How to Fake Short Hair Without a Haircut (No Scissors Required)

These styles mimic a big chop without the commitment.

So you're contemplating getting short hair but aren't entirely certain. Before you hastily book a salon appointment without being fully committed to a significant chop, consider experimenting with styles that give the illusion of short hair. This might serve as a litmus test of sorts to gauge your inclination toward a major haircut, or it could sway you to stick with your current length. Regardless of your decision, there exists an array of styling options that emulate the effect of a drastic cut. From using a headband to craft a faux bob to meticulously pinning your hair back to conceal its true length, there are so many options to consider.

Below, we’ve gathered a list of techniques for simulating short hair, all without actually cutting it. Keep scrolling for our favorite ideas, with photos and videos for guidance.

How to Fake a Bob

The Ponytail Technique

There's no doubt that bobs are chic, but they're also a big commitment. To emulate the style sans a trip to the hairstylist, Leo Izquierdo, hairstylist and co-founder of IGK Hair Care, suggests the following technique: gather your hair into a low ponytail positioned at the nape of your neck, roll the ponytail inward and fasten it with bobby pins for a tucked-in effect. He advises leaving a few wisps of hair framing your face to enhance the authenticity of the look. "Allow a few face-framing strands to fall loose for a more natural appearance," he adds.

The Headband Technique

One of the simplest methods to imitate a bob involves a stretchy headband. Izquierdo recommends placing the headband over your hair and subsequently tucking the hair up and beneath the headband for a non-committal short look.

The Extensions Technique

Another option is to utilize hair extensions, as demonstrated by celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton. He gathered the upper section of the hair into a knot and divided the remaining hair into two low braids. Then, he secured both braids at the nape of the neck with pins before strategically adding clip-in extensions in layers. He finished by releasing the top section and expertly styling it over the extensions for a seamless finish.

The Claw Clip Technique

One of the simplest ways to create the illusion of short hair is by using a claw clip. Although close observers might discern the trick upon closer inspection, you’ll definitely fool them in photographs.

How to Fake a Pixie Cut

The Deep Part Technique

Believe it or not, a faux pixie is just as easy to fake as a faux bob. "Part your hair deeply to one side and sweep the longer side across your forehead, tucking it behind your ear," says Izquierdo. Then, "pin the shorter side of your hair securely behind your ear, creating an asymmetrical pixie look."

How to Fake a ‘Bixie’ Cut

The Clip-Back Technique

If the term "bixie" is unfamiliar to you, it refers to a hairstyle that falls between a pixie and a bob. The approach mirrors Appleton's previously mentioned bob technique, but without hair extensions. 

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