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subscribe to beauty blog via RSSSally Hershberger Talks Layers
April 27, 2009 12:40 pm
We have something of a love-hate relationship with layers. We appreciate how they can help frame the face when added to longer styles or really create texture in choppy, shorter looks, but they will forever be stigmatized in our minds, a holdover effect from when the Friends-obsessed masses gave them a bad name in the mid-nineties. But according to celebrity hairstylist Sally Hershberger, you don’t need to get “the Rachel” to capitalize on the technique. We chatted with the shear genius about what she sees as the essential element for spring and fall styles, and got some tips to help you make the most of any cut.
So, the layered looks you’re seeing for spring/summer—are they somehow different from layered styles of old?
Well, the sexy, tousled look you get when you have layered hair has always been popular, but I think more women are turning to this style because it’s very versatile, and when cut right and styled with products designed specifically for layers, you can extend the time between cuts without sacrificing shape. The specific look for spring and summer is a little cleaner than what we’ve seen before, but it still has great movement—it’s about being piece-y without the choppiness of some earlier layered styles.
By piece-y do you mean short?
It’s more about great texture than a “must-have” length. Drew Barrymore (particularly in her recent W cover) is a good example of how the look can be worn at a shorter length, and Giselle’s longer layers are unbelievable.
What about cutting technique? Are there certain things that work better for different hair types?
If you have thin hair, you want to leave your layers long to avoid stringiness, but in general there’s much more flexibility in doing the look on thick hair. You can go shorter with the layers because you don’t have to worry about the ends looking lifeless. And if you have a ton of hair, longer layers will naturally stick together, which will give the style great definition and movement. I like to cut layers, then blend them into the style, and then go back and treat them with a razor to get incredible definition and separation.
As far as products go, is there something specific you would recommend to play up these cuts?
Well, 90 percent of women have layers in their hair, but until recently there were never products out there that really made the most of them. My Shagg Spray was the first product that enhanced layers and it was an instant hit, so I decided to create a whole line around layered hair. The Shagg Collection was the first complete line for layers and the products are designed to add definition and movement to any layered cut. I use the Shagg Spray or Shagg Rocks Liquid Gel to give hair some kick—then you just need to use your hands to create perfect, piece-y texture.
Do you think this collective newfound love for texture is going to carry over into fall?
I think the eighties are making an incredible comeback through fashion and makeup, and hair is no exception, which means raspy texture and more product. That being said, shorter layered styles that range from just off-the-shoulder bobs with light layering around the face to pixie cuts are going to be big. These looks are incredibly versatile and can be styled as sleek, sexy/messy with texture, or something a little more out there with a lot of attitude.
tags: Sally Hershberger, Sally Hershberger Downtown, Shagg Rocks Liquid Gel, Shagg Spray
