Known for its versatility and flair, the long pixie cut is a bold choice for older women. Hairstyling expert Lael Barry delves into this fashionable trend, laying out tailored advice for different hair types and face shapes. Throughout the discussion, she reminds us that the real allure of a long pixie cut is its ability to adapt to every individual’s style and hair type.
Meet The Expert
Lael Barry
Lael is a master hairstylist with 17 years of experience.
You can find Lael at her own studio in San Diego, CA.
Pixie Perfect: A Cut for Every Type of Hair
When asked about the optimal long pixie cut for various hair textures and types, Barry responded with expert guidance.
For those with fine or thin hair, she suggests layered pixie cuts for adding volume and texture. To create the illusion of fullness, she advises framing the face with side-swept bangs or longer pieces and steering clear of overly blunt cuts.
Those with abundant, thick hair should consider thinning out the hair if it becomes too heavy. Barry says that graduated or layered cuts can lend balance and control while allowing room to play with edgy and softer styles.
Barry reassures us that aging hair can look stunning with a long pixie cut. Soft layers and gentle texture can inject movement and dimension. She even recommends experimenting with light hair colors or highlights to add depth and minimize the appearance of thinning.
Naturally curly or coily hair types can beautifully carry off long pixie cuts, but Barry cautions on finding a stylist experienced with this tongue-in-cheek hair type. She suggests longer layers to avoid extreme volume at the crown while still showcasing the hair’s natural bounce.
For those with wavy hair, a long pixie cut can manifest in a soft and effortless look. Textured cuts tailored to the individual’s waves, along with a tousled finish, make for a chilled, laid-back style.
Straight hair types should use a sleek and polished long pixie cut, Barry advises. She encourages experimenting with angular cuts or asymmetrical styles to inject interest and structure into your hair.
How to Choose a Pixie Cut for Your Face Shape
When given advice on long pixie cuts for each major face shape, she provides strategies to enhance different features.
For those with round faces, she suggests adding height and volume at the crown to elongate the face. Opting for longer pieces at the sides with side-swept bangs or asymmetrical cuts helps create angles and bring balance.
Those with square faces can soften strong jawlines with textured and layered cuts. Barry advises using side-swept bangs or longer pieces around the face to add softness. She also warns of the need to avoid overly sharp edges.
For long-faced ladies, Barry suggests choosing cuts with width-creating volume at the sides. Pixie cuts with side-swept bangs help break up the length of the face.
Oval faces can pull off a variety of pixie cuts. Here, Barry recommends experimenting with different styles, such as asymmetrical cuts, textured layers, or even bold cuts with shorter sides.
Heart-shaped faces will get balance by adding volume around the chin area with side-swept bangs or longer layers. They should avoid overly voluminous cuts on top, which could emphasize the wider forehead.
Make Pixie Cuts Work for Your Lifestyle
Moving on to styling tips and tricks, Barry offers advice based on different lifestyles.
For the working professional, she suggests leaning on a polished and sleek look. Use a flat iron to tame any frizz and create a refined finish.
For the busy mom, quick and easy styles work best. A tousled and textured look gives off a youthful vibe that requires minimum effort.
For those with an active lifestyle, messy and tousled looks are the way to go. These styles can withstand movement and sweat.
Retired ladies can mix up different styles based on mood and require minimal daily maintenance.
