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Getting a bad haircut doesn't mean you're relegated to ponytails for the next six months. There are some sneaky ways to save your look
We've all had a cut that makes us look more like rolled-up carpet than red carpet. So we consulted celeb hair stylist Jet Rhys, founder of the Jet Rhys Salon in San Diego, for her top five ways to conceal a less than cute cut.
1. Prevent disaster from striking in the first place
Always go the salon prepared to talk about the style you are looking for, with pictures to help guide your stylist to what you want. Just words alone could creative an entirely different picture in your stylist's mind from what you're personally envisioning, which can lead to less than stellar results.
But if you do end up with a cut you don't like, don't just walk out. "If you hate it, say you hate it! If you're unhappy with a cut, say something to your stylist before you leave the salon. Give him or her the opportunity to get it right. Every stylist wants their clients to leave the salon happy with their look," says Rhys.
2. Get creative with tools
If you didn't use curling tongs, straighteners or a hairdryer diffuser before, this could be the perfect time to try. "Adding soft curls or volume with a diffuser if your cut is falling flat can transform average locks into cover-worthy tresses," says Rhys.
3. Add length to a too-short cut
If you have curly or wavy hair, using straighteners will instantly add length to your 'do. For more dramatic length, look for a hair weft - which is like a little curtain of hair attached at the top and free-flowing at the bottom.
"These handy hair extensions are fantastic to help ease your pain. Best of all, they're temporary, so no heat, no glue, just clip them in. I suggest four panels: two for the sides and two for the back to create both length and volume. The trick to anchoring the wefts is to tease the hair one inch below the area you intend to clip in the wefts. Next, add a little hair spray and clip in," advises Rhys.
4. Experiment with product
Rhys says one way to solve your less than clever cut is to use new products which can style your hair in a way you're not accustomed to. A root-lifting volume spray can add va-voom to layers, while a silicone serum will add gloss and smoothness. If your cut is just overall 'ugh', try adding a texture cream for fullness and manageability that could take your look from flat to foxy.
5. Colour can save the day
If your stylist has over-layered or thinned out your hair, colour can make it look thicker. Go for a shade one and a half tones darker on the bottom layers, and keep the top lighter with sun-catching highlights. "This trick creates the illusion of depth, so your hair will appear fuller instantly," says Rhys.