The “bratty little side bang” (BLSB for short) has attitude. She’s bold, defiant and bratty in the complimentary, Charli XCX–anointed sense. And by all accounts, she’s back—ready to take over spring and summer hair trend mood boards like the early 2000s diva she is. Cue the iconic hair flip.

“I am endlessly inspired by what I’ll call an ‘early 2000s hot suburban mom,’” says content creator Natalie Shine, who actually coined the BLSB during a trim back in January. Think Julie Cooper from The O.C., whom Shine credits as a key reference. Like the majority of beauty fans, she was craving a haircut refresh to kick off 2026, and it's no secret that nostalgic styles—including side fringes and side partings—have skyrocketed in popularity as of late. “The side bang was calling,” Shine says. And so the BLSB was born.

Shine isn’t the only one to hop on the side-bang bandwagon. Plenty of celebs (such as Bella Hadid, Zoë Kravitz, and Quenlin Blackwell, to name a few), designers (such as Sandy Liang and Tory Burch), and beauty insiders (like makeup artist Lila Childs) have cosigned swoopy side bangs over the past few months, and top hairstylists only expect the trend to soar as we edge closer to warmer weather.

“We’re in a moment [where] huge waves of early 2000s nostalgia are coming back in full swing,” explains celebrity hairstylist Sky Kim. “We’re seeing it across fashion, beauty and culture—but the difference now is that it’s more self-aware.” Campy, if you will. One who dons a BLSB is plugged into the Y2K reference and likely has the low-rise jeans and frosty eye makeup to match it.

But what separates the BLSB from its early 2000s predecessor? “It’s shorter, slightly piece-y, and sits higher on the cheekbone or just at the brow, almost like it’s been flicked into place,” says Kim. “It doesn’t try to blend perfectly into the rest of the haircut, which is what gives it that attitude.” According to celebrity hairstylist Chris McMillan, it's also full of fluffy volume. “It’s not as literal as it was before,” he shares. See, while Y2K side bangs were typically flat-ironed into submission and, as a result, flopped lifelessly over the eye, “this year, the ‘bitchy little side bang’ is sexy and messy,” McMillan says. “It’s all about a flirty, voluminous hairstyle.”

Kim agrees—gone are the days of heavy, uniform, smoothly tucked side fringe. "The 2026 version keeps the reference but strips away the stiffness—it’s lighter, airier. Also, older bangs just came with really chunky highlights and layers," she says.

To ensure your BLSB appears fresh and updated while retaining just the right amount of nostalgia, she recommends lightly prepping the bangs with a blow-dry primer or touchable hair mousse (“Something that gives control without stiffness,” she says) before blow-drying from side to side with a small round brush. Shine personally separates her bangs into three layers before blow-drying (a key tip she learned from her stylist, Aurora, at Yves Durif Salon) to encourage bounce. Finish with hair spray for that side-part hold and a bit of hair oil to enhance the shine.

A final tip? “Keep the bang at the right length and don’t over-blend,” Kim suggests. “Isolate the bang to let it have a moment.” While traditional side bangs tend to be softer, more romantic, and long enough to melt into layers, the BLSB has enough personality to stand out on its own. It’d be a sin not to embrace the attitude.

Shop the Best Styling Products for Side Bangs

With snow outside my window and cold temperatures every day from now until April, I can only dream of the feeling of the sun on my skin and the smell of grass kissed by dew drops. While I may still be pulling on hats over my 4c curls and sticking with simple protective styles until warm weather comes my way, you can bet I've already begun to save every springtime style I want to try this year on Pinterest and Instagram for a hint of inspiration. Naturally, I've been looking back at the hair trends and 2025 styles that defined spring (mostly in awe of how long they kept our attention) in comparison to the spring hair trends I'm expecting to see popping up on red carpets.

To identify the biggest trends we'll be saying goodbye to as a new season arrives, I reached out to three hair experts for intel. Read ahead for their biggest predictions and recommendations on how to achieve them, plus some products to snag before you head to the salon.

How will styles differ from spring 2025?

Where spring 2025's most popular styles felt crisp and perfectly styled in clean bobs, lots of layers, and impressive volume with attention to detail, Ouidad stylist Mirsad Lajqi reveals this year will emphasise healthy, glossy hair and low-maintenance colours (soft grows, natural roots and tonal blends), instead of styles that require frequent touch-ups. "Stylists are favouring refined silhouettes [like] lived-in layers, bobs with soft texture, [and] classic blow-outs, rather than overly styled or rigid looks that can feel dated," he explains.

Lajqi also shares that extreme novelty cuts and coolers will also be replacing the overly polished styles of spring 2025—think timeless styles with a twist that modernise '90s and 2000's trends. Paulina Raciborski, stylist at NYC The Team, founded by Michelle Hong, agrees and highlights a movement towards enhancing natural textures for this year, as well as the helpful products to make the styling process easier. "Products that enhance natural texture are key right now. Lightweight styling creams, air-dry products, and flexible hold sprays help hair look polished without feeling stiff or overstyled," she says.

Raciborski explains that while styling her clients, she naturally gravitates towards anything that adds subtle volume at the root without adding heaviness, "as this allows cuts to move the way they're meant to." When creating these springtime styles, the goal is to create hair that looks styled (but not styled). When it comes to adding finishing touches, she predicts bangs will be on trend, they'll be more customizable, a blended version of the bold, statement styles we saw last year. "The focus is on hair that works with your natural texture, not against it," Racibroski adds.

Which 2025 hair colours will be less common?

When it comes to the hair colours that will be everywhere this spring, we'll see a shift in hair colour temperature to echo the sunlit days we can look forward to. "I think cooler platinum and icy silver blondes are unlikely to return this year," says Priscilla Choi, colourist at NYC The Team. "In 2026, warmer blondes such as butter cream (or buttery blonde) are taking the lead with a clear shift towards natural, low-maintenance shades rather than cool, high-contrast silver blends." This shade not only offers brightness without the harshness of cool tones, but it also creates a natural frame for the face.

While previous trend cycles have embraced vibrant pinks, vivid reds, silvers, and greys, as well as other fashion-y hues inspired by social media trends and runway looks, Choi predicts a shift for the mainstream colour palette towards more wearable, natural tones that help enhance natural features instead of dramatically transforming them. "There's a growing preference for healthy-looking hair that grows out effortlessly, more polished, refined, and intentionally understated," explains Choi.

Keep scrolling to discover the 11 iconic hair moments that you can expect to spot in spring 2026, and beyond (plus the best products to maintain them).

Then: Viral Cuts | Now: Personalized Looks

Spring 2026 is already shaping up to be the season of comfort and style, which is a huge difference from the high-effort looks that defined 2025. "The biggest shift is that trends are becoming more personalised. Instead of everyone asking for the same viral cut, people want styles tailored to their face shape, lifestyle, and styling habits," says Raciborski. This year, she says hair is less about making a statement and more about enhancing what you already have. "It's quieter, more effortless, and feels timeless rather than trend-driven."

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Then: Sleek Strands | Now: High Definition

Spring 2026 will be a masterclass in movement, body and romanticism instead of overly polished hairstyles that take more effort to create than they last. In addition to heavily flat-ironed, straight looks, Lajqi tells us, "strict centre parts, and rigid shapes are considered ageing and outdated compared to styles that emphasise movement, softness, and texture." That's right—it's officially time to retire your hair straightener.

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Then: Stiff Looks | Now: Refined Silhouettes

When it comes to hairstyle trends, the keyword for 2026 (including this spring) is "effortless." If your tresses look slightly undone, windswept and relaxed, Lajqi says you're on the right path. "Instead of stiff styling and flat-ironed hair, what is fresh for 2026 is soft layers, natural texture, side parts and blowout with volume," says Lajqi. Margot Robbie posed for cameras at a Wuthering Heights photocall wearing an effortless, upswept bun that got picked up by the wind.

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Then: Viral Cuts | Now: Lifestyle-Led

Last spring marked the return of "very done" hairstyles, which Raciborski says include heavy layers, dramatic wolf cuts, ultra-shaggy shapes, and overly blown-out looks that required constant styling. "While they photographed beautifully, they weren't always realistic for everyday life," says Raciborski. This season will be all about embracing natural textures, movement, and styles that can reflect your everyday routines. More compliments, fewer touch-ups!

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Then: Minimalist | Now: Romantic

The recent release of Wuthering Heights inspired romantic Edwardian- and Victorian-esque hairstyles, exploring everything from ribbon-lace corset braids and windswept bangs to delicate hair jewellery and other accessories worn in unexpected ways. While we can't all be Kathy Earnshaw wandering the moors, this spring offers the perfect chance to tap into the trend that's anything but minimalistic.

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Then: Polished Cuts | Now: Lived-In Bobs

Raciborski predicts polished cuts will be replaced by softer, more refined shapes that have movements and still feel intentional. "Think modern one-length cuts with subtle internal layering, lived-in bobs that can be worn sleek, air-dried, and longer styles that frame the face without overpowering it," she explains. Bangs will still be around, but they'll be more customisable, blended interpretations. In other words, the focus this year will be on hair that works with your natural texture, not against it.

