Ask Lauren: How To Know If You’re Ready for the Chop

As all of you know, I recently chopped several inches off of my hair. It was my first real haircut in years, so it was a big change. But I’ve got to say, I’m loving my short haircut so far! I’ve received a lot of messages and comments here on LaurenConrad.com from readers who want to cut their hair too, but are nervous about making the chop. Today I wanted to address those questions in my latest Ask Lauren post. Here are the things to consider before getting a major haircut…

Is everything else in your life stable?

I understand the instinct to chop your hair off right after a breakup or other major life change. But as nice as it is to start fresh, you’re also more likely to make a rash decision you’ll regret. So if you’re considering making a big change to your look, try to do it when everything else in your life is status quo. I waited until several weeks after my wedding to cut my hair, so that I knew I really wanted the cut and it wasn’t just about making another dramatic change.

Can you take it slow?

When I told my hairstylist Kristin Ess that I wanted a bob, she literally refused to cut it. Instead, she suggested I cut a little bit off first and get used to playing with my new texture and length before really going for it. She cut my hair three weeks in a row, taking it from a lob to a true bob. If you think you want a bob, I definitely recommend trying a lob first and seeing how you like it. It really does make the transition a lot easier and also gives you a chance to change your mind.

Are you prepared for high maintenance?

It’s a big misconception that shorter hair is easier to care for. Yes, you might save a little time shampooing. But it takes more time to style shorter hair, and you will also have to get more frequent trims (every 4-6 weeks) to maintain your short cut. Now that my hair is short, my go-to ballerina bun is no longer an option and I have to actually style it every single day.

If you answered yes to all three questions, then you are ready for a short haircut!

I know it seems silly to put so much thought into getting a haircut, but as anyone who has ever had a bad haircut knows, it’s best to really be sure about these things!

Are you considering cutting your hair?

I hope my advice helped!

XO Lauren

P.S. If you do end up hating your haircut, all is not lost… Here’s how to make your hair grow faster.

Photo: Lauren Conrad