What Everyone's Asking For at the Salon This Month

So I had three different clients yesterday show me the exact same TikTok of this layered bob, and I'm like... okay, clearly we need to talk about what's actually happening in Pasadena right now.

I'm Hasblady, and I've been cutting hair here at Bokaos for about four years now. Our little salon sits right in One Colorado Square, and honestly, some days it feels like Grand Central Station with everyone coming in with their phone screenshots asking "can you do THIS?"

Let me break down what I'm seeing the most of lately, and more importantly, what actually works for our clients.

The Bob That Actually Makes Sense

Yeah, everyone wants a bob. But here's the thing - not every bob works for every person or every lifestyle. I've been doing a lot of what I call "lived-in bobs" lately. Think less Instagram-perfect, more "I can run to Trader Joe's and still look put together."

Last week this teacher came in wanting one of those super blunt bobs she saw online. After we talked about her morning routine (spoiler: she has about 10 minutes), we went with something softer with just enough texture that she doesn't have to perfectly style it every single day. She texted me a week later saying it was the best decision ever.

Long Layers (But Make Them Smart)

I swear, if I had a dollar for every time someone said "I want long layers but don't take any length off"...

The thing about layers is they only work if you actually cut some hair off. I know, revolutionary concept. But seriously, the prettiest long layered cuts I've done lately have been on clients who trusted me to take 2-3 inches off the bottom to make the layers actually blend.

My client Sarah (she comes in every 8 weeks like clockwork) finally let me do this last month after wanting layers for literally two years. Now she can't stop playing with her hair because it actually moves instead of just hanging there.

Bangs: The Eternal Question

Alfred and I were just talking about this - probably 60% of our consultations involve the question "should I get bangs?"

The curtain bang thing is still huge, and honestly, it's because they're forgiving. You can grow them out without looking weird, you can style them different ways, and if you hate them... well, they grow fast.

But here's my real advice: if you've never had bangs before, maybe start with something subtle. I did these really soft face-framing pieces on my client Maria last month - technically not bangs but gives that same fresh feeling. She loved it so much she's coming back next month to go shorter.

The Shag Situation

Okay, shags. They're everywhere on social media, and yes, we're doing a lot of them. But can we please talk about maintenance for a second?

A good shag needs to be cut every 6-8 weeks to keep the shape. It needs the right products (hello, texturizing spray). And it needs someone who actually knows how to style textured hair.

I'm not trying to talk anyone out of it - when they work, they're amazing. Just had this client who's a photographer, and her shag is absolutely perfect for her vibe. But I always make sure people know what they're signing up for.

What I'm NOT Seeing Much Of

Weirdly, not getting many requests for super short cuts lately. A few pixies here and there, but mostly people want something they can still put in a ponytail. Makes sense - we're all still figuring out post-pandemic life and work-from-home styling.

Also, while the wolf cut was everywhere last year, I'm seeing fewer requests for that dramatic contrast between short and long layers. People seem to want things that look more... intentional? Less like they cut it themselves with kitchen scissors?

The Real Talk About Trends

Look, trends are fun and all, but here's what I tell every client: the best haircut is one that makes your morning easier, not harder.

I love when someone brings me inspiration photos, but I also love when we can have an honest conversation about their hair texture, their lifestyle, their budget for maintenance. Sometimes the perfect cut for you isn't the one that's trending - it's the one that makes you feel like yourself, just better.

Random Observations from Behind the Chair

• Everyone's hair got weird during the pandemic and we're still dealing with that
• Dry shampoo sales have definitely gone up (correlation? I think so)
• More people are asking about heat damage repair than ever before
• The number of people who don't know their natural hair texture is honestly surprising
• Yes, your hair changes as you age - it's normal and we can work with it

If you're thinking about switching up your cut, just come in for a consultation first. We can talk through what you're thinking and what might actually work. No pressure to book anything - sometimes it helps just to have a conversation with someone who looks at hair all day.

And honestly? Half the time the cut you end up loving isn't the one you came in asking for. Trust the process.

Bokaos Salon & Spa is located at 52 Hugus Alley in One Colorado Square. We do consultations, cuts, color, and somehow always end up talking about everything except hair. Book online or call us.