French Top Haircuts: Overview and History
The French top haircut, also known as the “shaggy bob,” is a timeless and versatile style that has been popular for decades. It combines the classic bob with layers and texture, creating a flattering and low-maintenance look.
The French top haircut originated in the 1970s, when iconic actresses like Jane Birkin and Françoise Hardy popularized the style. It quickly became a favorite among fashion-forward women and remains a staple in modern hair salons worldwide.
Why the French Top Haircut Matters
The French top haircut is a popular choice for women of all ages and hair types. It offers several benefits, including:
- Versatility: The French top haircut can be styled in various ways, from sleek and polished to messy and textured.
- Flattering: The layers and texture add volume and movement to the hair, which can flatter all face shapes.
- Easy to Maintain: The French top haircut is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal styling products and regular trims.
- Timeless: The French top haircut has remained popular for decades and is unlikely to go out of style anytime soon.
How to Choose the Right French Top Haircut for You
When choosing a French top haircut, consider your face shape and hair texture.
- For round faces: Opt for a longer French top haircut with layers that frame and soften the face.
- For oval faces: Any variation of the French top haircut will work well, as oval faces can handle most styles.
- For square faces: A shorter French top haircut with bangs will help balance out the angles of the face.
- For thin hair: Layers and texture can add volume and movement to thin hair, creating a fuller appearance.
- For thick hair: A longer French top haircut with fewer layers can help tame and thin out thick hair.
French Top Haircuts: Tips and Tricks
- Use texturizing products: To enhance the texture and volume of your French top haircut, use texturizing products like mousse or hairspray.
- Layer in bangs: Bangs can add a touch of sophistication and framing to the French top haircut.
- Experiment with different lengths: The French top haircut can be worn at any length, from chin-length to shoulder-length and beyond.
- Keep it trimmed: Regular trims will help maintain the shape and style of your French top haircut.
- Consider professional styling: For special occasions or to achieve a flawless look, consider getting your French top haircut styled professionally.
Different French Top Haircut Styles
There are countless variations of the French top haircut, each with its unique features. Some of the most popular styles include:
- Classic French Top Haircut: This is the original shaggy bob, with layers that start at the crown and gradually lengthen towards the ends.
- Modern French Top Haircut: This variation has shorter layers and more texture, creating a more edgy and contemporary look.
- Asymmetrical French Top Haircut: One side of the hair is longer than the other, adding an element of asymmetry and interest.
- French Top Haircut with Bangs: Bangs can be added to the French top haircut to frame the face and create a more polished look.
- Inverted French Top Haircut: The hair is shorter at the back and longer at the front, creating an illusion of volume and movement.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting a French Top Haircut
If you’re comfortable cutting hair, you can follow these steps to create a French top haircut at home:
- Wash and damp dry your hair.
- Section your hair into four parts: two at the front and two at the back.
- Start with the back section: Take a horizontal section of hair at the nape of your neck and cut it to your desired length.
- Continue cutting the back section: Using the first section as a guide, cut the remaining hair in the back to the same length, creating a blunt line.
- Switch to the front section: Take a horizontal section of hair on one side of your face and cut it slightly shorter than the back section.
- Angle your scissors: As you cut the front section, angle your scissors slightly towards your face to create shorter layers.
- Repeat on the other side: Repeat steps 5 and 6 on the other side of your face.
- Check the length: Once you have cut the front and back sections, check the length and make any necessary adjustments.
- Add texture and movement: Use a razor or texturizing scissors to add texture and movement to the layers.
- Finish with styling: Apply texturizing products and style your French top haircut as desired.
Inspired by the French Top Haircut
The French top haircut has inspired countless other hairstyles, including:
- The Wolf Cut: A combination of the French top haircut and the mullet, with short layers at the top and longer layers at the back.
- The Bixie Cut: A hybrid of the bob and the pixie cut, with short layers that mimic the French top haircut.
- The French Girl Shag: A messy and textured variation of the French top haircut, with shaggy layers and often bangs.
- The Curtain Bangs Cut: Long, face-framing bangs that are inspired by the bangs often seen in French top haircuts.
Conclusion
The French top haircut is a versatile and timeless style that can enhance any face shape and hair type. Whether you prefer a classic or modern variation, the French top haircut is a great option for a stylish and sophisticated look.