For a fashionable look that creates depth and movement to your hair, cut it at 90-degree angles. This is a technique used by stylists, commonly known as layering. The hair is pulled from the head at an angle, then cut to the desired length. Often the most difficult cut for stylists to produce, cutting hair at 90-degree angles can be done successfully with some practice.
Comb hair following the way it naturally falls.
Part it into four sections. Make a vertical part from the middle of the forehead to the end of the hair, then make a horizontal part originating from the back of the head.
Start at the back of the front section on the right side using approximately 1/2 inch of hair. Pull the hair at a 90-degree angle, so it it parallel with the ground and cut it to desired length.
Drop the hair back into place and part another 1/2 inch section of hair. Continue pulling 1/2 inch sections of hair and cutting at a 90-degree angle, until you have completed the first quadrant.
Divide the completed quadrant vertically from the front of the head to the back. This section serves as a guide for the front section on the left side.
Start at the back of the front section on the left side. Separate a 1/2 inch section, pull the hair at a 90-degree angle and cut it to the desired length.
Compare the length to the completed right-side quadrant. Continue pulling and cutting, until you have completed the entire left-side of the front section.
Make a 1/2 inch pie-shaped vertical part at the front of the right rear section. The part will be from the center of the crown to the neck, and resembles a skinny piece of pie.
Pull hair at a 90-degree angle and cut to desired length.
Separate a section of the pie-shaped part starting at the top section, going down to the bottom. This will serve as your guide.
Continue making vertical pie-shaped parts and cutting at a 90-degree angle, until you have completed the right rear section. Always have one part to be cut and one as a guide.
Repeat Steps 7 through 11 on the left rear section. The left rear section will match the right rear section upon completion.
Pull hair evenly on both sides from the nape. Trim any uneven sections or strays to proper length.
Warning
Layering can be difficult on short and medium hair lengths. Consult a stylist before cutting any advanced layers.
References
Writer Bio
Simone Watts has written for television, radio and print titles including "SPIN" and "Village Voice" since 2004. Based in New York City, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Columbia College Chicago.