With summer finally here, I'm meticulously planning my next haircut. And as a beauty editor who studies hair trends for a living, it's easy to get swept up in TikTok hair trends. You see, I'm a low-effort hair person, and so I want a low-maintenance haircut that will see me through the season with minimal styling. Because when it's sunny out, I want to spend less time hairstyling and more time enjoying the weather whilst it lasts. And on a practical level, when it's hot, the last thing you want to do is be styling with your hair dryer for hours.

So, if you, too, are looking for some summer hair trend inspo for your next haircut, you've come to the right place. I asked Jonny Eagland, hairstylist at Nicola Clarke Salon, for all the summer haircut ideas to take to the salon.

1. Soft Layered Bob

Bob haircuts aren't going anywhere for summer 2026, and a soft, layered bob is the perfect cut if you want something low-maintenance and versatile. A soft layered bob gives softness and movement, and is short enough that you won't need to tie it up in the heat, and stunning when blow-dried," says Eagland. "In the salon, ask for a bob with soft internal layers to create shape, keeping the outline clean for the classic bob look," he says. "At home: blow-dry with a round brush for volume, or leave to air dry for an effortless finish." If you're thinking of going for a bob hairstyle, then summer is the perfect time to go for the chop.

Style at Home:

2. Modern Mullet

If you want a different short haircut, then don't overlook the mullet, which is getting a modern twist for 2026. "The mullet is back— longer at the back, shorter on the sides and front," says Eagland. "It's edgy, without being too committed to change if someone wants to try something new," he says. It's a great cut to go for if you're growing out a pixie cut, too. "In the salon, ask for a disconnected cut with length kept through the nape and a textured, cropped finish up top," says Eagland. "At home style using a light matte paste for definition, or leave it undone for a relaxed feel," he says.

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3. Choppy Shag

"For those who want low-effort with styling, the textured shag is the cut of the summer," says Eagland. "This cut works beautifully for everyone, especially for those growing out a pixie who are craving something longer, and messier hair is having a real moment right now," he says. "In the salon, ask for soft, shaggy layers with plenty of texture throughout. And to style at home, spritz through some salt spray on damp hair, leave to air dry and you're done."

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4. '90s Layers

Wanting to keep your longer lengths? '90s face-framing layers are the haircut to bookmark for your next salon visit. "90s layers offer pure nostalgia," says Eagland. Think face-framing layers and angles at the front with a blunt finish at the bottom, which creates seamless movement. It's gorgeous worn sleek or with a voluminous 90s blow-dry," he says. Eagland recommends using a large round brush to create the bounce, but you can also get the look with a hot brush if you want to dry and style at the same time.

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5. Shaggy Layers

If a shag haircut feels like too much, opting for shaggy layers is a way to add more movement and body to your hair. "Shaggy layers were made for summer, and this cut is perfect for those who want minimal effort and a lot of movement on medium and long hair. It's perfect for air-drying on hot days, beach trips, or holidays, too," says Eagland. "In the salon, ask for lived-in layers with a choppy, undone finish. Then at home, scrunch in a styling cream or salt spray on damp hair and let it air dry. Or enhance your air-dried hair with curling tongs for a bit more of a polished finish," he says.

Style at Home:

6. Wispy Fringe

Thinking of a fringe for summer? Eagland tells me that it's a great way to tweak your style without undergoing a drastic change. "There are two fringe options that transform your look without changing your entire haircut," he says. "A curtain fringe is perfect for summer, and you can wear your hair up, and you still have a style with the fringe down. Or, wispy fringes sit shorter at the brow for a chic edge," he says. "In the salon, ask for either a centre-parted curtain fringe, or a feathered fringe cut shorter at the centre, sitting at the brow," says Eagland. "At home, a quick blow-dry of the fringe alone and you're polished in minutes."

Style at Home:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

The best thing about summer hair trends is that they aren't really all that rigid—literally and figuratively. We tend to see lots of airy, textured silhouettes on the rise, yet the trends themselves also aren't too stringent. As celebrity hairstylist Sky Kim shares, "Summer always brings hair back to freedom. It’s less structured, more expressive." As we shed our winter layers for linen sets and breezy slips, hair becomes looser, more lived-in—especially in 2026, when embracing piece-y movement is very much en vogue.

"2025 was sleek, minimal, and controlled. 2026 is expressive, textural, and a little rebellious in a wearable way," adds Kim. As such, we're seeing polished cuts and styles give way to bolder (yet still natural) iterations, all of which you can find when you scroll ahead.

Just a quick note before diving in: While I've labelled some haircuts and colours below as "out," by no means am I saying they should stay buried. Beauty trends have a funny way of cycling in and out of the spotlight, so you might very well see them again once fall rolls back around. For summer 2026, though, these are the seven swaps on the rise.

Out: Blunt Bobs | In: Lived-In Layers

If you sported a chin-skimming crop last summer, you're not alone. It was arguably the year of the bob—from voluminous "Riviera" bobs to sleek Prada" bobs to '60s-inspired "flipped" bobs—and if you, too, committed to the shorter cut, you're probably currently residing in lob territory. As you encompass the grow-out period, try leaning into soft movement and texture (such as airy layers) as opposed to blunt bobs.

Celebrity hairstylist Reece Walker agrees: "Many clients who had strong blunt bobs are now growing them out and really embracing hair that feels less structured and more lived-in," he shares. Consider it the pendulum swing from bold, sophisticated cuts to styles with more of an "undone" feel.

Out: Solid Cool Tones | In: Warmth and Dimension

"Flat, one-note hair colour is fading, especially overly cool, ashy tones that don’t reflect light," says Kim. "Instead, people are leaning into dimension and natural undertones. Think warm blondes, reds that enhance what’s already in your hair, and brunettes with subtle tonal ribbons. It’s very reflective, very alive—colour that shifts in the light rather than sitting flat." Walker echoes her declaration, adding that dimension in colour is going to be huge. "Less flat, solid colour and more depth and movement," he notes.

Dakota Johnson is the perfect example, as she recently transformed her rich brunette length to a dimensional dirty blonde at this year's Time 100 gala. It's the first time in years she switched up her go-to shade, so that's when you know the colour trend has legs. Time this as your sign to book in for some balayage.

Out: Blended Curtain Bangs | In: "Bratty" Bangs

Long curtain bangs are A+ for those who aren't necessarily ready to commit to the bang life, but in summer 2026, there's little room for middle ground. "Soft, overly blended curtain bangs are out," Kim asserts. Instead? A bold, "bratty" side bang reigns supreme. "It’s shorter, slightly choppier and more intentional. It sits higher, hits around the cheekbone or brow, and feels a little undone in a way that gives attitude rather than softness," she adds. "It’s less about perfectly feathered face framing and more about creating shape and edge."

Out: Subtle Tones | In: Expressive Colour

While haircuts are becoming increasingly more lived-in, "Colour is where it gets exciting," notes Kim. "We’re seeing a move toward dimensional, expressive colour, similar to that Alyssa Liu energy where it feels bold and wild." You don't necessarily have to commit to a halo hair colour like Liu, but for those craving more of a summer statement, consider this your sign to embrace high-contrast (dare I say ombré?) hair. "I think the drastic dual tones are coming back, like Billie Eilish’s green hair roots, dark tips, etc.," adds Kim.

Out: Glassy Slick-Backs | In: Textured Updos

Allow me to clarify: a slick-back will never truly fall out of favour. But stylists can't ignore the onslaught of lived-in, piece-y updos that just feel unrestricted. Shares Kim, "2025 felt very controlled, sleek, polished, and almost uniform—a lot of glass hair, tight finishes, and minimal variation. 2026 is breaking that open. There’s more personality, more texture, and more confidence in letting hair feel lived-in." Again, slick-backs will never be fully "out," but they are becoming less helmet-like. "Even when the look is polished, it’s not rigid. It’s less about perfection and more about identity," Kim adds.

Out: Tucked Bobs | In: Tucked Bixies

Remember when the tucked bob (aka a bob secured behind one or both ears) became all the buzz? We're starting to see a similar style take shape this summer, but it's a tad shorter, kissing the nape of the neck instead of the tops of the shoulders. Celebs like Gracie Abrams, Carey Mulligan, and Olandria Carthen (pictured above) have all embraced the chic tucked pixie cut, choosing to tuck their pixie behind just one ear to show off their bone structure. That said, you could also clip the pieces away using a subtle bobby pin or bold hair accessory. Artist's choice!

Out: Bombshell Blowouts | In: "C" Curls

Like classic slick-backs, bouncy, bombshell blowouts will never completely go away. Feel free to enjoy your '90s style all summer long, but if you want to embrace the new It-girl blowout, try your hand at softer "C" curls. "It’s a classic French blowout but with a nice bend and 'C' shape at the ends," explains celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos, who recently created the look for Gigi Hadid. "Instead of a flat-ironed straight hair look, this is a beautiful blowout with a gorgeous bend."

According to the pro, it also looks divine paired with a feathery, mid-length cut. "This look is very modern and fresh," he adds. "The 'C' curl is going to be the new hairstyle for the summer!"

The Best Styling Products for Summer 2026 Hair Trends

“The longer your hair, the higher the maintenance” is something we’ve all probably heard when considering whether or not we should opt for a bob. But I have to admit that as someone with Afro hair, I’ve always been under the impression that getting a bob would be more stress it’s worth.

The truth? Even the shortest of haircuts still requires a lot of upkeep, something that I’m sure low-maintenance girls like myself are heartbroken to hear. However, there are plenty of bob hairstyles around that are perfectly suited to naturally curly and coily hair and don’t require the hours of upkeep you might initially expect.

A few days ago, I sat down with professional hair stylist and brand founder, Charlotte Mensah, to get her honest thoughts on what bob haircuts are the best for Afro hair, as well as how to maintain your own bob at home. Here’s what she had to say...

What Is an Afro Bob Haircut?

Mensah says, "An Afro bob is a bob shaped specifically with textured hair in mind. It honours the density, movement and beauty of curls, coils or stretched natural hair, rather than forcing the hair into a shape designed for straighter textures. It can be sculpted soft and rounded, sharp and graphic, chin-length, shoulder-grazing or layered for lift and movement. The beauty of an Afro bob is that it celebrates shape."

Do Bobs Suit Afro Hair?

"Absolutely! Bobs can be beautiful on Afro hair. In many ways, textured hair gives a bob more character, volume and presence. The key lies in tailoring the cut to your curl pattern, density, shrinkage and how you like to wear your hair day to day. A good bob should work with your texture, not against it", says Mensah.

Tips for Getting a Bob with Afro Hair

• Book a consultation first and foremost so that you can speak to your stylist before doing anything. Understand the look you want to achieve, and talk through how your stylist will approach it. A lot can be uncovered in that conversation.
• Bring reference images to help communicate shape, fullness, length and finish, while giving your stylist something tangible to respond to. Come open-minded too, as the right bob should suit both your texture and your features.
• Wear your hair as you usually wear it so your stylist understands its natural behaviour. Talk about shrinkage, as a curly bob and a stretched bob can sit very differently. Be honest about maintenance, too. If you want ease, say so. If you enjoy styling, that opens up other possibilities.
• Face shape, neckline and the experience of the stylist all matter. A well-cut bob should frame you beautifully, and textured hair deserves someone who understands how to cut for shape.

The Best Bobs for Afro Hair

1. Blunt Bob

If you often blow-dry your hair, try opting for a one-length, also known as a blunt bob. It requires much lower upkeep than a traditional cut and less frequent trims, not to mention it looks sleek and intentional.

2. Layered Bob

If your hair has natural, different-length coils to it, embrace it in the form of a layered bob. This voluminous hairstyle will give your bob effortless structure and requires minimal styling to look chic.

3. Tapered Bob

A tapered bob is longer on top and gradually gets shorter toward the nape of the neck, creating a clean, structured finish that looks put together. It perfectly balances feeling laid-back and looking elegant, and the bob will evolve nicely without any interference needed as it grows out.

4. Fringed Bob

If you want to add some character to your hair, a fringe is the way to go. It will give a bob the appearance of looking refined and well-looked-after, but actually requires minimal care apart from the odd trim.

5. Curtain-Bang Bob

Curtain bang bobs are a universally flattering way to frame the face and give it structure, as well as improve the appearance of volume on those of us with finer hair. It’s fuss-free, easy to look after, and looks incredibly cool, might I add.

6. Pixie Cut

An ultra-short pixie cut will not only look extremely polished and put together, but it also allows for extended growing-out time, meaning you won’t find yourself in the salon for upkeep every week.

7. Braided Bob

Braids are the ultimate low-maintenance hairstyle for Afro hair throughout the warmer months, and a braided bob is a great way to try out different cuts, lengths and colours before you fully commit to one particular style.

How Do I Maintain a Bob with Afro Hair?

Mensah states that, “a bob thrives when the shape is preserved. I always say focus on moisture, shape and gentle upkeep."

She recommends the following:

1. A bob always looks its best when the hair is healthy.
2. Regular trims help maintain the line, usually every eight to twelve weeks.
3. Keep the hair hydrated, as dryness can make the shape harder to hold. Lightweight oils can help support softness and shine, while a nourishing styling pomade can be useful for defining shape and polishing the finish.
4. Protect the hair at night with silk or satin, and avoid overloading it with product so the hair keeps its movement. For silk pressed or stretched bobs, wrapping or pin-curling at night helps preserve the style beautifully.

Best Products for Afro Bobs

I’m a creature of habit when it comes to my hair, but there’s something about summer’s impending arrival that has me itching to try something new. And I’m putting it down to the fact that the summer hair trends for 2026 will undoubtedly appeal to the low-maintenance amongst us. Yes, I’ve been busy talking to industry’s top hairstylists and colourists, and there’s one thing that they all agree on for the season ahead: summer hair is going to be a whole lot more relaxed.

"Summer hair is moving away from anything overworked or overly done," says celebrity hair stylist Sam McKnight MBE. "It’s that idea of luxury through restraint; soft, touchable texture, natural movement, nothing too styled. And there’s a definite return to '90s minimalism too, which we’re seeing again through our renewed obsession with Carolyn Bessette Kennedy."

This season, it’s less about chasing a perfectly styled finish and more about opting for cuts that work with your natural hair and grow out beautifully. As for hair colour? It’s similarly relaxed. "Low-maintenance, but high impact," explains Mary Wheatley, colourist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. "Think mixes of warms and beige, blondes with natural depth, and soft, natural tones with sun-kissed vibes."

So if you’re ready to embrace a new look that feels polished without trying too hard (which is exactly how I want my hair to feel all summer), then keep scrolling for the summer hair trends that experts predict will be everywhere this season.

1. Shaggy Bob

Naturally, this wouldn’t be a 2026 hair trends report unless a bob was in the mix. For summer, though, it’s the shaggy bob that will dominate; a natural shift away from the precisely cut styles that we’ve been seeing towards something more relaxed.

"I am so excited about the return of the shaggy bob," says Samantha Cusick, celebrity hair stylist and ghd ambassador. "Unlike the sharp, geometric bob that we’ve had for a few seasons, this one is softer. It’s got layers, it’s got curtain fringe energy, and it moves."

