Don't feel stupid! I'm so sorry you got a bad cut. I've been growing mine out since last December when I asked for a trim, and he copped my chin-length hair to around my ears/jaw
In the back, it was so short, he used a shaver.
Well, over the past year of growing it out, I've learned a lot about my hair. For instance, how much it curls short vs. long, how headbands can completely fix a bad style, how I can use bows and clips, what length I need for a ponytail on a bad day...
I would take advantage of this and use it to experiment! Maybe in trying new methods and styles, you'll find one that really flatters your hair
Good luck!!