The Middy Tutorial

The Middy is a layered haircut designed for 1940's hairstyling. It was cut 4 inches all over and could have variations, such as the Middy Long. However, the length is entirely a matter of preference as it is the cut that matters.
Ivan of Hollywood was the first to introduce this haircut. It was considered the most flattering and ideal cut for most women of the period.*


I posted a how-to at the Fedora Lounge, and the general consensus was that it was easy, so it has graduated to the blog. :)
This is the only time you will see me fresh faced and penguin-robed, so enjoy it now!

Step one: Part hair into sections.

Step two: Cut the sides.
Comb the hair out as flat and straight as possible, on the angle that I have used. Imagine there is a line extending from your chin to your collarbone. Carefully clamp the hair between your middle and index fingers along this line, and cut.

Step three: Cut the top hair.
Comb your top hair down perfectly straight and flat, as shown. The length here depends on how you style the hair - If you usually do Victory rolls, or a faux roll (à la Fleur de Guerre), keep it below your lips. If you prefer sideswept styles (like LisaFreemontSt), keep it to the tip of your nose or higher. Clamp your hair like before and cut straight across.

Step four: Cut the back.
The back hair in a Middy has long layers so curls will sit properly on top of each other. This is difficult to do yourself, but with pigtails its easier. The tails should sit in the centre and toward the bottom of your sections. Pull the pigtails out as straight as you can, and clamp the ends on an upward angle with your fingers. The tip of your fingers should be closer to your head than your knuckles. Position your scissors and cut.

Step five: Even it out.
This part is tricky. Take out all your sections, and comb all your hair down flat so it lies naturally. You will notice a definite length difference between where your side section ends and your back hair begins. As carefully as you can, even out this difference so the hair is on a downward angle. (Mine is actually pretty bad...)

Things to remember:

• The Middy is for hair that is always curled and styled, so your cuts and lengths don't need to be ruler-exact.
• Don't get scissor-happy. If you think you've cut it too short, stop immediately. No good will come from more cuts.
• That said, there is room for error here, and if you do mess up, don't panic! Hair grows back, and with clever sets no one will know the difference.

Please post your feedback, and if you try it out, tell us your results!

*From 1940's Hairstyles by Daniela Turudich, 2001.