This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to achieving a soft, layered haircut, perfect for those seeking a subtle yet impactful change to their long hair. Unlike traditional layering techniques that can appear harsh, this method focuses on creating natural movement and dimension without sacrificing length. We'll walk you through the process step-by-step, emphasizing precision and the use of the right tools to achieve seamlessly blended layers. Learn the secrets of the French hair cutting method, a technique known for its ability to create soft, textured styles.This tutorial details the specific techniques and tools used to create this effortlessly chic look. Discover how to master face framing, slide cutting, and layering the back section for a perfectly balanced result. We'll cover proper ergonomics, cutting angles, and the importance of elevating the hair to achieve those coveted soft layers. From choosing the right shears (we recommend the Olivia Garden SilkCutPro) to refining the final details, this tutorial ensures you'll master the art of creating a stunning, soft layered hairstyle at home.
Pros And Cons
- Nice and long
- Good for taking longer, bigger sections
- Time-efficient for long layered haircuts
- Good for taking longer, bigger sections
Read more: Top 10 Fromm Hair Scissors: A Buyer's Guide
Achieving Soft Layered Hair
This tutorial focuses on achieving a soft, layered haircut, ideal for those who find traditional layering techniques challenging. The goal is to create movement and dimension while maintaining length. This style is particularly effective for long hair.
The process involves careful sectioning and precise cutting techniques to create a naturally flowing layered look. The key is to use the right tools and understand how to blend layers seamlessly.
Throughout the process, emphasis is placed on soft layering for a natural, effortless style. The aim isn't to create harsh lines or dramatic changes in length, but rather a subtle enhancement of the hair's texture and movement.
French Hair Cutting Technique
The tutorial employs the 'French hair cutting' method, a technique known for its precision and ability to create soft, blended layers. This method focuses on using the inside of the shears to create a razored effect.
The stylist utilizes Olivia Garden SilkCutPro 6 1/2 inch shears and a carbon light comb for this technique. The large shear size is chosen to work with larger sections, facilitating efficiency.
The importance of proper ergonomics is highlighted: standing to work close to the body and avoiding over-directing the hair. These factors are crucial for efficiency and comfort.
Face Framing and Layering
The process begins with face framing, using existing layers as a guide. The stylist carefully removes about 3 inches from the bottom while maintaining strength at the ends. The shears are opened completely, pointed toward the ground, and used to create soft, blended layers.
The stylist demonstrates how to slide cut with the inside of the shears, never closing them fully. This technique avoids blunt cuts, creating a softer, more textured look. Careful attention is paid to preventing over-direction of the hair.
The process is repeated on both sides of the face, ensuring symmetry and balance. The stylist emphasizes the importance of letting the hair fall naturally, without excessive pulling or over-direction.
Creating the Back Layers
Layering of the back section begins after the sides are completed. The stylist uses the side layers as guides, maintaining a consistent length across the back. The cape is adjusted to allow for easy access to the hair.
The stylist over-directs the hair from the top towards the back, creating a clean, squared-off line. This ensures a strong perimeter and consistency of length across the back. The body is squared off to create a precise, symmetrical cut.
Cutting above the fingers is shown as a faster method, but cutting below is recommended for beginners until more proficiency is gained. The stylist checks for balance frequently to ensure an even, consistent look.
Completing the Layered Look
After completing the perimeter and basic layers, the stylist sits the model down and begins refining the layers. Working from top to bottom, short to long layers are created using the part line as a guide.
The stylist demonstrates cutting at a 90° angle to the parietal ridge, maintaining a soft, blended effect. The hair is lifted vertically, with fingers slightly pointed outwards at a 45° angle.
The process is continued around the head, using the existing layers as guides. The stylist emphasizes the importance of elevating the hair to create soft layers. Final touches involve removing any stray hairs for a polished finish.
Final Look and Conclusion
The final look showcases a soft, layered haircut with a natural, flowing style. The curtain fringe blends seamlessly with the overall cut, complementing the face shape.
The versatility of the haircut is highlighted, emphasizing that it can be styled in multiple ways while maintaining its shape and movement. The style allows for natural movement and framing.
The tutorial concludes with a recommendation to try the Olivia Garden SilkCutPro shears, emphasizing their high quality and exchange program. The emphasis is on creating soft, blended layers using precise techniques and suitable tools.