How to Tell Your Barber Exactly What You Want?
Everybody has been there at that awkward stage in a men’s hair salon when your barber asks what you’re looking for. You’re at a loss for words. Although you can picture how you want your hair to look, you still find it difficult to express it in words.
As a result, you utter a vague sentence and, to be honest, get a haircut that is a disappointment. Even the finest of us experience it! However, that is coming to an end today. You’re at the right place if you’re wondering how to express your preferences to your barber. Let’s go over a few helpful tips that will help you describe your ideal haircut to your barber at the men’s hair salon.
5 Tips to Describe Your Ideal Haircut to Your Barber
- Show Them Visual References
The easiest way to communicate your desired look is to show, not tell. Gather a few inspirational photos of hairstyles you like from magazines, websites or your own past photos. Don’t just pull out one picture, though – opt for 3-5 examples that capture the general vibe, length, styling, etc. Your barber at the men’s salon can then blend aspects of each to craft your personalized cut.
- Get Specific on Length
Vague descriptions like “short on the sides” can mean vastly different things. Instead, use your fingers to show length measurements or provide specifics like “2 inches on top, tapered to 1/2 inch on the sides and back.” This leaves no room for interpretation by your men’s hair salon expert.
- Discuss Face Shape and Hair Type
The cut you’re admiring may not work ideally with your face shape or hair texture. Have an open conversation about your hair’s thickness, waviness, cowlicks or problem areas. This allows the barber to tweak the style for a smooth, flattering result.
- Tell Them How You Often Style Your Hair
If you don’t have much time or skill with a blow dryer and products, let your barber know. They can then recommend a low-maintenance cut that still looks great with air drying. Or if you’re a savvy styler, they can get more creative with layers, textures and voluminous shapes that require hands-on effort.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Clarify
Throughout the haircut, don’t hesitate to speak up if something doesn’t look quite right to your eye. A good barber at a reputable men’s hair salon will appreciate the feedback and, of course, correct it if needed. It’s better than walking out unsatisfied!
- Be Open to Suggestions
While you should absolutely voice your preferences, also be open to suggestions from your experienced barber. They may make recommendations based on your face shape, hair texture, or lifestyle that you haven’t considered but could improve the look.
- Use Proper Terminology
If you know certain style terms like taper, fade, layers, etc., use them! Proper hair-cutting vocabulary will ensure you’re on the same page. If you’re unsure, ask your barber to clarify any confusing jargon.
The more details and references you can provide upfront, the better chance your barber can execute your perfect hairstyle vision. With open communication and a collaborative attitude, you’ll never leave any men’s hair salon unhappy again.