What appeals most about this style is how little effort it actually requires. It’s the kind of cut that gives your hair shape and personality without the need for constant styling. "It works on so many different textures and lengths, which makes it so wearable, and it’s one of those cuts that actually gets better as it grows out," explains Cusick.

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2. Floating Fringe

Call it the Margot Robbie effect, but fringes have been enjoying a renaissance of late. However, there is no denying that bangs can be high-maintenance, which is where summer’s floating fringe comes in.

"Effortless, light, wearable… this summer, it’s going to be all about a soft fringe that floats just above the brows and opens subtly through the centre," says Antonio Hector, stylist at Hershesons Belgravia. "It's not short enough to be a micro-fringe, but it should feel light and broken enough to lift and frame the face."

If you’re on the fence about going for the chop, then the beauty of this fringe is that it doesn’t take over your whole look. Instead, its wispiness gently frames the face and grows out subtly so you avoid the need for weekly trims.

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3. Layered Lob

Mid-length hairstyles are having a moment right now and make for the perfect in-between option if you’re not sure about whether to chop or grow your hair.

"Softer, more relaxed shapes are really going to dominate for summer, particularly longer, grown-out bobs and layered mid-length cuts," says Neale Rodger, style director at Stil London. "These styles offer versatility and movement whilst still feeling lightweight for summer, combined with a rise in subtle face-framing layers and airy fringes, which give structure without feeling too heavy."

The beauty of the lob is how adaptable it is. As Rodger points out, this is a cut that "works with the hair’s natural behaviour rather than against it," so you can air-dry it, heat-style it, tie it up, wear it loose; it works effortlessly with whatever kind of summer you’re enjoying.

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4. The Bixie

Probably the edgiest style in the summer lineup, the "bixie" is already taking over as one of the most-asked-for cuts ever since Zendaya stepped out with one this spring. However, it’s surprisingly wearable in real life too.

"The standout cut for me is a modern, textured bixie—something that sits between a classic bob and a pixie," explains Tobias Bell, hairstylist and UK Amika stylist partner. "There’s a strong rock 'n' roll influence coming through a lot of this season’s cuts, which is all about movement and shape, rather than perfection. This cut has that slightly undone edge that feels very current."

The bixie will definitely make a statement, but not in an intimidating way. So if you’re after a cool chop for summer, it makes a great option.

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5. CBK Blonde

Minimalists rejoice. Buttery blonde is back, inspired directly by Love Story and Carolyn Bassette Kennedy’s iconic '90s honeyed hair.

"In salon, we’re really taking our cues from the renewed buzz around Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, which has definitely been sparked by Love Story," explains Marley Xavier, colourist at Hershesons Belgravia. "This is the kind of blonde that transcends trends—it’s cool, clean and effortlessly striking."

What makes this shade stand out is just how polished it is. This is less about trying to create a lived-in look or add lots of dimension; it’s about creating a really refined, even, golden tone with root-to-tip highlights. It works best when paired with pared-back styling, like a clean centre parting and a simple blowdry.

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6. Golden-Hour Brunette

Whilst blonde always dominates as the most-requested colour change in salons for summer, this season, brunettes are about to enjoy a major upgrade in the form of "golden hour brunette".

"You’re going to start hearing this term everywhere," says Cusick. "It’s a rich, dimensional, glossy colour that almost glows under every light. Think deep bases with warm caramel and honey ribbons running through—a colour that has real depth but also catches the light in the most beautiful way."

This is the kind of colour that looks expensive without being obvious. And, as Cusick points out, the key is to find a colourist who will completely personalise the colour to each client so that it looks effortless.

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7. Statement Shades

Whilst natural tones are having a moment, there’s still space for something a little more expressive this summer, too.

"Colour is definitely splitting in two directions. On one side, we’re seeing rich, glossy tones with depth, and on the other, there’s a return to statement colours like coppers, pinks and grungier tones," explains Bell. The key to making a bright or more experimental hue feel wearable lies in how it's worn. Bell advises teaming it with a textured cut so your colour feels lived-in.

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Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts, including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If you're anything like us on Who What Wear UK, your feeds have likely been inundated with content from Coachella 2026. And whilst we've had some serious FOMO from the weekend, one thing the festival always delivers on is beauty inspo—especially so for hair trends. And Hailey Bieber’s new Coachella haircut makes a compelling case for long layers as a defining summer hair trend.

We're used to seeing Hailey with short bob haircuts or mid-length hairstyles, but it seems she's embraced the longer lengths this year with long, waterfall layers that tumble from the shoulder down to her ends. And I'm obsessed.

These face-framing layers are a great way to add movement or update longer hairstyles without going for a big chop. They're still long enough to be tied back into a ponytail or bun, and they look just as good straightened as they do styled à la Rachel Green, just how Hailey wore hers this past weekend. All you need is a hot brush or thermal brush to twirl the ends inwards, or use a round brush and your hair dryer to create the flicky ends and '90s-inspired movement.

Hailey Bieber's longtime hairdresser Justine Marjan cut Hailey's waterfall layers for the festival, and I just know they're going to be a defining summer haircut trend over the next few months.

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This time of the year is my favourite time to spot hair trends. Over the past couple of months, we've had the awards season, fashion month and a flurry of premieres and red carpet moments, all of which are the perfect fodder for us beauty editors to spot the next big beauty trends. And after keeping a firm eye on the haircut trends this year, one thing is for certain. Everyone seems to be going for a short haircut right now. And I'm tipping the elfin bob to be circulating amongst salons as a major spring hair trend this year.

What Is the Elfin Bob?

I first spotted it on Gracie Abrams' BAFTA hair look. It's not quite a pixie cut, and not quite a bob haircut. The elfin bob marries the two together, featuring the impish silhouette of a pixie cut with the longer length of a cropped bob haircut that still allows you to wear it tucked behind the ears. It's easily one of the chicest short haircuts I've seen this year, with celebrities such as Zendaya and Iris Law wearing this elegant yet cool-girl cut. Tinkerbell, eat your heart out.

Ready to try the elfin bob out for yourself? Scroll ahead for all the inspo pics to take to the salon, as well as the best styling products to get the look at home. Chop chop!

Elfin Bob Haircut Ideas

We've see Zendaya wearing her elfin bob in multiple ways on The Drama press tour, including in glamorous curls and this cool-girl coded wavy crop.

Jessie Buckley shows how chic an elfin bob looks when worn in a swept-over side parting.

My jaw dropped when I first saw Emma Stone's elfin bob haircut with impish waves.

I adore this '50s-coded curled crop on Jourdan Dunn.

Iris Law has long worn her hair in an elfin style, and celebrity hairstylist Luke Hersheson recently cut it for the Fendi show. “I cut Iris' hair into a short elfin cut—even though it’s short, there are so many ways to style and wear this cut—it’s super versatile," says Hersheson. "I smothered her hair in Almost Everything Cream (£20) and drew a low, deep parting while creating a modern kiss curl on her forehead, inspired by Josephine Baker of the '20s—we made it very subtle so it’s more of a nod to the era but still felt modern and fresh," he says.

I've been mesmerised by Teyana Taylor's ethereal elfin haircuts over awards season.

Taylor Hill shows how to pair an elfin bob haircut with a wispy fringe. So chic.

How to Style It

There’s no getting around the fact that, as obsessed as we all continue to be with bobs (of course, they’re still very much in the mix for the biggest hair trends of 2026 so far), the classic cut is a notoriously high-maintenance option. So if frequenting your hair salon every four to six weeks to keep your cut looking fresh doesn’t appeal, then consider this more laidback iteration might be one to have on your radar. Enter: the lazy bob.

Spotted on Hailey Bieber in recent months, this grown-out, shoulder-skimming style is the ultimate in-between option for anyone on the fence about going short or those who are growing out a shorter style. “It’s essentially a softer, more effortless evolution of the classic bob and has that relaxed, lived-in movement,” explains Syd Hayes, celebrity hair stylist and BaByliss Pro Ambassador. Even better, it looks just as good when it’s freshly cut as it does as it’s growing out.

Ahead, we share all of the lazy bob hair inspiration you need for your next cut, along with expert advice on exactly what to ask for in the salon.

Lazy Bob Hair Trend Inspiration

Hailey Bieber's effortlessly cool grown-out lob ticks all the boxes.

Elsa Hosk's grown-out bob looks amazing styled with beachy waves.

This slightly shorter cut on Laura Harrier oozes the same laidback appeal thanks to the diffused texture and choppy ends.

Aimee Song's long bob is utterly chic.

How pretty is Gugu Mbatha-Raw's soft, grown-out bob?

I love this longer length, centre-parted cut on Hailee Steinfeld.

Gigi Hadid's fun and flicked-out style is the epitome of this low-maintenance style.

What Is the Lazy Bob Haircut?

According to Hayes the key to the lazy bob haircut is a combination of the length and the finish. “It sits somewhere between the chin and shoulders and never feels too structured or overly polished,” he explains. In fact, its secret lies in the fact that this bob actually isn’t a one-length cut despite looking very much like one. “It actually has cleverly concealed layering which slims the silhouette and gives a relaxed and undone texture,” explains Tom Smith, hair stylist, trend forecaster, and founder of Aevum Salon. Despite its laidback look then, the lazy bob can actually be personalised precisely to your hair texture and thickness, unlike a more classic cut.

“It’s ideal for medium hair density that has a wave or loose curl naturally, but on thicker hair, concealed layers can provide a real opportunity to contour and shape the silhouette, whilst on fine hair, the bluntness of the ends can help add the appearance of thickness,” explains Smith.

What to Ask For

If you’re looking for inspo to take with you into the salon, then Hailey Bieber is the undeniable queen of this look at the moment, but there are specific things you can ask for to ensure you leave with the perfect lazy bob “I’d recommend asking for a soft, shoulder-skimming bob with minimal layering and natural texture,” advises Hayes. “You want the weight to sit through the ends so that the hair looks healthy and full, but with enough softness so it moves naturally and doesn’t feel too blunt or geometric.”

Even better, once it’s cut in, Hayes suggests that you won’t have to go back for a trim for between eight and 10 weeks. “One of the reasons this cut is so popular is because it’s quite low-maintenance, and as the shape is intentionally relaxed, it grows out beautifully,” he explains.

How to Style the Lazy Bob at Home

Once you’re home, the best thing about this hair trend is that it actually requires very little in the way of styling. “If it’s cut well, then it’s actually very low-maintenance day to day as the undone texture forms the structure of the cut,” explains Smith. “On wavy hair, air-dry creams are ideal to give that relaxed natural texture, and if your hair is fine and you want to add texture, then try spraying dry shampoo on the underneath layers of your hair to give it a natural boost to the lift, movement and fullness,” he explains.

As a beauty editor, it's my job to scan the red carpets for the emerging beauty trends from the awards season red carpets. From hair trends to makeup trends and nail trends to comeback beauty trends, I'm keeping a firm eye on them all. So after scrolling through the best BAFTA 2026 beauty moments, my thumbs immediately paused over Gracie Abrams and her chic new bixie haircut. And trust me, I'm certain this short haircut is about to dominate as a major spring hair trend.

Gracie Abrams Bixie Haircut BAFTAs 2026

So, what exactly is a bixie haircut? Not quite a bob haircut, and not quite a pixie cut, the bixie combines the best parts of both, resulting in a cropped bob-length cut that sits close to the head as a pixie cut would. As Gracie proves, this short hairstyle feels both timeless and elegant whilst feeling modern and cool in equal parts.

For the BAFTAs 2026, Gracie wore her bixie in a chic side parting, showcasing the slightly longer lengths and the front, graduating into a shorter length towards the back of the head.

Bob hair trends have been dominating for a while now, but now Gracie is leaning towards the shorter bixie cut, I'm confidently betting that we'll see more and more of the cropped hairstyle as we head into spring. If you're tempted to go for the chop yourself, scroll ahead for the best hairstyling products to style a bixie.

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With a new season on the horizon, now is a great time to consider a new look. And what better way to get some inspo than taking a look at the upcoming spring hair trends for 2026? I don't know about you, but I'm so ready to bid farewell to winter and look forward to new hair trends as we welcome the longer and warmer days ahead. So, in the spirit of spring's new beginnings, I've been inspired to try something new with my hair this season, and I'm considering a new hair colour and haircut to refresh my look.

Having spoken to some of London's top hairstylists and hair colourists, there is a definite shift in spring's hair trends this year. There are fresh haircut silhouettes and nostalgic Y2K hair colours returning once again. Much like the shift we're seeing in fashion, hair trends are shaking off their stuffy "quiet luxury" aesthetics and instead returning to more joyful shapes and colours again. If you've been craving a transformation, now is the time to head to the salon.

If you're in need of some inspo to take to the salon, then scroll on for the spring hair trends London's top hair experts predict will be big news this season.

1. Baby Bangs

If you've been considering a fringe, take this as your sign. Fringes are a timeless haircut addition, but for spring, we can expect to see baby bangs come to the fore. "Shorter, soft fringes will be a major trend for spring, like a face-framing baby bangs where the fringe sits just above the eyebrows but increases in length towards the outside, creating something super soft—think '90s Pamela Anderson as the inspiration and Alix Earle more recently," says Caspar Finch, stylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. "The shape is usually achieved with either a razor or scissors depending on the chosen inspiration," he says.

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2. Soft Bixie

The bixie cut, a hybrid between a pixie cut and bob haircut, is becoming far softer for spring. "The ‘bixie’ is a combination of a soft pixie cut and a short-textured bob, combining two shapes to create the bixie. For spring, this will still be a major trend," says Finch. "Look to Gracie Abrams for inspiration at the Chanel Couture show. The focus will be on softer, textured, lived-in finishes for the season ahead, enhanced by a styling cream such as the Hershesons Almost Everything Cream (£20)," he says.

"Make sure to show references to your stylist and ask them to create the shape around your features and facial proportions to best enhance your face shape and hair texture," adds Finch.

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3. The Shag

The shag has been quietly making a comeback in recent months, and Izzy Warren, stylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia, tips it to be a defining haircut trend for spring 2026, and it's particularly great for those with curly hair textures.

"Less is definitely more at the moment, so if you’ve got a natural curl or wave, then it’s time to embrace your texture with the curly shag this season," she says. "It’s effortless yet sexy, especially when you have a few pieces of the bangs covering the eyes a little, with curls or waves falling around the face. Miley Cyrus has been seen wearing a longer version of this cut recently. For a more classic shag haircut, look to Suki Waterhouse or Pamela Anderson for inspiration," says Warren.

"Ask your stylist for added layers to make the curls and waves come to life more. A texture mist like the Hershesons Air Dry Spray (£22) will also really bring this cut to life by enhancing your hair’s natural texture as it dries, as well as a Hershesons Sock Diffuser (£30)," she says.

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4. Hair Accessories

From The Row's SS26 show hair with its artfully placed French combs to the awards season red carpet beauty moments, it's impossible to ignore the rise in hair accessories right now. "For Spring/Summer 26, I’m predicting we’ll be seeing hair jewels; think metal hair pins and hair bands with metal embellishment," says Warren. "It instantly elevates a simple look like a ponytail or bun, or a cool, undone French twist enhanced with a metal hairpin. It feels a little vintage but super feminine, like Zoë Kravitz at the Golden Globes," she adds.

