The benefits of a shorter bob with a centre parting

The bob has always been my favourite hairstyle. Recently, thanks to my trusted hairdresser, Michael Charalambous, I am learning to appreciate the shorter, jaw-length version.

This cut makes a dramatic statement. It frames the face beautifully, highlights the bone structure, and feels far edgier than my old chin-length bob.

To elevate the look, Michael suggested a return to a centre parting. “A centre parting is more forgiving with grey hair as it keeps both sides balanced. It also works better with the way your fringe is growing,” he explains.

This time, my baby hairs were growing downward, pushing the front section forward and resisting being swept to the side. “When they begin to grow sideways, we may have to adjust the parting again,” he adds.

Luckily, I have a sqoval face shape, a combination of square and oval, which means I can wear either a side or centre parting. What I have noticed is how different they are.

A centre parting creates symmetry and draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones. It looks sharper and makes more of a statement. 

The side parting creates volume on one side, which can make the face appear wider. In humid weather, it can also cause uneven weight distribution, leaving one side puffier than the other. It often means battling stubborn baby hairs that refuse to fall into place.

The combination of a jaw-length bob and a blunt fringe creates strong, graphic lines. A centre parting balances the overall look. With my natural kink, it also prevents one side from behaving unpredictably.

On grey hair, which already has plenty of movement, a side parting can feel excessive against a  strong shape.

I never thought I would like short hair as much as I do. It may not be suitable for everyone, so always have a consultation with your stylist before going for the chop.

As hair turns grey, the texture changes. It becomes drier and coarser. When worn long, this can make the ends look thinner and frizzier, which can be ageing.

Long grey hair can look beautiful, but only when it is in excellent condition. A shorter cut can make hair appear thicker and give the face more definition.

The key is choosing a cut that works with your natural texture. Make sure your stylist understands how your hair behaves so they can advise you properly.

Thank you, Michael, for taking me shorter. As always, you were right.

By Daralyn Danns

For inspiration, visit nyumbasalon.com or follow on instagram.com/nyumbasalon 

How to look younger instantly

The bob is the cut of the moment. It might also be the quickest way to look younger.  From highly-polished and sleek to textured and sliced, there are countless versions.

According to acclaimed hairdresser Michael Charalambous, the right style for your face shape and hair texture can instantly make you look younger.

“When a bob is cut well, it frames the face, adds volume and makes hair look thicker. As well as drawing the eye upwards, emphasising cheekbones and defining the jawline, it can also soften fine lines,” says Michael. “Long hair can drag the features down, a short cut makes you look rejuvenated. It may even work better than Botox and fillers.”

Michael points out that too much filler and Botox can lead to puffiness that looks unnatural. While these treatments are intended to create a more youthful appearance, overdoing them can sometimes have the opposite effect.

“As we age, our faces naturally lose volume,” he explains. “Many people try to compensate by using more filler and Botox, but this can alter the face’s natural proportions and make it appear distorted. Instead of creating a fresher, younger look, excessive treatments can actually make someone appear older.”

He also says you can have the most amazing haircut but if what you are wearing does not complement it, you may still look older. 

“Pay a nod to a trend and incorporate it into your overall style,” Michael advises. “It is also important to update your make-up as well. Less is more.”

Before taking the plunge with a bob, make sure your stylist sees your hair in its natural state. This cut demands precision and any mistakes will show – especially when you're blow-drying at home. Whichever bob you choose it has to be personalised to you.

Michael looked at my bob which was past my chin. “We are going jaw-length with a side fringe. A shorter blunt cut makes fine hair look thicker. Tucking one side behind the ear will give it a modern vibe,” he adds.

My friends say it looks both classy and edgy. Looking younger instantly might be as simple as booking a hair appointment. 

By Daralyn Danns

For inspiration, visit nyumbasalon.com or follow on instagram.com/nyumbasalon 

The Lunar Hair Lift: A Small Tweak Can Make a Big Difference

“Out with the old” is a key Chinese New Year tradition. Cutting your hair is believed to clear bad luck from the previous year and refresh your energy for the next 12 months.

Whether you are celebrating the Year of the Fire Horse (starting February 17) or not, a new hairstyle is a powerful reset. It can instantly lift your mood and make you feel like a new person. But, you do not always need to do something drastic. A small tweak can be all it takes to make a big difference.

My hairdresser, Michael Charalambous, understood this instantly. I knew I needed a change, but didn’t know what. Before I could speak, he suggested going from a chin-length bob to a jaw-length cut.

The result was amazing. My hair looked thicker, was easier to manage, and I felt edgier and more sassy. A jaw-length cut frames the face and highlights bone structure, drawing attention upward to the eyes. Sharp, intentional lines create a bold, striking look.

Last year, Michael changed my parting from side to middle and added a full fringe. With grey hair, a centre parting balances the face and colour. A deep side parting can highlight uneven thickness. Bangs can hide forehead lines and create symmetry, giving a lifted appearance. They can also make you look years younger – and cheaper than Botox!

Side fringes can be beautiful. But depending on the angle and length, they may draw attention to lines or sagging eyelids.

“Movement and shine are signs of youthful hair,” says Michael. Sometimes a new blow-dry technique or a better conditioner can feel like a whole new haircut.  

 By Daralyn Danns

For inspiration, visit nyumbasalon.com or follow on instagram.com/nyumbasalon