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Then: Slicked-Back Buns | Now: Classic Buns

Clean and effortless slicked-back buns are perfect for year-round wear, but in spring 2026, we're noticing an uptick in the number of red-carpet looks that revolve around elevated bun styles with striking details. This elegant updo Lori Harvey wore to the 83rd Annual Golden Globes has lived rent-free in our minds thanks to its chunky, braided feature and timeless warm brown colour.

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Then: Icy Blonde | Now: Butter Cream

Say goodbye to trendy, frosty tones of spring 2025—this season will be all about leaning into cosy tones that give complexions a natural, sun-kissed glow. "Highly bleached, icy platinum hues dominated 2025, but stylists are steering toward warmer, more natural-looking blondes in 2026," says Lajqi. "Warmer and buttery, or lived-in blondes with soft dimension feel healthier and are easier to maintain long-term."

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Then: Cinnamon | Now: Caramel Brown

Everyone from Winter Olympian Eileen Gu to Sofia Richie-Grainge has convinced us that the blonde-speckled blonde hair we saw last spring 2026 is being traded out for luxe, caramel brown tresses. "The reason behind this change is simple. Hair trends are moving away from ultra-cool, high-maintenance tones toward warmer, more natural and face-flattering hues that require fewer salon visits and grow out effortlessly," says Choi.

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Then: Cropped Lengths | Now: Long Tresses

In 2025, we witnessed the rise of the Italian bobs and modernised French bobs just in time for spring, but this year will be dedicated to long lengths and high-volume body, all while achieving endless shine without looking overly polished. Actress and model Laura Harrier opted for these soft and effortless waves while attending the Charles Finch and Chanel 2026 pre-BAFTA Party.

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Then: Retro Chignon | Now: Smooth Bun

With the number of Old Hollywood–inspired chignons popping up on the most stylish celebrities while being photographed at red carpet events, it's no secret that there was endless inspiration for the throwback look. This spring, however, you can expect to see a much more scaled-back version of it in the form of a clean, slightly textured bun. Jennie made an appearance at Paris Fashion Week for autumn 2026, wearing the style with chic, face-framing strands.

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Let's be real: Effortless beauty is somewhat of a myth. Oftentimes, that "no makeup" makeup or "perfectly imperfect" hair takes just as much—if not more—legwork than going full glam. So when I saw "ghost waves" (a term coined by hairstylist Tom Smith) popping up all over social media as a low-maintenance summer hair trend, I thought there was no way they could be that easy to achieve. Barely there bends? Sounds fabulous, but my curls have more of an energetic presence, so I'd likely need multiple hot tools to create that texture—a task that doesn't seem very effortless at all.

Because I was a bit hesitant, I asked Smith himself how every hair type—from pin-straight strands to dense coils—can master the ghost waves trend at home, and it turns out, this breezy style is as unfussy as it seems. Scroll ahead for his in-depth tutorial.

What Are Ghost Waves, and Why Are They Trending Right Now?

Smith describes the style as "soft, barely there, S-shaped waves." They're effortless and undone, evoking the laid-back, '70s-inspired energy of a billowy boho dress. In fact, celebrities like Sienna Miller, Zoe Saldaña, and Daisy Edgar-Jones have all paired their ultra-boho Chloé dresses with understated ghost waves in the past year. Let it be known: Boho chic is back, and a free-spirited chiffon moment calls for an equally floaty hairstyle to match.

"The term comes from the fact that it's an undetectable technique," Smith explains. "Rather than being able to say, 'Oh, those are GHD curls,' or 'That's a curling-iron wave,' or 'That's a blowout,' it's a hidden technique, so you can't quite see how it's been done. It also [has] a whisper of texture rather than a shout. … The ghost wave speaks to that person who [loves] a quiet luxury [aesthetic], as opposed to the mob wife from last year."

This all being said, ghost waves are way more versatile than you think. Yes, they are technically categorized by slight, undetectable bends in the hair, but you can also simply lean into your natural texture for your own version of effortless, boho-inspired strands. The only general "rule" is to secure a middle part, as that tends to read breezier. "But it doesn't have to be a perfect middle parting," Smith caveats. "It can be something that's a little bit more irregular, which leans into that effortless look."

Ghost Waves Inspiration

Sienna Miller is arguably the queen of boho-inspired ghost waves.

Here, a curlier version of ghost waves. The natural middle part reads quintessential boho.

Zoe Saldaña paired her Chloé ensemble with flowy ghost waves at the 2024 Met Gala.

This ensemble from Daisy Edgar-Jones is the boho blueprint in every way.

Pictured: Perfectly tousled waves from Laura Harrier.

Ghost waves + mermaid braids = the perfect pairing.

So is a wavy French bob situation à la Halle Berry.

Add a few face-framing layers for some natural dimension, like Jodie Comer did here.

How to Achieve Ghost Waves at Home

"There are two approaches I would take," Smith notes. "There's an air-dry version and a hot-tool version for each hair type." Find all his tips for both ventures below.

Air-Dried Ghost Waves

Straight Hair Types

For those with straighter strands (hair types 1a to 2a), braids will be your best friends. "Braiding the hair can work really well if we're working on a thicker straight hair type," Smith shares. "Finer, straight hair types tend to look a little bit crimped if you braid them." If you do have finer locks, just keep the braids really loose to encourage more relaxed bends.

Before braiding, prep your strands with lightweight hydrators (think leave-ins and sea salt sprays) to moisturise without weighing down the waves. Braid the hair—either two pigtails or one larger plait—and leave them on overnight. "I wouldn't sleep with it completely wet in a braid, because it just won't dry," Smith shares. (That's where the lightweight sprays come in handy to encourage a bit of texture as it air-dries.) When you wake up, "a little impression of a bend can come into the hair," he shares.

Wavy-Curly Hair Types

"Those with any kind of wave or loose curl can achieve ghost waves quite easily," declares Smith. "There's a natural ghost wave underlying in the hair; it's just about how you prep."

That said, the exact prep steps will differ depending on your exact curl type (from 2b to 3a). "If your natural waves drop out quite easily, prepping the hair with a light-moisture, strong-hold product—like a hair mousse or a gel—is the best way to start," Smith suggests. "[That's] going to be the right consistency to encourage the texture contract and get a little bit stronger." Simply scrunch in your mousse or gel of choice into freshly washed, towel-dried hair without brushing it through, and let it air-dry.

Once your waves are completely dry, scrunch once again with your fingertips to eliminate any crispiness. "Then I would simply put your head upside down and spray through some texture spray to loosen it up and get that fluffy haze to it," adds Smith. If you find that your waves still haven't contracted as much as you'd like, you can add some styling powder to give them more body; focus the powder on your roots, gently working it through your hair to encourage volume.

If your waves or curls don't have as much trouble holding their shape, "the only difference is to use stronger moisture and lighter hold," explains Smith. Think creams, oils, and balms—anything super nourishing that has a bit of weight to it. "Brush that through the texture, and then shake it without scrunching," Smith instructs. Let the hair air-dry, and do your best not to touch it (tempting as it may be). "Letting it fully air-dry will lock the texture in. You can shake and fluff it up as much as you want once it's dry, and you'll have a bit more control over the result," he adds.

Curly Coily Hair Types

For curly, coily hair, natural ghost waves will have more than an undetectable bend. "If you want the Miley Cyrus [circa 2010] sort of ghost wave, then you would need to get a silk press first, straighten [the hair] all out, and then bend the waves in." That said, the ghost waves trend can also just refer to an air-dried wash-and-go, so you can adapt it to your curl pattern. According to Smith, those with tighter textures can achieve a curlier version of ghost waves by doing a two- or three-strand twist-out.

Again, you'll want to prep freshly washed hair with moisturising creams, oils, and balms. You can also gently pre-stretch the strands with your fingers or a paddle brush before twisting your hair section by section. "The bigger the sections you take, the looser you're going to make the wave," Smith notes. Leave them overnight, and then unravel the twists once the strands are completely dry. [It's] a curlier version of ghost waves, and it's much kinder and gentler to the texture," Smith notes.

Ghost Waves Using Hot Tools

The boho trend is all about embracing your natural texture, but you can feel free to use hot tools to secure a more uniform result. After a generous spritz of heat protectant (always!), straighten your full head of hair however you please (be it a silk press, blowout, or quick rough-dry), and then grab a hair straightener. Smith recommends the Dyson Corrale, as you can easily create flat-iron waves without the hassle of a cord.

Bend the hair in sections, pausing in between each pass. "Bend it one direction, as if you were about to make a curl, then let the hair drop out. Wait for a second so it cools slightly, and then pick that same strand up, turn the opposite direction, pausing again, turning it the opposite direction." Smith instructs. Essentially, you'll want to create the impression of a wave instead of a full curl. The number of sections you style will depend on your hair's thickness and texture, but remember that the waves are supposed to be irregular—nothing too perfect.

