It seems as though there is a constant influx of hair trends on social media, and while many aren’t even worth reporting on, the jawline rule might just be an exception – and here’s why…
What is the Jawline Rule?
The jawline rule is a method where a person envisions a diagonal line that starts at their jawline and continues up above the ear, towards the back of the head, which helps determine the ‘ideal’ position of a ponytail or other up-do, like the Snatched Bun. Just because the jawline rule is currently trending on social media, that doesn’t make it a new technique. In fact, Ben Brazzo, Artistic director at Jack & The Wolfe, explains: “The jawline rule is something I already use, especially when I’m doing specific styles such as a snatched ponytail. It’s incredibly flattering, enhancing your cheekbones and jawline while allowing you to find the perfect position to place a ponytail for all day comfort.” Also praising the jawline rule, Denman Creative Brandon Messinger shares: “As hairdressers we need to focus on geometry, because then we can truly tailor the look to the client and make it look uniquely special.”
However, the jawline rule doesn’t need to be reserved for salon use, with Anna Stubbs, hairdresser and content creator explaining: “This is great to share with your clients because it’s an easy guide to follow, and with a smoothing brush, is very achievable.”
How to Help Clients Achieve a Flattering Hairstyle
The jawline rule isn’t the only method to help your clients achieve a flattering hairstyle, both in the salon and at home. “I have heard of the jawline rule but would probably only recommend this to my clients for a low pony; I would use the cheekbone rule instead for most people and most styles,” says Denman Creative James Forte. “Following the cheekbones to the back of the head is a lot more flattering for most people and lifts their face a little bit too, especially for high ponytails or up-dos.” Further discussing how to best tailor a style to each individual client, Justin Mackland, freelance hair stylist, adds: “I love educating my clients on what will suit them – I talk about face shape a lot, but you always need to ensure that hair density and length are both being taken into consideration.”
Image credit: Janet Maitland
What About Clients with Hair Extensions?
“Bonds are easier to hide when you’re wearing your hair up,” explains Kirby Blythe, owner of Hair By Kirby Blythe and Great Lengths Master. “With the Great Lengths application, we always apply off the hairline, so the bonds are not visible, giving a really seamless finish when wearing their hair up as well.”
She also explains how you can tailor the installation of the extensions to best suit how your client likes to wear their hair, adding: “If they prefer a higher ponytail, I would always do the application on a slight diagonal because the extensions sit much nicer when you’re putting them up. If a client wears their hair in a much lower ponytail, that’s when I would do a slightly straighter application, so it sits flatter when they put their hair lower down into the nape of the neck.”
