You have probably heard the term layered applied to many of the latest 2008 hairstyles, but what does it really mean? Believe it or not, the term is fairly ambiguous, and both hairdressers and hair trend aficionados often disagree about its true meaning. The simplest definition is the creation of variable lengths of hair strands throughout an established hair cut, which sounds fairly straightforward if you think about it. Most of the disagreements and misinformation stem from the multitude of ways that layering can be used to enhance or alter an existing hairstyle.

Layering done by lifting individual strands of hair at different angles from their natural growth pattern and then cutting them to a specific length. When this is repeated in a uniform length and manner throughout the entire hairstyle, an all over layered cut is achieved. When strands of hair are held flat against the head without elevation, a zero layering hairstyle has been achieved, and when hair is held at an elevation of 45 degrees and cut, the result is a multi layered perimeter style.

The most common type of layering hairstyle is layering throughout the crown and the top of head, which allows hair to stand away from the head, giving it the appearance of greater volume. Your layered 2008 hairstyle may be done with traditional cutting scissors, thinning shears with one notched blade, a razor, or some combination of these.

The ideal texture for layering is coarse hair, followed by medium. Fine hair is least suited for layering, because if it is done improperly, it can actually make hair look thinner and wispy. Even coarse hair, when layered improperly, can look jagged, ragged, and choppy. Naturally curly hair is often layered improperly as well, since some stylists do not understand the special shaping techniques required. These examples are just some of the reasons why it is so important to find a professionally trained salon stylist.

Before visiting your salon stylist to obtain your new 2008 hairstyle, do some research. Look for layered hairstyle examples that appeal to you online and in magazines and bring them in to show your stylist during your consultation appointment. Ask the stylist whether your hair type, current condition, and texture can support your chosen stylist, and about the type of maintenance that such a style requires. Even if your stylist does not think that the styles you have chosen will work well for you, they will more than likely be able to come up with several alternatives that will appeal. Trust your stylist, and you will be well on your way to the 2008 hairstyle of your dreams.