To make things even easier, he says you can also grab a two- or three-pronged waver to create those impressions. "The trick there is [using] really big, irregularly shaped sections," he shares, praising GHD's Triple Barrel Waver. "It's a really big, chunky one, and [the barrels] are slightly cornered rather than completely round, so it gives a more natural-looking wave."

After you've waved to your liking, shake the hair out without brushing it. "Brushing it is going to make it too puffy," Smith says. Curling wands can also come in handy if you need a refresh. Just make sure you wrap sections irregularly so they don't look too overdone.

This post originally appeared on What Who Wear US.

Another day, another nostalgic beauty trend making waves in the zeitgeist. And just like past looks that have received an updated, 2025 spin (Pencil-thin brows! Blue eye shadow! Chunky highlights!), this one has received quite the fuss online. Get ready to revamp your Tumblr and blast My Chemical Romance—ombré hair is poised to make a major comeback this spring as one of the biggest hair trends of 2025.

If you immediately cringed at the thought of reverting to those angsty, dip-dyed tips, I hear you. I was a little hesitant myself after seeing hairstylist and trend forecaster Tom Smith predict ombré hair's imminent revival, but after speaking with Smith about the trend, including his tips on how to make it chic, not "cheugy," I'm fully on board. Allow me to (re)introduce you to ombré hair, spring 2025's version.

When did ombré hair become popular?

Let's cut to 10 to 15 years ago, when a soft-grunge aesthetic was all the rage. Chances are you reblogged more than a few dip-dye hair looks to your Tumblr. (No? Just me?) "There was definitely that grunge, punk influence in it," Smith says of ombré's origins. "We saw really striking bleached ends, bright-red ends… It was definitely for the person that wanted to be bold and make a statement."

This high-contrast look became a bit softer over time as celebrities started taking part (Smith credits Khloé Kardashian for ramping up its popularity), and dip dye officially evolved into ombré. "[It came from] the commercialisation of that grunginess, where the fade from one shade to another became more gradual," Smith says. "So even if the roots are very dark and the ends are very light, the fade was more gradual, and this is more of what we're seeing now." Only today, the contrast has become even softer.

What's the difference between ombré and balayage?

A little housekeeping before we proceed: Ombré hair is not synonymous with balayage. They're intertwined, yes, but they're not interchangeable. To put it simply, ombré hair is a look that involves fading from one shade to another. "All of the roots are one colour, all of the ends are another colour, and there's a transition in between," Smith explains.

Balayage, on the other hand, is a colouring technique, not a look in and of itself. "It's the idea of painting colour in a sweeping motion on the hair that blends at the beginning," Smith adds. (The word balayage comes from the French term meaning "to sweep.") "The overall look might be lighter on the ends than it is at the roots, but there's that definition of highlights—some that go higher, some that go lower," Smith shares. So balayage does involve a gradual fade, but it doesn't have to be concentrated at just the ends. In short, "Balayage is a technique. Ombré is a look," declares Smith.

Why is ombré hair trending right now?

There are a few factors at play, according to Smith. First up: the maintenance—or, well, lack thereof. See, the most successful hair trends solve a problem, and ombré hair, with its fade line near the ends, eliminates the need for regular root touch-ups. "That client isn't going to have to redo their hair in any amount of weeks. It's really just about redoing it when they want to, rather than feeling that they have to," Smith says.

It also gives people the freedom to play with different colours that might not traditionally "suit" them. "I'm seeing a shift in clients wanting something that is a bit outside of their normal realm," says Smith. "Not something that they're told they're 'supposed' to have by colour analysis but their personal preference on what shades they like and want to play with. But it can be hard to wear if you're going against your natural colouring right up to your roots and right next to your face." Ombré hair gives people the opportunity to step outside their comfort zone with whatever colour they fancy—colour theory be damned.

We of course can't forget about the cyclic nature of trends, and it has been a good 10 to 15 years since ombré hair had its reign. "For hair trends, [this] is a good amount of time before they come back around," Smith adds. Specifically for younger beauty fans (think late 20s), ombré hair might be the first beauty trend they've seen live, die, and become reborn. "That's quite confronting because it aligns with growing up and getting older," Smith shares. It's why we've seen such a visceral reaction to ombré hair—people are either energised by the Tumblr-esque revival or horrified by its return (sort of like the reaction to skinny jeans). Naysayers, rest assured ombré hair has evolved for 2025. "I don't think it will be as literal as it was the first time around, because then it would simply look old fashioned," Smith adds.

How to Elevate Ombré Hair for 2025

According to Smith, the fade line is much higher in today's version—think cheekbone height or even up to the eyes. "It's kind of like a very long, stretched-out root before it [transitions] to the lighter colour. Whereas the first time around, because it had come from a place of dip dye, the fade line was much lower," Smith explains. This higher fade line subtly lifts the face by emphasising the cheekbones, which could speak to beauty's current fascination with a snatched, contoured bone structure.

Ombré hair in 2025 is also much, much softer. "Back then, [the shades] might only have been two or three levels different. Now, sometimes they're only one or two levels different," Smith notes. Again, feel free to have fun with whatever creative colour combinations you please (see: Rihanna's magenta ombré lengths), but if you're gunning for a super-low-maintenance look, a low contrast is the way to go. As always, reference images are your best friends. "As far as very natural-looking colours go, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is a great example," Smith adds. "Her hair is extremely subtly ombré. It's darker at the roots and lighter at the ends, but [there's] a very gradual transition between the two."

That said, if you want the most modern version of ombré hair, opt for a lower contrast, a more gradual fade, and a higher fade line that hits the eyes or cheekbones. "Those three points give it that 2025 edge," Smith shares. Of course, if you want to channel 2014 Tumblr-era grunge with a stark dip dye, go right ahead. What goes around always comes back around… and around and around.

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Expensive-looking hair is a journey, not a destination. A luxurious mane does not hinge upon a specific expensive-looking hair colour or haircut but a commitment to at-home and in-salon techniques that help strands appear shiny, vibrant, and full of eye-catching depth. Think hair glosses, deep-conditioning masks, scalp treatments, and a healthy balance of lowlights and highlights.

If that last one gave you pause, you're certainly not alone. I recently booked a colour refresh with master stylist Julie Dickson at her New York City salon, where she suggested not only golden, honey highlights but also some darker chestnut pieces (aka, lowlights) scattered throughout. I was a bit hesitant, but she assured me that it ties the entire look together, and lo and behold—she was absolutely right. My natural-looking hue appeared significantly more put together, sophisticated, and just plain rich. Ready to secure a luxe-looking mane of your own? Keep scrolling for everything you need to know, straight from celebrity colorists.

What are highlights?

First thing's first: Let's go over some hair colour basics. "Highlights are lighter strands added throughout your hair to create brightness and contrast," explains celebrity hairstylist and colourist Eduardo Ponce. "They mimic the effect of sunlight hitting your hair and give a fresh, vibrant, sun-kissed appearance."

Essentially, if you're hoping to lighten your natural hair colour, highlights are a great route to take. There are a smattering of different types to choose from depending on your hair goals, such as babylights, money pieces, balayage, chunky highlights, and so on.

What are lowlights?

Lowlights, on the other hand, are sections of hair darker than your natural base colour, meant to add dimension or tone down hair that's become too light.

"Lowlights are essentially the opposite of highlights," adds Dickson. "They involve adding deeper, richer tones to your hair instead of lighter ones. This creates dimension, enhances your natural colour, and adds depth to your overall look. They are used to add contrast or give your hair a more balanced, multidimensional appearance, especially if you feel your colour has become too light or flat."

What's the difference?

In short: Highlights brighten, while lowlights darken and add depth. "Think of lowlights as shadows that add richness and highlights as beams of light that enhance contrast," notes Ponce.

While we're pitting them against each other for the purposes of this article, just know that one isn't necessarily "better" than the other; in fact, according to Dickson, everyone can take advantage of both techniques. "Lowlights are great for hair that’s been overly highlighted or sun-bleached, as they restore depth and dimension while making your highlights stand out and appear brighter," she shares. "Highlights, on the other hand, can be subtle and spaced out for a soft, natural 'kid hair' loo, or applied more densely to create an overall lighter, brighter effect."

Can you mix them together?

Yes—and you should! "I always add both highlights and lowlights," says celebrity hairstylist and colourist Dimitris Giannetos. "If you just keep adding highlights to the hair, your hair color is going to lose depth." Think of it like contouring and highlighting your face with makeup; without a healthy balance of light and shadow, the look can wind up falling flat. "Depth from the lowlights and brightness from the highlights create a balanced, multidimensional look that creates a natural and sophisticated vibe," adds Ponce.

That said, combining them is a delicate dance, and the amount of each will depend on your specific head of hair, bone structure, and the overall look you're gunning for. For instance, Dickson might commit to highlights for face-framing pieces in order to accentuate the eyes, or she could add more lowlights to an area to help old highlights pop.

How to Apply Them Both

The application process itself is pretty much the same for lowlights and highlights. "Both involve selecting specific, targeted pieces of hair to apply the colour to and painting down from the top to end of the hair," says Giannetos. The difference lies in the placement of the dye (and the colour, of course).

