Can You Pull Off an Edgy New Haircut?

You've finally reached the point where you're looking for a serious style change. Perhaps you've been clinging to the inches of what you've perceived as a foregone youth. (Ok, maybe that was a bit too deep.) In any event, you've seen enough photographs of Rihanna to come to the conclusion that an edgy haircut is the ultimate way to go. But the sound of scissors may not be a comforting one if you're not really prepared for the shock of a funky, short hairdo. The "growing out" phase can feel like an eternity. So take the time to consider a few questions...

Are You Simply Looking For a No Fuss Hair Style?

If the answer to this question is "yes", then you might want to reconsider getting that funky new cut. Depending upon the kind of style you choose, your new cut may require more styling than you thought. Layered, extremely textured cuts might call for excessive products. And if your haircut leans more on the fringed bob side, then you'll need to consider what the style will look like once it grows out considerably. Even more, if you've gone extremely short (think buzz cut!)-be prepared to do frequent trimming to keep the 'do looking neat. Don't be mislead; short haircuts are typically quite easy to take care of. It is the trendy styling applied to the cuts that sometimes entails more time and effort.

Do You Have a Conservative Job?

Needless to say, if you work in the kind of environment where an edgy style will bring unwanted attention, then a spunky cut may not be for you. There are in fact, many different ways to modernize, or even tone down edgy styles. Coupled with well-tailored clothing and moderate make-up, there are literally all sorts of shapes you can create with short hair. Choose a versatile cut that can be worn in at least three distinct looks. You will feel better about your new 'do if you have a few styling options to explore.

What is Your Facial Shape?

Many people fail to consider that the haircut they find particularly fetching looks quite different in their minds than it does in real life. Case in point: In the 1990's, women across America bombarded hair dressers for the popular "Halle Berry" cut. And while a lot of customers left the salon satisfied, many became quite disillusioned when they realized that the hair cut looked different on their own heads. This is because some don't take into account the shape of the face. If you happen to have a wider jaw line, getting a cut that is narrow (or lacking volume) on top may pronounce the jaw even more, taking the focus away from your actual hair style. There are virtual computer programs that will allow you to see what you'd look like with certain hair cuts. But if you can't get your hands on one of these, simply pull your hair up into various directions, and get a really good look at the shape of your face.

Can Your Wardrobe Match an Edgy Short Cut?

You may look wild and delectable when you leave the salon, only to realize that your wardrobe is a bit less than exciting. You don't have to beef up your closet with lots of garish clothing. But if you're going for a complete overhaul, consider adding punches of color--things to balance the "shock" of a short new cut. Play with accessories. With less hair around your neck and shoulders, you'll have more room to showcase really interesting pieces. A great new haircut is a fabulous start. But if you're wardrobe is uninspiring, the style could fall flat.

Do You Have Patience?

In the off-chance that you find your edgy cut a bit too "over the edge" for you, it might be difficult waiting out the growing out period. It will help to have some idea of how fast your hair grows. Hair grows pretty quickly. But if you find that you're suddenly longing for your original style, you're going to be sorely disappointed. Have patience while the hair grows, and consider alternative styles to wear in the meanwhile. Many weaved styles are very easy to maintain. Lace wigs provide yet another playful alternative while you're transitioning from an edgy-haircut-gone-wrong.