Hairway to Heaven

“You have such beautiful hair, Gabby. It reminds me of Mia Thermopolis”

“Thanks mum, but that ISN’T a compliment!”

Now that I think back on that…I really hope she meant AFTER her transformation. Besides, it’s not like she can talk! I saw pictures of my mum in the 80’s. Her hair wasn’t just teased – it was pissed off!

The truth is, I remain quietly afraid of the hairdressers, ever since I was 14 and she slipped while cutting the front of my hair. I promise, it’s not as bad as it sounds- its ten times worse. How do I say this without over-exaggerating… IT OBLITERATED EVERY SCHOOL PHOTO FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS! I had this chunk of hair missing from the front. What can I say? Hideous looks good on me. So to avoid wanting a pixie cut and ending up with a ‘Britney Shears’, I am going to share with you the “Hairdresser Terminology” that will tell your stylist exactly what you want. Because if you don’t know how to articulate the haircut of your dreams, it may never happen.

THE SIDE FRINGE

Why: A side fringe can easily give your hair extra glam, or can be pinned back while playing sport. Plus, it’s much easier to grow it out than a blunt fringe

Will it suit me: Opt for a side fringe if your hair is healthy and not super curly! Side fringes are especially perfect if you have a heart shaped face

What do I tell my hairdresser: You want a long, side swept fringe, with the rest of the hair only slightly trimmed

BANGS

Why: A front fringe  really can change your whole hair look, and at worst, can be pinned back if you don’t like it

Will it suit me: There is a general rule that says curly haired girls should avoid bangs, and it’s true! When deciding whether “to bang or not to bang”, I suggest looking at how high maintenance you are. If you are a wash and go kind of girl, this may not be the best hair cut for you

What do I tell my hairdresser: You want a straight across, choppy fringe, with longer pieces of hair on either side.  It should be cut while the hair is dry! (This is important as wet hair can shrink up when it’s dry, and end up too short)

THE TEXTURED BOB

Why: Remember when every little girl sported this hairstyle at kinder? Well The bob cut has come back bigger and better than ever!

Will it suit me: This hairdo will work on most hair types, but avoid really thick hair as it may be hard to keep it tame

What do I tell my hairdresser: You want a shoulder-skimming bob

THE LONG BOB

Why: A long bob appears effortless and chic, and can be easily styled for a night out

Will it suit me: This hairstyle works best on straight hair. The centre part accentuates a symmetrical face, so make sure you try out a few different parts in the mirror before booking your next appointment

What do I tell my hairdresser: You want a mid-length cut, with long layers and parted in the centre

LONG LAYERS

Why: Long layers look so elegant and glamorous when styled, but are super easy to maintain on a regular basis

Will it suit me: This hairstyle works well on most hair types, especially thicker hair like Lucy's!

What do I tell my hairdresser: You want long layers, with your hair parted slightly to one side, and framed around the face

PUNK ROCKER

Why: This hairstyle will definitely make you stand out of the crowd. It’s edgy and cool, and is an accessory all on its own

Will it suit me: Short hair a la Miley Cyrus requires trimming every six to eight weeks, as well as gel styling, so make sure you’re prepared! Also look at your face in the mirror to decide whether you would suit a shorter ‘do or not

What do I tell my hairdresser: Ask for a short haircut with an edge. With under-shaving at the back and sides, and more length on top. Forget it: just take the picture with you!

With this terminology, you'll have the haircut of your dreams in no time!

Xx