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5. Chunky Bobs

We can't talk about spring hair trends for 2026 without talking about bob hair trends. And after a season of sleeker bobs, we can expect voluminous bobs to return with a bang for spring. "For Spring/Summer 2026, the bob will be looking a lot more full and choppy, holding a lot more weight overall for a chunkier, modern look," says Silver Mestre, stylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. "What’s great about this look is that it can be worn in lots of different ways. It looks great blown out for a classic, polished look, or looks super cool and effortless when air-dried to enhance the hair’s natural texture," he says.

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6. '00s Dirty Blonde

As for hair colour trends for spring, we can expect to see more "dirty blonde" hues being requested in salons, giving a nod to the Y2K hair colours we saw on the likes of Kate Moss and Sienna Miller in the early 2000s, says Nicole Kahlani, concept colourist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. It's one of the beauty trends making a comeback this year.

"I developed a technique called 3D scalp bleach, so that my clients, even those with dark brown hair, can achieve that super cool early-2000s Kate Moss or Sienna Miller 'dirty blonde', which will be highly requested for spring," she says.

"To achieve this, I utilise the traditional scalp bleach, then incorporate my 3D toning technique. I start by lightening the hair, then add a dark blonde root to add depth, and incorporate the balayage lowlighting technique, creating a seamless blend of the colours and beautiful dimension," she says. "This approach not only makes scalp bleach look incredibly natural but also yields a gorgeous blonde, even on darker bases."

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7. Powdered Blonde

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we can also expect to see pearly, powdery blondes for spring 2026. "Powdered blonde is a colour influenced by 18th-century hair, as seen on Margot Robbie in Wuthering Heights," says Kahlani. "The look is chalky and dense, with less dimension. Blondes appear more one-toned, with a matte finish rather than a hyper-shiny look. Think dense golds with an ashy, antique effect," she says. "These are more natural blonde tones, reflecting a time when hair couldn't be coloured artificially. Even today, with colour melting, a seamless blend, the key is a global, natural-looking matte finish."

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In 2026, we're seeing a clear transition from the "clean-girl" era to the "messy-girl" era, especially when it comes to hair trends. Whilst super neat, slicked-back styles and perfectly sleek butterfly layers will always be in style, if the spring-summer 2026 runways were anything to go by, this year is all about embracing tousled waves and shag haircuts. However, as hair trends continue to evolve, we're seeing more elevated versions of these cool-girl styles, which is why I want to talk a little bit about the muted shag.

What Is the Muted Shag Haircut?

As the name might suggest, the muted shag is a softer iteration of the popular shag hairstyle, leaning into those "messy girl" vibes whilst remaining incredibly wearable. I've spotted this style on the likes of Suki Waterhouse and Miley Cyrus as of late, proving that it's set to be one of the biggest haircut trends of the season.

It still features all the elements of a shag haircut we know and love (hello, choppy layers and tousled texture), but the outline is much less harsh. Because of this, the muted shag appears effortlessly chic, and I can totally see why all the stars are opting for this laid-back finish. Below, I've rounded up some of my favourite muted shag hairstyles to inspire you for spring.

Muted Shag Haircut Inspiration

I gasped when I saw this picture of Suki Waterhouse, then sent it to my hairdresser straight away.

Thanks to the softer outline, these layers blend effortlessly into the rest of the hair whilst still giving that tousled cool-girl finish.

The muted shag works perfectly with a bob hairstyle.

Miley Cyrus is forever my hair inspo.

I don't know how Camila Morrone has achieved this perfectly "undone" finish, but I need her tips immediately.

Jenna Ortega is the queen of shag hairstyles.

A fringe is the chicest finishing touch to a muted shag haircut.

The Best Products for a Muted Shag Haircut

As a beauty editor who studies hair trends for a living, it's only natural that I'm always on the lookout for the next big haircut trend or hair colour trend. And while we might only be halfway through January, there is one bob hair trend that is quickly emerging amongst celebrities such as Hailey Bieber, Lily Colins and Sofia Richie Grainge. And that's the bevelled bob.

What Is the Bevelled Bob?

Inspired by the sloping curves you find in fine jewellery, the bevelled bob has soft, flicked ends that create a rounded, face-framing effect. Think of it as the cousin of the flicked bob, but this time, the ends of the bob are gently curving inwards. Much like Hailey Bieber's recent lob haircut.

It's a hair trend that celebrity hairstylist Larry King has spotted. "We’ve been living in the world of the Italian and French bobs—playful, flicky, full of movement," he says. "But I think the direction is changing. Bobs are going cleaner and more tucked-in. Less of that kicked-out texture, more of a smooth bevel under the jaw. It’s polished without feeling overdone," he says.

It also speaks to a wider theme at play with haircut trends right now. “I don’t think 2026 will belong to one specific cut—it’s more of a shift in attitude," says King. "Hair is moving toward a sleeker, more refined finish. For longer lengths, especially, we’re stepping away from those big, bouncy blowouts that have had their moment. Instead, I’m seeing this rise of super-straight, ultra-glossy, almost liquid-looking hair," he says. "It feels expensive, intentional, and incredibly modern—that’s the energy of 2026."

If you're thinking of going for the bevelled bob yourself in 2026, scroll on for all the inspo to take to the salon.

Bevelled Bob Inspo

Phoebe Dynevor's side-parted bob looks so chic with the bevelled ends.

I'm in awe of Lily Colins' liquid-like bob, which has a subtle around the chin and jaw.

For a softer take, Kendall Jenner's lob has a more piecey texture while framing her face.

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With a new year just around the corner, it's time to talk about hair trends for 2026. While the past 12 months have seen the likes of bouncy blowouts and low-maintenance bobs, 2026's hair trends welcome a significant vibe shift, with sleeker silhouettes, icy hair colours and, thankfully, hairstyling that doesn't require a hairdressing qualification to do.

Rather than complicated hairstyles, everything is becoming more pared-back, and the same approach goes for hair colour, which in many cases is becoming more and more natural-looking. Of course, there are also the contrasting trends running alongside (micro fringes? Yep, they're on the cusp of a comeback), such as pearl blonde hair, but the general feeling is effortless, natural-looking haircuts, hair colours and styles.

To find out the hair colours, haircuts and hairstyles that will define 2026, I spoke to London's top hairstylists and hair salons for their definitive trends that will define the next 12 months. Scroll ahead for all the hair inspiration you'll need this year, and the hairstyling products that will see you through each.

1. Pearl Blonde

"With Margot Robbie starring in the new Wuthering Heights adaptation, I see a muted grey powdered blonde trending for 2026, with her hair as the ultimate inspiration, whether that's embracing your natural greys or completely stepping away from warm golden blondes," predicts concept colourist Nicole Kahlani at Hershesons Fitzrovia. "It has an almost 18th-century feel, where the finish is more matte and dense. It’s about embracing more natural ash blonde undertones, and again having this colour as a global application, taking inspiration from that period in time where there was no dimension or multiple tones," she says.

Kahlani explains that this statement hair colour is often seen on runway models. "The hair colour is kept in a natural blonde tone, embracing more muted, mousey shades," she says. "To add a touch of colour, the ends can be lifted half a shade lighter to brighten the overall appearance slightly. However, in general, the goal is to achieve an antique, dusty feel," she says.

Before you go pearl blonde, a word of warning: maintaining this hair colour takes a lot of maintenance, so consult your hair colourist to make sure this hair colour is achievable, and stock up on toning products like a purple shampoo or hair mask to keep the pearl tone from turning brassy, and a good hair repair product to keep bleached lengths as healthy as possible.

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2. Slate Brunette

On the brunette front, it's also the same story with cooler, icier tones, which are also dominating brunette hair colours for 2026.

"Many brunettes wish to maintain their natural tone, which often has grey undertones. This can create a chalky appearance that isn't too dark. It's similar to a mocha brunette, but the grey undertone gives an illusion of a darker shade," says Kahlani. "This results in a more mysterious brunette with a cooler tone that is striking without washing you out like a very dark, almost black brunette. The key is to avoid going too dark; instead, add a lot of ash to the colour formula," she says.

If you're already brunette, it's easy to switch things up to a cooler, deeper tone with an in-salon toner or hair gloss that gives your lengths a semi-permanent hue. But there are also plenty of at-home hair glosses and hair colour-depositing hair masks that allow you to experiment with a deeper tone before going for permanent hair colour. And if you're already a dark, cool-toned brunette, then a clear hair gloss will also make your natural colour richer and glossier with an expensive-looking shine.

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3. Burnt Blonde

Running alongside the pearl blonde trend is also the demand for warmer, golden and more natural-looking blondes. And every single hair expert I spoke to about hair trends has predicted it to be a major hair colour trend in 2026. "Think of a young Kate Moss before balayage techniques became mainstream," says Kahlani. "This style gives the illusion of a natural blonde tint, embracing warmth with a slight copper hue. It reflects a time before everyone became obsessed with creating ash and white blondes," she says.

Some more hair colour trends I’m hoping to see next year are soft, warm bronde blends," says Zoe Irwin, hairstylist and Glaze ambassador. "[It's] a seamless merge between brown and blonde, adding dimension and a subtle glow while staying natural and warm, golden blondes that look effortlessly natural. I appreciate hair colours that look 'real' but polished," she says. "Kind of like skin that’s been beautifully bronzed or dewy, not obviously 'done'."

It's also a trend that Jay Blitsas, colourist at Larry King South Kensington, predicts will be big for 2026. "Warm undertones are back and are back to stay," he says. "I think some blonde shades that will be big next year include warm, luminous tones. Think soft beige blondes that feel natural, warm and classy," he says. "Golden blondes and low-maintenance lived-in blondes will always be a trend, as it saves hair health. More people seem ready for softer blends where roots and ends melt naturally, giving a more organic, effortless vibe," he adds. "I expect more people combining techniques (like subtle balayage, soft lowlights and hair glosses), for hair that shifts beautifully in different light rather than being a flat, uniform colour."

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4. Straight and Sleek Styles

With big bouncy blow-drys and loose curls dominating over the past few years, it feels fitting that we're seeing a return to sleek silhouettes for 2026. They're almost a palette-cleanser to the big hair that has reigned alongside the rise in hot brushes and hair multi-styler launches in recent years. But for 2026, you may be reaching for your hair straighteners again.

“I don’t think 2026 will belong to one specific cut; it’s more of a shift in attitude, and hair is moving toward a sleeker, more refined finish," says celebrity hairstylist Larry King. "For longer lengths especially, we’re stepping away from those big, bouncy blowouts that have had their moment. Instead, I’m seeing this rise of super-straight, ultra-glossy, almost liquid-looking hair," he says. "It feels expensive, intentional and incredibly modern—that’s the energy of 2026.”

Hair straightening can come with hair damage, so be sure to use a good heat protector and look for hair straighteners such as the Dyson Airstrait that help to dry and straighten at the same time with minimal damage.

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5. Bevelled Bob

In case you were wondering, no, bobs aren't going anywhere for 2026. But following suit of the sleeker styles we're seeing on longer lengths, we're also seeing a straighter silhouette bob haircuts and lobs, like Hailey Bieber's relaxed lob haircut, which has gently flicked, bevelled ends that frame the face.

“We’ve been living in the world of the Italian bobs and French bobs—playful, flicky, full of movement. But I think the direction is changing," says King. "For 2026, bobs are going cleaner and more tucked-in. Less of that kicked-out texture, more of a smooth bevel under the jaw. It’s polished without feeling overdone," he says. If you want a visual, look at Sofia Richie Grainge and Sydney Sweeney—they’re already wearing the future.”

We've already seen blunt bob hairstyles and the tuft bob take off in recent months, so we can expect to see more sleek bob shapes with gently bevelled ends as we go into 2026. The major plus is that it's so easy to add a gentle flick to the ends of your hair, whether you use a hair straightener, a hot brush or a round brush with your hair dryer.

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6. Pixie 2.0

Short haircuts, such as the pixie haircut, will continue to trend well into 2026 with a Y2K influence, but this time around, the shapes and silhouettes are softer and less structured.

"Pixies in 2026 are going to feel playful and expressive rather than sharp and architectural. It’s short hair with personality," says King. "The 2000s revival isn’t slowing down, and shorter cuts fit right into that. Think of a modern take on Victoria Beckham’s ‘Pob’, but with texture, softness and fewer hard lines," he says.

If you're thinking of going for the chop, consider Iris Law's soft and airy pixie cut, which feels modern for 2026.

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7. Indie Sleeze Fringes

“With indie sleaze creeping back into fashion, I can definitely see fuller, more textured fringes making a return. Not the soft, airy curtains we’ve been cutting nonstop, these have more substance and character," says King. "They’re still lived-in and effortless, but with a weight that frames the face in a stronger way," he says.

Following in suit are the micro fringes that dominated the early 2010s. “I’d love to see micro fringes come back," says King. "They’re bold in theory, but they don’t need to look severe. When you keep them soft and textured, they become incredibly wearable. Audrey Hepburn is the perfect example—her micro fringe was iconic, but it still felt gentle and elegant. That’s the sweet spot," he says.

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If there's anyone with the power to shape the upcoming hair trends, it's Hailey Bieber. Her bob haircut practically broke the internet a couple of years ago, and while she's been wearing her hair in a longer haircut recently, she's switched it up again with one of the biggest haircut trends for 2026.

This week, Hailey Bieber debuted her lob haircut, and you can bet we're 100% taking it to the salon for our next haircut appointment.

Cut by celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan, the flicked-in lob gracefully skims the shoulders and is the perfect length if you want to flirt with a bob haircut, but don't want to go too short. Thankfully for us, Marjan shared exactly what to ask your stylist in the salon.

"If you want to ask your stylist for this cut: collarbone grazing blunt cut with slight fa[c]e framing, and point cut around the front," she shared on her Instagram post.

This collarbone-length bob haircut is not only a low-maintenance short haircut, but it is also easy to grow out without the awkwardness of growing out a shorter bob haircut, like the French bob. Instead, this mid-length haircut effortlessly grows out into a long hairstyle, making it ideal for those of us who are tempted by a bob haircut, but don't want to go too short. Plus, the subtle layers add movement to the ends, and can be easily styled with flicked ends using a hair straightener or a hot brush for a blowout look.

Ready to try Hailey Bieber's lob haircut for yourself? Here are the best styling products to get the look at home.

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As a beauty editor, I am constantly inundated with new hair trends. Whether it's chatting with experts, reading press releases or analysing social media reports, it's my job to stay on top of the latest looks. However, after years of experimenting with my own hair, constantly wanting to try out the next big thing, I've come to learn that sometimes it's best to stick with what works for you.

Of course, I'm all about wearing whatever hairstyle you want, but I've realised that there are ways to tweak these trending looks and tailor them to your own individual style. One way in which a lot of hairdressers do this is by looking at your face shape and seeing how best to accentuate your features.