Everyone's exact placement is different—again, it depends on the specific look you're hoping to achieve—but Dickson always likes to add a few extra touches of both for a natural-looking effect.

"Natural colour is darker at the roots than the ends, and for natural-looking results, we want to avoid root-to-end stripes," she explains. "There will always be root-to-end placement with both highlights and lowlights, but with highlights, I like to add a few extra panels on the ends, and with lowlights, I add extras from roots to the midshaft of the hair."

Do lowlights cover greys?

Yep, they sure can. "Lowlights are a great way to blend greys naturally without completely covering them, especially if your greys are subtler versus all over," confirms Ponce. You might want to add some strategic highlights to disguise the greys entirely, but lowlights are certainly a great way to make them less noticeable.

Can you apply lowlights on dark hair?

Another resounding yes from the stylists! "Most of my clients with dark hair have lowlights," declares Giannetos. "You wouldn’t immediately notice that’s what it is, but when you look at someone and see that their brown hair feels rich and vibrant, it’s because of the dimension created with the lowlights."

Don't get me wrong—a gloss is always a good idea. However, lowlights can often make the deep strands appear even more vibrant. "Sometimes with natural fading over the years or [being] in the sun or water a lot, brunettes can get brassy or dull. Panels of lowlights can add depth and richness," adds Dickson. "It’s quite impactful in making the hair look healthier and more put together." Your hair might not look darker, necessarily, but it will look richer—think bold, full-bodied, expensive-looking strands.

The Best Products to Maintain Lowlights and Highlights

After having a lob for quite some time, I can definitely say I'm happy to have my long hair back. Although I liked having a shorter style, my hair is also thick, curly, and didn't necessarily want to sit right at times. Needless to say, I was happy to grow it out a bit, but now I find myself with a familiar problem—finding things to do with it while I sleep. I use a few different handy things that I'll talk more about below, but I decided to call in the experts for a bit of advice because I'm sure I'm not the only one who could use the help. If you have long hair and want to make sure you're keeping it as healthy and manageable as you possibly can, keep scrolling. Hair stylists Sophie Gutterman and Clayton Hawkins are sharing all the tips. 

1. Never Go to Bed With Wet Hair

Hawkins stresses that you should never go to bed with your hair soaking wet. "And never go to bed without detangling first," he shares. This is especially important if you have thicker hair since it can become extra tangled at night. It can help to lightly blow dry your hair before bed and go over it with a wide-tooth comb. 

2. Sleep With a Braid or Ponytail

"When you have long hair, it's best to sleep with it in a braid or some sort of ponytail," says Gutterman. "The hair can get tangled if left out and can take more time to style in the morning. Avoiding having it all out will not only protect the hair but also protect your skin from breakouts from different products."

I can personally vouch for this. It definitely helped breakouts for me when I started changing my pillowcases every few days and sleeping with my hair out of my face. Keep hair out of your face with a scrunchie, elastic ties, or even a claw clip at night. 

3. Wear a Silk or Satin Bonnet to Bed

Those with curls should pay close attention. If nothing else, Gutterman says you should at least do this one thing. "I love using a silk bonnet when my hair is curly, and when it’s straight, I like to do a flat wrap to avoid messing up the style. Also, putting the hair into two braids on each side can save the hair from frizz and give you a cute wave for the next day!" 

I also wear a satin cap at night to keep my curls from getting too tangled or frizzy and it's been a game-changer for me. I wake up with strands that are more hydrated and smooth, plus they stay that way longer throughout the day. 

4. Put on an Overnight Moisturizing Mask or Leave-In Conditioner

I know doing a hair mask overnight might sound messy, but there are a few great lightweight options and leave-in conditioners that can lock in hydration without getting all over your pillow. "My favourite mask is the Divine Treatment Mask from All About Curls," says Gutterman. "On towel-dried hair, add the mask from the mid-lengths to ends and put the hair in a high bun to avoid getting product on the face."

You can also put on a leave-in or mask and cover your hair with an extra bonnet if you're worried about it getting on your face or sheets. 

5. Use Hair Ties and Other Wraps to Style Your Hair Overnight

Like Gutterman, Hawkins also suggests sleeping in braids to style your hair without heat overnight. "My clients are obsessed with heatless styles these days. I recommend [that] my long-haired girls sleep with at least two braids at night to get frizz-free, perfectly undone waves in the morning. Try applying a little bit of SexyHair's Love Oil to slightly damp hair before you braid for optimal results." 

Alternatively, you can try wearing heatless curlers overnight to wake up with fresh waves that rival a blowout at the salon. 

Up Next: The Low-Key Hair Trends Celebrities Are Fully Endorsing

This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. 

We all know the power of a really good hair day. When your hair looks and feels good, you walk a little taller, you exude confidence and you might even admire your crowning glory in every reflective surface you walk past. If you manage to re-create salon-worthy results at home, you know it's going to be a good day. On the flip side, when a bad-hair day strikes it can completely kill your vibe. That's why finding the best haircare brands for your hair is key to having a good hair day. Every. Single. Day.

However, it can be easy to get in a haircare rut. Over time, our hair may have varying needs depending on its texture, cut and colour. What might have once worked for you might not be serving you now, and with so many haircare brands around, just walking (or clicking) into the aisle can be hugely overwhelming if you're thinking about switching things up.

As a beauty editor (who previously worked on a specialist hair magazine before joining Who What Wear UK), I've been lucky enough to try a lot of haircare products. My bathroom is brimming with shampoos, conditioners, hair masks and hair-styling products that I have on rotation for testing. But only the very best take permanent pride of place in my shower.

To help you find the very best brands that I think are genuinely worth your cash (rather than money down the drain), I've rounded up my all-time favourite brands and enlisted the help of the Who What Wear UK team to share theirs, too.

The Best Haircare Brands, as Loved by Editors

1. Ouai
2. K18
3. Virtue
4. Pattern
5. Oribe
6. Got2b
7. Hair By Sam McKnight
8. JVN
9. Color Wow
10. Arkive

1. Ouai

2. K18

3. Virtue

4. Pattern

5. Oribe

6. Got2b

7. Hair By Sam McKnight

8. JVN

9. Color Wow

10. Arkive Headcare

Long, full hair may be the standard (thanks, old-school shampoo commercials!), but in reality, it's far from the norm. There are a lot of reasons someone might have thinner hair, from genetics to postpartum hair loss. And while hair thinning is more common as we get older, anyone of any age can have thin hair, or fine hair (aka hair that's physically smaller in diameter than its fuller counterparts). That's why, as always, the right haircut can be a total game-changer. 

No matter your hair length or texture, your next cut is just a scroll away. We caught up with three ultra-talented hairstylists—Sanda Petrut of Maxine Salon in Chicago, celebrity stylist Joseph Maine, and Ryan Trygstad of Mark Ryan Salon in New York City—to find out their tips for cutting and styling thin and fine hair, as well as the best products to use for styling it. (Best of all: Not an extension in sight.)

The Hairstylist: Sanda Petrut of Maxine Salon in Chicago

"So many factors are taken into consideration when choosing a haircut for thin hair," explains Petrut. "Is it thin on top? Is it thin on the sides? Is it thin all over? Is it thin due to illness? Is it thin due to ageing? I also consider features and lifestyle," says the stylist.

Petrut also pays close attention to length and texture. "For thin, straight hair I may choose a shorter haircut with clean lines. Maybe a little graduation or a little layer if hair density supports it," she says. 

"For medium-to-long hair length, I’ll choose a long fringe and/or framing," she says.

Finally, "If hair is wavy or curly I would definitely add layers," she says. "The layers would add volume and the hair would appear thicker."

The Hairstylist: Joseph Maine, Celebrity Stylist, and Color Wow Artistic Director 

"Typically, I recommend blunt haircuts or haircuts with very little layering for thin hair because you don’t want to remove density from the ends," says Maine. However, he says, "There are still ways to add shape by face-framing or adding minimal 'hidden layers.'"

For loose, voluminous curls like Jennifer Lawrence's, Maine recommends blowing hair out with a diffuser.

Rashida Jones's haircut may volley from chin to shoulder length, but she usually avoids layers to keep it looking fuller.

A soft bend and a side fringe adds texture and dimension to Emma Stone's bob haircut.

The Hairstylist: Ryan Trygstad, Celebrity Stylist and Co-Founder of Mark Ryan Salon in New York City

The hairstylist agrees that blunt cuts can be fantastic on thinner hair. "Mid-to-shorter lengths are great because the hair looks fuller," explains Trygstad, who adds that "Finer hair types are less likely to have a pyramid- or triangle-shaped style." 

One reason Jamie Chung's lob looks so sleek and cool? "Blunt shapes are better for fine hair," says Trygstad.

Another pretty idea inspired by Jourdan Dunn's look: slightly choppy ends.

Lucy Boynton's of-the-moment curtain bangs are the perfect face-framing detail to her blunt bob.

And now, 5 hair colours that don't do thin hair any favours—and 5 that absolutely do.

