get fancy: trim your own fringe

As any fringe-sporting individual would know, the key to a long-lasting style is regular upkeep. When you want to keep it short, hair has a tendency to grow faster than Jack's magical beanstalk, and trotting about with a shaggy curtain in front of your eyes can make everyday tasks less-than easy, to say the least.

Rather than attempting a slapdash trim that results in an emergency trip to your hairdresser, you could invest in some top-notch scissors and follow this simple fringe maintenance guide instead. Chances are you'll wind up with more beautiful bangs for your buck.



TOOLS:

comb
section clip
scissors (the scissors must be very sharp or you won't be able to use any slicing techniques. You can buy reasonably priced ones at hairdressing supply stores.)



INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare your hair in the way it will usually sit - dry so it's sitting as naturally as possible. When the hair is free from moisture it is easier to judge the length of the end result.



2. Carefully cut your line in. Remember that the angle of the scissors determines the shape of the fringe line.



3. After cutting your horizontal line, whether curved or straight, you can soften it by using 'point' cutting. This means using the very tips of the blades to carefully snip along the edge, and adds some extra texture to the fringe. Deep point cutting will give a more textured finish. For the most precise line, don't lift the hair whilst cutting - let it fall straight down.



4. For softening side layers or bangs (while avoiding chunky layers), select the pieces of hair and angle the scissors down. Again, the angle of the scissors determines the line. Half open the scissor blades and softly squeeze the blades closed whilst sliding down in a slicing motion. This gives softness to the side layers and is a handy technique for all lengths of hairstyles. You can also project the hair out from the head if you prefer more layering and texture. Remember: slicing is not possible without extremely sharp scissors, as it will pull rather than slice, leaving your ends frayed.



5. Keep standing back from the mirror to check your work and progress. With a bit of practice, you'll be a confident Fringe Trim Pro in no time.



The pretty piccies of model Ineke were snapped by Bekky Halls. Words are by Dana Leviston and Zachariah Norton.