Nothing feels quite as refreshing as switching up your hair, whether it’s a dramatic cut, a bold color, or just a new way to style your curls. And with summer officially in full swing, it’s the perfect time to try something new.
Hair trends this year are all about self-expression, low-maintenance glam, and a healthy dose of nostalgia (yes, the '90s and Y2K are still having their moment). From effortless waves to bold buzzcuts, this year’s looks are as versatile as they are wearable. So if you're ready to book your next salon appointment or you're just here for inspiration, you're in the right place.
1. The luxe lob
The lob—short for long bob—isn’t going anywhere in 2025. But this year’s version is sleeker, shinier, and more luxurious than ever. It's that perfect in-between length that’s flattering on every face shape, long enough to pull into a ponytail, and short enough to feel fresh and edgy. The luxe lob emphasizes healthy ends, precise cuts, and movement. Whether styled straight, tousled, or with a soft bend, this cut feels intentionally effortless.
How to get the look: Ask your stylist for a lob that hits just below the collarbone with subtle, blended layers. Style with a heat protectant and a flat iron for a polished look or a round brush for bounce. Finish with a high-shine serum or glossing spray to make that luxe factor pop.
2. Chunky highlights
Chunky highlights are making a bold return, and they’ve matured beautifully from their early 2000s roots. These aren’t the overly stark streaks of yesteryear—they’re high-contrast, dimensional ribbons of color that frame your face or add depth throughout. Perfect for brunettes craving caramel drama or blondes looking to edge things up, chunky highlights are bold but wearable, and they grow out surprisingly gracefully.
How to get the look: Opt for balayage or foil placements with thicker, intentionally placed sections of color. Keep the tones within a few levels of your base for a modern twist. Maintain vibrancy with color-safe products and tone regularly with purple or blue shampoos, depending on your highlight shade.
3. Air-dried texture
In a year that’s all about authenticity and ease, letting your natural hair texture shine is a trend we’re absolutely loving. Air-dried texture—whether waves, curls, coils, or soft frizz—isn’t just practical, it’s gorgeous. Embracing your natural pattern minimizes heat damage and celebrates individuality. It’s low-maintenance, freeing, and super versatile—you can dress it up or down depending on the day.
How to get the look: After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner and a styling cream or curl-defining gel that works for your hair type. Scrunch and shape your strands, then let your hair air dry without over-touching it. Try the "plopping" method for defined curls or diffuse for more volume if you want a little extra oomph.
4. Curtain bangs
Curtain bangs are still having a moment—and it’s easy to see why. They’re soft, face-framing, and easy to grow out or tuck behind your ears. These bangs flatter literally everyone, add dimension to any haircut, and bring a retro-chic vibe that feels both effortless and elevated. Whether you wear them sleek or tousled, curtain bangs instantly make any haircut feel more styled, even on messy hair days.
How to get the look: Ask your stylist for long, blended bangs that part in the center and taper into your cheekbones. Blow-dry with a round brush or flat iron them into a subtle wave. For texture, add a touch of dry shampoo or texturizing spray to keep them lifted and lived-in.
5. Expensive brunette
Blondes may have more fun, but in 2025, it’s all about rich, dimensional brunette shades. The “expensive brunette” trend is a luxurious, multi-tonal color approach that uses lowlights, subtle highlights, and gloss treatments to create depth and shine. It’s understated in the best way—think espresso, chestnut, and truffle tones that make your hair look healthier and fuller. It’s also lower maintenance than other colors, making it a smart, stylish pick.
How to get the look: Ask your colorist for soft, blended tones with a glossy finish, like adding caramel threads or cinnamon warmth. Keep your hue rich with a color-depositing conditioner and protect your investment with a heat protectant and weekly hair mask.
6. Sculptural buns
Buns have officially gone from casual to couture. In 2025, sculptural buns are stealing the show—elevated updos that combine sleek styling with bold shapes. Whether you’re twisting, looping, stacking, or coiling, this look is perfect for formal events or days when you want to feel like an off-duty model. It’s clean, dramatic, and a little artsy, which is honestly the best combo.
How to get the look: Start by smoothing your hair into a high or low ponytail using a styling gel or balm. From there, twist and shape the bun creatively—think asymmetry or knots. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a shine spray. You can also add metal cuffs or pearl pins for extra drama.
7. Wet look waves
The wet look is no longer just for runways. This year, it’s getting a wearable makeover with soft, glossy waves that scream “cool and confident.” Think of it as your post-beach glam, only sleeker. The wet look is ideal for all hair types and works well for short or long hair. It’s a power move for nights out, weddings, or even brunch with the right outfit.
How to get the look: Use a generous amount of curl cream or wet-look gel on damp hair. Comb through evenly and sculpt waves with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Let it air dry or diffuse slightly to set. Finish with a glossing serum or shine spray and lightly tame flyaways with a toothbrush and styling gel.