Hair colour has been a touchy subject over the last year. With salons being forced to close as we all sheltered in place, many were left with few choices for maintaining their colour. For the bravest souls among us, this year has meant getting comfortable with DIY box dye, but for a lot of folks, limited or no access to professionals meant abandoning their hair colour maintenance altogether, leading to overgrown roots, dull highlights, and generally unkempt colour that's likely now in need of some serious TLC. 

Thankfully, we're almost out of the woods, and salons are finally open again so we can book in with our trusty colourists to make hair colour magic once again. And after a year away, you might need some inspiration for what statement to make. We've got you covered on that front. We tapped three of the most sought-after celebrity colourists, Ryan Pearl, Laura Gibson, and Jeremy Tardo, to get the scoop on the most popular hair colours of 2021. Keep scrolling for the top colours they've been doling out so far this year, along with their predictions for the hues and styles that will continue to pick up steam in the coming months.

Trust us—you'll want to screenshot these for your colourist.

1. Honey-Gold Accents

As we all emerge from our caves of box dye and overgrown roots, our pros all agree on one thing: People will be amping up the warmth with honey- and golden-hued accents all over the hair. "This glowy feel to hair is becoming very popular as a lot of people are abandoning the super-ashy-toned highlights that we saw so much of the last few years and opting for a warmer vibe," says Tardo. "This trend adds golden edges to soft brunette tones. It works great with natural hair colours and grows out beautifully." Pearl agrees, adding that these golden hues will be particularly prevalent as we enter the summer months. "As people get tanner, they tend to go with that light, golden hue," he says. And according to him, this goes for both blondes and brunettes. "Even when I do a brunette, I still highlight it—I don't just dump up a colour all over it." It's all about dimension, people.

2. Burst of Brightness

Where blondes are concerned, Pearl says he's seen an updated placement of highlights picking up traction. "We’re seeing a lot more pop and brightness through the very bottoms of the hair. It’s still bright through the top, but it's more blended as it travels down the mid-shafts of the hair and then accentuating the most pop through the very bottom. So it's kind of like a grown-out look, but you still have the brightness around the face and through the bottom," he says. That might sound complicated, but this is a colour you've probably seen more times than you know. Overall, Pearl says you can identify this "sunburst hair," as he called it, by marked lightness around the face, with slight shadowing and longer roots, blended highlights through the middle, and another burst of brightness in the ends.

Aside from just looking chic, this colour pattern has utility, too, according to Pearl. "The grow-out is a lot easier and the upkeep is super minimal because as long as you stay pretty up-to-date with that face-frame highlight, then that whole look really does stay very bright, even if there is a lot of depth in it," he says.

3. Almond Highlights

A lot of the time, highlights are associated with adding blonde tones into the hair. But Gibson is seeing an uptick in brunettes staying true to their brown hair colour with more dimension via light-brown highlights. "Almond-toned highlights are every brunette who's looking for dimension's dream," she says. "They are perfect for a dark-brunette base who doesn’t want to be blonde. It adds soft warmth to the hair that creates a glow," she says.

Pearl agrees, adding that the effect of this kind of colour is a mirror-like reflection of tones bouncing around in the hair. "You want there to be enough reflection in there so that you see the dimension and it doesn't look heavy or untoned," he says. So how do you achieve this? While a method like the ever-popular balayage might come to mind first, Pearl says you can also lift the base colour a bit first. "Sometimes when you do balayage, you overcompensate with the toner to try to cut out all that brassiness and the warmth, so instead, I like to lift the hair light enough that when it fades, you're getting this second round of colour that still looks good—it will just fade into a lighter version of what it was and still look pretty. You can basically get two different looks out of it," he explains.

4. Goin' Grey

Natural grey hair is officially in. Not that it was ever out, though. Some of the chicest people on the planet rock silver locks. But with so many of us being separated from our stylists and colourists for more than a year now, there's been a trend of widespread hair acceptance, whether it be embracing natural curls or letting greys come in unencumbered. For those who routinely coloured their greys, especially with deep-brown or black dye, you know the grow-out is rough. Thankfully, we've had an entire year and some change to deal with the worst of that in private. Now, you can schedule a trip to your trusted stylist to discuss a new haircare regimen for your gorgeous grey rather than a plan of attack for covering it.

5. Ultra-Custom Colour

Trends are fun, but they aren't for everyone. And according to Pearl, this year is all about finally nailing down an ultra-customised colour that works for you on every level. "I like to do what fits the person's skin tone, eye colour, and what's most suitable rather than what's trendy," he says. "And I think that's a big thing where people try to hop on a trend just because they see it, but it doesn't suit them." The key? Balance. "For example, if you're doing really, really dark hair, like Asian hair, it needs to have that dimension and different tonalities. If you just have black hair and then this highlight, it looks super fake. So you need those different colours running through it. And if you were to go the extreme route, then I think with super-dark hair, you have to go really extreme. If you go in between, it's going to look like too much contrast."

As a rule of thumb, Pearl says your ideal hair colour will essentially neutralise your skin tone while picking up your skin's undertone and that highlights should be a shade or two lighter than your skin tone. He also recommends talking to your colourist about the best placement for your highlights, as they'll be able to advise based on your face shape, facial features, and more.

6. Money Pieces

Long live the money piece! This trend has been popping off for a while now, and by the looks of it, it's not going anywhere anytime soon. "The face-framing money piece is still the hottest trend for colour," Gibson calls out. "The reason is you can do a few variations of it. You can rock it '90s-style and have it thick and bold. For those leaning more to a natural version, you don’t have to have the top be as thick. It can gradually cascade into the pop," she goes on. She also mentions that you'll want to care for this type of colour the same way you look after any other kind of highlights, with shampoos and conditioners that keep both brassiness and dehydration at bay. 

7. Dark Cedar

For those looking to go darker, Tardo says this rich, dark-brown colour is the ticket. "This look is being worn as an allover coloru that walks the line between coolness and warmth. Because the hue is neutral, it works well on most skin tones, and the richness of the colour creates a shiny finish that really reflects light on the hair," he says. And when you're going dark, that shine and reflection are essential. No dullness here! "I think we are seeing so much of this trend in 2021 because it's effortless, healthy-looking, and it works great with a lot of the fresh new 'coming-out' haircuts that our clients are ready for after last year’s quarantining," he adds. 

8. Copper

Copper hair has been the unexpected sleeper hit of the year, for sure. Perhaps we can attribute this to everyone watching The Queen's Gambit on Netflix during quarantine and falling in love with Anya Taylor Joy's copper-colored bob. (Gigi Hadid admitted that was her reason for going red.) Whatever the reason, it's an adventurous hue we're looking forward to seeing more of in the months to come.

9. Playful Panels

Here's an option we've certainly seen all over TikTok that, according to Tardo, will only continue to grow in popularity. "This whimsical hair moment is perfect for everyone who is tired of wallflower hair colours," he says. "Instead of tiny highlights, we are seeing a big surge in large sections of '90s-inspired colour contrasts." These panels are reminiscent of the chunky highlights of yesteryear, with a more fashionable flair. "Hair always follows fashion, and it seems like the recent wide-legged pants and Dr. Martens resurgence in streetwear have accurately forecasted our next 2021 hair movement," he explains. Bring on the grunge vibes!

It seems like no matter our given hair, most of us spend way too much of our time wishing for something else. Those with curly hair will go to great lengths to straighten it, just as natural brunettes will spend hours in colourists' chairs trying to achieve the perfect blonde. And while everyone has the right to express themselves through the haircut, colour, or style of their choosing, education around best practices for one's own hair could be the difference between hating what grows out of our heads and loving it. According to Erica Conan, ColorProof director of education, this is especially true when it comes to picking the best hair colours for thin hair. 

While those with thin hair have been convinced for years that ultra-light colours are the only ones that work for this hair type, this veteran stylist disagrees. "Colour preservation is key to maintaining a healthy, thicker look to your hair," Conan explains. In fact, she thinks that as long as the right methods are used, hues from every colour family can be considered for thin hair. Read on for seven colours that work for thin hair, along with styling advice to get the most out of your colour. 

1. Instead of Single Allover Colour…

Try: Dimensional Colour

"When choosing a hair colour, the first thing to think about is the level of maintenance you are able to keep up with," Conan says. "Stay away from a single allover colour if you are not able to visit your stylist often enough to keep it looking fresh." Washed-out or faded colour draws way more attention to the less desirable characteristics of thin hair, so multi-tonal colour that doesn't draw attention to especially thin areas is a good move.

Styling tip: Conan says there are styling tricks you can use to mask the grow-out between colour services, such as adding volume at the root with a texturising powder or spray and hair partings that are more zigzag than straight. She says these tips alone do wonders for hiding root grow-out, thus helping hair look more full.

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2. Instead of Stark Grow-Out…

Try: Intentional Shadow Roots

While Conan is a firm believer that shades from most colour families can work well for thin hair as long as the right methods are used, she cautions against the dreaded stark line of demarcation between your colour and your roots. "Adding contrast in colour shades will add the illusion of density, but talk to your stylist about also adding a shadow root to create depth at the root area or multiple tones throughout for a 3D effect," she says. This way, there's added dimension in your hair and a little more leeway for your hair to grow out.

