The old wedge haircut is a classic hairstyle that has stood the test of time. This iconic cut, popularized in the 1970s by Dorothy Hamill, is known for its short, stacked layers in the back and longer, tapered layers in the front. If you’re looking to switch up your hairstyle and channel a retro vibe, learning how to cut the old wedge haircut is a great choice.
To achieve the perfect old wedge haircut, you’ll need a few basic tools: sharp scissors, a comb, and some clips to section off the hair. It’s also important to have a clear understanding of the desired outcome and a steady hand. While it’s always recommended to visit a professional hairdresser for complicated cuts, with some practice and patience, you can achieve a stylish old wedge haircut at home.
Start by sectioning off the hair into three parts: the top, the sides, and the back. It’s best to start at the back and work your way forward. Take small sections of hair and hold them between your index and middle fingers, then use your scissors to cut in a slight diagonal line. This will create the stacked effect of the old wedge haircut. Continue working your way up the back of the head, making sure to keep your cuts consistent in length and angle.
Once you reach the top section, it’s time to create the longer, tapered layers in the front. Hold small sections of hair between your fingers and angle your scissors downwards to create a softer look. Be sure to blend the front layers with the back for a seamless transition. Finish off the cut by trimming any stray hairs and making any necessary adjustments. Congratulations, you’ve successfully cut the old wedge haircut!
Steps to Cut the Classic Wedge Haircut
The wedge haircut is a classic style that gained popularity in the 1970s. It is a versatile and low-maintenance haircut that can be worn by people of all ages and hair types. If you want to give yourself or someone else a fresh and stylish look, follow these steps to cut the classic wedge haircut:
1. Start with clean, dry hair
Before you begin cutting the wedge haircut, make sure the hair is clean and dry. This will help you get a more accurate and even cut.
2. Part the hair down the middle
Using a comb, create a straight part down the middle of the head. This will divide the hair into two sections and serve as a guide for cutting.
3. Section the hair
Use hair clips to separate the front section of the hair from the back section. This will make it easier to cut the hair evenly and create the wedge shape.
4. Start cutting
Begin cutting the hair in the back section. Hold the hair between your fingers and cut straight across using sharp hair-cutting scissors. Repeat this step for the front section.
5. Create the wedge shape
To create the wedge shape, angle the scissors slightly downward when cutting the back section. Cut the hair shorter towards the nape of the neck and gradually longer towards the crown of the head. Repeat this step for the front section.
6. Blend the hair
After cutting, blend the hair by using blending shears or texturizing scissors. This will help soften any harsh lines and create a more natural look.
7. Style the hair
Once the haircut is complete, style the hair as desired. You can add volume by blow-drying the hair with a round brush or create sleekness by using a flat iron. Finish with hairspray to hold the style in place.
Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to cutting hair, so don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t turn out exactly how you want it the first time. With time and experience, you’ll become more confident and skilled in cutting the classic wedge haircut.
Preparing the Hair
Before starting the cutting process, it is important to properly prepare the hair. This includes washing and drying the hair as well as detangling it.
Washing the Hair
The first step in preparing the hair is to wash it thoroughly. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup or residue. Make sure to rinse the hair well to ensure there is no shampoo left behind.
Drying the Hair
After washing, gently squeeze out excess water from the hair. Avoid rubbing the hair vigorously with a towel, as this can cause damage and frizz. Instead, pat the hair dry with a soft towel or a cotton t-shirt.
If you have time, allow the hair to air dry naturally. This will help to maintain the hair’s natural texture and reduce the risk of heat damage from styling tools.
Detangling the Hair
Once the hair is dry, use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently remove any tangles or knots. Start from the ends of the hair and work your way up to the roots, using slow and gentle motions to prevent breakage.
If the hair is particularly tangled, you can apply a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray to help soften and loosen the knots.
By properly preparing the hair before cutting, you will ensure a smoother and more precise cutting process, as well as reduce the risk of damage or breakage.
Creating the Basic Shape
To cut the old wedge haircut, you need to start by creating the basic shape. This involves dividing the hair into sections and cutting it at specific angles to achieve the desired wedge shape.
