If you’re caught between a bob and longer lengths, the collarbone-skimming ‘clavi cut’ makes that in-between phase feel entirely deliberate. Skimming the collarbone (or clavicle), it’s become the go-to look for that cool-but-undone finish flooding TikTok—and on the red carpet, too. From Kim Kardashian’s almost-grunge take and Kirsten Dunst's softer, vintage version to Victoria Beckham's laissez-faire styling, this cut proves that mid-length hair doesn’t have to feel like a compromise.

“The clavicle is one of the most elegant, feminine parts of the body,” says Mark Leeson of Mark Leeson Salon. It’s this exact placement of the style that elevates it beyond a standard long bob. “This length sits in that perfect sweet spot: not too short, not too long, but deliberately placed to draw the eye.” Nata Bumford, hairstylist at Hershesons Belgravia, agrees on its versatility, "There’s still enough length to put your hair up or tie it for the gym, yet it’s quick to restyle, effortlessly going from a sharp, polished look to a romantic or cool-girl vibe."

What makes the 'clavi cut' especially appealing right now is how cleverly it solves the grow-out dilemma. Rather than waiting for hair to reach a flattering length, this cut builds the shape around it—giving structure to that otherwise awkward phase. The collarbone-grazing line acts almost like a built-in contour. “Hitting the collarbone creates a visual line that naturally lengthens the neck and sharpens the jaw,” Leeson explains. Errol Douglas MBE agrees, noting that the rise of this cut comes down to its balance of effort and impact. “It’s wearable, low-maintenance—it frames, softens and defines in equal measure,” he says. “That precise collarbone length acts almost like a visual anchor for the entire look.”

There’s also a technical reason it’s so universally flattering. “By allowing the hair to rest at the clavicle, you create a horizontal line that contrasts beautifully with the vertical lines of the neck,” says Douglas. “This interplay subtly lengthens the silhouette while bringing focus upward to the jawline and cheekbones.” The effect is achieved through a combination of techniques, explains Bumford. "The precise cut line, whether blunt or softly textured, keeps the perimeter clean. Subtle graduation or soft layers allow natural movement without losing density."

Who will it suit?

Crucially, it’s not a one-size-fits-all cut. The finish can be adapted depending on texture and density. For finer hair, Leeson recommends keeping the ends blunt to create the illusion of thickness, while thicker hair benefits from internal layering to remove bulk. Douglas takes a similar approach: “It can be sculpted to suit the individual rather than forcing the individual to suit the cut. With curls, you might embrace a softer edge, while straighter textures lend themselves to a sharper outline.” Concerning face shapes, Bumford says that, "Round faces benefit from slightly longer fronts and softer framing to add definition without widening the face. And longer or angular faces suit more noticeable framing and internal movement to soften the overall look."

How to style it?

Styling doesn’t need to be complicated. “A well-executed clavicle cut should require minimal effort,” Douglas says. Think a smooth blow-dry, a slight bend through the mid-lengths, or even an air-dried texture with a bit of refinement. The goal is always to keep the shape looking intentional, not overworked. Both Leeson and Bumford recommend starting with a smoothing foundation to refine the surface. "Thermal brushes make it quick and easy to achieve a sleek, smooth finish," says Bumford. "While air-dry sprays enhance texture and volume. Tucking one side behind the ear gives a relaxed, effortless finish."

The only caveat? Precision. Because the defining feature is its exact length, regular trims are key. “Even a slight drop can lose that intentional edge,” Leeson notes, with both experts recommending a refresh every six to eight weeks to keep it sitting exactly where it should.

If you’ve been stuck in hair limbo, consider this your way out: a cut that doesn’t just tolerate the grow-out phase, but makes it look entirely put-together.

The 'clavi-cut' styling kit

We do so much to slow the optimise health and delay visible signs of ageing when it comes to our skin. We invest in potent retinol serums and indulgent overnight masks, book in for Botox, and never leave the house without a high factor SPF. And yet, when it comes to our hair, many of the decisions we make are far less considered.

A haircut has the power to subtly transform how we look. The right cut can lift the face, add movement and create the illusion of thicker, healthier hair. The wrong shape, however, can do the exact opposite, adding heaviness, emphasising lines or simply making your overall look feel a little dated.

“The issue isn’t necessarily age itself,” says Andreas Wild, stylist at Larry King Salon in Notting Hill. “It’s when a haircut becomes dated, overly heavy or disconnected from your natural texture and face shape.”

From overly layered cuts to fringes that fall flat, these are the five common hairstyles that can unintentionally age you—and the modern alternatives that feel fresher, softer and much more flattering.

Over-Layered Cuts

Layers can create beautiful movement, but too many can quickly have the opposite effect. “Over-layering is something we still see a lot,” says Wild. “When hair is chopped into too many layers, the ends can look wispy and frizzy rather than full and healthy.”

Instead of creating volume, excessive layering can remove essential weight from the hair, leaving it looking thin and lacking structure—particularly around the ends.

The key to keeping layers youthful is to keep them subtle. “Modern layering is much softer and more strategic,” he explains. “You want to keep strength through the perimeter while introducing subtle layers that enhance movement without sacrificing density.”

The Wrong Fringe

Fringes can be instantly transformative, perfectly framing the eyes and sculpting the cheekbones—but the wrong style can have the opposite effect. “Very thick, blunt fringes can feel heavy and severe,” says Wild. “On the other hand, extremely thin fringes can emphasise fine lines and lack impact.”

“A longer, softer fringe that blends into the sides of the haircut tends to feel much more modern,” he explains. “It frames the face gently and grows out beautifully, which makes it far more wearable.”

An Out-of-Date Bob

Few haircuts are as timeless as the bob, and the cut is still going strong for Spring 2026—but certain versions have definitely fallen out of favour. “The very stacked bob that’s shorter at the back and longer at the front was hugely popular in the early 2000s,” says Wild. “But today it can look quite rigid and dated.” These sharply angled cuts often lack movement, which can make the overall style feel heavy.

“A softer bob with natural movement feels much more contemporary,” he says. “Think less structure and more fluidity—a shape that moves naturally and feels effortless.” Try the bubble bob for soft volume, the tucked bob for face framing, or if you're in doubt, opt for the universally-flattering French bob.

Hair That’s Too Long

Length can be beautiful at any age, but extremely long hair without shape can sometimes drag the face down. “When hair becomes very long and flat, it can pull the features downward,” explains Wild. “Especially if there’s no movement or structure around the face.”

“Length can absolutely still work—it just needs shape,” he says. “Face-framing layers, healthy ends and a little movement make all the difference.”

Cuts That Fight Your Natural Texture

One of the biggest mistakes Wild sees in the salon isn’t a specific haircut—it’s choosing a style that constantly fights your natural hair type. “If you’re battling your hair every single day to make it behave, the cut probably isn’t working with your texture,” he says.

Trying to force naturally wavy hair to sit poker-straight—or vice versa—often results in styles that look stiff and high-maintenance. “The most modern haircuts work with your natural movement,” says Wild. “Whether that’s waves, curls or straight texture. When the shape supports your natural hair type, the result always looks more effortless and youthful.”

Anyone with curly, coily or wavy hair will know that it can take some trial and error to get your routine perfectly tailored to your hair type. I spent years neglecting my own waves and resorting to the straightener day after day, until one of the best hair dryer diffusers (and a whole host of the best wavy hair products) entered my life.

If you're not already familiar, a hair diffuser is a rounded, bowl-shaped attachment with prongs that works to distribute heat more evenly across the head. Why is this so good for curls and waves? Well, it helps with volume, definition, frizz control, and reduces drying time. The shape of it also means that it holds your curls or waves in their shape whilst they dry, so they will have more bounce too.

"Diffusers are great for drying your hair quickly and gently," explains T3 Co-founder Julie Chung. "The cool air shot on our drying tools also locks in style and minimises frizz, especially as heat and humidity tends to create more frizz and affect the longevity of your style."

You probably already have one of the best hair dryers for curly hair in your possession, but I would argue that no tool is quite complete without a diffuser attachment. Whilst some hair dryers come with diffusers built in, others offer separate accessories that you can add onto the tool you already have.