Styling tip: Celebrity hairstylist Nate Rosenkranz says that while creating volume is obviously important for those with thin hair, it's also crucial to use the right brushes that won't cause undue hair loss. "All brushes are not created equal. Brushing can be one of the leading causes of breakage and damage," he says. Aside from choosing brushes with bristles that glide easily through the hair, Rosenkranz also reminds us that we should always brush from end to root and be extra gentle when detangling. "Never pull through tangles or knots. This will cause breakage and damage," he says.

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3. Instead of Flat Colour…

Try: Strategic Highlights

"I love to see beautiful dimension in thinner hair," says Conan. "By adding multiple tones and using different colour techniques, the hair can look thicker and fuller by tricking the eye. You can choose any colour and, with the help of your stylist, achieve a beautiful multi-tonal look that adds the density you need visually." Face-framing highlights, blonde babylights, and hair-painting techniques like balayage are just a few of the options that can work well here.

Styling tip: "It's important to invest in quality heat tools. They can be pricey, but it’s well worth the investment when it comes to maintaining the health of your hair," says Rosenkranz. "High-quality tools that help to protect and speed up the styling process mean less time hair is ultimately exposed to heat, reducing potential damage. This is especially true if you have fine or thin hair, which is more easily compromised. My personal favourite is the Bio Ionic 10X Ultralight Speed Dryer (£139). It speeds up the heat-styling process as well as incorporating the brand’s moisturising heat technology, which helps hair stay hydrated even while applying heat."

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4. Instead of High-Maintenance Colour…

Try: Low-Maintenance Colour

Conan is adamant that colour maintenance is of the utmost importance if you have thin hair. She says the easiest colours to care for are multi-tonal and not flat so that there's wiggle room for your natural hair to grow in a bit without being so noticeable. "This is especially important for those with thin, naturally blonde hair who choose to go darker or red," she says. "As your natural colour starts to grow out, your roots will look dramatically lighter even if you only went a couple of shades darker than your natural colour. If your hair is naturally thin and light already, it can sometimes look extra thin and even resemble bald spots in some areas." 

Styling tip: "Use every step of your routine to achieve maximum fullness with the end goal of preserving your colour and creating the illusion of thickness through your style," says Conan. She notes that special care should be taken when selecting texturising products since many of them contain salts that naturally strip away hair colour.

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5. Instead of Dramatically Different Colour…

Try: Natural-Looking Allover Colour

"If an allover colour is your goal, don’t go for anything too dramatically different from your natural hair colour," says Conan. "Shades that are too far off from your natural hair colour [should be avoided] unless you can commit to a higher-maintenance colour routine. By keeping it natural, you mitigate the risk of lighter roots looking too translucent or darker roots weighing your hair down." 

Styling tip: "Fine and thin hair is especially susceptible to breakage, and the strands are often weaker and more delicate," says Rosenkranz. "Pulling your hair back in a bun or ponytail can add stress to your strands, causing tension, and ultimately, the strands can snap. Opt for a fabric scrunchie or elastic that are gentler on your hair versus one made of rubber or plastic that can easily get caught and tangled."

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6. Instead of Single-Colour Braids...

Try: Blending With A Natural-Looking Extensions Colour 

Often when faced with the endless possibilities that braiding extension hair provides, the length overrides the need for a multidimensional colour that works from root to tip. Long, single-colour braids often aren't colour-matched to your natural hair, which makes it easier to detect where your hair starts and the extension colour begins. In order to bypass this issue, most stylists increase the amount of extension hair added to thin strands to create a more uniform look. By blending your hair with a more natural extension colour (which can be achieved by colour-mixing extension shades) you can opt for fewer braids and hair which decreased the overall tension on thin hair. 

Additionally, this help to provide your style with a depth of tones and highlights that occur naturally in hair but are rarely present in extensions. 

Styling tip: Fine and thin afro hair is often mistaken as strong due to its malleable nature. However, it is often actually low porosity hair, which means hydration is especially important when wearing coloured extensions vital.

Due to the level of manipulation needed to braid, this style can often add stress to your strands that, along with dyed roots, can result in tension that ultimately leads to breakage. Opt for a nourishing foam or oil to use between washes and try using a speciality tool to undo braids when switching styles as a way to protect your hair, especially if it has been purposefully dyed to match the extension. 

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7. Instead of Single Neon Colour...

Try: Pastel Shades

The rise in popularity of colours like red, blues and other bright colour shades hair's comeback has been keenly documented by celebrities and influencers across our feeds—think Rhianna and Kendall Jenner—however, choosing the right bright colour for your undertone and hair density can be hard. Between deep mahogany red to head-turning blue, the sheer depth of these colours can often cause thinner hair to appear even thinner. So instead try opting for a pastel version of your chosen hair hue. Not only does the lighter colour allow for a greater depth of tones but also makes it easier to highlight the complexity of shade that occur naturally in hair that sometimes get lost in all over bright colours. 

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This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Up Next: It's Official: These Are the Short Hair Trends Taking Over In 2023

If there's one thing we know for sure, it's that no one knows how to achieve shiny hair quite like the royals or, as a matter of fact, their hairstylists. They're the ones who are responsible for creating their glossy hair moments for royal engagements, whether it be a bouncy blowout or a classic updo with not a hair out of place. Have you ever seen Kate Middleton have a bad hair day? I think not.

So what is the secret behind the royal's high-shine and expensive-looking hair? The good news is that you needn't be in possession of a title nor a tiara to achieve royal-worthy hair. With the right techniques, tips and a few keys products, you can still achieve that knockout shine on your own hair.

The royals typically follow a strict etiquette and won't explicitly reveal what products they use. So I decided to do a deep dive on Kate's hair and the products she is rumoured to love for it. And to find out the expert tips and tricks behind royal-worthy and shiny hair, I spoke to Jack Merrick-Thirlway, creative director at Neville's Hair & Beauty, who is behind the hair of Lady Kitty Spencer, Marchioness of Bath Emma Thynn and many other people of nobility. Read on for the all deets.

1. Use a good shampoo—this is Kate Middleton's favourite

2. Use nourishing hair treatments

With royals having their hair done regularly (and therefore being exposed to heated styling tools regularly), it's imperative to use nourishing hair treatments to add lustre and gloss—both at home and in the salon. "Nourishing treatments are a must to keep the condition of the hair looking pristine," says Merrick-Thirlway. "At Neville Hair & Beauty, we offer a multitude of deeply hydrating treatments for the scalp and the hair such as the Philip Martin’s Herbal Hair Remedy in-salon treatment, which is designed to bring back youth, hydration and moisture to your hair."

3. Have regular haircuts

"Regular haircuts are also imperative to ensure royal worthy hair," says Merrick-Thirlway. "I recommend trimming split ends every six weeks to encourage growth." The right haircut for you will depend greatly, depending on your hair texture and lifestyle. "Haircuts are very dependent on the client’s hair type. Kate has beautiful thick hair, which allows long layers to be added and give movement," he says. "If the hair is not as thick, we need to be sure not to add too many layers as this will make the tips of the hair look weaker."

4. Use a round brush for blowouts

Even though there are so many styling tools available, many hairstylists still favour the traditional blow-dry to impart bounce and shine to the hair. "An old-school blow-dry using a round brush—which unfortunately is an art that our industry is losing— is what is used to create royal-worthy hair," explains Merrick-Thirlway. "I personally favour rollers or grips to pin the hair as it cools down as that is what keeps the volume and bounce," he says. "Good products also help with longevity and protection. I also advise the use of heat protectors, a non-sticky blow-dry lotion and a nice hair spray to finish."

5. Choose glossy hair colours

Kate Middleton's brunette hair colour by nature reflects a lot of light, making it look glossy. If you're finding that your hair colour is looking dull, then switching it up can help make it shinier. "Hair colour is an important component to achieving gorgeous hair that boasts health and dimension," says Merrick-Thirlway. "Always choose a colour that will help lift and illuminate the natural colour such as winter gold, a brunette base colour featuring golden highlights which also goes by the name 'candlelit brunette.'"

If your hair is naturally dark, then choose rich hair colours to give depth and dimension. As for blondes? Choose glossy blonde hues that tend to have a lighter base colour. In terms of hair colouring techniques, shatush (a freehand colour technique) and babylights (the delicate placement of microfine hair colour) are also favoured techniques amongst the elite to re-create shiny, royal-worthy hair.

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Opening Image: Getty Images

We've encountered enough badass women in their 40s, 50, 60s, and beyond to know that there are tons of outdated clichés about aging. Gone are the days where women are pressured to dress a certain way the second we hit age 40 or stop wearing our favorite makeup. (Although, there are formulas that work better for mature skin.) The general attitude around aging has seen a major shift for the better in recent years, and there's a sense of liberation that's come along with it that we absolutely love. While the number of years we've been on this earth doesn't have to control our lives, there are, indeed, some unavoidable shifts that come up the further along we get, including changes to our hair. For this reason, many women start to consider different haircuts by the time we hit age 50.

