Hairstyles

 
August 30 2007

Considerations before Choosing a Short Hairstyle

by Ashley Laurier

 

As a 21st century woman, you should wear your hairstyle with pride. Don‘t be afraid to hold your head up high! Consider several things before choosing a short style. Short hair is dramatic, but not for everyone. One big advantage is that a short cut can be the key to the wash–and–go style, perfect for today‘s busy woman.

First, you should consider your face. Talk with your stylist about if short hair will flatter your face‘s shape. Do you like to show your whole chin and the lines of your jaw? Do you want your ears covered or uncovered? Do you like the back of your neck showing if your hair falls above the collar? Do you wear earrings regularly? If not, would you consider wearing earrings regularly?

After you have decided to go short, there are more considerations. Do you want layers or a one–length cut? Do you want a compact style or longer locks around the base of your neck? Do you want the underside of your hair (along the neckline) cut with scissors or with clippers? Will your new style involve one color or a contrast between two or more? The short hairstyle is a work of art. You have to weigh all your options carefully. You will have less hair to work with, but you must find your own unique style.

Hollywood celebrities have made short hairstyles glamorous. For example, Meg Ryan has experimented with many different short styles. As Meg‘s style has evolved over time, you should consider other options. Will you wear bangs in your face or a pixie cut with short bangs high on your forehead? Will you blow your hair out straight or wear a wet, messy look with lots of gel? Do you want all the lines of your hair cut evenly or do you want an asymmetrical style? Will you curl the ends under or brush them out? Will you have try a short crop or a stylish bob?

Talk with your stylist carefully. Be sure to consider all these questions and more. Look through the stylebooks at your salon. Some salons even offer computer–imaging programs. They will take your digital picture and offer you different views of your face with different styles. You might consider choosing a salon with this option before chopping off your hair.

The final consideration is your styling plan. Ask about the best products for your new style. Consider the variety of gels, pomades, balms, mousses, and sprays. Also, ask for styling tips. There are tricks your stylist can show you with the blow dryer and the flat iron. Some tricks are simple, like using your fingers and water. Once you get your new cut and are ready to style it, you are ready to show the world your new look. It might be a great time to pick out a new outfit and then debut your new cut to the world.