Style • October 29, 2024

Cara

A Hair Journey

Part One: Finding the Right Cut

I’ve been on a hair journey of sorts this past year. Always a blonde “lob” girl, I felt I needed a change this year, but didn’t quite know what to do. Stymied by a fear of making a big mistake, I’ve just let my hair go. I’ve determined that there are three things to consider when on this journey: cut, color and hair health. Let’s tackle the all-important cut today.

The first hurdle I’ve had to overcome is the outdated belief that women “of a certain age” should have the regulation shoulder length bob. Don’t get me wrong - I love a good bob and have worn one for a lot of my 58 years. But, much like not wearing white after Labor Day, that premise doesn’t hold true anymore. The only rule you should follow is wear your hair in a style that shows off “you” and makes you feel confident. Now let’s proceed!

In doing my extensive research (i.e. watching many hours of TikTok) this is what I’ve uncovered. Pull your hair back, stand in front of a mirror and grab a tape measure. These are some things to keep in mind when thinking about a haircut - and these hold true no matter what your age. 

Face Shape

Determining your face shape is the most important part of figuring out the perfect cut to complement your best features and deemphasize other not-so-great things. I found this very handy guide to measuring your face on Master Class. Much to my surprise, I have a square face; I’ve always thought it was round. I bet you’ll be surprised too!

Are you heart-shaped like Reese Witherspoon or more round like Selena Gomez? Here are some suggestions from top stylists for styles that compliment your face shape:

Round: 

  • long layers a few inches past your shoulders

  • a piecey bob

  • a pixie

Oval:

  • center part, shoulder length or longer

  • long, blunt bangs

  • a shaggy pixie

Square:

  • tousled lob with layers

  • long and straight

  • long with wavy ends

Heart:

  • bouncy bob hitting right below the chin

  • mid-length with a deep side part

  • long layered waves

Hair Type

Your hair type is determined by genetics and is based on the shape of your hair follicle. The four main categories are straight, wavy, curly and coily. Now, your hair type, along with your face shape, is the best way to find your most flattering style. Things like your part, blunt vs. layered and bangs/no bangs can hinge on the combo of these two things.

Lifestyle

Are you someone who doesn’t mind taking the time every morning to wash and blow dry your hair? (That is NOT me). Maintenance is a huge part of your hairstyle journey. If you - like me- like to put your hair up and go, a short, layered cut is not for you. You might look great on the day you leave the salon but if the upkeep is overwhelming, then you need to think about that. 

Ok, now that we’ve got you thinking about the right cut, we will tackle your “perfect” hair color in the next installment of “A Hair Journey”!