While I've already discussed haircuts for round faces, today, I want to dive deep into the best hairstyles for an oval face shape. "In the hairdressing world, the opportunities and the looks are endless—we have a style for every individual, every face shape, every hair type, hair colour and hair texture. For those with an oval face shape, you are in luck! This is one of the most versatile face shapes out there," says Tina Farey, editorial director at Rush Hair. Below, I've rounded up Farey's top hairstyle recommendations for oval faces, so keep on scrolling for all the info.

6 Most Stylish Hairstyles for an Oval Face Shape

1. The Lob

First up, the lob hairstyle. "Once made famous by Victoria Beckham, this remains one of the top requested looks for those with an oval face shape," says Farey. "Known as the long bob, it really highlights the cheekbones and structure of the jaw and can be tailored to suit the client's requested length and style."

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2. The Half-Up, Half-Down

If you're looking for a super-simple hairstyle, you can't go wrong with a half-up, half-down look. "A style which everyone loves, the half-up, half-down look is extremely popular, as it can be worn day to night and really is very versatile. It adds height without elongating the face and is a much softer, romantic style," Farey tells me.

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3. Lots of Layers

I've seen lots of celebrities rocking face-framing layers, and the good news is that this is a perfect hairstyle for oval face shapes. "When you have an oval face shape, it is key to find a look that works in tandem, without being too harsh," explains Farey. "Adding face-framing layers that start near the cheekbones adds shape to the hair and really accentuates the oval shape."

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4. Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs are a simple way to elevate your hairstyle this season, and according to Farey, they are a great choice for oval face shapes. "We all loved the rise of the fringe throughout 2025, and for 2026, it's here to stay. Adding curtain bangs to your look not only draws attention to the eyes, but also frames the face perfectly. Bangs are versatile and can work with both long and shorter styles."

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5. Textured Pixie

If you have a pixie hairstyle, Farey recommends adding some texture this season. "One of my favourite looks, the pixie is perfect for oval face shapes, as it highlights the facial features and really complements the face with its edgy, disconnected cut." According to Farey, adding texture to the look is a fantastic way to really play into oval face shapes.

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6. Shoulder-Length Shag

The shag is still going strong, and a shoulder-length hairstyle is ideal for oval face shapes. "The shag is here to stay, and it’s great to see the look evolve continuously throughout the years, with new modern takes implemented," says Farey. "This look gives a much more relaxed feel, with the length softening the jawline."

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Trust me, when I want to put time into my beauty routine, I will. However, one thing that I’m extremely low-maintenance with is my hair. Any hair trend that requires significant work gets an automatic "no" from me, and for this reason, I’ve always been against getting a fringe.

There's absolutely no denying the timeless appeal of a fringe; however, the thought of constantly having to visit my salon for upkeep has proved enough to make me steer clear of the style. However, I recently spotted a fringe trend that’s not only extremely low-maintenance, but will earn you major cool points as well. Enter, the shattered fringe trend.

What Is a Shattered Fringe?

Suki Waterhouse shows off a shattered fringe.

Similar to the torn bangs trend we saw take off earlier this year, shattered fringes appear choppy and textured as opposed to the delicate styles we often see. It’s edgy, cool and most importantly, requires minimum effort. The messy, broken-looking edges of a shattered fridge allow the hair to grow out as much as you’d like without constantly having to visit a salon for upkeep. Not to mention the textured look to it will make your hair look thicker and more voluminous.

Whereas torn bangs tend to fall in a centre parting, a shattered fringe appears piecey, full and almost deconstructed. I've been spotting this style all over Instagram as of late, and trust me when I say that this haircut will look good with every hair length and texture.

Still not convinced? Keep scrolling for some cool shattered fringe haircut inspiration, and then take a browse at my edit of the best products for styling this fuss-free cut for winter 2025 and beyond.

Shattered Fringe Haircut Inspiration

Shattered fringes look even cooler when paired with a choppy shag.

If it gets Yara Shahidi's stamp of approval, then I'm definitely on board.

This haircut is everything.

Proof that a shattered fringe looks good on even the shortest of haircuts.

The shattered fringe, the layering, the volume—effortlessly chic.

It looks amazing on curly hair as well! And this picture of Emmanuelle is slowly convincing me to book that salon appointment...

A shattered fringe doesn't have to be messy. Simone Ashley is proof that it can look extremely sleek and elegant.

A shattered fringe + torn bangs = the ultimate cool girl haircut.

Best Products for a Shattered Fringe Haircut

Thanks to my job, I'm lucky enough to chat to a range of hair experts daily. From top hairstylists to brand founders and more, I'm always making sure to get each and every one's opinion on the latest hair trends because, let's face it, I wouldn't be a good beauty journalist otherwise.

As the weather gets colder and the nights get darker, we're all starting to prepare for the arrival of winter, which means many of us are thinking about our new seasonal look. Whether you've found yourself Googling the best winter hair colours, the best winter updos, or simply the biggest winter hair trends in general to have on your radar, I'm here to inform you on next season's most popular styles.

Of course, I reached out to one of the industry's most knowledgeable experts for their insights, and below, I've shared the biggest winter hair trends of 2025, courtesy of Cos Sakkas, three-times British Hairdresser of the Year and global creative director at TONI&GUY. So, what are you waiting for? Keep on scrolling for the cuts and colours to make a note of ahead of December...

The 7 Biggest Winter Hair Trends 2025

1. The Ripped Bob

First up is the effortlessly cool 'ripped' bob. "[This hairstyle is] chic yet low maintenance and embraces your natural texture, so it’s worn effortlessly and is the perfect style to air dry," explains Sakkas. If you do want to use a few products whilst air drying, Sakkas recommends a sea salt spray to encourage movement and texture.

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2. '90s Nostalgia

I've been spotting these '90s style, face-framing layers everywhere at the moment, and according to Sakkas, this is set to be a big trend for winter. "There’s [going to be] a real appetite for volume and texture: think 90s nostalgia—retro bouncy blow-outs, or face-framing bed-head layers," he says. "It’s less about one dominating the other, and more about choosing which mood suits you—clean and refined, or big and expressive."

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3. The Pixie

"The pixie haircut is a really flattering, cheekbone-enhancing style that can be personalised to suit your hair type and face shape," Sakkas tells me. "As we head into a new season, we’re going to be seeing more grown-up versions of the pixie, which are more defined with layered, shattered fringes. As it starts to grow out, play with different textures and shapes; tuck one side behind the ear, change the parting or add some texture through the top."

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4. Face-Framing Colour

In terms of colour, Sakkas tells me that face-framing styles will be everywhere for winter. He recommends trying a "lumi blush" look, which uses "a balayage technique to add soft, blush-toned accents to frame the face while creating a subtle play of light and shadow throughout."

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5. The Shag

"The shag is having a revival," says Sakkas. "For winter, it’s full of serrated and seamless textures, with feathered layers and retro choppy waves. This versatile style comes in multiple versions to suit almost every hair type and texture, making it one of the most popular trends for the season ahead. This cut speaks to a rebellious spirit and has the power to completely transform your look."

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6. The Lob

If you're growing out your summer bob this season, the lob is the perfect in-between hairstyle. "The lob usually suits below the shoulders and suits all hair types, especially thicker hair. Still, the cut can be tailored for finer or thicker hair types," Sakkas explains. "It’s the perfect style for those who want to go shorter but want to keep some length."

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7. Polished Ponytails

Sleek, polished styles are also big this winter, and Sakkas says that sculpted ponytails will be trending for party season. "Don’t pull it too tight; you want it to look modern with softness and an effortless finish," he advises. "For glass-like hair, add a few drops of hair serum or hair oil to the palms, and work this through damp hair with your fingertips to add sheen, control flyaways and add movement."

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If you ask me, autumn is superior to the other seasons when it comes to beauty trends, but specifically so for hair trends. As September rolls around, there's a back-to-school feeling in the air, and it feels rude not to try a new short haircut or a hair colour transformation. As we swap out our summer wardrobes to knitwear and layers, it feels apt to update our lengths, too, bidding farewell to sun-parched split ends and faded hair colour from the summer. Autumn marks a clean slate for the year and is an ideal time to switch things up, whether it be with a bob haircut or a hair colour refresh.

As a beauty editor with 10 years of experience in writing about hair, it's my job to spot the hair trends that are about to take off. I've been keeping a keen eye on the haircuts, hair colours and hairstyles that have been brewing as we head into the cooler months, and my Pinterest board is jam-packed with ideas I want to try. From expensive-looking hair colours to the haircuts the fashion set are asking for in the salon, here are the chicest autumn hair trends you need to take note of before your next salon trip.

1. Biscotti Blonde

Perhaps one of the most beautiful autumn hair colours I've come across is Margot Robbie's biscotti blonde. Much like the Italian almond biscuit, it has a rich, twice-baked depth and warmth that only makes her creamy highlights sing more. The biscuity blonde base makes it a great transitional hue to keep the brightness of summer blonde balayage while toning it down a notch for autumn. Belissima.

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2. Torn Fringe

Fringes are firmly back on the agenda for 2025. They never really went away (they're a timeless haircut, after all), but if you've been thinking about taking the plunge, autumn is the perfect time to try them out. Daisy Edgar-Jones' torn fringe lives in my mind rent-free with its face-framing layers that frame the eyes and brows. It gives a nonchalant, cool-girl energy, even if the rest of your hair isn't styled. But there are so many other fringe styles to choose from, too. Whether you go for a curtain fringe, a Bardot bang or a bottleneck fringe, there's a fringe to suit everyone.

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3. Bessette Blonde

With Sarah Pidgeon playing Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy in the upcoming American Love Story series, there's been a lot of talk about the late American fashion publicist's '90s blonde hair colour, which is a great blonde shade for autumn. With its toffee base and buttery, chunky highlights ("chunking" was the signature technique of her then hair colourist, Brad Johns), this blonde feels just as modern now as it did then. Unlike biscotti blonde, which has finely woven blonde ribbons, this sees chunkier placements of lowlights and highlights, but they still melt into the rest of the hair colour. The result is a warm, golden blonde with dimensional face-framing pieces that ooze sophistication.

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4. Undone Bob

It's not autumn with a bob hairstyle trend, and this time around, we're keeping things low-maintenance. While previous seasons have seen bouncy bobs and flicked bobs, now, we're putting down the hot brushes and embracing a more pared-back mood with the undone bob. The less-is-more approach feels a little cooler, plus, it's a great excuse to get to know your natural hair texture. For a little movement, you can enhance curls with a curl cream and a diffuser, while those with straight hair can try the kinked bob—a straight bob with just a whisper of a bend in the hair that you can easily create with a hair straightener.

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5. Monochrome Brunette

For brunettes, I'm seeing more and more celebrities opt for monochromatic block colours rather than the honeyed brunette balayages and dimensional highlights that have dominated over the past couple of years. It's a great choice for current brunettes who want to tap into a deeper, moodier vibe for autumn without having anything too drastic. Plus, the deep, iced brunette hues always have the glossiest shine that makes them look all the more expensive. It's easy enough to achieve in the salon with a tint or hair gloss to take your current shade down a few hues, but you can also find some brilliant at-home hair glosses that will give you the look without needing to commit to box colour.

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6. The Pixie

I've been spying so many chic pixie cuts of late, and it's by far one of the most elegant and chic short haircuts of all time. Not to mention, it can also be a very low-maintenance short haircut to style at home, too. For autumn, I'm seeing more and more of the longer pixie cuts with plenty of layers and choppy fringes that make it look thick and full of volume. Emma Stone's pixie cut shows just how timeless this haircut is.

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I’ll start this off by being frank. If you consider yourself a clean girl, this haircut is probably not for you. But for those of us who love a low-maintenance, and I mean a truly low-maintenance, hairstyle, I think I’ve found the coolest one yet. And it you’ll be pleased to know comes celebrity-approved. Enter the torn bang hair trend.

I’ve been spotting this laid-back cut everywhere recently, from stylish celebs like Jenna Ortega to my favourite influencers. It feels cool, effortless and due to its shaggy nature, doesn’t require the upkeep that typical bangs usually require. And I, for one, am being more convinced by the day that this is the style to get for autumn 2025.

What Are Torn Bangs?

Torn bangs are in a similar shape to the curtain bangs we all know and love; however, unlike the soft or delicate edges we’re used to seeing, torn bangs appear worn and shaggy, in a way that makes the fringe look like it's been torn into the hair. Fuss-free, easy to upkeep, and incredibly chic might I add, torn bangs make for the ultimate low-maintenance haircut to get this autumn.

And the best part? This hairstyle will look cool with every hair length and texture. In fact, if you’re worried about having hair that’s too fine for this style, it can actually give the appearance of more volume and body. Not to mention that those who don’t want to spend lots of time at home styling our salon cuts, will love these bangs because of how easy they are to look after at home. The worn edges will also allow the hair to grown out as much as you’d like as well as embrace your natural hair pattern, whether straight, wavy or curly.

Still not convinced? Keep scrolling for some chic torn bangs inspiration and then take a browse at our edit of the best products to style this low-effort cut for autumn 2025 and beyond.

Torn Bang Hair Inspiration

This classy interpretation of the trend by @brycescarlett on Daisy Edgar-Jones was the first torn bangs I saw. I love how easy the style can be taken from everyday to elegant by simply curling the rest of the hair. Très chic!

Torn bangs will add volume and movement to the top layers of the hair.

It works on curly hair too! And this picture is slowly convincing me to book that salon appointment.

If it gets Jenna Ortega's stamp of approval, I'm on definitely on board.

Torn bangs work particularly well with a wolf cut.

The volume, the fringe, the layers—effortlessly chic.

Trust me: this is the ultimate cool-girl bob.

How to Style Torn Bangs

Finding the right haircut to suit your face shape is no mean feat. With hundreds of hairstyles and hair trends out there, it can be hard to cut through the noise to understand what might work best for you. And with short hair trends such as bob hairstyles, pixie cuts and even elfin bobs on the rise this summer, I've been doing some research into what could work well with my round face shape. In fact, I reached out to Andrew Heasman, international creative director for RUSH Hair, who shared so many trending short hairstyles with me that will help to flatter my features.

Whilst I always believe in wearing whatever hairstyle you want, no matter your face shape, hair type or hair colour, these recommendations are particularly helpful if, like me, you are thinking about getting the chop this season and are feeling a little bit lost about where to begin. Below, I've included my favourite short haircuts for round faces, so keep on scrolling for lots of inspo.

The 11 Best Short Haircuts for Round Faces, According to an Expert

1. Soft Bob

First up is the soft bob hair trend. "This bob is one of this season’s top trending cuts, appealing to clients who want to feel chic without being overly styled," says Heasman. "The ends of the hair are feathered, which amplifies the hair’s texture, adding movement and definition to the cut’s shoulder-length finish. This cut beautifully frames the silhouette of those with a round face shape, cupping and defining the jawline."

2. Blunt Bob

If you prefer a slightly more defined finish, why not opt for the blunt bob? "A sharp, sculpted silhouette, the blunt bob is striking, bold, and a great shape for those with a round face shape," Heasman explains. "This style focuses on precise lines, which offer definition, naturally enhancing a round face shape and adding angularity."