Best hair dryer diffusers: Quick shopping links

• Most affordable diffuser attachment: £9.49 at Amazon
• Best all-rounder diffuser dryer: £230 at Amazon (save 18%)
• Best built-in diffuser: £149.99 at Boots
• Most sleek diffuser attachment: £24.95 at Beauty Bay
• Best everyday diffuser dryer: £24.99 at Amazon (save 17%)

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer diffuser

There's no huge secret behind choosing a good diffuser—most models have a similar design and function. However, the way you attach the diffuser, how it interacts with your current hair dryer, and its technical settings are what you want to look at. Ensure you're choosing a diffuser that's compatible with your current hair tools, and offers all the features you need (e.g. a cool setting, different speeds, lightweight material etc.)

Revlon Smoothstay Coconut Oil-Infused Hair Dryer

I have had my Revlon hair dryer for the best part of a decade, and it has never let me down. I love how strong the airflow is and how quickly it gets my hair fully dry, plus this particular model delivers on shine thanks the oil infused technology. It comes with a diffuser attachment, but you can also take it off if you're doing a different style, or use the nozzle for a straight blow dry. It does only have two speed settings, but the second one is more than powerful enough for my thick hair. For the price point, this is a very worthwhile investment if you want both a diffuser and hair dryer.

Bellissima Italia Diffon Supreme Hairdryer

If you only ever diffuse your hair and have no interest in a regular hair dryer, this Bellissima model is one of the only products on the market to provide that. It's a hot air diffuser that combines a diffuser and a hairdryer in a single tool. Digital heat control prevents it from overheating and causing damage, and it has different speed and heat settings to tailor it to your needs. Using Supreme Curl Flow technology designed by curl experts, it's definitely the most technical diffuser you can invest in, and the results show it. I really feel like my waves look a lot more healthy and uniform after using this particular diffuser.

T3 Afar Diffuser

If you like all your hair tools to look good as well as function beautifully, this diffuser does exactly that. I'm a sucker for the soft pinky colourway, but the main thing I love is how wide this diffuser is. The wider, the better in my opinion—it works wonders for my thick hair that needs maximum surface area. It's light and easy to attach, but the downside is it's compatible with T3 hair dryers.

Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Styler & Hair Dryer

If you're starting from scratch and want to invest in a tool that can diffuse, curl, straighten, and give a bouncy blow dry, this is the tool to go for. I use my FlexStyle for pretty much everything, and the diffuser in particular is one of my favourites. This is mainly because it has a very strong airflow, but it also doesn't cause heat damage. With three heat and airflow settings and a cool shot button, it pretty much guarantees well set curls that last.

Lily England Deluxe Hair Dryer with Diffuser

"What I like the most about this dryer is that it’s functional and also kind to your pocket (because, hello cost of living crisis). I was surprised by how lightweight and quiet the dryer was. It has both a nozzle and a nice size diffuser, and a very handy hanging loop, which I wasn’t expecting considering the price point. It dried my hair rather quickly and with minimal frizz. It would make a really nice first hair dryer." - Jeanette Nkwate, Beauty Contributor

Universal Hair Diffuser Attachment

If you want a cheap and cheerful diffuser attachment that you can slot onto the hair dryer you already own, this is a good option. It's the first diffuser I invested in and it's done well considering how affordable it is. It's lightweight, easy to use and really does fit over any hair dryer on the market. It doesn't deliver as bouncy or shiny waves and curls as some of the pricier models I have, but it's a good starting point if you don't want to break the bank.

Despite being a beauty editor for over a decade, when it comes to styling my hair, I’m incredibly lazy. I love products and tools that require minimal input and maximum return, whether that’s a dry shampoo that doubles as a texture spray to instantly add movement and banish oily roots, or a hairdryer with an attachment to smooths and dries in as little time as possible.

My reluctance to spend more than a nominal five minutes on my hair every morning is exactly why ghd’s curling tools have long been my default. Their latest launch, the Chronos Curve range, takes things up a notch with “curl-responsive technology” that keeps the entire barrel at the optimum 185°C—no hot spots, no guesswork. Translation: faster styling (up to three times faster than a rival), glossy, frizz-free results, and no extreme heat damage. A quick rough-dry, a few lazy wraps around a Chronos Curve, and I look as if I’ve spent the morning coaxing perfect tousled waves.

There’s four Chronos Curve tools to choose from—two wands and two tongs—but I skipped the analysis paralysis and went straight to ghd’s new Curl Finder Tool, a six-question quiz powered by 240 AI-generated images to match you to your ideal curler. My result? The Chronos Curve Max Wand: a larger-barrel tong designed for chin-length hair and beyond, creating loose, tumbling waves with just the right amount of nonchalance.

The wand itself couldn’t be easier to handle. It heats up in under a minute, and the generously sized barrel means I can curl bigger sections at a time, especially if I want a more "undone" finish.

Aside from the speed of styling and the lasting results (the waves stay put until bedtime—a small miracle for my fine, slippery hair), what I love the most about my Max Wand is the versatility of the curl. Held at an angle with a single quick wrap, it delivers those elusive Alexa Chung–esque, Scandi-cool bends. Go vertical with multiple wraps and you’ll get more defined waves with a touch more polish.

As with the rest of the Chronos Curve range, the Max Curve has an anodised barrel which offers smooth control and the cool tip and safety stand make mid-styling pauses fuss-free. Plus, the automatic shut-off after 20 minutes is a welcomed feature, meaning I'll never have to turn around mid-commute to check I've switched it off. It’s also got a long, tangle-free cable, universal voltage (meaning it'll work anywhere in the world) and a streamlined design that feels satisfyingly luxe in the hand.

Meet the rest of the range...

Best for beachy waves: Ghd Chronos Curve Conical Wand

Best for Hollywood glamour: ghd Chronos Curve Classic Tong

Best for big, bouncy curls: ghd Chronos Curve Grand Tong

From bouncy blowouts to the return of the ultra-thin brow, I think it's safe to say that over the past few years, we've all become a tiny bit (re) obsessed with the 90s. With the beauty trends that dominated the iconic decade now visible everywhere from our hairstyles to our make-up, it's no wonder that each month it feels like there's another new option to revisit. The latest inclusion to mix? The Pixie Cut.

Popularised by Halle Berry in the late 90s, and beloved by stars like Rihanna and Brandy, it’s a style that has also seen a massive return this year. Unlike the 1990s, however, with more options outside of traditional chemical relaxers, rocking a pixie cut on 4C hair has never been so accessible. Not quite ready to do the big chop? Or looking for an edgy change from your regular wig rotation? Then a pixie cut might just be your go-to style for the summer.

To give you the lowdown on what to expect before you pencil in that appointment for a pixie cut, we spoke to Andrée Marie,, an award-winning hairstylist and founder of Maison Style Hair, and Hannah Ayegbusi, founder of Honey Hand, a pixie and bob wigs specialist.

Read on to find the dos and don'ts for a modern take on this nostalgic style.

Why are so many women opting for pixie cuts?

"Many women are now embracing pixie cuts because they offer a bold style that exudes confidence and freedom," says Marie. "Maintenance-wise wise it's not for everyone, but it’s a style that's about making a personal statement, one that allows you to reclaim control over your hair journey.

She's been calling this new wave of interest in the style the 'pixie epidemic!', because the reasons why people are choosing this style are so broad. "For some it's a fresh start," she says. "After damage from chemical treatments or heat styling. Other clients are choosing it, because it's been the style they've always wanted but never had the guts to ask for."

"Having a pixie is sexy," she adds. A sentiment which she credits to the "rise in natural beauty and self-expression in media, which has made shorter styles more desirable and widely accepted".

Hannah Ayegbusi agrees: "A pixie cut ain’t just a hairstyle—it’s a whole vibe and a bold statement. It’s about confidence, freedom, and showing up as your truest self. If you’re ready to switch it up and put a little love into the upkeep, this cut can give you life in the best way. Trust—it’s more than just a trim, it’s a transformation."

Who is a good candidate for a pixie cut on 4C hair?

"A great candidate for a pixie cut on kinky hair is someone who wants a low-maintenance, but stylish haircut," says Marie. Whilst it is considered fairly effortless, regular trims are a must for maintaining the shape.

It's a powerful look on natural hair that "provides lots of volume and texture". She also says that with the right products and routine (she recommends "foams, moulding, wrapping it at night"), it's a style that can work on all hair types.

