New Year, New Hair: The Biggest Trends To Try in 2022

hair

by Wendy Gould |

Sun, 2 Jan 2022

New-Hair-Trend-NY

From bold haircuts to striking hues to lots of texture, 2022 is all about stepping away from predictable and “boring” and embracing boldness when it comes to our coiffures. For some fun trend casting, we reached out to a handful of celebrity hairstylists and color experts to see which looks they predict will reign supreme in the new year. (And spoiler alert: the mullet is definitely here to stay — at least through 2022!)

Bold Stripes of Color

You can expect things to get real graphic in 2022.

“As colorists, it’s been a (blonde) face frame bonanza for the last five years, so it makes perfect sense that this would evolve into bolder hues,” says Craig Purves, a London-based stylist and ambassador for oVertone. “I don’t think there’s a human on this planet that’s not thought about having pink, blue, or green locks at some point in their life, but [didn’t] want the commitment of going full-on.”

Some face-framing stripes of color or even a subtle stripe elsewhere is the perfect solution. It’s a fun way to introduce a pop of vibrancy and works on all hair textures and tones.

The “New Pixie”

Pixies tend to feel “cute,” but 2022 is taking this cropped cut into more tousled, punkish territory. The new pixie has lots of texture, unexpected cuts, and lots of layers.

“Vive la difference,” says Fabrice Gilli, a NYC stylist for Fekkai. “This cool, short haircut allows you to rock cute bangs. [The style looks] softer and more rock-[inspired], and the top is layered for more texture. It’s a fun, interchangeable look. And trust me — after this long, boring pandemic a lot of women are ready to change their looks!”

Colorful Buzzcut

Those really interested in going bold can just buzz it all off, then go back in with some vibrant color.

“The pattern design and color are very personal to your vibe,” says Outen. “Do you express a romantic ethereal dreamlike side, or toughen your mood with a symbolic tattoo-esque edginess? Be confident knowing that if you don’t find your character straight away you can shave it off and try another design.”

Razor Mullet

People who thought the mullet was a passing quarantine trend certainly lost the bet on that one. This ‘80s inspired rocker ‘do is here to stay for much longer than anyone anticipated.

“A razor mullet is a bit of an exaggerated pixie with the longest length in the back, sometimes wrapping the neck,” explains Nai’vasha, a celebrity stylist and founder of Curl Queen. “I love it because it’s so edgy and sexy, yet chic. The look can be worn on the red carpet or on a flirty date. My pro-tip for this look is to not over style. The less tried with a razor mullet, the more alluring.”

Ultra-Warm, Golden-y Tones

Blonde will forever be on-trend, but Purves tells us that in 2022 you can expect shades to go from icy and cold to super warm. Interestingly, those warmer tones will actually look lighter and shinier since they reflect more light.

For a burst of golden goodness, he suggests mixing a pastel yellow, semi-permanent coloring conditioner into a color-free mask to infuse partial highlights with warmth. Try oVertone Pastel Yellow Coloring Conditioner, $25 ,or Moroccanoil Color Depositing Mask in Champagne, $28.

“Gold is the most reflective shade in hair color, bringing life to dull, lackluster locks,” says Purves. “It’s good to start with a one-to-five ratio for five minutes on damp hair. The more porous you feel your hair is, the more you should dilute the color conditioner.”

Experimental Lob

With the continued obsession over all things ‘90s, you can bet people will want to experiment with “lobbing” their hair off deep into 2022. Only, instead of sticking with the same-old ‘do, Outen predicts people will get experimental.

“Haircuts are addictive, and cutting your hair gives you the confidence to cut your hair further,” she says. “I imagine there will be more experimental shapes and proportions showing up on our streets. [Think] short-short bangs, asymmetric lobs, and uneven outlines — all powered by that ‘90s edginess.”

Textured, Androgynous Cuts

Over the years, beauty has slowly drifted into a territory where the lines aren’t just blurred – they often don’t exist. Hairstyles are heading that way, too. And we’re here for it!

These styles are often “just short enough to register as [classically] masculine, but long enough to still feel [classically] feminine,” says Tina Outen, a Session stylist and renowned colorist. The more texture, the better. “[These] choppy, versatile, and textured haircuts feature a deep point cut at the ends for a feathered finish. It’s also very low maintenance, and you can easily change it up with different hair colors.”

Red-Brown Tones

If some of the above looks are too bold for you, dear brunette, perhaps this 2022 hair trend — which infuses rich red warmth into dark hues — is more your speed.

“I love an autumnal auburn as much as with any other hair colorist — I really do. But red-brown is in,” says Purves. “This sultry shade is perfect through the winter months.

Think cool brunette/cherry hues with a touch of violet.”

Before you get your color done, check out our hair coloring guide here.

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