3. Pixie Cut

"The pixie cut can be tailored to suit a round face shape," Heasman tells me. "If you’ve got more defined facial features, then you may want to go with a softer, wispy pixie to harmonise with your softer face shape," he adds. I recommend chatting to your hairdresser beforehand to see how you can make this style work for you.

4. Polished Shag

The shag hairstyle has made a comeback this year, and according to Heasman, this is a great style for a round face shape. "The polished shag embodies the balance between effortless cool and tailored sophistication. The wispy, disconnected layers harmonise a round face shape's fuller jawline and the face’s prominent features."

5. French Bob

Here at Who What Wear UK, we are huge fans of the French bob hairstyle. "This sophisticated cut pairs beautifully with a side parting, perfectly highlighting the silhouette and beauty of a round face shape by hugging the jawline," explains Heasman. "For extra definition, curl the ends inwards with a pair of straighteners. This look captures the essence of true glamour."

6. Midi Bob

"As the name suggests, the midi bob falls somewhere mid-length between the shoulder and collarbone," says Heasman. "This free-flowing, relaxed cut is a great way to dip your toe into experimenting with shorter styles without losing too much length. It gives the illusion of a longer face with the larger space between the jawline and the collarbone."

7. Mini Mullet

"A mini mullet can be an option for those with a round face shape who want to express their individuality, and it’s a style we will be seeing a lot more of in 2026," Heasman tells me. "The added height on the crown, interesting angles and textured lengths at the bottom all make this a great choice to elongate round face shapes."

8. Italian Crop

"Somewhere between a bob and a pixie cut with layers blended throughout, the "Italian crop" elongates the face with its length left on the longer side," says Heasman.

9. Asymmetrical Bob

An asymmetrical bob is a great option for round face shapes thanks to the angular finish. "The uneven lengths and angular lines break up the roundness of the face and draw attention to the cut," Heasman explains. Plus, it looks super chic.

10. Half-Up, Half-Down Lob

"Half-up, half-down looks are the ultimate blend of ease and elegance for those with a round face shape," explains Heasman. "The length of a lob creates space between the jawline and the collarbone, which gives the illusion of higher cheekbones."

11. Tousled Pixie

Last but by no means least, say hello to the tousled pixie. "One of the most daring cuts possible, the tousled pixie adds height and volume at the crown of the head," says Heasman.

The Best Products for Short Haircuts for Round Faces

There’s no getting away from the fact that short haircuts have been trending for a while now. Yet, while they’re undoubtedly a chic style choice year-round, in my opinion, summer is when they really come into their own. After all, summer is a time when many of us choose to pare back our beauty routines and, when it comes to our hair, that means leaning into summer hair trends that afford a more effortless, low-maintenance approach—something that the best short summer haircuts deliver in spades.

“Short hairstyles always trend in summer because of the ease of care and maintenance,” says Laura Elliot, hairstylist and head of education at Neal & Wolf. “In hot weather, short hairstyles are easier to manage, dry and style than long hair. This means drying and styling time with hot tools is quicker.” If you’ve ever found yourself having to reach for the hair dryer during a heatwave, you’ll know this is a big selling point for shorter cuts. “[Short hairstyles also mean] air can move around the back of the neck more easily,” Elliot continues. Add to that, the best short haircuts always look incredibly chic too, and I’m sure you won't be surprised to hear that requests for short hairstyles increase at this time of year.

So, what short hairstyles are the world's chicest women asking for this summer? “The power of TikTok has resulted in more and more women having confidence in wearing and caring for their natural curls,” Elliot tells me. “[And so] we’re seeing more short hairstyles on curly hair."

“The sleek bob is [also] very in right now, which flicks under the chin, accentuating the jaw line,” Elliot shares. “This creates a really sophisticated look. A touch of hairspray may be needed to keep flyaways down as you comb through the hair, and also hair straighteners to create the smooth curve under the chin—otherwise it’s a very easy to maintain look, making it perfect in the heat.”

Lastly, for those who still want to retain some length, Elliot recommends a tousled midi bob. “It’s perfect for those wanting shorter hair for summer but without losing too much length,” she says. “[Also], if left, it will grow back to just below the shoulder by wintertime,” meaning if you only want to go short for the summer months, this is a great choice.

But, it doesn’t stop there. If you’re still wondering which short summer haircut is right for you, keep scrolling to see even more inspiration. Plus, I’ve also found the best products to style your short haircut at home so you can maintain your chosen look once you’ve left the salon.

Best Short Summer Haircut Inspiration

1. French Bob

Where Sofia Richie-Grainge leads, we follow, so expect to see her French bob a lot this summer.

2. Textured Bob

See how Gigi leans into her hair's natural waves to give her short summer ‘do shape and movement?

3. Cute Crop

Emma Stone’s tousled pixie cut gives off a seriously effortless summer vibe.

4. Straight Bob

Proof that a sleek, simple cut can still make a big impact.

5. Loc In

Afro hair types, take inspiration from Lupita’s shoulder-skimming locs.

6. Big and Bouncy

Pamela Anderson’s bouncy bob proves that short cuts look great at all ages.

7. Short With a Scarf

If your hair’s too short to tie up, use accessories like scarves and claw clips to keep your hair away from your face.

8. Bleached Pixie

Iris Law’s signature bleach blonde crop really comes into its own during summer.

9. The Lob

There’s no need to go ultra-short, a long bob offers the best of both worlds.

10. Curly Crop

Elliot tells me curly cuts are proving popular this summer, so take inspiration from Alyssa's cropped look.

11. Short With Bangs

To soften your short cut, add bangs like actress Lucy Hale.

12. Lots of Layers

Amy Lefevre’s short style features light layers for plenty of movement.

13. The Flicked Bob

For a playful feel, copy Rochelle Humes and turn your ends outwards rather than inwards to create a chic flicked bob.

14. Wavy Lob

A soft wave will always look elevated.

15. Centre Field

Ayo’s centre-parted bob delivers easy-wearing elegance.

16. The Monaco Bob

For an expensive-looking finish, try the polished Monaco bob.

17. The Blunt Bob

Sarah’s blunt cut looks incredibly chic.

18. Soft and Short

With a centre parting and soft bends, Kiera’s blunt bob is a work of art.

19. Curly Girl

Taylor HIll's short cut makes the most of her signature curls.

20. Off the Shoulder

If you’re unsure on length, start longer and work your way up.

21. Coily Crop

Natural coils look great at shorter lengths, too.

22. Beach Ready

Beachy waves and a long bob may just be my favourite easy summer hairstyle.

23. Half-Up 'Do

A half-up 'do is a great way to get short hair away from your face.

The Best Products to Style a Short Summer Haircut

If there's one hair trend that is dominating my Instagram feed this summer, it's a bob hairstyle. I know, I know, the bob hair trend has been around for years, but there are so many new iterations of this stylish cut this season. From the Scandi bob to the linen bob, I've seen many chic individuals sporting this shorter look; however, Sofia Richie Grainge just debuted what I'm calling the bob hairstyle of the summer. Say hello to the "Du Cap" bob.

While on holiday at the luxurious Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France, Grainge shared her hair transformation on TikTok and filmed a cute clip on the balcony of her room, coining her new hairstyle the "Du Cap" bob. I have no doubt that we will be seeing this elegant hairstyle everywhere this season, so keep on scrolling for all the details.

Sofia Richie Grainge's Du Cap Bob Haircut

Created by London-based hairstylist George Curran, the Du Cap bob has all the chic elements that make a classic French bob, with a touch of je ne sais quoi.

Sofia Richie Grainge showed off her new short hair on Instagram.

As mentioned in her TikTok video, Grainge was keen to cut her hair shorter after "one too many keratin treatments" that left her ends feeling dry and frazzled.

Sitting just below her jawline, her new bob hairstyle features subtle texture that gives it a beautifully voluminous, swishy finish.

Curran could be seen styling the new haircut into a bouncy blow dry, using a hair dryer and a round brush to help give it that elegant '90s feel.

It's safe to say that Sofia's new look is definitely giving me all of the sophisticated French vibes, and it's even tempting me to cut my own hair this summer.

If you're keen to get the look, I've rounded up lots of products below to help recreate this trending bob hairstyle...

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If there's a celebrity who has a truly iconic history of haircuts, it's Victoria Beckham. From her signature "Pob" to the Beckham bob and her recent longer lengths with hair tumbling all the way to her waist, VB never misses when she tries a new haircut. Or any beauty look, for that matter. The whole Who What Wear UK team are all equally obsessed with her Victoria Beckham Beauty line, too. (The Satin Kajal Liners? Modern icons.)

So when she took to her Instagram Stories recently, we were quick to spot that she casually debuted a brand new bob hair trend—and as you'd expect from VB, it's impossibly chic.

Victoria Beckham Skimmed Bob Haircut

We've been used to seeing Victoria with longer lengths in recent months, but her new haircut is far shorter—even more so than the mid-length haircuts she has dabbled with in recent months—and it's safe to say that it's going to quickly become one of the most-requested haircuts in salons this summer.

Giving us a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her hair and makeup glam, Victoria shared a video to her IG Stories with her newly cut skimmed bob, secured back with Victoria Beckham Beauty hair clips.

While it may not be the inverted bob from her Spice Girls days, Victoria's new short haircut gives a nod to her "pob" cut. But this time around, her new bob haircut has a relaxed, shoulder-skimming length with just a hint of an undone wave that I want to copy immediately. There are also some subtle layers that give her hair that effortless, tousled movement. In fact, I'm predicting VB's skimmed bob to be one of the defining summer hair trends for 2025.

It's a great low-maintenance haircut if you want to go for a short haircut. The shoulder-skimming length can easily be grown out seamlessly without regular visits to the salon. Easy to maintain and chic? Sign me up.

Before her recent chop, we also spotted Victoria with a long bob (AKA, the lob haircut) with loose, piecey waves in recent weeks. It seems she may have been gearing up to go shorter for summer—perfect timing as the temperatures soar.

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There are three facts that I know to be true: You can always count on an all-black outfit to make you look stylish, the 2025 hair trends are the most elegant yet and that French women have always and will continue to be the acme of chic. From their just-kissed lips (or “bisou, as they say it), to their perfect blue jeans, our neighbours across the channel are a barometer for sophistication.

They’re shrouded in mystique, which only adds to their charm and allure. But if you ask me, one of the reasons French women are so coveted is because of this one simple trademark— their hair. Across every arrondissement in Paris, sprawling hill in Provence or coastal town on the Côte d'Azur, you’ll find a French woman whose tresses are softly tousled and beautifully undone. Indeed, it’s never overly styled or, dare I say it, slicked back. (Sacré bleu! Could you imagine!) Yet, if there is one quality of their hair that’s remained an object of our desire, it’s their fringes.

Much has always been discussed about the French girl fringe, from its low-maintenance upkeep to face-framing effect. This style has truly become a staple in the beauty industry. If you open up any hair trend report from the last few years, you’re bound to see some iteration of it, purely because it is so classic. There’s no denying its appeal, which is why when it came time for my own seasonal hair refresh, I decided to get the chop myself. There are many Gallic muses to draw inspiration from. However, the one I kept coming back to was Parisian blonde bombshell, Brigitte Bardot.

While I don’t share her colouring, pouty lips or siren eyes, there’s something about her cheekbone sweeping bangs that is so easy-going and flattering for so many hair textures and face shapes. In fact, I’d contend that the Bardot fringe hair trend is the perfect starting point for anyone who is eager to get a French girl fringe, but is concerned with the upkeep and commitment.

If you look around right now, there are plenty of A-listers who have made the Bardot fringe hair trend their signature look. Recently, Jennifer Lawrence and Bella Hadid both debuted this cut at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival (how very fitting), so if you do decide to follow in my footsteps, you’ll be in great company. And with summer on the horizon, who doesn’t want a hairstyle that makes them feel like they’re on the French Riviera? Ahead, everything you need to know about the Bardot fringe hair trend, as tried and tested by a beauty writer.

Who is Brigitte Bardot?

But before I break down the hairstyle, I need to take a moment to acknowledge the inspiration behind the trending cut. Brigitte Bardot is a French actress, model, musician and screen siren proficient in the ‘60s and ‘70s.

Style Notes: Brigitte Bardot pictured in 1960.

A fixture of the French New Wave film movement, she worked closely with auteur directors like Jean-Luc Godard, Roger Vadim and Louis Malle. Her most notable features include her 1956 breakout film And God Created Woman and 1963’s Contempt, a movie set across Rome and Capri about an actress and playwright’s failing marriage.

What is the Bardot Fringe Hair Trend?

Like her contemporaries at the time, Bardot was recognised by her long fringe—a symbol that would become her onscreen characteristic and a pop culture fixture. Unlike Jane Birkin or Catherine Deneuve, Bardot’s fringe was parted in the middle and swept across her cheekbones. According to Hollie Rose Clarke, ambassador hair stylist for Living Proof and the talented hairdresser who transformed my own locks, the Bardot fringe hair trend is “a fuller curtain bang that perfectly frames the face”.

“The iconic look is soft with a perfectly ‘I woke up like this’ texture, shorter pieces around the bridge of the nose and textured curve around the face, which graduates into face-framing layers,” she adds. It's a unique take on the French girl fringe as it is less about a linear cut around the eyebrows and more about the positioning of the hair around the cheekbones and jawline. It’s these distinctive elements that give the Bardot fringe hair trend “a big impact, contorting and framing the face for an effortlessly chic revamp,” as Clarke explains.

How is the Bardot Fringe Different to Birkin Bangs?

If you’re familiar with French girl fringes, you would’ve heard of Birkin bangs, which is named after the late French-British actress’s own choppy fringe. (Interestingly, Bikrin and Bardot both worked together once in their respective careers. They both started in 1973’s erotic drama Don Juan, or If Don Juan Were a Woman.)

As for the main difference between these two cuts, Clarke tells me it comes down to length and movement. “The Birkin bangs are shorter than the Bardot fringe, sitting just below the eyebrow with a very soft and textured finish to the ends of the bangs. These are worn forwards onto the face more like a traditional fringe but with a more lived-in finish. A great modern take on the Bardot fringe hair trend is Daisy Edger-Jones with her short look.”

Style Notes: Brigitte Bardot visiting London's Regent's Street in 1963.

Style Notes: Jane Birkin pictured in 1970.

Of course, you might think that the Bardot fringe hair trend is simply another form of curtain bangs, but as Clarke explains, "curtain bangs have a defined part and a heavier weight line to create a more dramatic shape, while Bardot fringes are softer with a more lived-in and playful texture."

Bardot Fringe Hair Trend, Review

Despite never having a proper fringe before, only light layers through my midsection and ends, I was pleasantly surprised with how versatile, delicate and airy the Bardot fringe was on my wavy hair.

Before Bardot Fringe Hair Transformation:

After a thorough consultation, Clarke and I aligned on snipping out some pesky split ends, keeping my hair long so it sat just above my waist and ensuring the Bardot fringe was flowy, angular and still had enough length for me to style however I like. (Read: throwing it back in a sophisticated updo or blow drying it out to give some body and volume to my face.)

