Taking the chop – are you ready to go short?

Taking the chop – are you ready to go short?

As the seasons change, it can be tempting to make a big change elsewhere in your life – specifically with your hair. The summer to autumn changeover is one of the most popular times to go for the chop and avoid the wind and rain-related hair problems ahead. But are you ready to go short? Let’s find out.

What’s the real reason?

If you’ve spent weeks playing around with that hair styler app, months carrying around a photo of Michelle Williams’ pixie cut, and years holding back the urge to chop off your long locks, then you’re probably ready to take the jump. If, however, you’re taking your hair short following a recent breakup, a friend who’s done the same, or a fleeting moment of madness, then we recommend waiting or going short in stages. Discuss the motivations behind your short hair ambitions with your hairstylist to ensure that you’re committed to the short hair cause.

Mack hair Rugby - pixie cut (1)

When did you last visit the salon?

If your last hair cut was before Britney and Justin split up, and you’ve got the split ends to prove it, then your hair is 100% ready for the chop. Split, dry and frazzled ends are not only irreparable, but they can travel up your hair shaft, damaging more than the eye can see. If you’ve read our blog on autumn hair care tips and realise it’s been too long since your last trim, then book in for a style consultation to see how much you need to wave bye bye bye to.

What’s your hair type?

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “work with what your momma gave you” then you’ll know what we’re talking about. The texture, structure and volume of your hair all affect how certain short cuts will sit, dry and style. For example, if you have spiral curls, that pixie cut won’t look quite how you imagined. Research the best short cuts for your hair and face type and don’t be afraid to ask your hairstylist for advice.

Top tip: you don’t have to cut your hair short to love your curls. Read our ‘Big hair, don’t care’ guide to embracing your curls.

Do you know your hairstylist

You might know where Molly went on holiday, what her favourite biscuits are and that she’s a pro at a hair colouring. But do you know how good she is with short hair? Great short hair depends on a great short hairstylist, so check with your current hairdresser whether they can help or if you need to see someone else in the team.

Do you have a photo?

We’re not asking for your holiday snaps or last weekend’s selfies – we are asking for a photo of what you want your hair to look like. It’s difficult for you to explain and for us to understand exactly what you want through words alone, so look through some magazines or Instagram and come with two or three inspiration photos.

What’s your morning routine?

Gallons of conditioner, hours of drying and evenings of styling – we’ve all been there with long hair and vowed to take the chop next time we’re at the salon. And sure, short hair is definitely quicker to dry and style, but there’s a but. There’s often no zero-maintenance options for short hair. With long hair, you can whip it into a bun, stuff it in a clip, or tie it in a ponytail. With short hair, you don’t have that time-saving option.

Mack hair Rugby - bob

Do you have a diary?

Of course, we recommend regular trims for hair long and short, but whereas with long hair you can get away with a sneaky few more weeks, short hair you can’t. Regular trims are essential for keeping your chosen style, so bear that in mind.

Cutting your hair short – final thoughts

Blunt bobs, pixie cuts and choppy fringes – we love short hairstyles, but they shouldn’t be jumped into without a little consideration first. Although one thing is for sure, you can always grow it back!


About Mack Hair and Beauty

Mack Hair and Beauty is an award-winning hair salon in Rugby. From long locks to bouncing bobs we have the team, knowledge and skills to achieve the hairstyle you want. Book your short hair cut today.