Many consider February the “real” start of the New Year, because January always has a little lingering December energy (and, February is the start of the Lunar New Year, after all). Now that the February new year energy is in the air, nothing says change more than a new hairstyle. Today, we’re diving into one trending hair style that celebrities, trendsetters and influencers have been buzzing about been on: the Octopus Haircut.
What is the Octopus Haircut?
Just to give you a quick break down of what the Octopus Haircut is exactly, think about the shag but much less heavy at the bottom. The main volume of the style lies on the crown of the head and becomes stringy (like tentacles) as it travels down to the ends. Some are calling it a modern revamp of the iconic “Rachel” haircut popularized by “Friends” in the ’90s.
“When doing a shag haircut, the layers are directed more towards the front, and the length is maintained in the back,” says Artistic Director Fabio Scalia. “The octopus haircut is more about creating a strong top layer that gives a round shape on the top and the length becomes visibly thinner as you travel down to the ends. There is a clear purposeful disconnection. That is what gives it the octopus appearance.”
Who it’s best for and why
Next, we asked Fabio another key question—who can rock this hairstyle? Well, he says, anyone with the right attitude! Remember that owning a hairstyle is more than just blindly following trends, you must feel confident and empowered in it. If you feel you have that edgy side within you, give it a shot! Of course, It’s always a good idea to consult with your hairdresser, who can give you pointers or, better yet customize, the hairstyle to your facial features. According to Fabio, the octopus haircut can work on square, round and heart shape faces—with your face shape determining how short you go around the cheekbones. The good thing is the face framing can always be customized, so it is important to go to an experienced hairdresser who knows how to make it work for you.
Who it’s not recommended for and why
Aside from facial structure and features, texture and maintenance also play a role. For instance, says Fabio, “if you hair is prone to natural frizz because of texture (curly/wavy) then I wouldn’t recommend the style because it’s going to look very unkempt. If that is that case, then you could consider getting a keratin hair treatment to smooth out your natural texture.”
Furthermore, as Fabio points out there are certain types of hair that can take a lot of texture and layering without getting puffy, but that is not the case for everyone, so knowing how your specific texture will behave with this style is important. If your natural texture doesn’t cooperate with this style, then you have to take into consideration the amount of time it will take daily to blow dry and style your hair. If you tend to be very low maintenance with hair styling, then it might not be a match. Again—talk to your hairstylist! They can provide you with a myriad of options.
If you decide to get this cut, here is what to talk to your stylist about
In conclusion, the octopus haircut is all the rage and is likely to be one of the top cuts for this year. Curious if you can rock this edgy style? Book a trim with your hairstylist, and during the consultation have a chat about changing your look. Hairdressers are there to guide and help you make informed decisions. Some things you can ask them are: How would they customize the face framing layers; whether they think a center part, off center or blunt bangs is the best way to wear it; and also how to style it at home.
Now, are you ready to change your look?
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Click Here to check out our Instagram post about the Octopus Hair