8. Ribbon-tied ponytails
There’s something so sweet and timeless about a ribbon-tied ponytail, and in 2025, it’s being reinvented with luxe fabrics and high-fashion finishes. Velvet, satin, or oversized bows instantly elevate your look while giving your hairstyle a romantic twist. Whether you’re heading to work or a date night, a ribboned ponytail adds polish without trying too hard.
How to get the look: Pull your hair into a sleek, low ponytail using a smoothing brush and a bit of pomade. Secure with a clear elastic, then wrap your ribbon of choice around the base and tie it into a bow. Let the ends of the ribbon trail long for an elegant touch, or go short and sweet for daytime charm.
9. Silver & gray power
2025 is the year of proudly rocking silver and gray tones—whether natural or color-treated. What used to be seen as something to hide is now one of the most stylish, bold, and empowering statements you can make with your hair. From icy silvers to smoky charcoal and soft grays, this palette is stunning on all hair types and lengths. Plus, it pairs beautifully with clean cuts and cool-toned makeup.
How to get the look: If your hair is naturally gray, keep brassiness at bay with a purple shampoo and hydrate regularly. If you’re dyeing it silver, go to a pro—it takes serious lift and toning. Maintain the look with glosses, toning masks, and UV protection to preserve that icy shine.
10. Mega volume curls
Big hair is back, and we’re here for it. Curls, coils, and waves with maximum volume are the definition of power hair in 2025. Whether you’re rocking a rounded ‘fro, brushed-out ringlets, or voluminous waves, the goal is height, body, and unapologetic bounce. This is about embracing your natural pattern and amplifying it, not shrinking or smoothing it down.
How to get the look: Use volumizing mousse or foam on damp hair, then diffuse upside down or use a hooded dryer for lift. Pick out roots for height, apply some love with a wide-barrel curling iron if needed, and separate curls gently for fullness. Don’t forget a lightweight oil to lock in moisture and a bit of edge control if you want to shape your hairline. Confidence is key—rock that volume like the crown it is.
11. Claw clip updos
Let’s hear it for the claw clip—one of the most practical (and stylish) accessories making a major comeback this year. The 2025 claw clip updo is less about perfection and more about effortless cool. Whether it’s a high twist, a half-up moment, or a few strands loosely clipped back, this look channels ‘90s ease with modern flair. The best part? It’s kind to your hair—no tugging or breakage—and perfect for both lounging at home or heading out.
How to get the look: Start by gathering your hair into a loose twist or coil. Secure with a claw clip, letting ends fan out or tuck under depending on your vibe. Pull a few face-framing pieces out to soften the look. Add a bit of texture spray beforehand for grip, and choose clips in on-trend finishes like matte tortoiseshell or pearl-accented designs.
12. Icy blonde balayage
Frosty tones are in—and icy blonde balayage is the wintery dream we never knew we needed. Cooler than traditional honey or champagne blondes, this look blends silver-white highlights into a darker base for a sophisticated, high-contrast finish. It gives that “snow queen” energy without going full platinum, and the gradual fade keeps it low maintenance.
How to get the look: Ask your stylist for balayage with cool, icy blonde tones painted in sweeping sections. You’ll want to tone out any brassiness using purple shampoo once a week. To keep the finish glossy and healthy-looking, incorporate a deep-conditioning mask and heat protectant into your routine. This look pairs beautifully with sleek waves or a blunt cut for extra drama.
13. Buzz cuts with personality
The buzz cut is no longer just for minimalists—it’s become a canvas for creativity. In 2025, we’re seeing buzzed styles with pops of pastel, geometric fades, and even glitter roots. It's bold, liberating, and surprisingly flattering. Plus, it’s the ultimate time-saver.
How to get the look: Visit a barber or stylist experienced in clipper cuts and ask for a style that flatters your face shape. Want something extra? Try a stenciled design or temporary hair dye. Keep your scalp moisturized with a lightweight oil or leave-in treatment and apply SPF daily—yes, even on your head!
14. Retro roller curls
Channeling vintage glam is always a good idea, and 2025 brings us the return of classic roller curls. Whether you go full ‘50s housewife or ‘90s supermodel volume, there’s something undeniably elegant about this throwback style. It’s soft, bouncy, and makes any outfit feel instantly more polished.
How to get the look: Use large foam or Velcro rollers on damp hair, rolling away from your face and securing at the roots. Let them set while your hair dries (or use a hooded dryer if you're feeling fancy). Once dry, gently remove and brush through with a wide-tooth comb. Set with a light hairspray or shine mist to keep the bounce going strong.
15. Tousled wolf cuts
Somewhere between a shag and a mullet, the wolf cut is still going strong. This tousled variation leans into messy, undone texture with a playful, wild edge. It's perfect for wavy and curly hair types and works well with grown-out layers.
How to get the look: Ask for choppy, disconnected layers that frame your face and create movement throughout the crown. Let your natural wave pattern shine with a bit of mousse or curl cream, and air-dry or diffuse for volume. Don’t be afraid to tousle it with your hands or a pick for extra lift!
