generally prefer? Do you favour short or mid-length? Or are modern hairstyles top of your list? What are your personal preferences and what do you think looks good on you?
3. Hair texture
Your hair texture should be something you consider when going for a cut. If you have thin or fine hair, consider going for choppy layers, as the contrast in length can add a good amount of volume. It’s also worth noting that the longer your hair is, the more it is weighed down, so shorter styles may be the better option if thin hair is a concern.
4. What’s manageable for you?
Let’s face it; we all like to hit the snooze button a little more than we’d admit to. Consider how much effort you’re realistically willing to invest in your new hairstyle. Are you looking for a style that’s low maintenance? How much time do you spend styling your hair each day? And do you mind blow drying it? Be honest so that you choose a hairdo that is convenient for your lifestyle.
5. Where will you get it cut?
Finding a hairdresser who knows your hair and can translate your wishes into actual results is a difficult task. Look for a salon listed under ‘best haircuts for women’ on a reviews site and carefully read the reviews. Also keep an eye out for people who’ve had the same treatments you’re going for to gauge how suitable they are for your needs.
Source: www.gransnet.com