"The hair sometimes tends to get a bit thinner, the colour could begin to fade away, and the hair becomes more gray and wiry,” says Edward Tricomi, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of the iconic Warren Tricomi Salons. If you've noticed one or even all of these changes in your hair as you've entered your 50s, you might be curious about which haircuts are best. We have some good news for you. You can do whatever the hell you want with your hair, whether you're 30, 50, or 90. And you don't have to just take our word for it—Tricomi agrees. "The way I see it, your haircut really has nothing to do with your age," he says. "It just doesn’t work like that. You cut hair based on someone’s body, face, and hipness factor." 

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"I know women in their 50s, 60s, and 70s that have long hair, and they look great with it," Tricomi continues. "I know women in their 50s, 60s, and 70s with short hair, and they look great with it. Some with bangs, some with no bangs, and they look great with it. It doesn’t matter; age doesn’t really dictate that, especially today."

So if you're approaching your 50th birthday and are feeling conflicted about what to do with your hair, we hope you can take a deep breath now and know that the possibilities are endless. But the question still persists: What are the best haircuts for women in their 50s? To answer it, we scoured the internet for the most popular haircuts among celebrities in their 50s to help inspire you. From short pixies to long, flowy lengths, check out 25 of the most popular haircuts among our most beloved celebs 50 and up. And watch out for more nuggets from Tricomi along the way.

Short Haircuts

Robin Wright's pixie cut is so chic. We see this kind of cut a lot on ladies in their 50s, and can work just as well with a minimal aesthetic as it can for a more bohemian look.

"Some people get really lucky in life, and they have hair that grows in grey, but it grows into a beautiful silver-grey. That type of color, I love. It’s almost like platinum blonde hair," Tricomi explains. Emma Thompson is one of those lucky ladies, and her silver-white hair looks gorgeous in the longer-on-top crop she's been sporting throughout her 50s.

"Women over 50 can wear anything. It all depends on the person and what is going to complement them best,” Tricomi adds. And for those with curly or coily hair textures, it's the perfect time to play around with your gorgeous texture. See Taraji P. Henson for inspiration.

A sleek bob like Lucy Liu's is an ageless cut.

This bangs and bob combo on Viola Davis is relaxed yet polished.

As shorter cuts start to grow out, you can keep them looking fresh by adding soft curls throughout. Jodie Foster is a good example.

Style it:

Medium-Length Haircuts

When it comes to medium-length haircuts, the lob is among the most popular for women of all ages. Garcelle's lob is giving us life and proves that it's a suitable cut for women in their 50s.

Julianne Moore shows that the beachy look isn't just for teenagers on their gap years.

"When I cut hair, I customize the haircut to that specific person and consider a bunch of different factors, like the person's face shape for example, in order to create a look that will truly complement them and accentuate their features and overall look," Tricomi says. Sandra Bullock's undone lob is perfect for her square face shape and looks just as cool on her in her 50s as it would have in her 30s.

This deep-part, shoulder-grazing cut of Melissa McCarthy's is a real classic.

We're big fans of Padma Lakshmi's blunt lob. The chin-length layers around the face soften it perfectly.

Pumped-up curly and coily textures are so much fun. We love how Viola wears hers.

Courteney's cut is the same length all the way around, and it looks so great with her face shape.

"The way I cut hair, it’s all customized to that specific person," says Tricomi. "The way I see it, how old you look is all about the way you project it. It’s the way you dress, it’s the way you wear your makeup, and the way you wear your hair. They all must work together." Jennifer hasn't veered far from her signature haircut in decades, and it has suited her so well at every age.

Cindy Crawford has kept her hair around this length for years, and we can see why. Should she choose to chop it off, we would fully support that, but medium-length hair is seriously perfect on her.

Style it:

Long Haircuts

"Extensions are a great way to help the look of your hair if it’s thinning out, and of course, you also have the option of wigs," Tricomi says. The lesson? Long hair, by any means, is also suitable for women in their 50s. J. Lo and her bouncy 'do should be all the proof you need.

In our expert's opinion, colour is actually a lot more important to consider as we age. "Getting your hair to a nice, rich color truly does make you look younger," he says. "Like anything else in life, when something starts to fade, it just doesn’t look as good. You always want to make yourself look brand-new, and maintaining your color is really the key to this whole thing." This tonal red color brings new life to the long, layered cut.

Speaking of long layers, they're your best friend if big, voluminous styles are your cup of tea. 

Leave it to Mariah to prove that long corkscrews are a definite yes.

Salma is another celebrity who's had long hair for some time. Why should she change that now that she's in her 50s? We can't think of a single good reason.

Vivica A. Fox's long cut feels a little bit '70s glam—perfect for those moments where you want your hair and makeup to do the talking.

Nicole shows us that even with a finer texture, long hair can still look dreamy.

No layers, no problem. We are so into this ultra-long length on Queen Latifah.

Style it:

From split ends to fuzz around the hairline, breakage is a sign that hair needs a little—or a lot of—TLC. Pretty much everyone has experienced this hair concern at some point or another, so there are tons of products out there to help. We enlisted none other than celebrity hairstylist and NatureLab Tokyo brand ambassador Andrew Fitzsimons, go-to guy for the Kardashians, Adriana Lima and other A-listers, to help explain what exactly causes hair breakage to occur, how to prevent it, and what to do when it inevitably happens.

"We may not realise it, but we put our hair through a lot of damage with everyday pollution, chemical treatments and the use of hot tools,” explains Fitzsimons. "Lack of moisture and excessive sun exposure can also lead to breakage,” he adds. In other words: Some factors are unavoidable, but others are more under our control—at least to some extent. Of course, the longer hair is, the more likely it is to break or have split ends. 

How can I prevent breakage?

If you’re a fan of curling irons or other tools, remember to use protective products—and to take a break now and then. "You can prevent breakage by spraying on heat protection before using any hot tools, and by minimising your use of them,” Fitzsimons says.

UV Protectant Spray

Heat Protectant

My hair officially has breakage. Now what?

Shave your head and start from scratch. Kidding! Focus on deep hydration to help rectify the damage. "The best way to treat breakage is to use a weekly hair mask or deep treatment,” recommends Fitzsimons. "Personally, I’ve been using NatureLab Tokyo Perfect Repair Masque since going platinum a while back,” the hairstylist says.

Repairing Mask

Also, remember that not all shampoos and conditioners are created equally; look for formulas that nourish and strengthen hair from the root.

Strengthening Shampoo

Strengthening Conditioner

When in doubt, go in for a trim—your hairstylist can snip off damaged ends so hair looks and feels healthier.

More Products That Help Prevent Breakage:

Silk Scrunchies

Gentle Hair Brush

Hair Towel

Expert Tools

Silk Pillowcase

Despite growing up in the '90s before the internet was a mainstay in every household, I can barely remember a time when "Google it" wasn't the standard response to a question that you don't have an immediately definitive answer to. These days we have access to so much information, and we can even see what questions are on everyone else's lips thanks to handy tools such as Google Trends. As a beauty editor, I'm definitely not surprised to see that lots of people out there are turning to the search engine to find out all the answers to their hair questions.

People are searching everything from "what hair colour is best for me?" to "what haircut looks best for my face shape?". However, one thing in particular that everyone seems to want to know is "what is hair toner?".

I often get asked this question myself, and to be honest, I'm not too sure either. So, I called on the help of some experts to get this answered once and for all.

Turns out, they were only too happy to help as skipping hair toner is the #1 mistake that people with coloured hair keep making. Oops. Keep scrolling to find out exactly what hair toner is, who should be using it and to shop the best ones.

What Is Hair Toner?

"A toner is something that can either remove yellow or orange tones or can be used if you want to take the hair down a shade or to add more depth," explains Francesca Dixon, creative colourist at Hari's Salon. And contradictory to what I previously thought, toners aren't just for blondes—they work for brunettes and redheads too.

"Toners are also great if you have just got back from exposing hair to the sun," says Dixon. "The sun can lift coloured hair and cause it to go brassy or fade. A toner can fill this back into the hair shaft as well as add shine." (Basically, if you want to brighten your overall hair colour or remove unwanted hues from your strands, you need a hair toner.)

When Should You Use Hair Toner?

"Toners are usually used straight after using a form of a bleaching technique," says Dixon. "When lifting hair, you expose undertones of red, orange and yellow. Depending on the base and the desired result, a toner can be applied to damp hair to neutralise any unwanted hues or even mute colours."

"Toning isn't a quick fix to be performed at home; done correctly, it's actually a pretty technical professional service," says Adam Reed, founder of Arkive headcare. "Consumers are becoming more sophisticated in what they're asking for and really wanting to feel like they own their colour, but toning and what this means is still a bit of a mystery to most."

Having said that, there are some great new innovative toners on the market that make it possible to refresh your colour at home, but be careful not to overuse them. "Too many toners can cause buildup," advises Dixon. "If you have a buildup, gently cleanse the hair so you have a fresh clean palette; then reapply toner. You should only use a toner when necessary—like when the hair has been lightened from sun exposure or has faded, unwanted hues."

