A recent article in the New York Times has sparked a debate, highlighting the so-called “mom haircut” and its reputation for being unfashionable. We’ve all heard the term, which typically refers to a short, low-maintenance style that has been labeled as uncool for ages. However, the narrative is shifting, as the article suggests that it’s not merely the haircut itself that’s to blame for this stigma; rather, it’s the fact that any style embraced by moms seems to be deemed uncool by default.
As Bee Shapiro points out, “In fashion, there are ‘mom jeans,’” and similarly, there’s a trend in beauty known as “mom hair.” You’ve likely encountered this style at suburban shopping centers: a bob that’s longer in the back and slightly shorter in front—intended to be sleek yet often comes off as frumpy.
It appears that motherhood has managed to ruin not just the bob, but also its various iterations. Even stylish city moms aren’t exempt from this critique. Shapiro mentions that even if they tweak their bob with bangs or layers, it still fails to impress.
So, if a mother opts for a bob, it’s frumpy. Anything shorter has long been the punchline of “mom jokes.” And if you think adding bangs or layers will save you, think again—you’re still labeled as a fashion faux pas.
The notion that moms can render things uncool simply by embracing them isn’t new. When mothers began wearing high-waisted jeans to disguise their postpartum figures, those jeans were quickly dubbed “mom jeans.” The same fate befell minivans, yoga pants, and bootcut jeans. Now, it seems even the most practical haircuts are tarnished by association.
Shapiro acknowledges that many moms cut their hair shorter to reclaim their identity or cope with postpartum hair loss. However, stylist Juan Carlos Maciques warns that going short might be “a big mistake.” He emphasizes that a mom’s changing body also influences how they should style their hair. “Long hair can be a distraction,” he explains, implying that shorter styles expose a woman more.
In essence, the article sends a discouraging message: rather than choosing a practical and uplifting haircut, moms should keep their hair long to mask their post-baby bodies. Or, if they must go for the dreaded “mom bob,” they should opt for a version that looks like it was butchered with children’s safety scissors to achieve a sense of youthful rebellion.
I find it frustrating that “mom” continues to be synonymous with unfashionable and unappealing. A bob is a timeless haircut, embraced by many, yet suddenly it’s seen as a faux pas just because it’s popular among mothers. If a haircut works for numerous women, it’s likely because they appreciate it or feel confident with it. The constant labeling of mom-favored styles as uncool raises the question: perhaps the issue lies not with the haircuts or minivans, but with society’s failure to recognize mothers as fashionable, vibrant individuals.
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In summary, the stigma surrounding the “mom haircut” reveals a broader societal issue. Women often cut their hair short for practical reasons, but the association with frumpiness is an unfair reflection of motherhood itself. We need to reevaluate how we perceive moms and their choices, celebrating their style rather than diminishing it.