16. Color-blocked hair
If you love bold looks, this one’s for you. Color-blocked hair involves bold, contrasting sections of color—think platinum front pieces on jet black hair or hidden panels of neon pink. It’s edgy, creative, and totally customizable.
How to get the look: Choose two or more contrasting colors and decide whether you want them side-by-side, underneath, or framing your face. Work with a pro colorist to get crisp separation lines. Use color-protecting shampoo and minimize heat styling to keep shades vibrant. Bonus: this look grows out beautifully with root shadowing or gradual fading.
17. Invisible layers
Invisible layers are the secret sauce to movement and body without sacrificing length or fullness. They’re subtle, airy, and perfect for anyone wanting a modern update to their long hair without an obvious cut.
How to get the look: Ask your stylist for long, internal layers that blend seamlessly with your natural length. You’ll still have a straight-across bottom line, but with hidden lift inside. Style with a round brush for bounce, or enhance your natural waves with a curl cream. It’s a game-changer for thick hair, especially!
18. Micro braids
Micro braids are tiny, intricate braids that give you a textured, powerful look with endless versatility. They can be worn down, in updos, or styled into artistic shapes. This protective style is as beautiful as it is functional.
How to get the look: See a braiding specialist and set aside several hours—this is a time-intensive process, but totally worth it. Maintenance involves oiling your scalp and sleeping with a silk bonnet to reduce friction. You can wear them for weeks at a time, switching up styles from ponytails to buns and everything in between.
19. Natural texture embrace
2025 is all about celebrating your hair as it naturally is. More and more people are stepping away from heat styling and leaning into their curls, coils, waves, and even frizz. It's about freedom and authenticity, and we love to see it.
How to get the look: Start by investing in products made specifically for your hair type (think curl creams, leave-ins, or co-washes). Learn how your hair behaves on wash day, and experiment with air-drying or diffusing. Layer hydration with oils or creams to bring out the best in your natural pattern. The goal? Healthy, happy, real hair.
20. Soft pink tones
Pastel pink is getting a glow-up. In 2025, soft pink hair comes in creamy rose, peachy blush, and dusty mauve shades—perfect if you want to dip your toes into color without going full neon.
How to get the look: Your hair may need lightening first, so consult a colorist about lifting safely. From there, opt for a semi-permanent pink glaze or tint. Maintain the color with sulfate-free shampoo and refresh with a tinted conditioner every few washes. It fades beautifully over time, so it’s low-stress and super fun.
21. Tapered coils
Tapered cuts—short on the sides and longer on top—are incredibly flattering on coily hair textures. They add definition, volume, and a fresh shape that’s both trendy and timeless.
How to get the look: Ask your stylist for a fade or taper on the sides with more length up top. Keep coils hydrated with a leave-in conditioner and define with a twisting butter or gel. This style is super versatile: wear it fluffed out, coiled tight, or accessorized with clips or headbands.
22. Y2K pigtails
Playful and nostalgic, Y2K pigtails are back with a vengeance—this time with a modern edge. Think high pigtails, bubble ponytails, or even braided versions paired with trendy accessories.
How to get the look: Part your hair down the center and create two high ponytails or braids. Use clear elastics, scrunchies, or even bedazzled clips to keep things fun. Smooth baby hairs with edge control gel, and leave a few tendrils loose around your face for that “cool girl” finish.
23. Shadow root magic
If you’re not into constant upkeep, shadow roots are your best friend. This trend keeps roots slightly darker than the rest of your hair, creating a softer grow-out and tons of dimension.
How to get the look: Ask your stylist for a blended root melt that matches your natural shade, then gradually lightens into your target color. It works beautifully with balayage or platinum tones. Use a color-depositing mask to keep the mids and ends vibrant and touch up roots only as needed.
24. Glossy blowouts
Bouncy, shiny blowouts are back—and they’re shinier than ever. Glossy blowouts offer volume, movement, and that fresh-from-the-salon finish we all crave. Whether you're going to brunch or a big meeting, this look always delivers.
How to get the look: After washing, apply a heat protectant and volumizing mousse. Use a round brush and dryer to lift at the roots, curling sections under at the ends. Finish with a shine serum and a cool shot from your dryer to lock everything in place. For extra hold, mist lightly with a flexible hairspray.
25. Shaggy mullets
Last but not least: the shaggy mullet. It’s rebellious, it’s flattering, and it’s officially fashion-forward. Think short, choppy layers on top with longer length in the back, blended seamlessly for a rock 'n roll vibe that’s surprisingly wearable.
How to get the look: This cut is all about bold layers and shape. Ask your stylist for a short crown and temples with a gradual lengthening toward the nape. Let your natural texture shine or use a texturizing spray to boost volume. Bonus: it looks great messy, so there’s zero need for perfection.
Which one are you trying first?
Whether you're going for a dramatic chop, a splash of color, or just playing with texture, 2025 has a hair trend that fits your style (and your schedule). Don’t be afraid to experiment—hair grows, after all, and the best trends are the ones that make you feel like you.
