Haircuts ...

Getting a good haircut is both an art and a science.

Where do I even begin?

The first step is entirely up to you. You have to know what will suit you by analysing your facial shape and identifying your hair type. You might want Katie Holme's straight, sharp bob but if you have curly hair and a square jaw then you can forget all about it.

There are a lot of websites to help you identify your face shape. Try this one for starters.

Take a look at famous faces and decide for yourself which haircuts work and which don't. You'll be amazed how many celebrities have made poor choices with their hair.

Choose a style with a good, clear photo that you can show your hairdresser. This website is excellent because it shows multiple angles of each style.

Ok, I've chosen a hair style. Now what?

Now it's time to make an appointment at your hairdresser. Some of us spend a lifetime searching for a good hairdresser. If you find one, stop looking! On the other hand, don't stay with a hairdresser who has consistently made a mess of your head. And remember the adage "You get what you pay for."

How do I make sure I get the cut I ask for?

Take along a printed picture of your haircut. If you can get photos of the hairstyle from different angles, even better (see link above).

Figure out exactly what it is that you like about the style. What you see in the picture may not be what the hairdresser sees. For example, a photo of a short spikey hairstyle shows colour, texture, shape, length, volume and the use of styling products. The hairdresser might focus on the length and the shape, while you are looking at the texture and the funky spikes. Tell the hairdresser exactly what features of the haircut you want. Also, confirm with the hairdresser BEFORE your hair is cut how much, and what kinds of, product the hairstyle requires.

How can I make sure the hairdresser does what I ask?

This is the tricky part. However, if you've discussed the haircut in detail with the hairdresser, you shouldn't have any problems.

The trick is to make sure the hairdresser feels "ownership" of the cut. Many hairdressers don't like being told how to do their job, because they are the artist. Once you've shown your hairdresser the photo and pointed out the exact features of the style that you like, don't forget to ask the hairdresser if he/she thinks it's the right hairstyle for you.

If you have any facial features you want to soften or hide, such as a strong jawline of big ears, tell your hairdresser and ask them for their opinion. Make sure you discuss their offered solutions and agree on any necessary compromises before the haircut begins. It might just be that the hairdresser knows better than you do.

Keep in mind that sometimes your hair pattern won't match a hairstyle. For example, hair that swirls on top of your head might make a short pixie cut impossible. Have your hairdresser look at your hairline before getting a very short haircut.

Finally, if you wear glasses you should endeavour to wear contact lenses while you're getting your hair cut, so you can see your reflection in the mirror as the hair cut progresses. You might notice the hairdresser about to cut your fringe, but you don't want a fringe. You can quickly stop any mistakes before they occur.

Good luck, and good haircuts for all!