Get Out of the Haircut Rut

Getting Started

The right haircut, the one that gives you the confidence to strut out your front door with ease, tops the list as one of life's most satisfying moments. But for many of us, it's when we go through major life changes -- becoming a mom, changing careers -- that we realize our hairstyle no longer fits our needs or mood. And yet many of us cling to the tried and true (hey, it worked in high school!), insecure about what to switch to.

If this sounds like you, you're officially in a hair rut. And we're here to help. We've addressed the three common laments from readers and asked Mark Garrison, a New York City celebrity hairstylist and salon owner, to come up with great style solutions. One of these might well work for you.

First, a few pointers. Start by asking for a consultation before the cut and bring photos -- or either a celebrity whose haircut you admire or of yourself in a past style that you really liked -- as that will help to get you and the stylist speaking the same language. Also, says Garrison, "discuss what you do and don't like about your present cut."

Next, the stylist will assess your face shape: A strong jaw looks best with softness around the nape, says Garrison, in order to divert attention from it. "A round face, meanwhile, needs a slim cut, where the volume is concentrated on top," he says.

Finally, the stylist will assess your hair's texture and length. If you have curly hair but you long for Demi Moore's glossy mane, and you're willing to spend time with the flat iron, then go for it. If not, pick another 'do. Fine hair looks best with minimal layers, as it needs the weight of a blunt style to hold it down. Thick hair, meanwhile, can handle more layers.