The French Haircutting Method

A Custom, Artistic Approach to Hair

French haircutting is not a trend, a named style, or something chosen from a menu. It’s a method — one rooted in
artistry, structure, and an understanding of how hair naturally moves on an individual head.

For hairstylist James Fojt, French haircutting is about creating a shape that belongs to one person and one person only.

“It’s like painting a picture. You’re creating a shape that’s perfect for that person. Everything is custom.”

What Is French Haircutting?

French haircutting is a free-form cutting method that follows the natural shape of the head rather than forcing hair into
predetermined sections or formulas.

Instead of relying heavily on clips, rigid partings, or standardized angles, the stylist works directly with how the hair grows,
falls, and moves.

“You’re actually following their natural head shape. So it’s a perfect fit for their own head. It’s a custom cut for every single person.”

The result is hair that looks intentional but effortless — soft, balanced, and natural.

Why French Haircutting Is Different

Most haircutting techniques begin with a shape in mind and force the hair to conform to it. French haircutting reverses that process.

James analyzes:

  • Head shape
  • Face structure (cheekbones, jawline, symmetry)
  • Hair density and texture
  • How the hair falls naturally

“When they walk in, I already see the shape that fits them perfectly. It just comes to me.”

The cut is then built outward by following the contours of the head — not diagrams or rules.

“If It Has a Name, You Don’t Want It”

One of James’ guiding philosophies is simple:

“If it has a name, you don’t want it.”

Named haircuts assume that multiple people should wear the same shape. French haircutting rejects that idea entirely.

Two clients can ask for the same thing and leave with completely different haircuts — because their features, proportions, and movement are different.

A Rare and Selective Training

French haircutting is not widely taught. Traditionally, it’s passed down through mentorship, not schools — and access is limited.

“You have to be in the right place at the right time. They don’t take on anybody.”

James trained under French-educated stylists working at the highest levels of the industry, including runway and editorial environments.

That lineage matters — because the technique only works when it’s taught correctly.

Who French Haircutting Is For

This method is ideal for clients who:

  • Want hair that grows out well
  • Prefer natural movement over heavy styling
  • Have had bad haircuts in the past
  • Value craftsmanship over trends

“Everybody gets a custom haircut.”

FAQs

Is French haircutting good for all hair types?

Yes. Because the method adapts to natural growth and texture, it works across hair types.

Does it take longer than a traditional haircut?

No. In fact, once mastered, it’s very efficient.

Why does it look so natural?

Because it’s built to follow the head — not fight it.