Elegant Soft Crop
Step by step guide on how to cut an elegant soft crop with short round uniform layer and conical crown, from Stacey Broughton, myhairdressers.com
An essential, basic, but beautiful shape. Combining street-chic and the classic images of Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday, we use simple yet precise cutting techniques that can be achieved by hairdressers of any level. The result is a fitted, elegant, soft crop (pixie cut) with emphasis on the conical interior, which enhances the head shape.
Before: Andrea before the haircut.
Step 1: Create a circular section in the crown, then two horizontal sections through the sides from the circle to the temples.
Step 2: Begin by taking a vertical section from crown to nape. Pull the hair straight out and cut a flat square line to the head shape.
Step 3: Using parallel sections, repeat the same process on the subsequent sections, working round towards the ear. Please note that the circular crown section enables you to work accurately to the round of the head.
Step 4: Once you have reached the round of the head, cross-check your work.
Step 5: Repeat the same process on the second side in order to maintain balance between the two sides.
Step 6: Now return to the first side and work with parallel sections with the same process towards the back of the ear. Please note that the angle slightly changes from vertical to diagonal as you work, following the round of the head.
Step 7: Repeat this process on the second side.
Step 8: Return to the first side and using the same technique, work through into the front.
Step 9: Once you reach the front hairline, apply slight over-direction which effectively softens the perimeter to gently frame the face.
Step 10: Repeat the same process on his second side.
Step 11: Next, refine the perimeter in the back, using freehand techniques and working with the natural growth patterns, ensuring a clean tailored outline.
Step 12: Refine the outline around the ear with the same techniques. Please note how Stacey is careful and visually aware when refining.
Step 13: Next, work with the top area. Take a side section from the crown to the front hairline, elevate the hair and cut a square line. Note that Stacey has chosen this line as he has carefully observed the growth patterns and wishes to achieve a flattened tailored effect which reflects the natural parting.
Step 14: Please note that as you work across the head, you should follow the roundness of the crown section.
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