Historically, this look was only created on chemically straightened hair. But Marie notes that the day-to-day maintenance of a pixie cut is higher for relaxed hair than it is for natural, as it requires more salon visits.

If the notion of cutting your hair isn't for you, hair specialist Ayegbusi tells Marie Claire that ultimately, a pixie wig could be a good way to try this bold, low-maintenance style, without too much commitment. "The beauty of a wig," she says. "Is that it can be worn by anyone, regardless of hair type, and it can be created and customised for anyone."

What can people expect at a pixie cut consultation?

At Honey Hand, Ayegbusi explains that they use an holistic approach to consultations in order to find the best pixie wig fit for each client. "In a consultation, I'll try to find out more about the person’s lifestyle, so I can find out what their maintenance abilities are like. And then we'll create a wig for them based on that". Crafting the perfect pixie, takes time, because there's no one size fits all.

For anyone considering a pixie cut on their natural coils, Andrée Marie says she'll ask you about a whole host of things: "First, we will start assessing your hair’s current health and texture, understanding your lifestyle, styling habits, and maintenance expectations." She'll then look at your face shape to identify the best cut with the help of inspiration images. Crucially, adds the pixie specialist, this is the time to iron out "any concerns or fears you might have before the big chop." This is not a style to ask for she warns "if you’re still 50/50".

How to maintain a pixie cut on 4c hair

For anyone with 4C hair, wearing a pixie cut wig, the maintenance for the unit should be quite simple, says Ayegbusi. "As long as the (wig) hair is kept moisturised," she adds. "It’s easy to maintain because the style stays the same. It just requires a bit of water and product to define the curls, and your hands to finger through."

And for those who decide to get the chop? According to Marie, there are a few things to bare in mind. She recommends light moisturising every other day, using a comb or finger-styling (depending on your desired look), tying hair down at night with a satin/silk scarf to maintain shape and using a foam wrapping set—with mousse and wrap paper—to smooth out any lines that have kinked to refresh the style. She also advises "wash your hair at least once a week to avoid losing moisture over time. You should also look to deep condition to maintain softness and moisture." Styling wise, she says "moulding or curling with a tool is a great way to help maintain your pixie in-between appointments."

The Best Products For Maintaining A Pixie Cut On 4C Hair

Now you know what to expect from a pixie cut appointment, scroll to shop our expert tool kit for rocking and maintaining your pixie cut at home.

Maintaining a pixie cut

The Best Products For Maintaining A Pixie Wig On 4C Hair

Before seeing the Oscar-winning indie movie Anora earlier this year, I'd never even heard of hair tinsel—and without visuals, it can sound like something tweens do at sleepovers. But viewing it on screen (Mikey Madison played dancer and sex worker Ani), I was mesmerised—the way the flash of metallics caught the light and how it naturally blended with her dark hair. I couldn't stop thinking about hair tinsel.

Just two months ago, Harris Dickinson was seen on the Cannes red carpet with his own strands of hair glitter, which stylist Emma May Fordham had placed subtly at the nape of his neck.

Fast forward to British summertime, and hair tinsel is finally making its way into the mainstream, just in time for a season of music festivals, sporting events and holidays—and it's something Treatwell's Hair Tinsel Expert, Emma May Fordham at SoBob, has seen a monumental uptick in. "I think the popularisation of naughties trends in recent years has added to this throwback. With the help of social media like TikTok, trends can easily catch on," she tells me.

Anora definitely had an impact, she says, and it's a playful summer hair trend. "The lighting and the way Anora was shot contributed to its [tinsel's] success and in my opinion they captured it perfectly," Fordham explains. "From what I've read Justine Sierakowski [the hairstylist for Anora] used a lot of tinsel, and I think: more is definitely more!"

"Tinsel in the summer months is when it pops the most," she continues. "Obviously we have so much more light this time of year and many more opportunities to show it off. The tinsel is going to peak when under party lights at a festival or simply while walking down the road on a sun-drenched day."

Fordham was responsible for applying my hair tinsel, which I wanted to wear for some key summer events I had coming up. We went for gold strands to blend with my newly blonde colour and kept it super subtle; I needed a look that would stand out when I wanted it to, but still blend in for the everyday.

If you're intrigued by hair tinsel and want to try it out like me, here's what you need to know.

What actually is hair tinsel, and what's it made out of?

"Hair tinsel is a type of hair extension applied by attaching super fine sparkly strands of tinsel to the hair that reflect the light and shimmer," says Fordham. "The hair tinsel itself is a non-toxic synthetic fibre called polyester fibre. This man-made material is perfect for use in the hair as it’s heat resistant, durable and can withstand washing and drying."

The tinsel is available in a range of shades, from golds and silvers to bolder block colours such as pinks, purples and blues. They last for a few weeks at a time, as long as they are applied thoroughly and care is taken when washing and styling hair.

How is hair tinsel applied?

I was surprised at just how quick and easy the application process was, especially when I'd read that Mikey Madison would sometimes sit for six hours at a time for her application (but bear in mind, she had a full head of tinsel, and stylist Justine Sierakowski was somewhat new to the process.).

Fordham explains: "I apply the tinsel strands to the root using a microbead that will stay put until professionally removed. Other less permanent ways of attaching tinsel yourself include hand tying them at the root in single strands." Hand tying usually reduces their longevity, however.

Is tinsel damaging to the hair?

When I heard hair tinsel strands were a type of extension, I panicked a little early on. As someone on a hair growth and health journey, I didn't want to jeopardise any progress I've recently made. Fordham reassured me, however: "Hair Tinsel can’t damage the hair, although if you choose to have these attached professionally, we are working with a type of extension, so it's important that the beads are carefully and professionally removed no more than weeks after application."

In short, as long as you follow these guidelines, you shouldn't experience any issues.

How is it removed?

Again, it's pretty simple if you know how and have this done professionally. "I use a tool called a microplier," says Fordham. "I add a little pressure to the bead to open it slightly and slide it out." Easy.

Hair tinsel services with Emma So Bob (based in Hackney, London) are available to book through Treatwell. Prices start at £45. Treatwell offers hair tinsel services across the UK; simply search on the app or website to find a salon near you that provides the service.

There's a huge difference between a heavy fringe and a side-swept style like curtain bangs. And then, somewhere in between sits the most perfect fringe trend, which brings out the best in both styles: the French girl fringe. This look also just happens to be ideal for the warmer months.

Inspired by '70s icon Jane Birkin, this hair trend has quickly come back around and is making waves across the pond in New York City. "French girl fringes have gained popularity in New York due to their effortless appeal, which aligns perfectly with the city's style ethos," explains Antoinette Beenders, Aveda senior vice president of Global Artistry. "Particularly during the humid summer months, this low-maintenance fringe is ideal as it complements various hair lengths and looks especially charming when hair is styled up."

Here's what you need to know about getting your French girl fringe cut in.

What is the French girl fringe?

As mentioned, French girl fringes were first popularised in the 1970s, in line with actress Jane Birkin's rise to fame. A variation of a traditional fringe, this French bang style has notable differences, including influences from side-swept, longer bangs.

"These bangs are characterised by their textured ends and natural movement, giving them an undone appearance that frames the face," says Beenders. "Traditional fringes tend to have a square shape, while French girl fringes are typically rounded and slightly curved, offering a different way to frame the face."

Stars who've turned to the French girl fringe as their signature style for some time now include Dakota Johnson and Jenna Ortega.

Who best suits the look?

"French girl fringes are highly adaptable and complement a wide range of face shapes and hair types," says Beenders. "Thanks to its versatility, the French girl fringe pairs exceptionally well with most hairstyles, particularly those with shoulder-length or longer hair."

She does, however, note that fringes in general "may not be the best choice for individuals with shorter foreheads, as they tend to conceal the forehead and shift the focus to the eyes."

Beenders recommends a simple trick to determine if a fringe would suit you, which includes covering your forehead with your hand to see if your face suits having this area covered.

What should you ask your stylist for?

Having a French girl fringe cut in should be left to a stylist, particularly as you want to ensure you have the best style cut in for your hair texture and face shape. "Next, decide on the length," advises Beenders. "For a more sultry and subtle look, opt for a length that falls below the eyebrows, while a bolder, more daring appearance can be achieved with a fringe cut above the eyebrows."

