Sam Villa ArTeam Member Jesse Linares unveils Invisible Layers, a revolutionary technique for adding volume and movement without altering the client’s cherished silhouette.
Many stylists explore “hidden” or “invisible” layers to create movement without altering the haircut’s visible shape. This technique offers a fantastic solution for clients who love their current style but desire more lift and volume, particularly at the crown area. Sam Villa ArTeam Member Jesse Linares expertly demonstrates how to incorporate this internal layering within an existing haircut. The goal is to achieve that sought-after short movement while fundamentally maintaining the overall silhouette.
How to Create Invisible Layers
Here’s how Jesse breaks down the technique:
- Isolate the crown: Start at the highest point and create curved sections to the center back on both sides. Secure with clips.
- Randomize sections: Using a comb (like the Sam Villa Signature Series Long Cutting Comb held like a pencil), create zigzag parts to conceal layers. Pull out small bits of hair; these remain uncut.
- Have fun and be random: Continue this around the top section. Finer sections create subtle results; larger sections make a bolder statement.
- Split top section: Divide the top section in half to decide on vertical or horizontal cutting lines.
Mastering the Cut: Vertical and Horizontal Techniques
Vertical Technique:
For a vertical approach, take one section and elevate it using a vertical finger position where the curved part of the head is located. With a straight cut, the head’s curvature will naturally be closer to your cutting position in the section’s middle, resulting in longer lengths towards the exterior. Consequently, this action creates a scoop or a sense of concavity within the overall shape. Therefore, if you observe the head’s roundness while cutting, that roundness will be preserved in the final silhouette.
Horizontal Technique:
When employing a horizontal technique, use horizontal finger positioning and compress the hair across the head’s top with good tension. This method prevents a shorter area from being created in the interior; each hair strand follows the head’s curve to reach the cutting position, and the length increases uniformly. Utilize this as a layer that possesses no collapsing point within the interior but instead builds volume against itself. Comb the section upward using the fine teeth of a comb to achieve good tension, and bring it across the head’s high point (standing on the opposite side can be helpful). Cut using the InvisiBlend Shear with the teeth cutting into the blade; this allows the shears to remain stationary while making multiple cuts.
In summary, the Invisible Layers technique, as demonstrated by Sam Villa ArTeam Member Jesse Linares, offers a valuable approach for stylists seeking to enhance volume and movement without compromising the integrity of a haircut’s overall shape. By understanding the nuances of vertical and horizontal cutting methods, professionals can confidently apply this innovative layering strategy to satisfy clients desiring both structure and dynamic flow in their hairstyles.
Hair: Sam Villa ArTeam; Photographer: Katie Parker; Makeup: Teal Druda; Wardrobe: Amia Serrano