I'm Allergic to Haircuts, But I Finally Got the French-Girl Bangs of My Dreams

Welcome to Month of Me, where every day in January we’ll be publishing a new fashion, beauty, or wellness article featuring a first-person account of shaking up an old habit, pushing beyond a comfort zone, or simply trying something new. Follow along for 31 days of storytelling, including what it’s like to quit alcohol for 80 days, try Beyoncé's very strict diet, or completely overhaul your closet.

Before:

Photo:

@erin_jahns

Name: Erin Jahns, Beauty Editor, Who What Wear

What did you try? Celebrity hairstylist Cervando Maldonado gave me bangs at 454 North, in West Hollywood. (He's also the co-owner with his business partner, Chris Bragg.)

Why did you try it? Aside from a (very unflattering) bowl cut I got at Kid's Hair when I was about 4 years old, the list of "dramatic" haircuts I've had in my life is short. I actually opted for some short side bangs a few years ago—and loved them—but immediately let them grow out and have kept my hair long and layered ever since. That said, I've been itching to make a change for a year or so now, and after going blonder late last year, I felt like I needed a cooler, chicer haircut for 2020. I've always loved the look of French-girl bangs, (think Brigitte Bardot circa the 1960s), so I decided to put my haircut fears to the side and try something new.

Ever since moving to Los Angeles a few years ago and becoming a beauty editor, I've exclusively seen Cervando to cut my hair. He's the best, it's always a treat to visit his beautiful salon, and he also happens to be a genius when it comes to retro-inspired cuts. (He routinely works with celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Margot Robbie, Reese Witherspoon, and many more.) We'd been talking about bangs for months, so he was the obvious person I entrusted with the fate of my long hair.

After:

Photo:

@erin_jahns

Any challenges? No challenges! As I said, Cervando and the salon, in general, are a dream, and I couldn't have asked for a more positive experience. I'm still getting used to my bangs (there's always a little bit of an awkward phase when you're getting to know a new length or color), but all in all, I'm in love with end result and have been receiving tons of compliments. 

Any surprises? No surprises!

How did you feel afterward? What kinds of changes did you notice? Because I had gotten bangs once before, I kind of knew what to expect in terms of how to style them. But since I opted for a look that was slightly longer and more grown-out looking, I've been surprised at how easy my bangs have been to work with. (I've found a round brush and curling wand to be key in order to keep them flipping and curving the right direction from my face.) I also noticed that I definitely feel more confident. I've been loving my long hair, but I knew my strands needed a fresh shape and look. I know I just mentioned this, but the biggest change I've noticed is how many compliments I've received and how much fun I've been having with hair accessories. I think headbands look so cute paired with bangs.

What did you like about it? In addition to loving the salon, my hairstylist, and the outcome, I also really enjoyed the experience of trying something new. It's easy to become kind of jaded or overly comfy when you work in the beauty industry. (It's like you live vicariously through the haircuts, colors, makeup, etc., that you're always writing about!) I think getting bangs was a great step in the right direction. My goal is to be more experimental in 2020—be it with hair, skincare, or makeup, so this was the ultimate kickoff. And I'm so grateful to Cervando and 454 North for making the experience so seamless and fun. 

Photo:

@454north

What did you hate? I didn't hate anything. Just maybe that it took me so long to go for it.

Would you try it again? One million percent. I plan on keeping my bangs for a while before letting them grow out. 

Any advice for someone who is thinking about trying it? I think finding a hairstylist you really trust and whose work you consistently love and admire is key. Also, finding a salon with an ambiance that will make you feel calm and comfortable. As far as the actual cut, I think it's good to do your research and to find of a variety of inspirational looks you love and can bring to your stylist without being overly strict. Flexibility and openness are key! Listen to what your hairstylist thinks will or won't work for your hair texture, features, and face shape, and try your best to keep an open mind. Ultimately, you'll probably land on the perfect compromise together. 

One more thing: It's important to be realistic about styling and maintenance. Make sure you have an idea of what the cut will entail in terms of upkeep and that it's in line with your commitment level.