The Aveda pro recommends always asking your stylist to trim your bangs when the hair is dry, to ensure you have achieved the correct length (hair gets shorter when dried from wet).

"Lastly, ask your stylist for tips on how to style and maintain your fringe at home to keep it looking its best." This may include investing in a great blow-dry brush to achieve a certain level of lift, and some texture-boosting products for movement.

Your French girl fringe tool kit

9 ways to wear French girl fringe

Actor Riley Keough has the perfect length bangs to wear in a full fringe or in a curtain style.

Full yet with a slightly curved edge, Nina Dobrev nails the look, cut in by her stylist Mark Townsend.

Jennifer Lawrence's style is wispy and lightweight, and looks great with a half-up, half-down look.

Proving curly hair looks beautiful with the addition of a French girl fringe, Hanna Lhoumeau has the perfect style.

Combine your style with loose waves and a hi-shine finish for that real Jane Birkin vibe.

French girl fringes are the perfect accompaniment to an updo.

This slightly shorter style has great versatility for wearing as a full fringe or side-swept bangs.

Jenna Ortega is the Queen of the French girl fringe; just look at the evidence!

Did we mention that this style has ALL the Parisian vibes?!

If you ever feel in a rut with your style, simply look to the continent: French hairstyles are the ultimate inspiration. Just as French women are known for their impeccable fashion choices and their je ne sais quoi make-up, their hair always looks so well put together and considered. Case in point: the French girl chop, which has to be the most iconic iteration of the bob we've seen over the past decade.

Cutting your hair is a big step: trust me, I get it. As someone who's attempted to grow long, Rapunzel-esque locks for most of my life, I am rather accustomed to the feeling of getting an idea in my head to cut it all off when I'm bored, and usually following through with it. The interesting thing is that I never regret it: cutting off your hair not only feels liberating through the act itself, but the bob trends are timeless and hard not to like.

From breakups to new jobs, there are plenty of life events that spark a need for change. But this year, it's purely the change of the season that has me desperate for something new. Summer, after all, is the ultimate period for hair inspiration. Sofia Richie's new sophisticated cut is proof of that, surely.

Renowned Stylist and Salon Owner Luke Hersheson is an advocate for the summer chop, in part because of its ease this time of year: "The great thing about the French girl bob is that you can let the cut do the talking. If you have long hair, to make a statement you need to style it, whereas with the French bob, the haircut is the statement: you don’t really need to make any extra effort with it."

He says this haircut becomes your statement piece. "Therefore, it is super low maintenance, yet feels modern, especially when paired alongside natural and easy texture rather than anything too blown-out or manicured."

Hersheson looks to Gracie Abrams, Elsa Hosk, Lori Harvey and of course, now Sofia Richie, for his ultimate French girl chop inspo, which he says "suits the majority of hair textures and face shapes as it can be worn in different ways," thanks to the fact it's "a super versatile and low maintenance cut."

What to ask for in the salon

With so many different styles of bob, it can feel overwhelming to even attend a hairdresser's appointment and know what to say. Luckily, Luke can help with this, too. "Ask your stylist for ‘invisible layers’ around the front, so your bob never hangs down in two curtains, but springs to life with instant shape once dry. Then we keep the back one length, to give body and texture, without you even trying."

How to style the French girl chop

If your bob is cut well and as you requested, the styling comes with ease and little effort. Luke says that the key here is combining the right product with the correct drying technique.

He advises reaching for the Hershesons Air Dry Spray (which now comes with UV protection for the warmer months) and spritzing it across damp hair, before taking a hairdryer to the hair and rough blow-drying it with the help of fingers. If you aren't prone to frizz, you could even leave your hair to air dry. "This will help create an airy, cool 'French' finish rather than an overly-styled blowout," he says.

With my own shorter style, I tend to take a matte pomade (just a tiny amount, FYI) to the mid-ends of my dry hair to achieve that effortless, textured finish so synonymous with the coolest French girls around. Arkive's is a new favourite.

French girl chop inspiration

For those with fine to medium hair, achieving body and volume can be a legitimate challenge. It is possible, though, particularly if you have the right cut to aid with weightlessness.

And short-haired girls are in luck this summer, because the breezy aero bob has arrived to give your usual cut an extra bouncy twist. As someone with fine hair, cut short, I decided to give it a try a while ago during a salon visit, and I can confirm it gave me some seriously impressive root lift. The cut had more layers in than I was used to, aiding in more movement and body: ideal for creating more lift.

"The Aero Bob is a weightless, breezy take on the classic bob—softly layered, full of movement, and effortlessly chic," explains Zoe Adams, International Artist at award-winning Taylor Taylor London's Notting Hill salon. "Falling between the chin and collarbone, it’s ideal for fine to medium hair and suits oval or round face shapes beautifully."

This style is about having the right kind of bob hairstyle that allows for that airy, lightweight aesthetic—the one that looks like you've flipped your hair upside down for a minute, then shaking your head back, gives instant volume. "The aero bob is an evolution of the 'old money bob'; elegance in its finest form. It's amazing for those summer nights at the pub or out for a nice dinner in town," says Andrew Plester, Hairstylist & Education Director at Adam Reed.

Unlike the classic bob, it's less regimented in how it's cut; there's not as much of a bluntness to it with sharp ends, and more of a soft, layered look that complements a mini fringe flip at the front of your hair. "To cut the aero bob, I'd take a medium amount of layering through the hair, keeping the weight in the length and ends but removing weight through the crown and around the fringe area," notes Plester. Speaking of bangs, it helps if you have them; they add extra shape to this style of bob.

As to what to ask for? "A bob with internal layers and soft feathered ends rather than blunt lines," says Zoe. "Let your stylist know you want movement and airiness, not structure."

The cut is usually a little shorter than your average-length bob, which aids in achieving that lift and body, too – something I definitely found when I had this style of bob cut in. This is crucial to the movement and softness this look brings (which IMO is perfect for the carefree summer months), but your styling is also key here.

Have a blow-dry brush like Dyson's or Hershesons'? Now's the time to bring it out to achieve some serious volume at the root. A volume-boosting spray such as the one by K18 can also come in handy here, particularly if you have very fine hair. These were my two essentials when I had my aero bob; I really embraced the voluminous look and reached for bigger bristle brush attachments on my Dyson.

Aero bob inspo

Bronde highlights with a airy bob cut in? Chef's kiss: this is the perfect summer combo.

Long bangs at the front make all the difference to this cut, adding beautiful shape and body.

Yes, side partings are returning, and the aero bob is here to facilitate the comeback.

The aero is notably a little shorter than a classic bob, sitting above the shoulders usually.

Flick out the ends of your style for a even more boosted, bouncy aesthetic.

This style and length of bob is ideal for tucking behind the ears - don't worry, it'll still have lift and volume when you do this, because of the cut and shape.

The softness and movement here is achieved through the cut, which is less blunt than your average bob.

A slightly longer style, this proves you can sport the look even if you're in the process of growing out your bob.

You don't normally think of wedding hairstyles as those you can really replicate in everyday life; the styles designed for your big day usually don't seem suited to the office or evenings at the pub. However, the Delaney bun has succeeded in merging occasion-wear with the everyday aesthetic, and the internet is going wild for the look.

What is a Delaney bun?

L'Oréal Professionnel's Editorial Ambassador Adam Reed declared the Delaney bun as his top wedding hair trend of 2025. The hairstyle has been experiencing a surge in interest of late, with an increase of over 462% search popularity on TikTok Creator Search Insights, which clearly shows that it's so much more than a bridal look.

The Delaney bun is soft, messy and a little bit romantic. It gets its name from content creator Delaney Childs, known for creating the ultimate imperfect updo. The Delaney bun looks like a simple, laid-back look, but there's an elegance to it. In short, it's a top knot with loose pieces in the front sections, as well as below the bun, which creates the 'undone' aesthetic.

How to achieve the look

While the style may look intricate, it's pretty easy to achieve. Childs offered a very simple tutorial of her exact updo on TikTok, which took her minutes to construct.

First, she begins with a high ponytail, leaving out the front sections of her hair (more than you'd first expect, FYI). Then, she takes another hair tie and shapes her ponytail into a messy bun from the top down. This leaves the ends of the hair falling loosely.

