The thing about short hair, is that it changes your entire look. it’s a domino effect as this great Vogue article explains. Changing your hair drastically has a large impact on your personal style. Many women rely heavily on their long hair for confidence and femininity. I found that once my hair was gone, the outfits that looked great before no longer looked great on me or brought me that same feeling of confidence. My long hair was very much a fashion statement, projecting the “girly’ and feminine style I embraced. Bald & short hair presented a new challenge. How to accent my body and my face in new ways. I had to find creative ways to represent my femininity.

As I went through treatment and now moving into survivorship,  I have learned a lot about my own evolving style. The best lesson I have learned is to take risks. I have been continually surprised by new styles that look good on me as I go through this hair evolution. When you try new styles you will quickly find out what looks good and which looks you dislike. You may change your style routine up and come to love different aspects of your body. It’s all part of the process.

I have found a few key tips that have worked well for me. I am calling this my “Dressing for Short Hair Guide”. I hope you find these tips and pictures helpful. I would love to hear about how your style has evolved during and after cancer. How have you come to embrace your new look?

Particular hairstyles like a bobs, pixie or buzzcut can have a tomboy feel. Adding feminine touches to your outfit will help to soften the tomboy look. Lace, embellished tops, pastels, bright colors, florals, fitted skirts & ruffles are all good places to start.

Avoid clothing that is loose or baggy. Instead, stick with fitted clothing and layer flowing cardigans or kimonos. Stay clear of the “boyfriend” styles as these will only further add to masculine look. If you want to wear a baggy top balance it with skinny jeans or a tailored skirt. Blazers are another great way to layer and add dimension to your look.

Sweetheart, strapless and off the shoulder tops and dresses look great with short hair. Wearing strapless lets the outfit flaunt your short hair, neck, and focus on the face.

Large earrings, statement necklaces and headbands can add a feminine touch and balance out your look. Experiment with different jewelry until you find what works for you.

Makeup can help you play up your eyes and facial features which will be on display with a short haircut. A bright lip can be the perfect accessory.

Lacuna Loft is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that encourages, empowers, and connects young adult cancer and chronic illness survivors and caregivers around the globe, 24/7.  Lacuna Loft provides online wellness support resources, lifestyle encouragement, and peer support community that young adults need to overcome their challenging health and life circumstances, and thrive. I met the founder Mallory at the YSC conference and I am very excited to be a contributor for the Lacuna Loft community.