Leo Bancroft: How to get the haircut you actually asked for
It’s happened to all of us. We left the salon with a cut that’s too short or a style that is not what we initially imagined. As your hair is a crucial part of your confidence, it is important that you leave with your perfect hair style, making sure you feel good about yourself. Follow my top tips to getting the perfect cut out from your stylist.
Tip 1 -The Consultation: The consultation is probably the most important part of a haircut. Once your hair is cut it is difficult to rectify it, so it is important that you and your stylist decide exactly what you want before going ahead with the cut. The stylist also needs to see what your hair looks like dry in order to cut it correctly. I think it is crucial to talk to you about what you want and what your hair needs each time we meet, no matter how many times I have cut it. Your hair constantly changes, and so do trends so it’s always useful to reassess the hair.
Tip 2 – Bring Pictures: The most difficult thing for a stylist is when someone sits down in their chair and tries to explain the cut or style they want without a picture. The majority of the time, both the stylist and client will have a completely different image in their head of something. It’s best to bring a couple of pictures for you and the stylist to discuss.
Tip 3 – Don’t Say It, Show It: ‘Hair Horror’ stories tend to consist of a client asking for two inches off and leaving with 8 inches off. Instead of saying you want 3 inches cut off, actually show it with your hands. Some stylists do have a tendency of becoming ‘scissor happy’ because many clients would like less hair taken off then they need. Do not be afraid to tell your stylist that you do not want them to cut beyond a certain point. It is best to ask your stylist what they recommend, and then you can compromise on the amount to be snipped.
Tip 4 – Be Honest with the Stylist: Let your stylist know what you struggle with when you style your hair at home. Also, let them know how long you realistically spend on your hair. This is useful as you do not want them to give you a high maintenance style that needs to be preened for hours when you have a ten minute time frame in the morning! Also ask your stylist to tell you what tips and products you will need to replicate the style at home and ask yourself if you are willing to incorporate new styling tools and products into your regime.
Tip 5 – Pick the Right Stylist: Many experienced stylists are trained and have years of experience with different hair types; whether it is curly, thick, thin or straight. Make sure you check this out prior to your appointment. If you have curly hair, you’ll get the best results from someone who cuts a lot of curly hair.
Tip 6 – Be realistic: Sometimes we just have to face the facts that those of you with thick spiral curls will probably not be able to get Jessie J’s poker straight hair without a lot of work. With that said, if you are bringing in pictures, make sure that your hair inspiration looks like they have a similar hair type to you.
Tip 7 – Trust Your Stylist: If you have a particular style or cut in mind, don’t let your stylist convince you to change your mind. At the same time, listen to your stylist’s suggestions and trust his or her expertise, as a good stylist will take into account your face shape, complexion, and features, and then create a look that best suits you.