Next, the influencer reaches for odd bits of the front section she left out and messily pulls them back towards the bun, securing with grips.

Of course, while this all sounds relatively easy, it goes without saying that the hair prep for this is essential. Childs has the exact right amount of hair—along with optimum length, curl and volume—before she even begins.

It's essential to achieve a certain level of volume, texture and bounce in hair before it's ready for a Delaney bun. Products can help achieve this, as can a heated multi-styler (Childs uses the Dyson Airwrap to prep hair for this in another video). However, depending on your hair length, fullness and texture, you may find it harder to nail this with ease.

Products to help style a Delaney bun

Delaney bun inspo

Delaney Childs does it beautifully, from the volume to the shape. 10/10.

This gorgeous take on the look sported by Richa Moorjani has a little more polish, but still plenty of volume and the loose shaping of a 'messy' bun.

Bex Watson proves that curling your hair first can elevate the look ten-fold.

Dakota Johnson is usually sporting one of two styles: a sleek down-do or a semi-messy updo. The latter is so chic.

This is the perfect combination of messy and sleek, as demonstrated by MAFS AU's Eden Harper.

Another five star look by Delaney Childs.

Sydney Sweeney rocks this look both on the red carpet and day-to-day.

Yolanda Diaz proves this is the perfect holiday style for this summer.

In the worlds of beauty, fashion and entertainment. All eyes are turned to the wild west. And I don't know about you, but I am one Luke Combs song away from packing up and living on a ranch. Texas-core is everywhere, from Rodeo hair to Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter tour. The latest hair trend riding into the spotlight? None other than the 'cowgirl cut'.

This is the cut of the summer, just look at the It girls of now. Think Suki Waterhouse, Sabrina Carpenter, Alexa Chung, and Miley Cyrus, who have all been spotted wearing the chop. The layered haircut often sits at shoulder length or longer and frames the face just right, allowing for natural movement and a rebellious, free-spirited feel. The best part? It can be worn in more ways than one.

You don't have to ask me twice to dust off my cowboy boots. I consulted a hairstylist to find out exactly what the look is all about, how it's achieved, and whether it's right for you. Saddle up.

What is the cowgirl cut?

The clue is in the name, "The cut is heavily influenced by a relaxed ranch life, where you can snatch your hair back, throw on a hat or leave it to do its thing and it will still look great," explains Jordan Garrett, stylist from Hershesons Fitzrovia. Often styled with curls or waves, the textured cut is typically paired with curtain bangs or a long fringe.

Unlike the more polished lob, "'The cowgirl cut is heavily layered and focuses on face-framing," says Jordan, explaining that this allows for natural movement, promising a good hair day even when left unstyled or tousled. "Its purpose is to look effortless, easy wearing and undone."

Who does the cowgirl haircut suit?

Thanks to its emphasis on face framing, Jordan explains that the cowgirl cut is extremely versatile and can be tailored to suit just about anyone. "Even if you have curly, wavy hair, a heart-shaped face, you can curate the framing to suit you."

And whether you favour a sleek look or a wash-and-go finish, Jordan explains there's a style for everyone. "It's not tailored to one vice," he confirms. "If you look at Suki Waterhouse and Sabrina Carpenter, they both have this cowgirl haircut, but they wear it totally differently: one polished and one undone."

While Jordan acknowledges the look works best with "wavy or curly hair with a slight kink", it can also work with finer or straight hair with the help of texturising styling products to create a "defined, air-dried look".

Cowgirl cut hair inspiration:

Styled by Owen Gould, British model and singer Suki Waterhouse turned heads at the 2025 Met Gala with the 70s-inspired cowgirl cut. Her shoulder-skimming layers were styled with an effortless, lived-in texture.

Country girl at heart, Miley Cyrus is a natural fit for the cowgirl cut. Her look combines long, flowing layers with a short, blunt fringe. She maintains a tousled finish that feels rock 'n' roll but remains wearable.

Dakota Johnson, actress, producer, and owner of Hollywood's most talked-about fringe, is proof of Jordan's point that the Cowgirl Cut can be "effortlessly pulled up." Styled by her longtime collaborator Mark Townsend, Dakota's soft, face-framing layers are designed to fall forward naturally, even when the rest is swept up.

Though more polished, singer Sabrina Carpenter also wears a version of the Cowgirl Cut, recognisable by her signature fringe and soft, face-framing layers. She often opts for a bouncy blow-dry, giving the look a glossy, retro finish.

Alexa Chung wears a shorter, more undone take on the Cowgirl Cut. Her signature wispy fringe and collarbone-grazing layers give the style a relaxed, low-maintenance edge.

How do you achieve the cowgirl cut?

When it comes to achieving the cowgirl cut in-salon, Jordan explains it is all about laying the groundwork for it to be worn or grow out effortlessly. "My big thing when you start these haircuts is the length and shape balance," he explains. "If this is perfect, it will grow out great."

As for technique? "There's no one-size-fits-all," says Jordan, explaining many ways to achieve it. "I would start with the front, getting the desired face framing, whether this is more layers, bangs, or fringe, depending on the texture of the hair." It also comes down to how the hair naturally behaves, "if the hair has a slight kink or curl, it's a lot better to do it dry, as you can see how the hair sits naturally, but if the hair is super straight and coarse, I would always cut it wet."

How do you maintain the cowgirl cut?

Jordan explains that the cut naturally lends itself to being low-maintenance, as when cut correctly, it will naturally grow out with the same effortless, tousled charm. His main tip is to keep hair healthy and hydrated, and reduce frizz with treatments like the Hershesons Almost Everything Cream.

Jordan recommends reaching for a texturising spray like the Hershesons Air Dry Spray for that soft breezy finish. "Then, let hair dry on its own, or diffuse if it is naturally curly. You can always go back in with a curling wand to enhance any curls."

I am well aware that I take my naturally wavy hair for granted. Friends and family tell me as much all the time, but I've never quite known what to do with it. It dries differently almost every time I wash it, I have a very inconsistent wave pattern, and I never feel that it actually looks *good*. However, the new Living Proof Air Dry Styler might have just changed everything.

Tracking down the best wavy hair products has been a lifelong mission for me. If I let my hair dry naturally, I'm left with hair that just falls flat and has a mixture of straight and curly strands. Shampoo for curly hair and gels and mousses designed for coils are far too heavy for me, but not using any products renders my hair lifeless.

Wavy hair offerings have certainly come a long way in the last few years, with many of the best shampoos for wavy hair readily available. But by far the product that my hair responds to best is any type of lightweight cream, and Living Proof's newest launch is no exception. It's one of the best air-dry products on the market.

The best hair creams are brilliant if your hair isn't thick enough to tolerate anything too heavy like a gel, but it also needs some help to look its best texture-wise. The Living Proof Style Lab Air-Dry Styler has a lovely, lightweight lotion-y consistency - thicker than a milk but thinner than a conditioner—meaning it works wonders for lightweight waves.

This formula also works to keep frizz and flyaways at bay, so it's brilliant for warmer climates or humidity as well. Made with algae-based polymer and bentonite clay, it provides hold without any crunch or leftover oiliness that can give the hair a wet look.

My review of the Living Proof Style Lab Air-Dry Styler

Before trying the Living Proof Style Lab Air-Dry Styler, I was sceptical. I have tried similar products in the past that haven't done much for my waves, leaving them looking almost identical to how they do when I haven't applied anything. But much to my surprise, that was not the case with this.

It comes in a very handy (and sleek) squeezy tube, making it easy to get the right amount in the palm of your hand. I start with about a £1 coin-sized amount and rake it evenly through my brushed, damp hair. I then scrunch it in, creating waves with my hands. And that's the process done. To get my seal of approval, wavy hair products have to be very hassle-free, otherwise, I may as well be heat styling. This cream certainly passes that test.

What I love most about this formula is that it's light enough to use on the roots as well as my ends, and no, it doesn't make them greasy or shiny. It has a lovely subtle scent, the same as other Living Proof products, and it feels weightless on the hair. You'd never know that there was product on there, apart from the beautifully defined waves.

One thing I will mention is that it's worth giving the bottle a good shake before you use it. I have found it to separate a little in the tube when I haven't touched it for a while, but this is easily fixed with a bit of movement.

