The perpetual search for the perfect haircut seems to be compounded by one’s status as a busy mother. Time restraints may keep you from the salon for weeks (perhaps months) at a time. To avoid resorting to the tried-and-true ponytail, you might want to consider that haircuts have come a long way over recent decades. Styles once considered too avant-garde are now making their way into the workplace, supermarket aisles and day cares. If you’re looking for a style switch, take note of these incredibly cute haircuts.
The Pixie
There’s a reason why Halle Berry reverted back to the short pixie cut that she made famous in the 90’s. Months after giving birth to baby Nahla, the sexy mom opted for a cut that would be virtually maintenance-free. This is a great haircut for those who have just enough time to spritz, gel and go. (Honorable Mention: actress Michelle Williams.)
The Bob w/ Bangs
Of course you knew this style would top the list of “Mom” haircuts. This is because the bob is perhaps the easiest hairstyle to maintain. Take a cue from supermom Katie Holmes (aka mother of starlet-in-the-making Suri Cruise). For a time, the inseparable pair even sported matching bobs with bangs.
The Shag
Supermodel Heidi Klum astonished millions when she showed up on a late night talk show with a spunky shaggy ‘do. Some of the critics weren’t too kind. But the leggy blonde opted to chop her flowing locks into a ragged semi-bob with bangs. The effect was “startling” on the Victoria’s Secret model. But for moms on the go, this style remains a quick fix.
The Mini-Afro
Those who aren’t of African American descent might have a difficult time with this particular style. But with natural hairstyles making a strong comeback, black women are eschewing their chemical relaxers in favor of their original textures. Singer Solange Knowles raised eyebrows when she traded her weave for a short “natural.” But the spunky mom’s style quickly caught on in R&B; circles.
The “No Fuss Muss”
You might want to thank Justin Bieber (or perhaps even Ellen DeGeneres) for the funky-looking windswept look for which many busy mothers are running to hair salons. But if you’re still a bit apprehensive about “extreme” sideswept bangs, go for a more feminine version like that seen on actress Lisa Rinna.
The Buzz Cut
Yep, women are still buzzing their locks off in favor of a considerably edgier look. R&B; singer (and mother) Toni Braxton recently followed suit, choosing to buzz her edges, leaving a tuft of hair along the crown. This trend seems to be making a statement in urban communities. But aside from keeping up your barber appointments, this hairdo practically styles itself.
The Messy Bob
This style isn’t necessarily a “bob” per se, but rather a layered cut that is extremely heavy on texture. Unlike the No Muss Fuss, this style relies on hair product and your fingers, instead of flat irons and blow dryers. The haircut looks best when kept right at ear level, or slightly covering the ears. Use a dab of curling wax or pomade on the ends to keep the look spiky.
The Layered Bob
Busy moms with fine hair may find that traditional bobs are too “heavy” for their texture. Enter the stage, the layered chin-length bob. Adding a few choppy layers (perhaps with highlights) helps maintain movement. The short length keeps maintenance a snap.
Short Waves
Haircuts for busy mothers don’t have to be severe, or lacking in sex appeal. Consider taking your super-long locks up an inch above your shoulders. Run a handful of styling mouse and “scrunch” throughout your hair while wet. Allow hair to air-dry for loose, tousled waves.
The Military Haircut
Before you consider this hairstyle too “brutal”-take one look at celebrities like Natalie Portman, Demi Moore or Mena Suvari. These ladies have all taken the plunge at some point, (some for movie roles, others not,) choosing to sport military buzz cuts. Most would deem this style too severe for a busy mom. And indeed, you’ve certainly got to have a grand amount of confidence in order to pull this one off. The right accessories, gentle make-up, and a spunky attitude will bring this haircut to life. And maintenance simply doesn’t get any easier.
Sources:
www.beautifulhairstyles.com
www.essence.com
www.aahairstyle.com
