Men: How to Talk to Your Stylist

Think back to your last haircut... How did you feel when you walked out of the salon? A bit let down? To avoid that next time, let’s talk about some important things you should mention to your stylist before they grab those magical shears.

What's your style?

When you first sit down in the chair at the salon or barbershop, it is essential to communicate effectively with your stylist to ensure that you achieve the desired look. Start by providing your stylist with a general description of the hairstyle you envision for yourself. For instance, are you looking for a classic crew cut, which is characterized by its short sides and back with slightly longer hair on top? Or perhaps you are aiming for a sophisticated and timeless look akin to that of Don Draper, the iconic character from the television series "Mad Men," known for his slicked-back hair and polished appearance? Alternatively, you might be interested in a more contemporary style that reflects current trends, such as an undercut or textured crop. To facilitate this discussion, it can be incredibly helpful to bring in a photo of the specific look you’d like to achieve. Visual references can bridge the gap between your expectations and your stylist's interpretation, ensuring that both of you are on the same page. Once you’ve established this foundational understanding of the overall style, you can then delve into the finer details, discussing aspects such as the length of the hair, the preferred texture, and any particular styling products you might want to use to maintain the look. This comprehensive approach not only enhances the likelihood of a satisfying haircut but also fosters a collaborative relationship with your stylist, ultimately leading to a hairstyle that you will be proud to wear.

How much do you want to be taken off and where?

Once you've communicated the general style you desire to your stylist, specify the exact amount you wish to have cut. Avoid vague instructions like "Give me a trim" or "Just a little off the top," as interpretations can vary. To prevent your hair from being cut too short, clearly state the amount you want removed. Terms like short and long can differ from one stylist to another. Use phrases such as "an inch off the top" or "a quarter inch off the side." If you're unsure of the exact amount, inform your stylist. They might trim a small amount first to gauge your preference, allowing you to decide if you want more taken off. For those who prefer clippers, remember the guard numbers you use. This way, you can simply request "a 2 on the sides and a 3 on the top" when visiting the salon.

Taper Cut

Do you know what that means? If you've been agreeing every time your stylist asks if you want a tapered cut, saying “Yeah, give me that!” without actually knowing what a taper is, here’s a quick explanation. A taper gradually changes your hair length from the top of the head down to the nape of the neck. It typically starts longer at the top and becomes shorter towards the neck. The taper's length can vary; you can opt for a long taper or a short one. Most men’s haircuts include some form of taper, though some men prefer their hair length to be uniform around their head. Be sure to communicate your preference to the stylist. I recommend a taper cut for my male clientele.

A lot of men don’t think about how their neckline looks because they hardly ever see it, but the people who walk and stand behind you get to see it every day. If you don’t keep it clean and trim, a great haircut can suddenly look unkempt. When choosing what sort of neckline you want, you have three options: blocked, rounded, and tapered.

Blocked Neckline

A blocked nape involves trimming a straight line across the natural neckline. When executed properly, your neckline will resemble a squared block. If you're concerned about having a thin neck, a blocked nape can create the illusion of a broader, thicker neck. However, if your neck is already thick, consider a different neckline style. The main disadvantage of blocked napes is that they can look messy as the hair grows out. As the hair starts growing below the neckline, the new growth becomes noticeable. If you opt for a blocked neckline, it's advised to visit the barber weekly for maintenance, or even better, learn to tidy it up yourself.

Rounded Neckline

A rounded neckline is a style characterized by its smooth, curved edges that gently soften the appearance of the neckline, creating a more approachable and relaxed aesthetic. This design effectively takes the sharp corners off a blocked nape finish, which is typically defined by a more angular, straight-line cut. The rounded neckline can be particularly flattering, as it tends to enhance the natural contours of the neck and shoulders, providing a harmonious balance to the overall silhouette. However, it is important to note that, similar to the blocked neckline, the rounded nape can start to appear untidy or unkempt once hair begins to grow out beyond the initial cut. As the hair grows, the clean lines that characterize a well-maintained rounded neckline can become obscured, leading to an uneven or messy look. This necessitates regular maintenance and trimming to keep the neckline looking fresh and polished. Additionally, the rounded neckline can be styled in various ways, making it a versatile choice for different hair types and lengths, and it can be combined with layers or other cutting techniques to create a more dynamic hairstyle.

Tapered Neckline

In the world of hairstyling, the tapered neckline is a distinctive and stylish choice that offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Unlike traditional styles that create a pronounced, strong line at the nape of the neck, a tapered neckline is designed to follow the natural contours of the neckline. This technique involves gradually shortening the length of the hair as it approaches the bottom of the neckline, resulting in a smooth and seamless transition that enhances the overall look of the hairstyle. The subtlety of the tapering effect contributes to a more refined appearance, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a softer, more organic finish.

