Finding the Right Hairstyle

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Overview

Finding the right hairstyle is an ongoing dilemma for many men and women. Hair can be changed and shaped to give you a flattering appearance and to take advantage of your best features, while downplaying flaws and less-than-appealing aspects of your face. Hairstyles change with the times and should be adjusted for age, career and lifestyle.

Step 1

Isolate your face in the mirror by drawing a circle with lipstick or a marker around your face, while your hair is pulled completely back with a clip.

Step 2

Compare the shape you find with a list of face shapes to determine what kind of face you possess. Hairstylists at short-hair-style.com say that knowing the shape of your face will help you decide which kind of style will complement that shape. The knowledge will help you communicate with your own hairdresser when she wants to give you a new style.

Step 3

Consider your hair when looking for the best style. Stylists at hairfinder.com suggest you think about how thick your hair is, if it is naturally curly or straight and thin. Consider how fast your hair grows, its wave patterns and texture.

Step 4

Decide how much time you want to spend on your hair each day. While some cuts are considered wash-and-wear, other styles require considerable time and effort to maintain. Be honest with yourself about the effort you are willing to put into your hairstyle each day when choosing the best style for you.

Step 5

Pore over magazines and hairstyling books to find various styles that you think you might enjoy. Save the pictures of styles that appeal to you, and bring them to your hairdresser. Often, a good hairdresser can incorporate a number of different features into your style. A good stylist also will tell you if the look you desire is high maintenance or works well with a busy lifestyle.

Tips and Warnings

  • Experiment with online imaging software that allows you to upload your picture and virtually try on various hairstyles. Bring a printout of the hairstyle you like best to the salon with you and show it to your hairdresser as a guide for your cut.
  • Take into account your body shape when looking for the right hairstyle. If you are short and squat, a long hairstyle can make you look heavier. Tall, thin people with short hairstyles often look more elongated and less balanced.

Things You'll Need

  • Lipstick or washable marker Pictures Hair-imaging software (optional)
Linda Ray

About this Author

Linda Ray is an award-winning journalist with more than 20 years experience. Ray has a bachelor's degree in journalism and held posts at newspapers and magazines, including the Greenville News, Success, Demand Studios and American City Business Journals. She's covered health and fitness, business, sports, and people.

Last updated on: 10/27/09

Article reviewed by Liz Smith

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