In the realm of hairstyling, the pixie cut with shaved sides has emerged as a bold and fashion-forward choice for those seeking a look that is both edgy and low-maintenance. This hairstyle is a perfect blend of sophistication and rebelliousness, making it a favorite among trendsetters and individuals looking to make a statement with their hair.
Understanding the Pixie Cut with Shaved Sides
Definition & Appearance
A pixie cut with shaved sides is a short hairstyle where the hair on the top of the head is cut short and styled in a variety of ways, while the sides and back are shaved close to the scalp. The contrast between the long, textured hair on top and the shaved sides creates a striking visual effect that can instantly elevate one’s appearance.
Versatility
One of the great things about this hairstyle is its versatility. It can be adapted to suit different face shapes, hair textures, and personal styles. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, a pixie cut with shaved sides can be tailored to enhance your natural features and complement your overall look.
Personal Characteristics Suitable for This Hairstyle
Confident & Bold: People who are not afraid to stand out from the crowd and embrace their individuality are well-suited for this hairstyle. It requires a certain level of confidence to pull off such a bold look, and those who wear it often exude a sense of self-assuredness.
Low-Maintenance Lifestyle: If you lead a busy life and don’t have a lot of time to spend on styling your hair, a pixie cut with shaved sides is an excellent choice. It requires minimal upkeep, allowing you to look stylish with minimal effort.
Trendy & Fashion-Forward: Those who are passionate about fashion and like to stay up-to-date with the latest trends will appreciate the modern and chic appeal of this hairstyle. It is often seen on the runways and in fashion magazines, making it a go-to option for fashion enthusiasts.
Preparing for the Haircut
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before you start cutting a pixie cut with shaved sides, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools. You will need a pair of sharp hair-cutting scissors, a clipper with different guard sizes, a comb, a spray bottle filled with water, and a styling product such as hair gel or wax.
Consulting with the Client
If you are a stylist cutting this hairstyle for a client, it’s crucial to have a thorough consultation with them. Discuss their desired length, texture, and overall look. Ask about their hair type, face shape, and lifestyle to ensure that the pixie cut with shaved sides is the right choice for them. It’s also important to explain the maintenance requirements and styling options to the client so they know what to expect.
Sectioning the Hair
To make the cutting process easier and more precise, section the hair into different areas. Start by parting the hair down the middle and then create horizontal sections from the front to the back. Use clips to hold the sections in place while you work on each one.
Cutting the Top
Determining the Length
The length of the hair on top can vary depending on the client’s preference and face shape. For a more classic pixie cut, the hair on top can be around 2-3 inches long. However, if the client wants a shorter and more edgy look, you can cut it down to 1-2 inches. Use the comb to lift the hair up and cut it to the desired length using the scissors.
Adding Texture
To create a more textured and modern look, you can use a razor or texturizing shears to add layers and movement to the hair on top. This will give the hair a more tousled and effortless appearance. Start by taking small sections of hair and running the razor or texturizing shears through them at an angle. Be careful not to cut too much hair at once, as it can be difficult to fix if you make a mistake.
Styling the Top
Once you have finished cutting and texturing the hair on top, you can style it using a styling product. Apply a small amount of hair gel or wax to your fingers and run them through the hair to create a piecey and textured look. You can also use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment to add volume and movement to the hair.
Shaving the Sides & Back
Choosing the Guard Size
The guard size you choose for the clipper will depend on how close you want to shave the sides and back. For a very close shave, you can use a #0 or #1 guard. If you want to leave a little bit of stubble, you can use a #2 or #3 guard. Start with a larger guard size and gradually work your way down to a smaller one if needed.
Shaving Technique
Hold the clipper at a 90-degree angle to the head and start shaving from the bottom of the sides and back. Move the clipper in an upward motion, following the natural shape of the head. Be sure to go slowly and carefully to avoid any nicks or cuts. Once you have finished shaving one side, repeat the process on the other side and then move on to the back of the head.
Blending the Sides & Top
To create a seamless transition between the shaved sides and the longer hair on top, you will need to blend the two areas. Use the clipper without a guard or a longer guard size to gently taper the hair from the top down to the shaved sides. This will give the hairstyle a more polished and professional look.
Finishing Touches
Checking for Symmetry
After you have finished cutting and shaving, take a step back and check the hairstyle for symmetry. Make sure that the sides and back are even and that the hair on top is balanced. If you notice any areas that need to be adjusted, use the scissors or clipper to make the necessary corrections.
Applying Styling Product
Once you are satisfied with the overall look, apply a small amount of styling product to the hair to keep it in place and add shine. You can use a hairspray for a more long-lasting hold or a serum for a smoother and more polished finish.
Providing Maintenance Tips
Finally, provide the client with some maintenance tips to help them keep their pixie cut with shaved sides looking great. Explain that they will need to visit the salon every 4-6 weeks for a trim to maintain the shape and length of the hairstyle. You can also recommend some at-home styling products and techniques to help them style their hair between salon visits.
Personal Characteristics & Hairstyle Compatibility
Face Shape
The pixie cut with shaved sides can be adapted to suit different face shapes. For example, those with a round face can add volume to the top of the head to create the illusion of a longer face. Those with a square face can soften the angles by adding texture and layers to the hair on top.
Hair Texture
This hairstyle works well with a variety of hair textures. Those with straight hair can achieve a sleek and modern look, while those with wavy or curly hair can embrace a more tousled and textured appearance.
Lifestyle
The low-maintenance nature of this hairstyle makes it ideal for people with busy lifestyles. It requires minimal styling and can be easily maintained with regular trims at the salon.
Conclusion
The pixie cut with shaved sides is a bold and fashionable hairstyle that offers a perfect blend of sophistication and rebelliousness. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a stunning and personalized look that suits your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle. Whether you are a stylist cutting this hairstyle for a client or someone looking to take their hair into their own hands, the pixie cut with shaved sides is a choice that is sure to turn heads and make a statement. So, why not embrace your inner trendsetter and give this hairstyle a try?
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