Subject:  Making the cut... |
Author:
Richey
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Date Posted: 07/ 9/03 12:03pm
Short Hairstyles
If You've Been Thinking About Going Short...
Taking your hair short shouldn't be taken lightly, especially if you're not good at change. Here's how to get clipped without going into shock!
GOING FROM long or mid-length to short can be a real shocker! After all, you're revamping your whole image, and that can have repercussions. If you're outgoing and like to change your look frequently, it can be an easy road to take. But if you're used to having longer locks, always start by losing the length in increments.
Begin with a strong trim, then go from super-long to below the shoulders or from shoulder-length to collar-bone length. Next, add bangs or layers to see how well you adjust to a change in style. Still like what you see? Then consider the following for going all the way to short:
First of all, consider how short you can go and still look good. Take a close look at your facial shape. Pull your hair back, look in the mirror and outline the shape of your face with lipstick or something else that washes off easily.
If you have a fuller facial shape, you'll want to leave enough hair at the nape to soften your profile. If you have a rounder facial shape, consider a cut with a side part and leave some hair on your face to make it look less round.
You can go above the jaw line, but don't go ultra-short. If your face is elongated, shorter hair will definitely create a widening illusion (long hair makes an elongated facial shape look even longer).
Always ask your stylist which cuts will work best for enhancing your cheekbones and jaw line.
Texture Talk
Next, take your hair's texture into consideration. Fine hair looks best shorter, but don't go so short that you reveal a sparse hairline or nape.
Look at the back of your hair for cowlicks or splits at the center back. Avoid going so short you worsen the problem.
If your hair is super-curly, avoid a totally round cut unless you want an Afro.
If you're scissor-shy, chances are you won't want a cut that's above earlobe length. Closely buzzed sides are for the brave who are certain they'll like the cut.
If your hair is currently quite long, plan to go shorter in a minimum of three salon visits; don't rush into a dramatic change. Try on wigs of various lengths and see how they look.
If you're worried that short hair won't look feminine, consider a somewhat short cut with layers, softened ends, or a perm for soft wave and curl.
The woman whose hair is mid-length or near short now should find a hairstylist who specializes in cutting short hair. Ask friends who have great short cuts for a recommendation.
Those who are uncertain how short to go should avoid "model" nights at salons, during which you can get a cut for free, but have less control over the type of cut or the end result.
And needless to say, never try to cut your hair at home when making a big change.
Narrow Your Options
Once you've made the decision to lose some length, look at lots of options and tear out magazine pages of short cuts you like. Arrange them in your preferred order and ask yourself what you like about each one.
A bi-level cut is just one great option for women who want to keep some length. A longer or overhanging top provides styling options, while a shorter underlayer is cool for summer.
Also, you can get a cut that's lots shorter in the back, but gets longer in front; it'll be less shocking to see in the mirror.
Also, consider bangs or a playful fringe. They can make any cut look different and are best for high or wide foreheads.
Eventually, a final decision will come down to what looks good and what you want to get out of short hair.
Are you considering a short cut because you want more styling control or because you like short hair?
If the answer is the former, try a cut with a strong shape that's close to your current length first; then progress to other looks.
If you are going short on a whim or because you want to change your life, take plenty of time before making any final decision. Make certain that going short will be fun -- it should be something that you're looking forward to with excitement, not dread.
Because shorter hair can be incredibly versatile, get ready to play with different products like waxes, texture-enhancers and molding pastes. When hair is short, even pomades will add texture, as opposed to weighing hair down. Keep some length and add texture for styling options, if that's important to you.
Have Fun With Makeup
Once your hair is short, plan on other fun things, like changing your makeup to play up your newly enhanced features. You might want to use more eyeliner, shape your brows, or check out what blush can do for you now.
Of course, you'll want to think about new haircolor, too. Color can add movement, shine and depth to short hair; you can even get a single solid shade that might be too boring on long, straight locks.
Finally, don't expect to look like an actress or a model in a photo. Some celebrities look great with short hair because they have oval facial shapes that are perfectly proportioned, high cheekbones and flawless complexions.
Also, age matters. The older you are, the more a super-short cut reveals signs of aging. If this is a concern, stick with lengths that cover the jaw line and cuts that have layers, which will soften your look.
With a great new versatile look, fabulous color and styling control, you'll wonder why you didn't make the move to short sooner!
To see many examples of beautiful short hairstyles pictures you can take to your hairdresser, pick up a copy of Short Hair Magazine. The preceding guide is from the Summer 2003 issue.
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