One of the notable advantages of a tapered neckline is its ability to create a visually slimming effect on a wide neck. By tapering the hair downwards, it draws the eye away from the width of the neck, creating a more elongated and graceful silhouette. This can be particularly flattering for individuals who may feel self-conscious about the proportions of their neck and shoulders. The tapered neckline not only complements various face shapes but also harmonizes beautifully with different hair textures and lengths, making it a versatile choice for many.

Moreover, the tapered nape offers significant practical benefits in terms of maintenance. As hair grows out, the tapered neckline remains blended and tidy, which means that individuals can enjoy a polished look for an extended period without the need for frequent touch-ups. This is in stark contrast to styles that feature a blocked or rounded nape, which typically require more regular visits to the salon to maintain their sharpness and shape. The tapered neckline allows for a more forgiving grow-out phase, making it an ideal option for those with busy lifestyles or anyone looking to minimize their grooming routine.

In summary, the tapered neckline is not just a stylistic choice; it is a thoughtful design that combines beauty with functionality. Its ability to enhance the natural shape of the neck, provide a flattering silhouette, and reduce the frequency of maintenance appointments makes it a favored option among hairstylists and clients alike. Whether you are looking to update your current hairstyle or considering a fresh new look, the tapered neckline is a sophisticated and practical choice that can elevate your overall appearance.

After you’ve communicated your desires and preferences to your stylist regarding your haircut or hairstyle, it is equally important to take the time to listen carefully to your stylist’s suggestions and recommendations. Many individuals, particularly men, often arrive at the salon with a specific vision of how they want their hair to look, inspired by images from magazines, social media, or even celebrities. However, it’s crucial to understand that the desired style may not always be feasible given the unique characteristics of their hair type, such as its texture, thickness, and natural growth patterns. Moreover, certain hairstyles may not be flattering or suitable for their particular face shape or personal style. Therefore, it is essential to approach the consultation with an open mind and a willingness to adapt your vision. Your stylist possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience, which enables them to assess your hair and face shape accurately. They can provide valuable insights on what styles will enhance your features and work harmoniously with your hair type. By engaging in a dialogue with your stylist, you can explore alternative styles that you may not have initially considered but that could ultimately look better on you. Trusting your stylist’s expertise is key to achieving a satisfying outcome. They can guide you through the process, suggesting adjustments or modifications that align with current trends while still being practical for your hair. This collaborative approach not only fosters a stronger stylist-client relationship but also ensures that you leave the salon feeling confident and satisfied with your new look. Remember, the goal is to find a hairstyle that not only meets your expectations but also complements your individual style and personality. So, take the time to listen, ask questions, and be open to the possibilities that your stylist presents.

In the End

Your relationship with your stylist is akin to any good relationship in life—communication should be a two-way street that fosters mutual understanding and respect. A skilled stylist not only possesses the technical expertise to create the look you desire but also prioritizes listening to your needs and preferences. This means that during your consultations, he should actively engage with you, asking insightful questions about what you envision for your hairstyle and taking the time to understand your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. He should also provide you with valuable feedback and expert advice tailored to your unique situation, helping you navigate through the myriad of styles and trends available. A good stylist will check in with you throughout the process, asking questions like, “Are you happy with how your hair looks so far?” or “Is there anything you’d like to adjust?” This ongoing dialogue is crucial for ensuring that the final result aligns perfectly with your expectations.

If your stylist fails to communicate effectively and disregards your preferences, it’s likely a sign that you should consider seeking a new stylist who values your input and takes the time to understand your vision. A stylist who does not listen or engage can lead to dissatisfaction and frustration, leaving you with a hairstyle that may not reflect your personality or desires. Finding someone who genuinely cares about your happiness and takes the time to build a rapport with you can make all the difference in your salon experience.

Over time, your stylist can evolve from just a service provider to a true buddy, someone you not only feel comfortable with but also genuinely look forward to seeing during your appointments. This level of comfort can transform your visits into enjoyable experiences, where you can share stories, laugh, and even discuss life events while your hair is being beautifully styled. The relationship can become so seamless that after a while, all you’ll need to say when you plop down in his chair is, “Give me the usual!” This simple phrase encapsulates the trust and understanding that has developed over time, allowing your stylist to effortlessly create the look you love without needing to go into elaborate detail each time. Ultimately, a strong stylist-client relationship enhances not just your appearance but also your confidence and overall well-being.