Over the past year, I’ve found myself navigating a bit of an identity crisis when it comes to my hair. My hairstyle journey has been nothing short of eclectic, from a rebellious mullet to a poised pixie cut. Lately, however, I’ve been stuck in an awkward in-between phase, unsure of how to manage what my hair has become. Adding to my dilemma was an ill-fated attempt to let my partner take the reins during a late-night trim. Let’s just say the result was more “wonky bowl” than “chic hairstyle.” This whole situation was increasingly stressful until I stumbled upon a transformative haircut that has been turning heads all summer: the ’90s bixie cut.
So, what is a bixie cut? As the name suggests, it’s a delightful blend of a bob and a pixie cut, delivering a laid-back and slightly disheveled vibe. It resembles a grown-out pixie, or a bob that’s intentionally been styled with a casual, undone flair. Some of my favorite celebrity examples of this cut include Pixie Geldof, whose hair journey mirrors my own, and the gorgeous Florence Pugh, who graces our cover this October. The bixie cut also channels nostalgia from the late ’90s and early 2000s, reminiscent of icons like Cameron Diaz and Halle Berry during their prime. Essentially, it’s a cut that’s just long enough to tuck behind your ears or tousle with your fingers.
Charley McEwen, a hairstylist whose impressive client list includes Alexander Skarsgård and Lily Allen, has noted the revival of the bixie cut this summer. According to him, its popularity stems from its versatility and its appealing retro vibes. He explains that “it’s short enough to feel fresh and liberating,” yet not so drastic that it intimidates those looking for a change. The bixie’s design merges the structure of a pixie with the softness of a bob, making it incredibly enjoyable to wear. McEwen suggests that its edgy elegance from the late ’90s feels timeless, allowing it to resurface in a way that doesn’t scream “trend.”
What’s particularly appealing about the bixie cut is how easy it is to manage. McEwen notes that the style adapts well to various hair textures, which is great news for anyone considering a chop this summer. For those with fine hair, he recommends products like Aveda’s Phomollient styling foam or the Living Proof full volumizing spray, both of which help provide root lift. On the flip side, anyone sporting coarser textures might benefit from a smoothing cream or leave-in conditioner. This tailored approach means that the bixie cut can suit a wide range of hairstyles, making it a welcome option for many.
When it comes to styling and drying the bixie, McEwen’s advice is refreshingly straightforward. He tends to use a small round brush during blow-drying, focusing on lifting the hair at the crown and keeping the ends tidy. This technique adds a polished yet effortless shape to the style. As a finishing touch, a small amount of styling cream helps define the cut’s texture while ensuring it remains light and airy. The key here is to achieve that well-styled look without an excessive effort, which is reassuring for anyone who doesn’t have hours to spend on hair every morning.
In conclusion, I’ve finally found something that resonates with my sense of style and manages to make me feel good about my hair again. The bixie cut not only alleviates my hair crisis but also empowers me with a chic and manageable look. As the summer unfolds, I’m excited to embrace this versatile style and the myriad of effortless looks it allows, reminding me that beauty often lies in simplicity and nostalgia.