We’ve all experienced it—sitting in the salon chair, eagerly awaiting a fresh new look, only to leave with a cut that makes us question our choices. Maybe the bangs are too short, the layers are uneven, or the overall style just doesn’t match the vision we had in mind. Even celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski aren’t immune to these haircut horror stories.
Recently, she shared on TikTok that her latest haircut was “the worst of her life.” Her candid confession serves as a reminder that even with the best intentions, a trip to the salon can go awry.
The Haircut That Went Wrong
Emily’s hair saga started with what seemed like a straightforward idea – she wanted a chic, British shaggy cut. However, what she ended up with were heavy bangs that extended all the way around her head, creating an unexpected and not-so-flattering look.
She humorously pointed out, “I have bangs on the back of my head,” laughing at the absurdity of the situation. Though she initially tried to soften the impact with a filter, her honest reaction was clear—she was shocked, to say the least.
The model and actress admitted that while the style wasn’t what she had envisioned, it was a valuable lesson. “It’s just not me,” she said. “Shocking. Shocking.” While hair does eventually grow back, the frustration and disappointment that come with an unexpected cut are hard to ignore. But her experience can teach us all a crucial lesson about how to avoid such mishaps in the future.
How to Avoid a Bad Haircut
A bad haircut can take weeks or even months to recover from, so it’s important to do everything you can to ensure your trip to the salon is a success. Below are some essential tips that can help prevent a salon disaster.
1. Choose the Right Stylist
The key to a good haircut often starts with the right stylist. It’s essential to find a professional whose work aligns with your hair goals. Whether you rely on recommendations from friends, family, or social media, ensure you research the stylist’s previous work. Don’t just pick someone randomly—you wouldn’t order an unfamiliar dish without asking about the ingredients first.
2. Bring Clear Reference Photos
Visuals speak louder than words when it comes to haircuts. Showing your stylist photos of what you’re aiming for can eliminate any potential misunderstandings. However, it’s also important to be specific about what you don’t want. A photo of a celebrity’s look might seem like the perfect inspiration, but if the cut involves bangs and you’ve always avoided them, it’s critical to speak up.
As Clara Purvis, the founder of Noordwyck Salon, points out, having a visual reference “leaves little room for misinterpretation.”
3. Consider Your Hair Type
Not every hairstyle works with every hair type. For instance, a bouncy curl look might not translate well if you have straight hair. It’s important to have realistic expectations. Haircuts that look fantastic on someone else might not work for you.
“A lot of images online are heavily styled and edited,” says Purvis. It’s vital to be clear with your stylist about your hair’s natural texture and discuss adjustments that work with, not against, it.
4. Communicate Throughout the Cut
Once the scissors start snipping, don’t sit back passively. Pay attention to how things are unfolding, and if something doesn’t look quite right, speak up right away. It’s easier to make adjustments when the cut is still in progress.
While it’s best to discuss everything during the consultation, letting your stylist know during the cut can save you from a bigger mistake later on.
5. Be Honest About Major Changes
If you’re planning a drastic change, such as switching from long hair to a pixie cut, make sure you have a solid understanding of the look you’re going for. A major transformation often requires careful planning, and your stylist can help guide you to a style that suits you best. Being upfront about your expectations ensures everyone is on the same page and prevents unpleasant surprises.
Taking Charge of Your Hair Destiny
Haircuts are personal, and when they go wrong, the results can be a source of frustration. However, as Emily Ratajkowski’s story shows, there’s always room for humor in the face of a bad haircut. While the frustration of not getting the cut you want can be overwhelming, remember that with proper communication, research, and preparation, the chances of getting a hairstyle you’ll love are much higher.
A little extra effort before your salon visit—like finding the right stylist, bringing photos, and clearly discussing what you want—can go a long way. And if something feels off during the cut, don’t hesitate to speak up. It’s your hair, after all, and you deserve to leave the salon feeling confident and happy with the result.