Despite my waves being fairly soft, the Air Dry Styler manages to capture and define them without making my hair look stringy or heavy. Most crucially, it is not at all crunchy and I can easily run my fingers through it without any tangling.

I definitely find my hair to be significantly less frizzy when I use this cream, and it holds my waves for a good few days even when I sleep with it down. Plus, it makes my hair feel soft and hydrated, which in turn seems to boost shine.

It's one of the first products I have found that makes me want to leave my hair to air dry, which not only saves me a lot of time and effort, but also means my hair will be healthier in the long run.

Shop more of my Living Proof favourites

While trying out a new makeup trend or switching up your favourite perfume are great ways to refresh your beauty routine for the new year, if you’re looking to try out a new look, I’d argue nothing has the power to totally transform quite like a hairstyle. If you’ve ever sat in your hairdresser's chair and opted for a big chop, a fresh colour or simply embraced a new way to style your strands, you’ll know what I’m talking about: that feeling as you step outside the salon transformed with a chic new hairstyle is pretty unmatched.

And, I’d argue, if you’re thinking about booking a hair appointment for just such a restyle, there’s no better time to do it. After all, January is a month of embracing change and setting your intentions for the new year so why not do that with a completely new look?

If you’re still unsure of what 2025 holds in store for you hair-wise, allow me to help. I’ve spoken to six of the biggest names in the hair world to find out which styles they not only think will be trending in 2025 but which cuts have the power to leave you feeling completely transformed (in the best way possible) when you step out of the salon. So, whether you’re looking for a way to get ahead on the biggest hair trends of 2025 or you’re simply looking for a way to refresh your look, keep scrolling to see what they have to say…

The best transformative hair styles for the new year

1. The Pixie

When Emma Stone debuted her dramatic pixie cut at the Golden Globes earlier this year, jaws dropped for all the right reasons and she firmly cemented the sharp short cut as the ultimate transformative style of 2025. “The hottest hairstyle of 2025 is the pixie cut,” Amelia Evans, Creative Director of Hare & Bone agreed, “and it’s perfect for anyone willing to have a drastic change.”

“The great thing about this look is it suits most face shapes and it can be bespoke to the client's features. For example by leaving the edges slightly longer, which adds a more delicate finish. The fringe length can also be determined by bone structure and what suits the face shape to help soften the look or give the cut an edge, if that’s what your client is looking for. Best of all, this style is low maintenance on a daily basis but it would need upkeep with a haircut every 6-8 weeks or so depending on hair texture and hair density.”

2. Hair Fillers

For those who want to embrace full, healthy-looking hair in 2025, hair stylist and hair extensions specialist Hadley Yates has the secret, “Adding some natural fullness back into your hair by using mini keratin bonds is a great way to transform your look,” he told me, “This can work on all hair lengths to give your hair a fresh, healthy and stronger look.”

“After a festive season of over-styling paired with dry hair from winter, hair fillers help to disguise wispy ends, giving you a healthy new year refresh without obvious extensions. Plus, hair fillers are super versatile when it comes to styling so you can use your dryer and brush for a polished look or keep it undone with a tong. Paired with K18 to rebuild the amino acid chains in your hair, nothing says new year like full, healthy hair."

3. Bella Bang

It’s official, the fringe is back and it’s a great way to transform your look without the need for a full restyle. When it comes to 2025’s trending fringe styles, hair stylist and Babyliss ambassador Syd Hayes thinks we’ll be looking back for inspiration, “I recently gave Bella Hadid a truly incredible fringe in Dubai, which was inspired by Jane Birkin rocking in the earliest days of her career in the ‘60s,” he told me. “The bangs hit an inch or so below her brows and nearly brush her eyelids while the rest of her hair was styled simply, with the lengths flowing down her shoulders in subtle bends.”

“This year fringes won’t be a thick, straight-across bang or a flirty, Sabrina Carpenter-style curtain bang, but a mix of the two,” Syd continued, “they’ll have a lighter, feathery approach in the centre of the forehead for texture and movement. For Bella’s bang, I used the BaByliss Air Wand to give more volume to her locks, and then pin curled large sections to give extra wave and movement.”

4. Embrace your natural texture

Whether you have curls, coils or a soft wave, leaning into your natural texture rather than styling with tongs and tools can be a great way to refresh your look. “My clients are rediscovering their hair’s natural texture and embracing the beauty of their curls and waves,” Ricky Walters, Hairstylist and Founder of Salon64 told me. “Many are surprised to learn their hair even has movement or curl after years of blow-drying and straightening has masked its true potential.”

“This year, clients are choosing to unlock their natural texture, educating themselves on the right products, techniques, and curly haircuts that enhance and celebrate their unique curls, allowing them to showcase their hair’s true character and beauty.”

5. Boy bobs

Proof that we’re still not over short cuts, bobs are set to stick around for 2025 and they make the perfect cut for those wanting a hair change this year. “Bobs have stolen the spotlight for a few years in a row now and the ‘Boy Bob’ the newest variation is set to gain momentum in 2025 with model and influencer Nara Smith providing the inspiration,” says Laura Elliott, head stylist and educator at Neäl & Wølf.

“The great thing about this style is that they can be worn tucked behind the ears for a sophisticated look or flicked out at the ends to give a 90s playful edge. Plus, this low-maintenance bob can also be embraced in its natural texture for an effortless look, ideal for those with naturally curly or wavy hair.”

6. Experiment with colour

If you’re not ready to try a new cut, colour is a great way to transform your look. "Already in 2025, I've seen my bright blondes transitioning into more blended bronde tones while the Dua Lipa-inspired cherry red remains a popular choice," said Oli Tracey, Hairstylist and Crazy Color Ambassador, "One of my all-time favourite colours is cyclamen, a powerhouse pink shade. It delivers a striking magenta hue on dark blonde base and lighter while, for darker bases, it creates a rich wine-red tone with a shiny pink glow that catches the light beautifully."

"What I love most about Crazy Color on natural hair is its low commitment. The colour gradually fades back to your natural shade allowing you to enjoy bold, vibrant tones without the long-term commitment. It's the perfect way to experiment with bright, playful colours and embrace change this year!"

I have been using heat on my hair for as long as I can remember. As a child, my mum would blow-dry my hair for me—I never liked its natural texture, so she would try and coax the mass of waves and curls into something sleeker. I think I must have been around 10 when I got my very own hair dryer—a shiny, bright purple ‘90s Remington number with a diffuser that I immediately binned. And as a teenager in the early noughties, I had every hot tool under the sun. From crimpers with changeable plates to steam straighteners, I was obsessed with anything that would transform my hair into a texture that didn’t resemble its natural state. So, as you can imagine, with over 25 years of heat styling, my hair isn’t in the happiest condition. The only saving grace being that I’ve never coloured it—I imagine it would break away entirely if I tried.

So, this year, at the grand old age of 35, I finally decided to try and dial down the amount of heat that I use on my hair for good and start embracing my natural texture. And that means I have spent a lot of time testing the best air-dry hair products. But before we get into my round-up of the best formulas that I’ve tried for defining texture, minimising frizz, and cutting down on styling time, I wanted to talk to some hair experts on the benefits of leaving hair to air dry and their tips for getting started.

What are the benefits of air drying your hair?

Before embarking on my personal air dry journey, I’d heard mixed things about whether air drying your hair was good or bad for it—so I wanted to get to the bottom of things. “Heat is one of the greatest causes of hair damage, so natural air drying can be a very good way of keeping your hair healthy,” explains Hair Stylist and Trend Forecaster Tom Smith. However, when your hair is wet it’s most prone to breakage so Tom suggests that people with very thick hair might not have the best results with air-drying as hair will remain wet for a very long time.

To prevent breakage, hair stylist Edward James, founder of Edward James Salons and The Hair Consult, suggests using hydrating leave-in products. “When your hair is wet it’s up to 50% water, so using products that seal in moisture and protect hair cuticles can maintain hair health and prevent damage,” he explains. “Avoid tying it up in any tight style to prevent breakage too.”

Is air drying best for certain hair types?

In good news, experts agree that air drying your hair can work for all hair types and textures—but you might need to adjust the products you use and the approach you take for the best results. “Very straight hair can be challenging to air dry in a flattering and polished way, while those with waves, curls, or stronger coils can all get great air drying results when prepped properly with the correct use of product,” says Tom.