After a meticulous wash using Living Proof’s coveted restore shampoo and conditioner, Clarke slowly but surely went in to carve out and cut the fringe on my wet hair. A blow dry and attentive trim later, I was left with bouncy, healthy and a sensual fringe that I can’t help but love.

After Bardot Fringe Hair Transformation:

As I said to Clarke in the salon, the way the Bardot fringe matched the natural contours of my face and created an elegant shape around my face made me feel more mature and quite sexy, actually. She tells me that these attributes are actually what makes the Bardot fringe so popular.

“It’s the most iconic fringe! The Bardot fringe can be tailored to suit all face shapes and most hair textures. It gives a playful and chic change to any haircut that will look fantastic worn with hair up or down, and it's a great way to step into a new hair era without losing hair length.”

More Bardot Fringe Hair Trend Inspiration

Style Notes: Jennifer Lawrence debuted her Bardot fringe along the Boulevard de la Croisette while promoting her latest film, a dark comedy horror called Die My Love.

Style Notes: While Dakota Johnson is arguably one of the biggest poster girls for getting a fringe, she added in some new layers to give her look a more Bardot feel.

Style Notes: This is my favourite picture of Daisy Edgar-Jones's boho fringe and was the modern take on the Bardot fringe hair trend that I based my own cut around.

Style Notes: My own hair pattern is thick and frizzy, so I constantly refer back to this picture of Sabrina Carpenter when it comes to embracing and styling my natural texture.

Style Notes: I have chocolate brown hair, but this image of Bella Hadid is convincing me to go lighter for summer.

Style Notes: Emmanuelle Koffi is a bona fide French woman rocking the Bardot fringe hair trend, proving that it's no passing fad.

Style Notes: Even "lob" lengths can try the Bardot fringe hair trend, as seen here on Emily Ratajkowski.

Style Notes: Don't forget the perennially enviable French bob! Just trim the longer strands to adjust to the shoulder-grazing chop.

How to Style the Bardot Fringe Hair Trend

The hardest part of any haircut is keeping that salon-worthy feeling at home. I'm somewhat of a styling novice myself, so I tapped Clarke's extensive wealth of knowledge to ensure I knew exactly how to keep my Bardot fringe in good condition on my own. Here's what she had to say.

"There are two methods to styling the Bardot fringe hair trend: the blow-dry technique and the lazy-girl version." Regardless of whether you're air drying or using hair tools, both processes will begin the same way. "Prep your hair with something that will give structure to the hair, such as Living Proof Volume & Root Lifting Spray," Clarke explains. "This will reduce frizz by 86% and add natural definition to the hair.

If using a hair dryer, you'll want to "blow dry your fringe forwards without lifting the root, keep the fringe close to your forehead". Once it's 90% dry, "pop your fringe into your desired part and blow dry away from the face," Clarke continues. Finally, "wrap the end of your fringe away from your face and create a soft flick."

For those who want to avoid excess heat, you'll want to begin the styling process by removing any excess moisture and dampness. Once 70% dry, Clarke advises to "add a no-dent hair clip to keep the parting of the fringe from opening too much."

"Either tuck the ends of your fringe behind your ears without tension or use another no-dent clip to create an over-exaggerated flick up at the ends of the fringe. We want to see a 'U' shape."

Shop Products to Style the Bardot Fringe Hair Trend

What Hair Type is Best for the Bardot Fringe Hair Trend?

As Clarke already pointed out, the Bardot fringe hair trend is suitable for most hair types. Just ensure you're speaking to your hairdresser to ensure the look is being tailored to your needs, but more on that below.

What to Ask Your Hairdresser if You Want the Bardot Fringe Hair Trend

"Always have a thorough consultation with your stylist to discuss what will work best based on you’re your hair type and lifestyle," Clarke recommends. "Consider asking for bangs that start around the bridge to mid nose and soften into face-framing layers.

"Make sure to talk over your home styling routine with your stylist to adapt the Bardot fringe to suit how much or how little time you want to be spending on your hair. I’d also recommend a regular fringe trim every 5-6 weeks."

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We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I've always had a love-hate relationship when it comes to fringes. There's no denying the timeless appeal of this hair trend, but after trying out a blunt fringe myself a few years ago, I was immediately put off by how much upkeep it required. I found myself having to book a hairdresser's appointment every few weeks to get it trimmed, which was not only time-consuming but expensive, too.

However, it seems that there is a new fringe trend in town, and as it turns out, it's a lot more low-maintenance. Yes, if you're looking for an effortlessly chic way to try out a fringe this summer, then say hello to the feathered fringe.

What Is a Feathered Fringe Hairstyle?

What is a feathered fringe, I hear you ask? This wispy, ethereal hair trend features soft, feathered ends that allow your forehead to poke through. This gives the whole look a more relaxed feel and allows the style to grow out more naturally, meaning you don't have to visit the hairdressers every few weeks (unless you want to, of course).

I've been spotting this style all over Instagram as of late. There's no denying that the laidback look is perfect for the season ahead, so if you're looking for an easy way to upgrade your hairstyle this summer, keep on scrolling for lots of feathered fringe inspo...

Feathered Fringe Hairstyle Inspiration

Daisy Edgar-Jones' feathered fringe lives rent-free in my head.

This trend looks incredible when paired with relaxed waves.

Oh, and it also looks great with a bob hairstyle.

A gorgeous style for curly hair types.

Lily Allen proving that a feathered fringe can look seriously cool this season.

A feathered fringe and a pixie cut? Yes please.

If you have curtain bangs, a feathered finish will help your fringe to blend seamlessly into the rest of your hair.

So chic.

This look is everything.

Told you this fringe looks effortless.

Best Products for a Feathered Fringe Hairstyle

Opening image: @daisyedgarjones

When it comes to hair trends, I'm over the high-maintenance styles. While I'm all for styling my hair with a hot brush for a bouncy blowout or creating waves with a curling wand, I'm really all about lower-fuss hair this summer. Because let's be real for a second. Sometimes, styling your hair can feel like a total chore. Thankfully, the undone bob—which has been a reigning hair trend of recent years, but is now making its 2025 debut on countless celebrities, from Gracie Abrams to Kendall Jenner—is one of summer's biggest bob hair trends, and it is virtually effortless.

What Is the Undone Bob?

The undone bob is all about embracing your natural hair texture and not doing too much. Think a soft bend in the hair, piecey waves and enhancing natural curls. This is a cool, understated hair mood that whispers coolness without trying too hard. The beauty of the undone bob, aside from needing minimal styling, is that it transcends all other short hair trends. Bouncy bobs and razor-cut bob silhouettes have been dominating for a while, so the undone bob feels like a timeless palette-cleanser. Plus, as the weather heats up, who wants to set foot near a hair dryer or hair straightener? This kind of look lends itself well to air-drying the hair, too, to enhance your natural texture.

Ready to embrace the undone bob? Scroll ahead for all the styling inspo and products to help you enter your low-maintenance hair era.

Undone Bob Inspiration

The slightly dishevelled, choppy texture paired with the lengths tucked behind the ear is what gives Gracie Abram's bob cool-girl appeal.

A bob with a curtain fringe is a timeless classic. Laura Harrier's hair has subtly flicked ends that give her bob shape without looking too "done".

Make like Gigi Hadid and style your blunt bob with soft waves for a beachy look.

This version of Hailey Bieber's undone bob still lives rent-free in my mind. It might be a regular straight bob, but note the subtle movement that gives it that undone vibe.

All hair textures can get in on the undone bob action by using products to enhance curls, coils or lengths.

Kendall Jenner's preppy, collegiate bob has a subtle flick at the end which keeps the silhouette interesting without looking too polished.

Rochelle Humes' off-duty bob remains laid-back yet cool, with subtle movement through the lengths.

Ariana Greenblatt has been wearing her bob with gentle, soft curls that look (almost) effortless.

Best Products for an Undone Bob

Summer is almost here, and with the warmer weather set to hit London next week, I'm in full prep mode. The pedicure has been booked, the SPF has been applied, and now it's time to tackle the hair. I've been fancying a change for a while now, and when better to switch things up than the start of a new season?

As you may be aware, the new season often welcomes an influx of fresh hair trends. From haircuts to hairstyles and even hair colours, it's a pivotal time for beauty editors like me to report on all the new looks. So, like any good journalist, I've been busy reaching out to the experts to find out what trends we can expect to see everywhere this summer.

I spoke to Cos Sakkas, three-time British Hairdresser of the Year and TONI&GUY global creative director, to get the full lowdown on what to ask for at my next salon appointment. I even caught up with Michela Bazzoli and Charley Henery, British Colour Technicians of the Year, to find out all about this season's most exciting colouring techniques. After writing this piece, I've suddenly got so much inspiration, so keep on scrolling for the best summer hair trends, from bobs to shags...

The 6 Biggest Summer Hair Trends 2025, According to Experts

1. The Supermodel Cut

First up, let me introduce you to the supermodel cut. "[This is] a modern hairstyle for long hair that effortlessly frames the face," explains Sakkas. "This look features softly lifted layers for natural, glossy movement, adding thickness and body throughout."

As explained by Sakkas, this is the perfect hairstyle for those of you who want to keep your longer layers this summer, but want to give your hair a fresh, modern feel for 2025.

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2. The Luxe Bob

If you're thinking of going shorter this summer, you can't go wrong with a bob hairstyle. However, with so many different bob hair trends out there, it can be hard to know which one to go for. According to Sakkas, this season is all about the luxe bob. "It's a timeless, tailored style that works effortlessly for the summer," he says. "The luxe bob leaves hair looking expensive and full, making it the perfect cut for finer hair textures."

Similar to above, this style is all about volume and bounce, so make sure to have some good styling products to hand.

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3. Lumi Blush

This summer, we will see a big focus on wearable hair colour trends. In fact, Bazzoli and Henery have shared lots of incredible summer hair colour trends with me. One that I'm particularly interested in is the 'lumi blush' trend.

"Lumi Blush uses a balayage technique to add soft, blush-toned accents to frame the face, while creating a subtle play of light and shadow throughout," they explain. "This technique enhances facial features while adding depth and dimension to the haircut." This is definitely a little more technical than your typical balayage, but the results will be totally tailored to suit you.

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4. The Shag

We've written a lot about the shag hairstyle in the last few months, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down this season. "The shag cut is full of serrated and seamless textures, with feathered layers and retro choppy waves," explains Sakkas. "This versatile style has multiple versions to suit almost every hair type and texture, making it one of the most popular cuts for the summer."

Yep, this style looks incredible on straight hair, wavy hair and curly hair types and is the perfect low-maintenance option for the warmer months.

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5. The Chic Crop

"The chic crop is a fresh take on the classic short haircut," Sakkas tells me. "It’s a softer, slightly grown-out version with wispy edges that give it a relaxed, lived-in vibe—perfect for those who don’t want a freshly cut, super-polished look."

Similar to the style above, this trend would look amazing on wavy or curly hair, and the relaxed finish is giving me all of the summer vibes.

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6. Luxe Lights

Another hair colour trend that is set to dominate this summer is 'luxe lights', a modern take on your typical highlights. "A perfect blend of a lived-in look and bold foiling techniques, this colour is crafted to illuminate the hair with a luxurious, polished finish," explains Bazzoli and Henery. "It works equally well for creating high-impact, seamless highlights or a softer, rooted effect."

So, what should you ask your hairdresser for to get this look? "Techniques like foilayage combined with microlights at the hairline or classic full-head highlights with back-to-back foiling at the hairline can be used to achieve the look you want," the experts tell me.

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Ask anyone about the biggest hair trends of the season, and I guarantee that they will mention the bob hairstyle. Yes, this short hair trend is still proving incredibly popular, and I can totally see why. That being said, I'm not looking to chop off my lengths this summer, so when I noticed a slightly longer hair trend cropping up on social media, I was immediately intrigued.

No, I'm not saying bobs are over, but it seems that lots of stylish people are opting for shoulder-length hairstyles this season. In particular, layered shoulder-length hairstyles.

I know that layers are nothing new (in fact, long layered bobs have been in style for a while), but when paired with this chic hair length, you are left with a sophisticated style that is full of volume and bounce. It's giving me all of the '90s supermodel vibes, and after looking at pictures, I'm ready to give this trend a go this summer. If you're also thinking about refreshing your look but don't want something too dramatic, I highly recommend you keep on scrolling. Below, I've rounded up some of the most stunning shoulder-length, layered hairstyles that will likely have you running to your local salon. If shoulder-length hair still feels a little short, don't forget to check out our guide to the best medium-length layered haircuts, too.

Shoulder-Length Layered Hair Inspiration

Curl the ends of your layers inwards with a hair straightener or a hot brush for a chic finish.

This style looks so sophisticated when paired with a fringe.

See? Told you all the stylish people are opting for this hairstyle this summer.

Layers look amazing on curly hair types.

Hailey Bieber showed off her shoulder-length style on Instagram recently, and it's safe to say that I am in love.

The more volume, the better.

This is giving me all of the summer vibes.

Alexa Chung has long been a fan of this timeless style.

Best Products for Shoulder-Length Layered Hair

Spring is here and summer is quickly approaching, so if you're anything like me, you might be trying to get a last-minute hair appointment to refresh your look before the season ahead. I've managed to get something booked in for a few weeks time, so now I need to decide what I actually want to get done. I've been analysing this year's biggest hair trends, from popular bob trends to new hair colours, but honestly, I'm in the mood for something ultra-modern that will see me through the next few months.

Luckily, I have lots of incredible hair experts to offer me advice, and they have been keen to share their insights on what hair looks should be on my radar—and which ones shouldn't be. "Spring is the perfect time to refresh your look, and this season we're definitely seeing a shift away from a few styles that have dominated for too long," says Luke Benson, celebrity hairstylist and owner of Luke Benson Salon. According to Benson, this season is about "effortlessness with intention", and it seems that other experts agree.

"Hair is moving into a softer, more effortless space across the board," says top hairstylist Abigail Constanza. "People want their hair to look lived-in, expensive and personal—not like it’s trying too hard." Of course, hair is personal, and I would never tell you any style should be avoided as it's all about going for what makes you feel good. However, if you're looking for some guidance on what hair trends are expected to be big this season (and the ones that we'll be pausing for a little while), keep on scrolling...

The 7 Key Hair Trends Set for Evolution

Pausing: Shaggy Bob

Wearing: Refined Micro Bob

I had to kick things off with a bob hairstyle. Although this short hair trend is here to stay, there is a certain style stealing the show. "The overly layered shag that was huge a few seasons ago is starting to feel overdone," says Benson. "Instead, I’m loving a more refined micro bob—it’s sharp, deliberate and looks incredible whether it’s styled sleek or slightly tousled."

Yep, it's time to go even shorter this season. This is an edgy yet polished take for 2025, and I'm totally in love with the way it looks.

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Pausing: Icy Blonde

Wearing: Butter Blonde

Next up, let's talk spring hair colour trends. According to Benson, the overly ashy, platinum tones will be making way for warmer, richer blondes this season. "Think golden butter and soft champagne," he says. "These tones are flattering on so many skin tones and feel much more modern and healthy-looking."