What's the Next Hair Toner Trend?

"The conversation around toning is a big one for this season," says Reed. "Blondes are the largest group of colour clients we see in salons at 54%, and blondes and consumers are talking more about tonal blondes—with toning becoming a bigger consumer conversation throughout the industry. Professionals are celebrating the diversity within the blonde palette and the possibility of diversifying blonde with toners. [Stylists are] taking inspiration from mother of pearl to include a nod to the pinks and blues within the colour palette."

How Do You Choose the Best Hair Toner?

If you're heading into salon for your hair toner, Dixon has some suggestions: "My favourites are the L'Oréal Dia Light, as the toner only treats the coloured hair. It deposits tone and doesn't lift the cuticle. I always recommend using Smartbond to help with shine and hold the toner for longer."

The effects can last anywhere from two to six weeks, so if you want to keep up the results of using a hair toner at home, it's best to use shampoos, conditioners and hair masks that are formulated with a toner to help maintain your hair colour.

Shop the Best Hair Toner Formulas to Use at Home

For blondes:

For brunettes:

For redheads:

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Destroying your hair is a fear deeply instilled in us all. (I swear, once a week I have a nightmare that my hair has all fallen out from too much bleach.) There's a lot of hearsay in the world about what causes hair damage—don't brush it while it's dry! Don't brush it while it's wet! Don't shampoo ever! Shampoo every day! Never straighten or colour it! But one has to wonder what are the actual real worst things you can do to your hair, according to experts. We were interested in a literal ranked list of the most damaging hair practices, from least awful to most awful. We wanted the pros to give it to us straight.

After all, there are just so many bad hair behaviours to choose from: "Hair was never meant to be coloured and or styled as much as we do nowadays," celebrity hair colourist and Redken colour ambassador Matt Rez told me. "We raise the pH of the hair with chemicals, dry out the hair with all the heat applied, and rid of all its oils with all the washing that we do."

But like, what's the worst? To find out, we consulted Rez and a few other top hair professionals in the business to put together this definitive ranking of the most damaging things you can do to your hair.

12. Aggressively brushing dry hair

No one ever went bald from brushing their hair wrong (actually, don't quote me on that), but according to Ashley Streicher, celebrity hairstylist and R+Co collective member, violently raking a brush through dry ends can break them right off. To prevent this, try getting most of your brushing done (gently, folks!) fresh out of the shower while it's still wet. 

11. Overwashing

Of course, everyone's hair type and texture is different, so what constitutes "overwashing" will vary. But Streicher says that since shampoo can strip your hair of its natural oils and dry it out, you want to limit your washing to at least every other day. In between rinses, refresh your strands with a dry shampoo like R + Co's Death Valley Dry Shampoo (£24), Living Proof's Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo (£18) or OGX's Extra Strength Refresh & Revitalize + Argan Oil Of Morocco Dry Shampoo (£12).

Related: The One Product All Busy Girls Need in Their Handbag

10. Underwashing

To shampoo or not to shampoo? While all of the above is true, it's a fine balance. Many think that skipping shampoo and just conditioning in the shower will be less damaging or better for damaged hair while it heals, but Rez says this absolutely not the case. "By not shampooing, only conditioner is building up on the hair shaft, and over time, it will lead to breakage," he says. "Make sure to use proper shampoos and you are all good."

By "proper," Rez means shampoos that aren't too crunchy granola that they won't actually cleanse your hair. Try Hairstory's New Wash (£44) and Reverie's Shampoo (£32)—two non-toxic products that really truly work.

9. Tight ponytails

"I see a lot of breakage from tight elastics over time," says Streicher. If you're a ponytail or bun person, try chilling out a little and using a breakage-preventing hair tie, like an Invisibobble (£6).

8. Chlorine and ocean water

If you're a professional swimmer, this hair risk might be higher up on the list, but since most of us aren't at the beach or pool every day, we only have to be mindful of these elements few times a year. The salty ocean and chemical-filled pool water can potentially remove the keratin in your hair, dry it out into straw, undo any in-salon repairing treatments you've had, and damage your colour if you dye it. No bueno.

The best thing you can do to keep your hair safe on swim days is to wet it in the shower and douse it in your favorite conditioner or mask (Try Davines's lightweight Oi Milk (£22) or Bumble and Bumble's Repair Blow Dry cream (£25). Then fix your hair into a braid or bun. "This will add an extra protective layer between you and the water," ApotheCARE Essentials Lead Stylist Teddi Cranford explains.

7. Hair sunburn (yep)

"Just as you need to protect your skin from the sun, you need to do the same with your scalp," says celebrity hairstylist, Melissa Brown. Too many rays can cause dryness and even burns to the hair. 

Brown recommends using a broad-spectrum, residue-free sun protector on days when you'll be outside for more than a couple minutes. Try Nuxe's Sun Milky Oil for Hair (£13).

Related: I've Tried Hundreds of SPF Products—17 I'd Actually Recommend

6. Improper extensions removal

If your hair is super sensitive and fine, then just wearing extensions can be damaging; but for most hair types, the risky part is not having them in—it's taking them out. "A misconception about extensions I hear all the time is that they are damaging for your hair when in fact what can be damaging is the way they are removed," says Brown. "Make sure you have a professional take care of them when you are ready to replace or remove."

5. Poor blow-drying technique

No matter how you do it, blow drying your hair removes moisture and can cause breakage, so you don't want to do it every day. And when you do, you want to make sure you're not scorching your hair to oblivion with this common mistake: Failing to put at least half an inch between your hair and the heat source. "When blow-drying with a round brush, there needs to be a space between the round brush and the nozzle of the blow drier," says Rez, who even sees professionals making this mistake. "There needs to be an escape route for the flaming hot air to get out and not sizzle those ends!"

4. Chemical styling

Perms and smoothing treatments (especially without the proper at-home care afterward) can cause your hair to lose its natural shape, says Cranford. If you can avoid getting one of these treatments, do—and if you're hellbent on it, ask a lot of questions in the salon before committing to make sure these treatments will vibe okay with your particular hair type. Otherwise, Cranford says, "Having a really great haircut for your texture, along with advice from your stylist on how to style it in a way that enhances your hair, is the best way to go."

3. Heat styling dirty hair

"Anyone not washing their hair and then adding heat every single day is in for a big surprise," says Brown. This one personally shocked me. You figure if washing your hair too often is bad, then you should put it off as long as possible add a ton of dry shampoo, and just curl or straighten your (dirty) hair to keep it looking passable in the meantime. But apparently, this is a mistake.

"Most people don’t realise it, but flat ironing hair that isn’t properly cleansed can cause breakage," says Brown. This is because, in addition to the already inevitable damage from heat styling, some styling products (dry shampoos, texture sprays, etc.) contain ingredients that aren’t meant to handle heat from styling tools. "It creates more damage by using heat over products," Brown explains. "The benefit of saving time by not getting [the hair] wet does not outweigh the amount of damage being created on the hair, especially when tools are being applied on the highest heat settings."

Related: Brit Girls Like Alexa and Rosie HW Always Do This "Basic" Bun Hairstyle

2. Heat styling at too high a temperature, too often

Hear that? That's the sound of a thousand fairies slowly perishing, which happens to make the exact same noise as your hair frying between two 400-degree metal plates. "Without proper protection, high heat irons will just burn and break your hair off," says Streicher.

Certainly, different hair types can handle varying levels of heat. For fine hair, straightening and curling should be kept to lower temperatures (like 300 degrees tops). Coarser-textured hair can handle a bit more heat. "When in doubt, bring your flat iron or curling iron to your next appointment and ask your stylist," says Cranford.

And always, always use a heat protectant. "That poor hair—it needs a product to help it fight off the negative effects of heat at that moment," says Rez. "Not using heat protection when using hot tools will take a major toll." Try Redken's Iron Shape 11 Heat Protectant Spray, (£19).

Also, most importantly, minimise the number of days a week you're flat ironing and curling your hair. (Our experts actually couldn't agree on whether everyday heat styling or the last point on this list was *the worst* for your hair). Streicher, for example, says, "Overusing heat on your hair consistently is the biggest way to damage your hair."

1. Colour damage

Aaaaand, here we have it. The worst possible thing you can do to your hair is chemically overprocessing it with colour. 

Of course, not all colour treatments will wreck your hair to the same extent. A demi-permanent process (aka, a gloss) will be the least invasive ("I gloss and colour hair with Redken Shades EQ all the time, and my clients' hair actually feels better and stronger!" says Rez.) But working your way up to a double process (aka, bleaching all of your hair) can completely transform your hair for the worse. "A conversation with your stylist on what the best approach is for your hair type is massively important," says Cranford.

 As is after-care at home. "It is so important to keep the hair constantly hydrated and use products that help repair hair from chemical damage," says Brown, who recommends using a repairing mask, like Living Proof's Restore Mask Treatment (£37) one week before your salon appointment and twice a week after.

Next: Read how one of our beauty editors doubled the growth of her eyebrows with these six sneaky changes.