For best results, Edward suggests that fine hair uses a texturising product like a sea salt sprays once the hair is dry to add body and texture and moisture-rich creams on curly and textured hair after washing for a more polished and styled look. If you have thick hair that takes a long time to dry? Tom suggests kickstarting the process with some heat. “Using a medium heat and a low speed with a diffuser attachment will increase warmth and airflow throughout your hair for a few minutes to help it dry faster without compromising that air-dried result,” explains Tom.

How can we prevent our hair looking ‘unstyled’ when air drying?

The one thing that I’ve never enjoyed about air drying my hair in the past is that it’s left me feeling like I’ve wasted a hair wash. Oftentimes I’d wash and condition it perfectly, then leave it to do its thing and be so disappointed with how dull, unruly and flat my hair looked. Air drying is a great way to minimise heat damage and maintain healthier hair, but it can sometimes leave your hair looking unruly or lacklustre,” agrees Edward. “To achieve a great finish for air drying, it's essential to use the right leave-in products that suit your hair type and help combat frizz.”

And it depends on your hair type as to how you should apply and style your hair when leaving it to dry naturally. “For straight and wavy hair textures brushing the product through will work best, if your hair is curly or coily using your hands or a wide tooth comb can be a better choice,” says Tom. “For curly and coily hair, after distributing the product, shake your hair out upside down and then scrunch it in place once you’re back up right. Any curls that aren’t sitting right should be gently twisted into place. If your hair is straight or wavy then tucking the hair behind your ears or lightly twisting some areas can give a nice, relaxed bend to the front of your hair.” However, Tom advises against touching your hair once it’s drying. “The more you do, the more prone to frizz it will be,” he explains.

The best air dry hair products

I enlisted the help of Marie Claire's Senior Beauty Editor, Katie Thomas, to put some of these products through their paces. As a mum of two small children, blow drying her hair just isn't an option any more. "I just don't have the time to blow dry my hair properly anymore," she says. "I'm hoping when they get older I will get a little more time to myself, until then I have become best friends with air dry products that make my naturally wavy hair sing."

1. JVN Complete Air Dry Cream

I will be forever indebted to Jonathan van Ness for the creation of this product which is truly a gamechanger when it comes to air drying. Particularly if, like me, you’ve always been distinctly underwhelmed by how your hair looks when left to its own devices. This lightweight cream is infused with hydrating hemi-squalane, moringa seed oil, chia and linseed extracts and it glides onto hair to leave it soft, smooth and healthy-looking. Even better though, not only does it leave my hair feeling good, but it leaves it looking good too. It adds natural definition to my waves and curls, bringing down some of the natural frizz and flyaways and enhancing my texture—but without adding crunch or stiffness. I simply work a small dollop through the mid-lengths and ends of my hair, then twist my strands into small sections—almost like I’m creating a ringlet—then leave it to dry. In less than an hour my hair will look shiny, tousled and effortlessly undone, but in an intentional way. I use this whenever I wash my hair in the morning and am consistently impressed by how much time and effort it saves me.

2. Hershesons Almost Everything Cream

While a lot of my beauty industry friends are equally obsessed with this air dry product, I don’t often see a lot of people talking about—but it’s incredible. A true multitasker, it’s effectively a styling cream that can be used on wet or dry hair to condition, define texture, minimise frizz, add shine or prep your hair for styling. Heck, it can even be used as a hair mask! There are some complicated-sounding ingredients in the formula which contribute to its efficacy, including behentrimonium chloride which prevents static, panthenol to improve elasticity, and hydrolized wheat protein to deeply hydrate, alongside oils to boost shine. It’s great for a quick boost of moisture before leaving hair to air dry, but I particularly like it on second day hair for enhancing texture and adding gloss.

3. Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother Leave In Treatment

Olaplex is renowned for their repairing hair treatments, but this leave-in cream is an underrated gem—and Tom swears by it as an air dry product for thicker hair. “Those with naturally dry, very curly, or coarse hair types should opt for products that take the form of creams or balms that will be better at controlling the texture, hydrating and minimising frizz,” he explains. And this one does it all. Infused with the brand’s patented Bond Building Technology, not only does it moisturise and smooth the appearance of the hair, but it strengthens the hair itself to prevent damage—a risk when leaving hair wet. Even better, once applied to damp hair it will actually last for up to 72 hours so you don’t need to worry about adding extra product to your hair the next day. Although it works perfectly well on dry hair so feel free to if you want to re-define any sections.

4. Oribe Hair Alchemy Heatless Styling Balm

This luxurious air dry cream is Edward’s pick for very fine or limp hair and it’s an absolute treat to use. Like all Oribe products, it smells incredible—you might be leaving your hair to dry naturally, but it will smell like you’ve just stepped out of a 5-star hair salon. As for the product itself, it takes an almost skincare approach to a hair formula—packed with botanical extracts that aim to strengthen hair, protect against breakage and basically look after more delicate hair types. The result is soft, moisturised hair with an abundance of gloss and shine. Plus, its enriched with a Style Retention Complex (made from chickpea extract and tomato fruit ferment no less) which actually helps to keep that shape in place all day, rather than it falling flat which can happen with finer hair textures.

5. Arkive Headcare The Good Calmer Cushioning Moisture Cream

"I genuinely don't know how I coped before this fantastic product. It has transformed the way that my hair falls after it's been left to dry naturally. After I've towel-dried my hair, I pump a 50p piece amount into my hands and work it through the lengths and ends. I see it as my hair's moisturiser, it feels creamy but not too rich that it ever leaves the hair feeling sticky. Once I've done that, I scrunch my hair upwards toward the nape of my neck, and my waves instantly take hold. Once dry, my waves move exactly how I want them to (with a slight bounce) and look exactly how I want them to (glossy and hydrated). Because it's so nourishing, my ends have never looked smoother. I rarely cut my hair, but this keeps my split ends from ever looking wispy or frayed. And if that wasn't enough, it costs less than £15 and smells like a niche fragrance." - Katie Thomas

6. Umberto Giannini Banana Coconut Air-Dry Cream

Through testing so many air dry hair products, I’ve noticed that it seems to be a category that the premium hair brands tend to dominate in—the options on the high street are few and far between at the moment. However, this one from Umberto Giannini costs less than a tenner and delivers the same amount of hydration, definition and hold as some of its more expensive counterparts. Packed with shea butter, pro-vitamin B5 and coconut oil, it’s a decadent, creamy texture that is definitely best suited to medium and thick hair types. However, if that’s you then you will love how it nourishes and enhances waves and curls without any styling time needed.

7. Curlsmith Weightless Air Dry Cream

If you hate the feeling of product in your hair or that crunch or stickiness that some curl products have then you’ll like this air dry product from Curlsmith. Free from silicones and overly heavy oils, it’s a lightweight lotion with one main aim—to soften and smooth hair. It uses castor oil to de-frizz curls and coils alongside hyaluronic acid to deliver hydration to dehydrated or porous hair. The result is smooth, bouncy, natural texture that looks and feels healthy. Plus, thanks to its lightweight texture silicone-free formula, it doesn’t ever feel heavy or weighing on the hair or scalp. In fact, curls will feel springy and energised.

8. OUAI Air Dry Foam

If, like me, your saved folder on Instagram is full of carefree Californian-inspired beach hairstyles or nonchalantly chic French women with curtain bangs on the streets of Paris then you’re going to want to get to know this air dry hair product. Jen Atkins has effectively bottled the essence of that easy-breezy, salty wave and transformed it into this air dry foam. Just scrunch a couple of pumps into towel-dried hair and the blend of hydrating plant proteins and panthenol get to work nourishing, strengthening and adding that covetable undone texture. The result is natural, soft waves with a soft and touchable texture. Chic to say the least.

9. Color Wow Dream Cocktail - Kale Infused

"When I'm in a good run with my hair schedule, I colour my hair every six weeks. As a result, my lengths and ends often feel quite straw-like, which, trust me, doesn't look good either. I'm never going to stop visiting my colourist (I love him and what his skill does to my self-confidence), so instead I avoid too much heat styling and instead use this, which is like a supplement shot for my hair. Formulated with sea kale, which is rich in amino acids and B vitamins, my hair looks and feels stronger." - Katie Thomas

There are so many different hair styles that look great on mature women, from trending bob cuts to sleek short styles. Yet, while we’re huge fans of these shorter length cuts, we’re also firm believers that there’s no need to say goodbye to long hair just because you’re getting older. It’s on these occasions that a medium length cut can be the perfect choice allowing you to retain your length while also looking incredibly chic as you age.

