How important is a good cut for gorgeous curly hair?

[GnomeOrMistAndIceGuy]

Hi all, I've managed to book in with a curl specialist salon with a fab reputation, but not until early August. Can anyone help me with what to ask for? My hair is naturally curly as you can see in the pic but extremely prone to frizz and the curls often don't shape nicely but do their own messy thing. I never feel smart with my hair which bothers me as I'm quite senior in my job and feel a bit of a scruff. Usually I go to a cheap and cheerful salon who are lovely but don't get curls and I've had a couple of disasters there.
I've seen people mention a 'curl by curl' cut... Would this work for me? Literally any advice on what to ask for in terms of a cut would be very welcome!

I have long hair with your level of curls. I have only really succeeded in very long or very short hair. I have had a curl by curl trim and it was a lot better because done while dry and so took all my curls into account and was a much more satisfactory cut.

So whatever you choose to do, it should be an improvement cut by this method.

Cutting curls and waves is very tricky and a lot more demanding on the stylist's skills. My hairdresser cuts the main shape wet, and a second time after rough drying to refine the curls. My hair is short, but not pixie short; roughly chin length. My last cut was six months ago, and it passed for reasonable until today when I got an appointment, thanks to a tonne of products. It's sharper and more refined after cutting and looks better, but not radically different. I had about 4cm off.

It depends on the shape of your face. A reverse bob might work well for you unless you have an oval/narrow face.

Can I ask where the hair salon is? I’m in the north-west, just started to embrace my curls and I’m struggling to find a salon which will know how best to work with curly hair

If you’re looking for curly specialist salons, ask on the many curly girl Facebook groups, they’ll be able to recommend someone.

Sorry, hit reply too early. The stylist, if they know their stuff, will simply get on with it, after a chat about what you want in terms of look.
I’ve had a curl by curl cut ever since I started the curly girl method about 2.5 years ago.

Whereabouts are you? I’ll try and help you find a salon if I can.

Hi, thanks for the advice so far! I'm in the North East and the place I've found is called Mojo. Never been there before but heard good things.
Helpful to read about the initial wet cut then sharpening it up when drier - I will suggest that to the stylist! Also, yes to reverse Bob. I have a fat round face unfortunately and that's the style that seems to suit me best. I just want the curls to be defined and not frizzy!!

EZA15 this is a good salon in Manchester Vicky is an expert with curly hair.

mccroryhair.co.uk/girls-and-curls/

My curls are similar to yours. New hairdressers are always hit and miss. I've been recommended a curly girl specialist. So will let you know.

@ZaraW - thank you so much!