Here are the steps to create the basic shape:
1. Section the hair
Start by sectioning the hair into four parts: two front sections and two back sections. Create a middle parting from the forehead to the nape of the neck, dividing the hair into two equal parts. Then, create a horizontal parting from ear to ear, dividing the hair into front and back sections.
2. Cut the back sections
Begin with one of the back sections. Take a small section of hair from the bottom and comb it downwards. Hold the hair between your index and middle fingers and point cut the ends at a slight angle, following the curve of the head. Repeat this process with small sections of hair, working your way up to the crown.
Repeat the same process on the other back section.
3. Cut the front sections
Start with one of the front sections. Take a small section of hair from the bottom and comb it downwards. Hold the hair between your index and middle fingers and point cut the ends at a steeper angle, creating a shorter length towards the front. Repeat this process with small sections of hair, working your way up to the crown.
Repeat the same process on the other front section.
Remember to constantly cross-check the length and angles on both sides to ensure symmetry.
Once you have created the basic shape, you can proceed to refine and personalize the haircut according to your client’s preferences.
Layering the Hair
The first step in cutting the old wedge haircut is to layer the hair. Layering creates movement and volume, and helps to remove any weight from the ends. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by sectioning the hair into different layers. Divide the hair into a top layer and two side layers.
- Take a small section of hair from the top layer, and comb it straight out from the head.
- Hold the hair between your index and middle fingers, and cut it at an angle, starting from the back and working your way to the front.
- Repeat this process for each section of hair in the top layer.
- Once you have finished the top layer, move on to the side layers. Take a small section of hair from the side layer, and comb it straight out from the head.
- Again, hold the hair between your fingers and cut it at an angle, starting from the back and working your way to the front.
- Continue this process for each section of hair in the side layers.
Layering the hair will create a soft and textured look, and help to remove any bulk from the ends. It is an important step in cutting the old wedge haircut, as it adds movement and dimension to the style.
Texturizing and Styling
Once you have successfully cut your old wedge haircut, it’s time to texturize and style it to give it a fresh, updated look.
Start by using thinning shears to add texture and remove some of the bulk in your hair. This will prevent your hair from looking too heavy and give it a more modern, effortless appearance.
Next, consider adding some layers to your haircut. Layers can help add movement and dimension to your hair, making it look fuller and more voluminous. Consult with your hairstylist to determine the best layering technique for your hair type and desired look.
When it comes to styling, you have many options to choose from. If you want a sleek and polished look, straighten your hair using a flat iron and finish with a shine serum or spray. To add some volume and texture, use a round brush while blow-drying your hair and finish with a texturizing spray.
If you prefer a more relaxed and tousled look, use a curling iron to create loose waves or curls. Finish with a texturizing spray or sea salt spray for a beachy, effortless vibe.
Remember to use heat protectant products before applying any heat styling tools to protect your hair from damage. Additionally, consider using a holding spray or hairspray to keep your style in place throughout the day.
Experiment with different texturizing and styling techniques to find the look that suits you best. Don’t be afraid to play around with your haircut and have fun with it!
Final Touches and Maintenance
After cutting the old wedge haircut, it is important to give it some final touches to ensure a polished look. Here are some tips on how to maintain your new haircut:
1. Style with a blow dryer:
Use a round brush and a blow dryer to smooth out any unevenness or flyaways. Start at the roots and work your way down to the ends, using the brush to create volume and shape.
2. Apply styling products:
Depending on your desired look, apply a small amount of hair gel, mousse, or wax to add texture and hold. This will help your new haircut stay in place throughout the day.
3. Schedule regular trims:
To maintain the wedge shape and prevent it from growing out, schedule regular trims every 4-6 weeks. This will keep your haircut looking fresh and prevent any split ends from forming.
4. Protect from heat damage:
When using hot styling tools like curling irons or straighteners, be sure to use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage to your hair. This will help keep it healthy and avoid any breakage.
5. Use a deep conditioning treatment:
Once a week, treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment to keep it moisturized and nourished. This will help prevent dryness and frizz, and keep your hair looking shiny and healthy.
By following these final touches and maintenance tips, you can keep your old wedge haircut looking fabulous and stylish for weeks to come!
