While getting a haircut other than "the usual" can be stressful, few crops come with as much anxiety as the pixie cut. It's a dramatic style that has defined careers and made for movie magic — but is it right for you?
"A pixie cut brings out a woman's confidence," says Kevin Lee, style director of the Julien Farel Restore Salon and Spa in New York City. That said, once the job is done, you can't just pop your hair into a ponytail or a topknot if you hate it. Ask yourself these questions before you take the plunge:
1. What kind of pixie cut are you into?
Before you schedule an appointment, gather your inspiration. "Make sure you have photographs to show your stylist so that you're both on the same page," advises Lee. His suggestions: Mia Farrow inRosemary's Baby or Michelle Williams in her Louis Vuitton ads. If you want more options, we've got tons of pixie cut ideas to consider.
2. Would that cut compliment your face shape?
Even if you love Emma Watson's 2010 pixie cut, you may have a totally different face shape than she does. Oval, round and heart face shapes can usually pull off a pixie, says Donna Tripodi, master stylist at Eva Scrivo Salons in NYC. "That said, most shapes can handle short hair," she adds. "You just have to find the right balance."
3. How long have you known your stylist?
Your face shape, bone structure, hair texture and lifestyle all need to be taken into account by your stylist, so it's ideal to go with someone who knows you well. If you're on vacation or otherwise away from your normal stylist, read lots of reviews.
4. Are you ready for the upkeep?
If you love being able to go several months between cuts, this may not be the best lifestyle move for you. "The pixie cut requires more frequent trims; I recommend every four to six weeks," says Lee. The downside: This can get pricy. The upside: At least you won't be spending as much money on blowouts?
5. ...as well as the time it will take to grow it out?
We don't mean to be a downer, but one of the most frustrating things about a pixie cut is having to grow it out if you get sick of it (or, worse, if you hate it right away). Some folks think all they'll need to do is let it grow, but unless you want a mullet (seriously) or split ends, you'll need to go in for regular trims.
6. Should you try bangs first?
If all these nosy questions are leaving you a little unsure, do what Tripodi tells her clients to do: Try a short fringe first, which is kind of a gateway step to the overall look. After a couple weeks, you'll know for sure if you're ready to go for it.
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Sam's enthusiasm for makeup is only rivaled by their love of all things relating to cats. In their spare time, they enjoy watching scary movies, putting avocado on everything, and seeing how many shades of the rainbow they can dye their hair before 30.
