Middle parts have reigned for years but now it’s primetime for fringes. Learn why you should include this versatile accent in your fall haircuts.
It’s a fact: Trends come and go. And then come back again. “I always take a close look at people on the street when I’m travelling, because fashion and trends don’t start on a catwalk,” says Stephen Moody, director of North American education at Wella Professional. “Right now, for anybody under 22, the center part is really old. In a way, it’s rebelling against the beach wave look with the middle part, which is what their big sister or mom wears all the time.”
Beyond being current, Moody says fringes are an amazing addition to virtually any haircut, and can be worn by many types of clients. “To me, they’re like makeup and can be used to highlight cheekbones or to make someone’s face wider of narrower. Hopefully they can help us regain some of the clients we’re lost.”
Bringing Clients Back
According to Moody, fringes are the most interesting haircut option that’s come up of late. “There hasn’t really been anything new in the last 10 years. With ombré, balayage and beach waves, these trends have not been good for the hairstyling business. So, hopefully fringes can help us redefine our craft, and make us go back to being great at haircutting again.”
Yannick Brisebois, a L’Oréal Professionnel Canadian ambassador and co-owner of U Salon Boutique in Beloeil, Que., also feels that fringes are closing in on the “festival hair” trend.
Super long locks and a simple middle part. “That whole trend had a very lived-in look that didn’t require a lot of upkeep. I think women want a bit more personal style now. The very young client has matured and maybe she’s thinking of starting a career where she’ll need a more polished look.”
“We’re going back to a phase where hairstylists will reclaim their role,” Brisebois adds. “Clients are looking for a new identity, and they will start seeking out our expertise to create a signature look. They need help and we’re one of the only professionals who can offer them that type of guidance.”
Making the Cut
Fringes bring definition to hair and are a great face-framing option. To find out if fringe is right for your client, the key point is, the consultation. “Ask lots of questions to make sure she is ready,” says Moody. “Particularly if it’s a short fringe that’s being discussed, which will require more maintenance.” And always cut it longer than the client wants to minimize any shock when adjusting to a new style.
“Making sure you understand how the hair grows, its direction, and factoring in any cowlicks should be your guide in recommending which type of fringe is best suited,” says Brisebois. Sometimes clients come in with a photo, but you need to really understand what it is they like and want in the shot. Is it really the hair? Maybe it’s what the person is wearing. Or sometimes it can just be the lighting. You really need to have an in-depth conversation and manage their expectations.
Steps to a Perfect Fringe:
— Identify the shape of the client’s face
— Determine the desired length of the fringe
— Cut a fine layer of hair that will become your guide (to avoid mistakes)
— Add texture only after blow-drying
Styling and Finishing Tips
— It’s all about layering styling products
— Together, they create the proper finish
— “Always prep hair with foundation products, use construction products to create the movement, and then deconstruct with a nishing product. Each of them play an important part in creating a polished look,” says Brisebois.
Fringe Maintenance
— Clients should come in every three weeks for a refresher cut
— Suggest dry shampoo to avoid the dreaded greasy, stringy fringe
— Create custom looks by using hair colour
— Boost your fringe clientele by offering trims at a at rate, or better yet, complimentary to build loyalty
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