The medium shaggy bob is a versatile and trendy hairstyle that suits various face shapes and hair textures. It’s a modern take on the classic bob, characterized by its layered and textured appearance. This guide will walk you through the process of cutting a medium shaggy bob, providing detailed steps, tips, and techniques to achieve the perfect look.
Understanding the Medium Shaggy Bob
Before diving into the cutting process, it’s essential to understand what defines a medium shaggy bob and why it’s a popular choice.
Characteristics of a Medium Shaggy Bob
Length: Typically falls between the chin and shoulders.
Layers: Multiple layers throughout the hair to create texture and movement.
Texture: Often styled to look tousled and messy, adding a casual, effortless vibe.
Versatility: Can be tailored to suit various hair types, from straight to curly.
Why Choose a Medium Shaggy Bob?
Versatility and Adaptability
A medium shaggy bob can be easily adapted to suit different hair types and face shapes. The layers can be adjusted to add volume to thin hair or reduce bulk in thick hair.
Low Maintenance
The shaggy nature of this cut makes it low maintenance. It doesn’t require frequent trims to maintain its shape, and the tousled look can be achieved with minimal styling effort.
Modern and Trendy
This hairstyle exudes a modern and trendy vibe. It’s popular among celebrities and fashion icons, making it a stylish choice for anyone looking to update their look.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:
Sharp haircutting scissors
Thinning shears
Comb and hairbrush
Hair clips
Spray bottle with water
Blow dryer and styling tools (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting a Medium Shaggy Bob
1. Preparation
Wash and Towel Dry: Start with clean, damp hair. Towel dry to remove excess water.
Section the Hair: Divide the hair into manageable sections using hair clips. Typically, you’ll have a top, middle, and bottom section.
2. Establishing the Base Length
Determine the Length: Decide where you want the bob to end. For a medium length, it usually falls between the chin and shoulders.
Cut the Base Line: Starting with the bottom section, cut the hair straight across at the desired length. Use the comb to keep the hair straight and even.
3. Adding Layers
Vertical Sections: Take vertical sections of hair, starting from the back and moving towards the front.
Angle the Scissors: Hold the scissors at an angle and cut upwards to create layers. This technique helps to remove bulk and adds texture.
Check for Balance: After cutting each section, check for balance and evenness. Adjust as necessary.
4. Creating Texture
Point Cutting: Use the point-cutting technique to create a jagged edge. Hold the scissors vertically and make small cuts into the ends of the hair.
Thinning Shears: Use thinning shears to remove excess bulk, especially in thicker hair. This step is crucial for achieving the shaggy, textured look.
5. Face-Framing Layers
Determine the Face Frame: Decide where you want the face-framing layers to start. Typically, they begin at the chin or cheekbones.
Cut Face-Framing Layers: Using the point-cutting technique, create soft layers around the face. Ensure the layers blend seamlessly with the rest of the haircut.
6. Final Touches
Dry and Style: Blow-dry the hair to check the final shape and make any necessary adjustments. Use a round brush for volume or a diffuser for natural waves.
Texture Products: Apply a texturizing spray or mousse to enhance the shaggy, tousled look. Scrunch the hair with your hands to add volume and texture.
Detailed Analysis of Techniques
Point Cutting
Why Use Point Cutting?
Adds Texture: Point cutting creates a softer, more textured edge, essential for a shaggy bob.
Removes Weight: This technique helps remove bulk without sacrificing length, making it ideal for creating layers.
How to Execute Point Cutting:
Hold a section of hair vertically.
Position the scissors at the ends of the hair.
Make small, vertical cuts into the hair, creating a jagged edge.
Thinning Shears
Why Use Thinning Shears?
Reduce Bulk: Thinning shears are perfect for thick hair, helping to remove excess weight.
Create Movement: They add movement and texture, crucial for the shaggy look.
How to Use Thinning Shears:
Take a section of hair.
Open the thinning shears and place them about halfway down the section.
Close the shears and slide them towards the ends of the hair.
Adapting the Cut for Different Hair Types
Straight Hair
Challenges: Straight hair can look flat and lack texture.
Solutions: Add more layers and use texturizing products to enhance volume and movement.
Wavy Hair
Challenges: Wavy hair can become too voluminous if not cut properly.
Solutions: Use thinning shears to remove bulk and enhance the natural wave pattern.
Curly Hair
Challenges: Curly hair requires careful layering to avoid creating a triangular shape.
Solutions: Focus on internal layers and use the point-cutting technique to blend the layers seamlessly.
See Also: How To Cut A Wedge Haircut
Face Shapes and the Medium Shaggy Bob
Round Face
Goal: Elongate the face.
Strategy: Keep the length below the chin and add long, face-framing layers to create the illusion of length.
Oval Face
Goal: Maintain balance.
Strategy: This face shape can pull off almost any variation of the medium shaggy bob. Focus on enhancing natural features.
Square Face
Goal: Soften angles.
Strategy: Add soft, wispy layers around the face to soften strong jawlines and create a more rounded appearance.
Heart Face
Goal: Balance the forehead and chin.
Strategy: Add volume around the chin and avoid too much volume at the crown. Face-framing layers starting below the chin work well.
Styling Tips for a Medium Shaggy Bob
Everyday Styling
Air Dry for Natural Texture: Let your hair air dry to enhance its natural texture. Use a texturizing spray for added volume.
Blow Dry for Volume: Use a round brush to blow dry your hair, focusing on the roots for added lift.
Special Occasion Styling
Curling Iron for Waves: Use a curling iron to create loose waves. Wrap sections of hair around the barrel and hold for a few seconds.
Straightening for Sleek Look: For a sleek, polished look, use a flat iron to straighten the hair. Apply a shine serum to finish.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Regular Trims
Frequency: Every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape and remove split ends.
Benefits: Keeps the haircut looking fresh and prevents the layers from becoming uneven.
Proper Hair Care
Shampoo and Conditioner: Use products suitable for your hair type. Moisturizing formulas work well for dry hair, while volumizing formulas are great for fine hair.
Heat Protection: Always use a heat protectant spray before using hot tools to prevent damage.
Conclusion
The medium shaggy bob is a stylish and versatile haircut that suits various hair types and face shapes. By following the steps and techniques outlined in this guide, you can achieve a trendy, textured look that is both modern and low maintenance. Remember to tailor the cut to the individual’s hair type and face shape, and use the appropriate styling products and tools to enhance the final look. With regular trims and proper hair care, the medium shaggy bob will remain a chic and fashionable choice.