Not only does this hair colour look more modern and healthy, but it will also be a lot easier to maintain. If you don't fancy all-over colour, you could also opt for butter blonde balayage this summer.

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Pausing: Matte Finishes

Wearing: Mirror-Like Shine

Remember those summers where we'd all be reaching for those mattifying salt sprays that would make our hair look all beachy and tousled? According to the experts, we'll be swapping those matte finishes for high-shine hair products this summer.

"I’m all about glass hair now," says Benson. "Super sleek, mirror-like shine that makes any cut feel elevated. It’s a simple way to take your style from everyday to editorial."

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Pausing: Sharp Curtain Bangs

Wearing: Bottleneck Bangs

Bangs are big for 2025, but if you want to make your fringe look really modern, then bottleneck bangs are the way to go. "Bottleneck bangs are a softer evolution of curtain bangs, narrow at the top and wider at the cheekbones, blending effortlessly into the rest of the hair," explains Constanza.

If it's good enough for Sabrina Carpenter, then it's definitely good enough for me.

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Pausing: High-Contrast Chunky Highlights

Wearing: Blended Tones

Chunky highlights and money pieces were all the rage a few years ago, but this season is about blended highlights. "We're moving toward softer, blended tones like 'mocha mousse' brunettes or cherry cola reds," says Benson. "[Think] subtle, dimensional colour that moves beautifully in the light without screaming for attention."

Like many of this season's hair trends, this is a lot more natural and a lot less high-maintenance. Yep, it's a win-win situation.

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Pausing: Overstyled Waves

Wearing: Brushed-Out Volume

I love a more relaxed wave in the spring and summer months, so I was delighted to hear that this trend will be making a comeback this season. "Ultra-polished waves don’t feel quite right anymore. Instead, we’re embracing more natural, brushed-out volume," explains Benson. "It’s about movement and body without the overly 'done' feel."

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Pausing: One-Dimensional Colour

Wearing: Multi-Tonal Depth

Last but by no means least, we're swapping one-dimensional colour for multi-tonal depth. "No one wants flat colour anymore," says Constanza. "Even trending shades like cherry cola are being approached in a dimensional way, with shifts in depth and tone across the hair that feel rich, not solid. This is where the balayage influence has trickled into almost every colour service. It’s all about that layered, luminous look."

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Back in the day, I used to get excited by the idea of getting up an hour earlier to do a full face of makeup.

Add that hour to my former 10-step skincare routine and nightly hair wash, and you're looking at a full day dominated by what I thought were necessary steps in order to look and feel my best. However, as I've got older, life has only got busier, and I simply don't have time to spend hours primping and preening.

Instead, I've worked hard to curate a small collection of makeup and skincare staples I know I can rely on to deliver quick and easy results. Not only that, but I've favoured a more low-maintenance haircare regime and swapped out complicated nail art for neutral manicures that last for weeks and don't involve me sitting in a salon chair for hours on end. As it turns out, I'm not the only one craving a more laid-back beauty routine.

"Customers are looking for easy-to-use and efficacious products that allow them to embrace effortless, natural-looking beauty," says Grace Vernon, head of global trends and cultural insight at Boots and No7 Beauty Company. "The laid-back beauty trend isn't just 'less is more'—it's more with less." According to Vernon, this more relaxed approach will continue in 2025, "driven by consumers' desire to enhance their natural features and feel effortlessly put-together.

"In 2025, I think we will see more people leaning into the idea of being 'high maintenance to be low maintenance' too," she explains. "[People] will invest more time and effort up front to reap the benefits of a simplified daily routine. Take the #morningshed trend, which has amassed over 133 million views on TikTok in the last two months."

Vernon certainly isn't wrong. Not only are trends like "morning shed" and low-maintenance beauty gaining traction on TikTok, but more brands are launching beauty products designed to make our lives a whole lot easier, from multi-use makeup sticks to skin tints infused with skincare ingredients, and so on. In fact, Sephora reported a 41% uplift in searches for skin tints over the past three months, proving that the consumer appetite for quick, easy products is higher than ever.

These days, I'm a self-confessed lazy girl who will do anything for an extra few minutes in bed, so I thought it was about time that I reached out to the experts to put together a comprehensive guide to the ultimate low-maintenance beauty routine for anyone else who simply can't be bothered. If that sounds like you, I highly recommend you keep scrolling…

The Ultimate Low-Maintenance Beauty Routine for Spring

1. Stress-Free Skincare

First up, let's talk skincare. As mentioned, I have recently downsized my skincare routine and try to keep things as simple as possible. Funnily enough, my skin has never looked better. "In 2025, it's all about simplicity, consistency and efficacy," says Vernon. "It's about feeling good in your own skin and enjoying the process, rather than feeling pressured to follow complex regimes."

In fact, according to a recent study by No7 Beauty Company, women’s top three facial skin ideals are 'healthy', 'hydrated' and 'natural'. So, how can we achieve this? "I would say the basic building blocks of any routine are cleanser and moisturiser twice daily alongside daily sunscreen," says Dr Alexis Granite, consultant dermatologist for CeraVe. "Typically, this involves three steps in the morning and two in the evening."

Dr Granite recommends looking for a moisturiser that includes active ingredients that can help target specific skin concerns. These could include vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid or peptides. "A serum that is also very moisturising might [double up] as both a treatment and hydrator and cut down on steps," she adds.

Since swapping my complicated routine for a simple skincare routine, I have noticed a huge difference in my skin, and I also feel a lot less overwhelmed by the skincare industry as a whole. "The less-is-more approach, together with mindful application techniques, can activate and regulate the skin’s process for long-term, sustainable health," says Elizabeth King, holistic facialist and skincare expert at Weleda.

If that doesn't convince you, I don't know what will.

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2. Multi-Use Makeup

Now, onto makeup. I am proud to say that I no longer spend more than 10 minutes on my makeup in the morning, and it's all thanks to multi-use products. These are so easy to use that I could probably do my makeup on the tube. They definitely give more of a natural, radiant finish and are perfect for spring and summer. According to the experts, I'm not the only one loving these more pared-back products.

"Over the past year or so, I’m seeing an interest in products and techniques that promote ease and natural beauty, as opposed to the dramatic, overly complicated looks of the late '10s," says Melanie Baresse, global education director at By Terry. "I think people want to save time, money and space. When you have a handful of trusty products you love, it allows you to create a capsule makeup bag."

So, what should be in this capsule makeup bag? Whilst searches for skin tints are on the rise, Baresse says you can also use concealer to create your perfect base. "On freshly primed skin, use concealer on the under-eyes and any blemishes, and blend lightly for a perfected but 'real skin' look." Next, take a cream highlighter and apply it to the brow arches, cheekbones and inner corners of the eyes to give dimension and radiance.

"Choose one pop of colour, whether that be a lipstick, cream blush or cream eye shadow, and blend this across the cheeks and the creases of the eyes. For the lips, you can use a patting motion for a soft stain or apply a heavier layer for a stronger look." Finally, apply a coat of mascara, and if you have an oilier complexion, finish things off with a dusting of powder.

"It’s all about paring your makeup routine back, so take one colour product and use it across the eyes, cheeks and lips to create a harmonious makeup look," explains Baresse. Brands are creating more and more products that can be used on the eyes, cheeks and lips, so taking this approach to your makeup is simpler than ever.

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3. It's All In the Cut

When it comes to hair, it can be a little tricker to know how to keep things as low-maintenance as possible. The thing is, we all have different hair types, wants and needs, so there isn't really a one-size-fits-all approach. That being said, there are some things we can consider to help cut down on styling time. The main thing? A good haircut.

"The shift towards effortless beauty is bigger than ever," says Samantha Cusick, hair expert and founder of Samantha Cusick London and Sta Studios. "Clients want cuts and colours that enhance their natural hair with minimal upkeep—think soft, blended tones that grow out seamlessly and shapes that work with, not against, [the] natural texture.

"A great stylist will tailor the cut to your lifestyle so that your version of low-maintenance still feels stylish and polished," explains Cusick. It's important to communicate with your hairdresser and let them know what this means for you. That being said, if you're a little stuck on where to start, Cusick has some great suggestions. For example, if you have fine hair, you might benefit from a blunt bob, as this will give the illusion of thicker hair and will look polished both air-dried or blow-dried. However, thicker hair types will benefit from a soft, layered haircut, as this removes bulkiness without the need for constant trims.

If you have wavy hair, Cusick suggests trying a mid-length bob with long layers, which will allow waves to form naturally with minimal effort. Curly hair types may prefer internal layering that keeps volume balanced. "This shape enhances natural curls and grows out beautifully without constant reshaping," says Cusick. Finally, coily hair types might like a tapered cut. "A tapered or sculpted shape allows coils to sit naturally with minimal styling," explains Cusick. "It enhances curl definition whilst keeping things fresh as it grows out."

Of course, products will also play a big part in making your finished hairstyle as quick and easy as possible to re-create. "The key to a low-maintenance hair routine is using multi-tasking, high-performance products that work with your natural hair rather than against it," Cusick explains. If you want to air-dry, go for a leave-in conditioner or curl cream, depending on your hair type. Hard-working texture sprays can help to add that effortlessly lived-in look, whilst a salt spray will help to enhance waves.

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4. Polished to Perfection

Nails are tricky for me because although I want to be as low-maintenance as possible, I still like my manicure to look polished and put-together. I used to get gel manicures but found myself having to visit the salon every two weeks, which was not very economically sustainable. Not only did it cost a fortune, but my nails ended up being so damaged as a result. Last year, I decided to give them a break and invested in some regular nail polishes instead, but I found that painting my nails at home involved even more upkeep. So, you can imagine my delight when I discovered Bio Sculpture.

"With Bio Sculpture, your manicurist is doing all the work in one sitting, not only giving you a flawless result but also feeding your nails with goodness to make them healthier by the time you reach your next appointment," explains top Bio Sculpture nail tech Julia Diogo. "Since the gel doesn’t chip, you can easily space out your appointments without sacrificing nail health."

Yes, believe it or not, this clever gel actually keeps your nail health in mind. "What really sets Bio Sculpture apart are [the] tailored base coats, designed to nourish each nail type for maximum longevity," explains Diogo. "My clients easily enjoy at least three weeks' wear without chipping or lifting."

If you want your nails to last even longer, Diogo recommends opting for a natural-looking, milky nail shade. "When it comes to low-maintenance manicures, simplicity is key," she says. "I recommend opting for minimal, sheer and glossy shades—think nudes and pinks. These hues are less prone to showing chips, lifting or nail growth since they mimic the natural colour of your nails."

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5. Smart Scents

Last but by no means least, we have to talk fragrances. You might be wondering how a fragrance can be low-maintenance. Well, I don't know about you, but I'm pretty bored of having to top up my perfume throughout the day, and I want a long-lasting scent that lingers on the skin from morning till night.

As it turns out. I'm not alone. "Consumers today are looking for bolder, more distinctive scents that stand out from classic compositions to showcase their unique personality. They seek intensity, longevity and a more powerful sillage, favouring fragrances that leave a lasting impression and evolve beautifully throughout the day," says Thibaud Crivelli, founder and creative director of Maison Crivelli fragrances.

Luckily for us, brands are catching on to this desire for hard-working scents. Let me introduce you to extrait perfumes. "An extrait de parfum is a more concentrated form of a fragrance, meaning it contains a higher percentage of perfume oils than an eau de parfum or eau de toilette," explains Crivelli. Interestingly, extraits represent 75% of Maison Crivelli's total sales, and more brands are reimagining their most popular fragrances with highly-concentrated iterations.

As you can imagine, these extrait scents last much longer than normal fragrances, thanks to the high concentration of perfume oil. "Our extraits are not only more powerful, but they are also significantly [longer]-lasting, offering an exceptional, unexpected sillage that remains on the skin for hours," says Crivelli. "Their high concentration ensures a slower, more complex evolution, allowing wearers to fully experience the layers and nuances of the fragrance throughout the day."

Not only will these scents linger on the skin, but the fragrances themselves will last you the long run, as you don't need to use as much to make an impact. "A small amount is enough to provide an enveloping presence that unfolds gradually," explains Crivelli. "These perfumes are meant to be lived in, evolving throughout the day without the need for frequent reapplication. Their long-lasting nature aligns perfectly with our vision of olfactory immersion, where scent becomes a continuous and transformative journey."

So, make sure to shop smart this spring and go for a scent that you know will truly last.

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Yes, I am now the proud owner of a bob. But since cutting off my long hair and having now been sporting a flicked bob, I have to admit something: caring for my new short hairstyle has been a bit of a learning curve.

This is not to take anything away from the bob itself, mind you—I’m still wholeheartedly obsessed with it. However, when it comes to styling and caring for a bob, there are a few things I hadn’t considered before I sat down in the hairdressing chair and pulled out my inspo pics. Some of these things are welcome changes, like how little time I now spend washing my hair and how much I’m set to save on shampoo. I can also say from firsthand experience that there’s nothing quite like cutting off seven inches of length to enable a newfound sense of confidence.

On the other hand, however, there are some styling considerations I wish I’d taken into account before joining the bob squad, and it’s this advice that I’m here to pass on to you now. Whether you’re planning a chop and want to know how to care for your bob before committing, or you’re simply intrigued to know how the other (short-haired) half live, this is the insider knowledge I truly think you need to know. And, if you’re still not sure whether to go for a bob or not? Take this as your sign to do it—I haven’t looked back since.

Best Bob Styling Tips

1. Invest in Great Hair Tools

The amount of time it takes to style a bob came as a bit of a shock to me, as I always believed less hair would naturally equal less styling time. Yet, while there are of course some great low-maintenance bob options out there, I opted for one that relied heavily on styling to achieve its signature sculpted shape.

Thankfully, I’ve discovered some great tools to speed up this process and which can easily work for a variety of bob cuts. First up, a blow-drying brush to dry and style in one. Then, on dry hair, ditch the curling tongs and instead use a hot brush to add volume and shape in one easy sweep.

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2. Nourishment Is Key

Another way I’ve found to speed up styling time is to ensure your hair is in the best condition before you get started. For that reason, I like to switch my conditioner for a repairing hair mask once a week for serious nourishment. As a result, my bob looks sleeker and smoother, while also feeling soft to the touch.

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3. Don't Overlook Mousse

Since getting it cut, I’ve styled my hair both with and without hair mousse, and I can categorically say that my styles last much longer when I choose to use it. Rather than heavy formulas, I’d suggest opting for lightweight mousses that won’t weigh down short lengths. Apply to damp hair before blow-drying or air drying to give your bob unrivalled definition and hold.

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4. Lean Into Your New Hair Texture

Less of a styling tip and more just advice to keep in mind: losing length from your hair may alter your hair texture. As someone with wavy hair, for me, this meant that, when left to dry naturally, my curls became more pronounced as there was less weight to pull them down. For others, however, you may find a cow's lick you never knew you had, or you may discover your hair is not as straight as you once thought. Think of this as a great opportunity to experiment and lean into your natural texture to discover a whole new look.

