Is a bob right for you?

 

The bob has always been my favourite hairstyle. Over the years I have countless versions. While trends come and go, this classic never seems to go out of fashion. In 2024, it is still one of the most popular cuts.

However, according to acclaimed hairdresser, Michael Charalambous, the bob is not right for everybody. “Some people do not suit short hair”, he says.

He goes on to say that choosing the right style, no matter your age, depends on your hair texture, face shape, height, personal style and, most importantly, maintenance. Will you be able to manage it yourself?

If you are considering a choppy bob, you have to take into account whether your hair is suited to layers. Not everybody’s is.

He cites me has a good example. I have a lot of fine hair with plenty of baby hairs. So I have natural layers. Adding more would result in uncontrollable frizz.

I remember a certain “celebrity” hairdresser convincing me to add layers to the bottom of my long hair to bring out the curl. Working with my natural texture would make it easier to manage, he told me. Famous last words.

It looked fine when I left the salon. The next day the hair at the back of my head resembled a bird’s nest. I had to go to another stylist and get it cut into a bob.

 

 

Classic and timeless

 

 

What works for one person might not work for another. Remember trends come and go. Opting for a look that is classic and timeless is the safest bet.

With Michael’s version of the French bob, I can wear it smooth or with movement. When I style it myself, I prefer to work with the natural kink and wave in my hair. It is much softer against my face.

Michael advises to let hair dry naturally in the summer so it gets a rest from heated appliances. To prevent curly hair expanding, Michael suggests when your hair is slightly damp to put on a wide hairband. This will help to keep it flatter and closer to your head.

When I want my hair smoother, I use a hairdryer. I tip my head forward to get volume. When it is almost dry, I push the hair back and shape it with my fingers. This brings out the natural movement. I use the round brush when I am going out.

I am so glad that I listened to Michael and embraced my natural colour and texture. The condition is so much better and it is shiny. Something I never achieved when I dyed my hair. Lighter hair is much more flattering as you get older. This style makes me feel sassy and edgy. 

 

By Daralyn Danns

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Test before you buy your salon hair products

 

Warm and welcoming! Nyumba’s new temporary salon (54 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7JN, tel: +44 (0)20 7408 1489) reflects the personality of its owner, Michael Charalambous and his team.

My hair had grown a lot over the last few weeks so I was in need of a cut. Michael took off about one and a half inches (almost 4cm). Having worn my hair in a longer bob for almost a year, this chin-skimming version looked and felt sassier.

As he was working away, we got on to the subject of products. Salons, generally, encourage you to buy theirs. Michael does not.

Most of us have been there. You buy the shampoo, conditioner and styling aids the stylist used, thinking you will achieve the same result at home. Often, you are disappointed. If that is the case you are not alone. Michael says: “Some clients have said the products work in the salon but not at home.”

 

 

 

 

A hairdresser told me years ago that it did not matter what products I used, it is your blow-drying skills that make the difference between a good hair day and a bad one. In my case, this holds true.

Michael stresses not all styling aids work for all hair types. He also points out that while a range may have one or two great items, others may not be quite so impressive. What is important is to use the right ones for your hair type.

For the salon, Michael buys the best from each line, unlike many salons who only stock one or two brands. He will also source products that work for clients’ specific needs. He does not want them to buy something until they are sure that the conditioner, styling cream, etc really is making a difference.

Michael also has a word of caution about some of the new hairdryers and hot air stylers and brushes on the market. He finds that they get too hot and can damage the hair. He has seen too many clients come in with frazzled strands.

When he opens his new salon, he is thinking of taking a completely different approach to most salons. He does not intend to sell any products!

 

By Daralyn Danns

 

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

 

 

The chunky-ends bob

 

 

You know that feeling when something is wrong with your hair but you are not sure what to do with it? Well, that is the benefit of having an amazing hairdresser.

Michael Charalambous knew instinctively what was wrong. “It looks like you have layers in your hair,” he says. “We need to cut it shorter so that the ends are chunky. Your hair will look thicker and be easier to style."

My hair had a lot of new growth coming through which had meant it was no longer one length. This new cut was the perfect remedy and would not require too much blow-drying.

According to Michael, heat is hair’s enemy, especially if it is fine. Think of your strands as a delicate fabric. Try to limit your use of hot tools.

Michael advised me to use a round brush and hairdryer to smooth out the hair rather than a hot brush or a hairdryer brush as these can heat up too much and damage fine locks. He also instructed me to use the medium setting on the dryer to help keep the hair healthy.

 

 

 

 

The cut is of paramount importance for a bob. Michael was so skilful in his technique that one of his experienced team members dubbed him the one and only after seeing his precision.

I loved it. But, what would it look like when I had to style it myself? Well, it was easy to get it straight. My hair has some curl in it, so when there is humidity in the air it will revert to its natural texture. However, with this cut when bits flick out or wave, it looks soft and pretty.

Another trick I learnt from Michael is to play with the parting. It not only changes your look but is better for the hair not to get used to it being in the same place all the time.

Forever updating my style, always impeccably cut and styled I agree, Michael is the one and only.

 

By Daralyn Danns

 

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