A new addition to the long list of trends with unique names (glazed doughnut hair, anyone?), the Shixie is the ultimate haircut for clients who want to embrace an effortlessly edgy look going into Autumn. HJ did some digging to find out everything there is to know about the Shixie haircut…
What is the Shixie?
Resulting in a modern and textured look, the Shixie is a combination of two popular haircuts, the Shag and the Pixie. Although styles with unique and creative names can sometimes prompt an eye roll, Ben Brazzo, Artistic Director at Jack & the Wolfe, summarises: “It allows stylists and our clients to put a name to something visual.”
Want to know more about the naming of trends? Find out what the pros say here.
When clients’ face shapes and natural hair texture are taken into account, the Shixie can be versatile and suited to most clients. Great with straight or curled hair, the look can accommodate a variety of hair desires as Matrix Artist Ambassador, Carol Ritchie, explains: “Is your client trying to grow out a Pixie crop? The Shixie is perfect for adding movement and volume. Are they intrigued by going short but still nervous to take the plunge? The Shixie can be tried before going for the full chop.”
Featuring lots of layers and texture, often cut with a razor, the Shixie is a low-maintenance cut which gives a softer finish than a traditional Pixie. However, it’s important to note that finer hair types may need a few adjustments to achieve the ideal texture: “Fine hair wouldn’t be suitable for the style as it can start to look wispy as opposed to soft movement,” advises Simon Townley, Matrix Artist Ambassador.
Embracing the ‘Shag’ aspect of the Shixie is essential to the look and keeps it that bit more versatile than other styles. Michelle Summer-Davies recommends: “Steer clear of overly thick layers as they will give a more Pixie-like, rather than shaggy, appearance.” What’s more, to further embrace the shaggy style, clients should have enough hair to be able to style and flick out. Therefore, stylists should avoid cutting the length too short so that the layers have enough movement, as Ben Brazzo suggests.
Tips for Styling a Shixie
Michelle Summer-Davies says to opt for a diffuser attachment when blow drying and to scrunch the hair, as this will enhance the shaggy texture. You could also use a salt spray to add even more texture, as suggested by Paul Paterson, Director at Medusa Hanover Street.
Simon Townley always ensures there's more length at the back of the head rather than at the sides to really set it apart from the classic Pixie. Furthermore, he says to be careful not to overload the face with hair as the top section is usually styled forward into the fringe.
Ben Brazzo concludes that a dry texturising spray will add the perfect finishing touch to the style.
Whether you think they are innovative or far-fetched, there are many adaptations of the Pixie haircut that we think are here to stay. Check out styles like the Mixie or the Wixie.
