FASHION
Oct 17, 2023
Contour Cutting — How Individualism Is Shaping The Latest Haircut Trends
Heading into a new season, haircuts are taking on tailor-made shapes with contour cutting.
Borrowing the concept from makeup contouring, the relationship between makeup and hair trends are never far off. In fact, there’s a whole movement, “the skinification of hair,” that echoes this exact sentiment. As a haircare brand that has always been at the forefront of skincare for your hair, it is only natural that we find a natural tie between the two. So, what makes contour cutting so desirable? We investigate.
The Rise of Contour Cutting
A new term rooted in foundational techniques, contour cutting is the latest buzzword appealing to the masses. It takes its inspiration from the way makeup artists use products to contour the face to create a fitting finish. In the same regard, stylists can utilise a variety of cutting techniques to contour a haircut to fit your face shape and hair type.
The Contour Cut
According to KEVIN.MURPHY DESIGN.DIRECTOR for Cutting, Pascal Van Loenhout, a great haircut is "the ultimate accessory," and a custom-tailored cut can add structure, accentuate your cheekbones, or even create a whole new persona. With contour cutting it’s all about creating a flattering shape for you and your hair, so the right angles are key. The technique takes your face shape as well as your hair type into account. For example, a fringe might be ideal for straight hair types but proves challenging for those with a wave in their hair. Again, it all comes down to your comfort level with styling. For this reason, leaning on your trusted stylist is even more important when it comes time to choose the right cut for you. This is because it isn’t all about the haircut, it comes down to the styling as well.
Examples of Contour Cuts
Here is an example of how two versions of a similar haircut can create two very different looks.
Broken Bob With Fringe
Looking at this cut, the angle of the weight line draws the eye upward to elongate the jawline. In addition to this, the length of the fringe is carefully taken into account to highlight her brows and open up her eyes. They are also cut at a length that works with her natural texture to fall at the right height with minimal styling.
Shattered Bob With Vibrant Pops of Colour
You can see a clear difference with a similar haircut. Another rendition of a broken bob, this look has a longer fringe mixed with a splash of colour to create a deliberate face-frame that centers the gaze and accentuates the angle of her jawline. This is not only a perfect example of how length and framing can be used to change a cut, but also how colour placement can play a key role as well.
Styling Tips for Contour Cuts
Once your contour cut is achieved, the fun part begins — the styling. If you’re looking for a truly low-maintenance option, discuss this with your stylist beforehand. They can ensure the contour cut is created in a way that allows you to easily wash and wear your hair. If you’ll be wearing your hair naturally, we suggest stocking up on plenty of curl-enhancing products, leave-in conditioners, and air-drying stylers like KILLER.CURLS WASH & RINSE + KILLER.TWIRLS, to easily accommodate your new cut. If you know you’ll be styling your hair often, invest in a heat protection system like BLOW.DRY WASH, RINSE + EVERs, and/or HEATED.DEFENSE. These will protect your strands and your colour, to deliver impeccable results whether wearing the hair smooth or adding waves or curls.
