Hairstyle Lengths (3)

Chin-length and shoulder-length hairstyles

Previous page

Shoulder-Length

This is by far the most common haircut length as it offers complete versatility and is often considered the most feminine without being difficult to maintain. The specific length may vary from below the chin to resting at the tops of the shoulders, and it should be treated as an approximation where the cut-off point is typically considered to be one inch below the level of the chin.

Shoulder-length hairstyles are widely varied to accommodate different wave patterns and textures. There is a choice between layered and blunt cuts to avoid the undesirable pyramid effect. Additionally, styling options can include straight, wavy, or curly looks, depending on personal preference, regardless of the hair's natural state. Take a look at the photo of the lovely Claire Danes with her shoulder-length locks.

Most manufacturers of hair products, such as shampoo and conditioner, base the recommended usage amounts on this specific hair length. Even color and permanent wave formulations are packaged with sufficient quantities to treat shoulder-length hair. This is why many salons charge extra for services performed on individuals with hair longer than shoulder-length, as the longer hair requires an additional package of product.

Claire Danes with shoulder length hair — Claire Danes - Photo: Joe Seer/Shutterstock

The concerns regarding the suitability of this hairstyle length for an individual heavily depend on the texture and wave pattern of the hair, ensuring that the hair is in proportion to the person's overall build and, specifically, their head.

Finally, the suitability of the style also takes into consideration the need for styling versatility, as this length allows the hair to be easily pulled back into a classic ponytail for ultra-casual looks, styled and groomed to flow freely, or swept up into an updo for more formal, professional, or dressy occasions.

Very Long Hair

Hair that extends below the shoulders is commonly classified as very long hair these days. However, it's important to note that very long hair encompasses a wide range of lengths, and thanks to advancements in cosmetology, such as hair extensions, many women can have hair of virtually any desired length, depending on their budget.

While some still consider very long hair to be the epitome of femininity, it should be acknowledged that it may not be flattering, or at least less flattering, on everyone. It should also be noted that the longer the hair, the heavier it becomes, causing it to lie closer to the scalp due to the weight.

As a result, it becomes challenging to do more than add waves or curls to the ends of very long hair. Such lengthy hair requires diligent and gentle care to protect it from cumulative damage caused by styling stress. This holds especially true the longer the hair gets.

Crystal Gayle's very long black hair — Crystal Gayle - Photo: s_bukley/Shutterstock

Let's take the example of American Country Music singer Crystal Gayle, who is known for her hauntingly beautiful singing voice as well as her nearly floor-length raven hair. Standing at 5 feet 1 inch (157 cm) tall, her hair was often seen to be about 5 inches from the floor, making it at least 4 feet 8 inches (140 cm) long. Considering the average person's hair grows about half an inch (1.25 cm) per month, the bottom few inches of Ms. Gayle's hair are over 9 years old. That is a significant amount of time for natural fibers to accumulate damage.

If your hair's texture can handle the stress of growing to very long lengths (and assuming your hair's growth cycle allows for sufficient time to achieve the desired length), long hair can create a strong vertical focus that can make individuals of average height and build appear taller and leaner.

However, before attempting to grow your hair all the way to the floor, it's important to be aware of common complaints among women with extremely long hair, such as neck pain, headaches, and the significant amount of time required to shampoo and detangle the hair.

©Hairfinder.com