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5. Protect Your Ends

While this tip is especially targeted specifically at those of us with flicked bobs, it’s advice you can take on board no matter what bob style you opt for. The takeaway: don’t skip a heat protectant. As many bob haircuts rely on heat tools to achieve their desired finish, ensuring your hair is adequately protected is key to keeping your hair looking its best. For flicked bobs, that means taking your heat protectant right to the ends, as this is where you’ll spend most time styling, however for other styles, a liberal coating all over will do the job.

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6. Look for Ponytail Alternatives

Call it poor planning on my part if you want, but I didn’t check my hair was long enough to put into a ponytail before committing to a bob length, and so, for a few weeks I had to discover new ways to pull my hair back from my face. If you find yourself in the same boat, a great collection of hair accessories can come in handy, so stock up on claw clips, barrettes and '90s-inspired headbands to create a variety of looks.

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7. Prioritise Movement

The final thing I've noticed on my bob journey is that all the best bobs have one thing in common. Rather than looking heavily set and old-fashioned, they embrace movement for a truly effortless finish.

To channel this, I’ve switched from my usual stronghold hairspray to a flexible hold to lock in styling without any unwanted crispness or crunch. These are hairsprays that are light enough to still run your fingers through your hair, while still delivering long-lasting hold. If you nail this, you’re bob looks just as good at the end of the day as when you first step out the door in the morning.

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How to Style a Bob

It's now been four months since I braved cutting my hair into a bob, and I must say, I'm still just as in love with it as when I left the salon. Since then, I've been enjoying finding new ways to style it, and I've discovered short hair doesn't mean you're limited when it comes to chic hair looks. Here are a few of my favourites...

1. The Flicked Bob

This was the hairstyle that influenced me to get the chop, so it's unsurprising that it's the style that I've been wearing most days. The key to this look is to blow-dry the flick from wet using a round brush to ensure it holds throughout the day. Then, use a curling tong to top up the rolled shape if required.

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2. Maximum Volume

For days when I want a little more drama, I love a luxe bob that's big on movement. For this look, prep is key, so apply a volumising mousse before blow-drying for maximum lift. Then, follow with a blow-dry brush, pulling the hair in different directions to create shape and body.

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3. The Curly Bob

As I mentioned before, my hair is naturally curly, and my bob-length hair has really allowed me to make the most of it. To style my curls, I've found applying a wave spray on damp hair followed by a lightweight mousse is a winning combination.

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4. Short and Slicked Back

Anyone who knows me knows that a slicked bun is one of my go-to hairstyles, and so, of course, I had to master it on my bob-length hair as soon as it was long enough. To avoid any hair escaping, I like to apply a wax stick before pulling my hair into a low bun. Then top with a firm hold hairspray for added hold.

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Struggling with inspiration for thin hair? You're not alone. Everything from lifestyle and hormones to product use and ageing can result in hair looking thinner and feeling finer over time. Knowing how to style hair that's decreased in its density or understanding what to ask for from your hairstylist suddenly becomes a whole new ballgame. However, the good news is that appearance of thin hair can dramatically change (and indeed, disappear completely) with the right haircut and styling techniques.

When it comes to hairstyles for thin hair, the old-school approach is that blunt cuts and one-length styles are best for making fine hair appear thicker. However, in recent years, layered haircuts for thin hair have grown in popularity—and they're more than just a trend, in fact they totally work. Now, there are plenty of chic, volumising haircuts for fine hair to choose from, not matter your hair length or texture.

The key is in the types and lengths of the layers that you opt for. As a general rule, the length of hair plays much more of a role in making hair look thinner than having layers cut in. Layers serve to add movement and texture to hair, which in turn adds dimension and they can easily be styled to create the impression of volume and thickness.

Now that we've established that yes, layered haircuts definitely do work for thin hair, scroll down for our roundup of the best haircuts for your mood board.

The Best Layered Haircuts for Thin Hair

1. Choppy Layers

Choppy layers create a sense of movement in fine hair, which automatically makes it seem thicker. "As a nod to the '90s, revisit 'the Rachel haircut' and given it a modern twist, with the length longer and the face framing layers shorter to give it a freer loose feel," says Neil Moodie, editorial stylist and founder of the Neil Moodie Studio. When it comes to styling a choppy layered cut, straight may seem like the obvious route, but for a more glamorous evening vibe, Moodie recommends blow-drying the hair using a round brush or hot brush to add more volume.

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2. Face-Framing Layers

If you're hesitant about experimenting with layers in your thin hair, opt for a face-framing haircut, which according to celebrity hairstylist Desmond Grundy, work for everyone no matter what your hair type or length, or face shape. “Rounder faces can benefit from elongated layers whilst longer faces can create shaping with shorter strands. I think the layered look is perfect for older women, as the hair cut can be customised to accentuate your best features with chin skimming layers and longer fringes," he explains.

When it comes to styling face-framing layers, Grundy advises blow drying or using velcro hair rollers to ensure the layers frame the face. "Always prep the hair before using a heat protector such as Bristows Sol Fiesta Heat Protector (£3) or use a light hold hair spray like a styling spray," he adds. The layers can be sculpted outwards for a more voluminous effect, or inwards for a fun, modern look.

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3. Marquise Layers

Another face-framing style, marquise layers are much less obvious—the style is all about combining delicate layers to create seamless flow, resulting in a soft, flattering frame around the face. According to Hare & Bone hairstylist Sam Burnett, this style is ideal for thin hair. "It's perfectly adaptable for different hair textures, lengths, and lifestyles, because it offers volume and movement without compromising on style," he explains. "Whether styled sleek or tousled, it’s easy to maintain and stays effortlessly chic throughout the day."

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4. Soft Layered Bob

"The bob haircut remains a popular choice, but with a twist," says Don Kurland, stylist at Blue Tit Portobello. "We’re seeing softer, more layered versions that add movement and texture. These bobs can be tailored to any face shape and can be worn sleek or tousled for a more casual look." The best thing about a short layered haircut is that the hair isn't weighed down by length, meaning it's much easier to get volume and texture into the lengths, creating the illusion of thicker hair.

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5. Layered Curtain Fringe

“This flirty curtain fringe is sexy, sophisticated and wearable for all occasions,” says celebrity hairstylist Valery Joseph. “The pieces are a bit longer and less full than the average curtain bang, making it an ideal style for all ages and thinner hair types." Joseph recommends styling with a blow dryer and round brush, then setting the hair with a Velcro roller to ensure lasting shape and volume. The best part? This layered fringe can easily grow out into simple face-framing layers.

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6. Bixie Cut

The shorter hair is, the less thin and fine it appears, so if you want to go short and bold, Burnett recommends the bixie cut, a fusion of the bob and pixie cuts with added layers. "This edgy style provides texture and volume, perfect for those seeking a radical change."

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The biggest haircut trend for spring 2025? According to Instagram (the best place to spot new and emerging hair trends, in my opinion), it's the rounded bob. This low-maintenance, suits-everyone style initially peaked in popularity during the '90s and '00s then subsequently fell from favour, but is once again gaining popularity alongside other "dated" '90s hairstyles, like layered haircuts and '90s summer hairstyles baby braids.

Unlike many other short haircuts, the rounded bob is one that works well for everyone, so no matter what your hair type, length, or natural texture, you'll find that it's both incredibly flattering and surprisingly low maintenance.

What Is a Rounded Bob?

The rounded bob is all about shape, which means that the cut itself is super important. It's created with long overlapping layers that run evenly around the head. The great thing about a rounded bob is that no matter what your natural hair texture, you can still embrace this haircut. Those with straight hair can wear it sleek and smooth, while those with curly hair cam embrace a buoyant volumised style.

Rounded Bob Haircut Ideas

To achieve this style, use your straighteners to gently curve the ends of your hair inwards.

A rounded bob looks even cooler when cut to micro-bob length and paired with a fringe.

What's more, the style works with both centre- and side-parts.

For a fresh, modern twist, ask for some shorter layers in the front of your hair.

A hot brush will help you to achieve a softly rounded shape while also enhancing layers and adding volume.

The silhouette of a rounded bob instantly stands out.

The rounded bob is super flattering for wavy and curly hair types.

One of the best things about a rounded bob is the way it accentuates your jawline.

The style looks so chic in longer lengths if you don't want to go too short (or if you're growing out your bob).

A rounded bob is also a great way to grow out a pixie chop. So chic.

The coolest and most modern way to wear this style? A rounded bowlcut bob.

Products You Need for a Rounded Bob

If there's one thing I have learned through writing about hair trends for over 10 years it is that everything really does come back around. Everything from hair colour trends to of-the-moment haircuts move in and out of fashion in constant cycles. And recently, while I was looking into the upcoming spring hair trends, I realised something—with a move towards more classic looks, there are some key iconic hairstyles that truly never age.

Trending bob hairstyles, from the square bob to the bouncy bob, are all just modern takes on an iconic style. And the same goes for colour trends, too—everything from copper hair to lowlights and highlights have been around for decades.

And this got me thinking. Although I'm constantly writing about trending hairstyles, the truth is, the looks that really deliver and dominate the trend circuit are the ones that possess a certain element of timelessness. I can round up all of the most beautiful hairstyles of the moment, but nothing really compares to the original inspiration.

So, if you're looking for a hairstyle that will continue to look chic and elegant for years to come, take my advice: use any of these iconic hairstyles as inspiration.

1. Birkin Bangs

Style Notes: Fringe hair trends come and go, but Birkin bangs are forever. The name Jane Birkin epitomises everything that French style has come to stand for—nonchalant, effortless chicness—and her piecey, wispy fringe still sets the precedent for bangs far and wide.

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2. Jackie Bob

Style Notes: With bouncy bobs firmly back on the style agenda (not that they ever really left), the "Jackie" '60s bob, complete with voluminous waves and a shedload of volume at the roots, is one of the most elegant short hairstyles ever worn.

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3. Alicia's Braids

Style Notes: Braids have been worn for millennia, but in the modern day, Alicia Keys has become somewhat of a braid icon, thanks to her ever-changing styles and looks.

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4. The Rachel

Style Notes: Before there were wolf cuts and jellyfish cuts, layered haircuts were soft, subtle and versatile. And, the truth is, layers and feathering are still used in most hairstyles to create movement and volume. Jennifer Aniston's "The Rachel" might have defined the '90s, but its impact on modern-day looks will live on for eternity.

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5. Supermodel Hair

Style Notes: Our on-going collective quest to achieve '90s supermodel-esque hair via the best volumising hair products is in part down to the impact of Cindy Crawford's trademark volume. Consider this one of the original forms of the modern-day bouncy blowdry.

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6. Disco Curls

Style Notes: We can thank Diana Ross for a plethora of iconic beauty and style moments, from thick statement lashes to cat-eye liner, but it is perhaps Ross' loose disco curls that have made the greatest impact. Similar styles still look every bit as chic today as they did in the '70s, as more people continue to lean into the natural texture of their hair.

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7. Princess Crop

Style Notes: If "The Diana" isn't referring to Ross' disco curls, it's referring to the crop cut of Princess Diana. More modern iterations of this look embrace a slightly edgier approach to styling, as seen in this season's dolce vita crop, but the core foundations of Diana's iconic style remain.

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8. '70s Lengths

Style Notes: I'm not going to try to hide it, Cher is my personal hair icon. Her super-long and super-glossy hair, worn in a middle parting, is everything I strive for. Sure, short hairstyles might be having their moment, but '70s-esque, relaxed lengths will never not epitomise cool. The secret to this cool-girl look? Keeping a slight natural wave in thinned-out ends.

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9. Shaggy Bob

Style Notes: There can only be one queen of the shaggy bob cut, and that is Debbie Harry. The shag haircut has slipped in and out of fashion for decades, but this choppy, sliced bob, complete with bleached lengths and a root smudge could easily belong in any of the past four decades.

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10. Polished Pixie

Style Notes: Audrey Hepburn might have debuted her pixie cut way back in the '50s, but this short hairstyle hasn't fallen out of favour since. While choppy pixie cuts have since surfaced, the key to this look is polished layers that are pulled forward over your hairline and set into place.

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11. Honeyed Balayage

Style Notes: When balayage really took off in the early 2010s, Beyoncé's honeyed lengths became the style everyone wanted to copy. And while many of us thought the hand-painted colouring technique would prove a quick micro trend that leant itself to the lived-in aesthetic of the time, I can officially confirm we were wrong. This warm, balayaged style continues to be a go-to for people the world over.

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12. Bardot Bangs

Style Notes: French women have really led the way when it comes to fringe trends throughout history. If wispy Birkin bangs aren't your thing, then perhaps Brigitte Bardot's curtain bangs are. Worn in a middle parting and swept out to the sides, hair stylists often recommend allowing your hair to air dry with your fringe tucked behind your ears to achieve the style without heat.

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13. Picked-Out Afro

Style Notes: It would be a crime to discuss iconic hairstyles and not talk to the impact that Angela Davis' afro has made on history. As a prominent U.S. Civil Rights activist in the 1960s, Davis wore a picked-out afro during a time in which straight and fine European hair wasn't just the ideal, but also the norm. Pedestaling her natural hair texture as a Black woman in the public eye made a political statement that resonated with Black women throughout the wider Western world, and paved the way for natural texture to be embraced without fear for decades to come.

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14. Carrie Curls

Style Notes: Sarah Jessica Parker (and Carrie Bradshaw) was the hair icon of the late '90s and early '00s thanks to her long, curly, balayaged look—and this was before the term balayage was in our daily lexicon. The desire to nail those slightly dishevelled, rolled-out-of-bed curls paired with a thrown-together yet painfully chic outfit is still, undeniably, present in 2025.

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15. Dirty Blonde

Style Notes: When I asked the Who What Wear UK office what they define to be the most iconic hairstyles ever, at least three editors shouted the name "Sienna Miller" in my direction. Miller's dirty blonde colour paired with a root smudge and her piecey style has come to define the cool-girl, bohemian look of the late '00s and 2010s that we still see underpinning a lot of our hair choices in 2025.

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16. Fluid Lengths

Style Notes: The difference between Naomi Cambell's fluid lengths and Cher's aforementioned '70s style is in the super-straight, liquid nature of the look. With a poker-straight, high-shine finish, Campbell's hair has a liquid aesthetic that looks seriously expensive.

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17. Roberts Red

Style Notes: In recent years, we've seen cowgirl copper, cherry-cola and pumpkin-spiced hair dominate red hair colour trends, but Julia Roberts' curly copper hairstyle in the '90s has proved entirely timeless. Not quite red, not quite brunette, not quite blonde, this hair colour is one of the softest and most versatile around.

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18. The Twiggy

Style Notes: If Twiggy's iconic crop had debuted in 2025, we might have called it a bixie cut due to its longer length. Sitting somewhere between a bob and a pixie cut, this side-parted crop is still favoured by celebrities thanks to its refined elegance and versatility.

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19. Fawcett Blowout

Style Notes: It is impossible to think of voluminous hair and not have images of Farrah Fawcett's iconic blowout come to mind. The shaggy cut comprised of different layers all being blown away from the face and flicked out at the ends. Because of this look, Fawcett is considered to have been in possession of, possibly, the best head of hair in history.

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