To find out just why a medium length cut is so great for women over 50, I spoke to Paul Percival, hairstylist and founder of Percy & Reed. “As you age you may notice your hair is a little thinner and needing more colour (unless you’re embracing the grey)," he says. "So what you don’t want is for it to be too long and for the length to be dragging it down or for it to feel thinner because it is longer."

“A medium length cut can work for all hair types too,” he continued, which makes it incredibly versatile. The key is to work with your hairstylist to ensure your style not only looks great but works with your hair type and texture too. “If you have really strong waves or curls, I personally feel the outline should be cut dry first, maybe even the whole haircut,” he suggests. “This is because you want the cut to work with the hair when it’s dry rather than cutting it wet and it bouncing up so you end up with a shorter hair cut than you wanted.”

Trending medium length hairstyles for women over 50

As mentioned, medium length cuts work for so many people and can be adapted to suit your hair type and style. If you’re wondering which medium length hairstyles are currently trending however Paul has three suggestions…

The long bob

“The bob is huge at the moment,” says Paul. “However I would say that a longer bob is more versatile. The good thing about having hair a little longer than a bob is that you can still put it up in a ponytail or create other textures like waves.”

The fringe

“Another trend that is massive at the moment is fringes,” says Paul. “Especially a soft fringe on all hair lengths including medium length hairstyles. This is because any wrinkles or lines on your forehead that might give away your age are camouflaged by the fringe (if that's what you want).” Plus, they also look incredibly chic offering an effortless feel.

The sharp cut

Structured medium length cuts look great on mature women as they scream confidence. "Shape is everything," says Paul. "Don’t settle for long hair that you tie back all the time." To achieve this look, ask for a medium length cut with neat, blunt ends for a uniform finish.

Medium hairstyles for women over 50

1. Face framing

While short bangs or a fringe can be high maintenance, Gabrielle Union’s long face framing pieces are a great compromise for medium length hair.

2. Add movement

For an effortless feel, Helen Mirren’s barely-there bends are a chic choice.

3. Sleek and side parted

A side part is ultra-flattering on medium length hair giving a softer finish than a centre parting.

4. Curly cut

Sandra Oh proves medium length hair is a great choice for those with a naturally curly texture.

5. Turned in ends

Christy Turlington’s turned in ends give her medium length cut a neat, but playful feel.

6. Try balayage

Delicate highlights can add interest and dimension to a medium length cut.

7. Blunt ends

For a healthy look, keep your ends ultra sharp with regular trims like Diane Keaton.

8. Soft waves

Angela Bassett opts for soft waves to give her medium length cut a glamorous look.

9. Add body

To make hair appear fuller and thicker, try styling with curls and waves like Kylie.

10. The fringe

Helena Christensen proves a fringe makes the perfect pairing to a medium length cut.

11. Centre part

Whether worn curly or straight, a centre parting gives a medium length cut a modern feel.

12. Keep it glossy

Healthy hair looks strong and shiny so care for it with hydrating products to keep it looking its best.

How to style medium length hairstyles at home

Medium length hairstyles come in many different forms so it’s useful to tailor your hair care to your hair type and the look you want to achieve. For products that can benefit a multitude of hair types Paul suggests…

Bob haircuts are huge news right now, with a new celebrity or influencer taking the chop on a weekly basis. But, while short cuts are most definitely trending, their popularity isn’t purely down to the aesthetics. Alongside being the perfect summer hairstyle to keep you cool on hot, sweaty days, a great bob can also do wonders for our hair, removing any damaged, dead ends and also making it appear fuller and thicker. It’s for this reason a bob haircut is the perfect choice for anyone with thin or fine hair who wants to refresh their look.   

“The bob has always been the go to style for women with fine hair,” says Neale Rodgers, hairstylist at Hershesons, “as the shorter, rigid shape really does create great structure for fine hair. In essence, the closer (shorter) you go to the hairline the more the hair pops to life.” Sounds pretty good right? With that in mind we quizzed Rodgers on the best bob haircuts for thin and fine hair, as well as his expert tips on how to style the short cut to get maximum volume from it. So, if you’re ready to take the chop, keep scrolling for what you need to know…

Trending bob haircuts for thin hair

As the bob haircut is one of the most versatile styles around, there are so many different options to choose from when going for the chop, from the un-done bob to 90s-inspired cuts. With that in mind, we quizzed Rodgers to find out which of the most popular bob styles he recommends for those with thin hair. Here’s his top picks:

The box bob

Hailey Bieber’s signature bob haircut, this one length style gives a neat, polished look. “This is when all the hair is cut to the same horizontal plane,” says Rodgers, “This will give maximum density but doesn’t contain any layering or texture to create movement.” 

The graduated bob

“This style of bob has taken a lot of flak in recent years,” says Rodgers, “but I would say that’s because most hairstylists don’t know how to do it properly. Get your angle of graduation correct and you will have the best bob. In essence what this bob does is gradually pushing the weight from the perimeter up into the shape, creating a much fuller shape.”

The cropped bob

“This bob takes on the guise of a grown-out pixie. It contains both graduation in the back to create fullness and layering throughout to create movement and softness,” says Rodgers. “Typically this shape works a treat with fine hair because it both contains the fine hair to create structure and fullness and the layers allow the shape to move and be playful, something that is great when the hair tends to sit flat”

How to style a bob to make it appear fuller

“Try blow drying or styling the hair in as many different directions as possible,” says Rodger. “This will lock the blowout/styling together like a zip and create the illusion of more volume. I also love using Hershesons Air Dry Spray to create a lived in, beachy texture with volume.” 

Bob haircuts for thin hair

1. The box bob

Hailey’s signature bob is one length all the way around which gives a fuller appearance. 

2. The shag bob

Naturally wavy hair will look fuller and thicker if you embrace the hair's texture with layers and soft movement.

3. The 90s bob

By rolling the ends of her hair inward, Kourtney’s stylist creates a bob with both body and shape.

4. The blunt bob

Proof that a bob can work on all hair types and textures, Gabrielle Union-Wade’s blunt bob is sleek and sophisticated.

5. The side-parted bob

To build volume at the root, dry your hair in a side parting, then switch it to the other side for serious lift. 

6. The wavy bob

A subtle wave will give thin hair body, no matter which bob length or style you go for. 

7. The curly crop

Julia Garner’s bob cleverly uses her curls to give the illusion of supersized volume. 

8. The half up-do

If your hair doesn’t reach ponytail length, try a half up style like this, to keep hair away from your face.

9. The pixie

If your hair always falls flat, lean into it with a slicked down style, like Sabrina Elba. 

10. The face-framing bob

Face-framing bangs are a great way to add movement to straight, thin hair.

11. The highlighted bob

Cleverly placed highlights or balayage can add depth to fine hair. Speak to your stylist to find out what style would be best for you. 

12. The flicked bob

Flicked out ends were a huge streetstyle trend this fashion month, and they’re a great way to add shape to a bob cut. 

We’re not even halfway through 2024 and, truly, I can’t keep up with the number of hair colour trends that have already emerged. One minute it’s all about pared-back caramelised tones and biscuit brunettes and the next it’s high-voltage glossed ink hair and expensive-looking Palm Beach blondes. To have even the smallest chance of keeping up, you’d have to be sat in a salon chair every week. Or, instead, you could take the more low-maintenance approach to hair colour and embrace your natural shade—greys and all.

“I have definitely noticed a shift in people embracing their natural texture and colour, with some clients opting for colour blocking involving a grey streak, so the grey actually appears to be bolder,” explains Jordanna Cobella, owner of Cobella Salons and Colour & Trend Ambassador for Wella Hair UK. “Greys aren’t often evenly distributed throughout the hair, so this approach is stylish and provides great contrast to the rest of the hair colour.”

And if you’re not entirely sure about embracing your greys? The secret might lie in the way you’re looking after them. “Grey hair can tend to be quite unruly in texture and it needs a lot of moisture,” says Jordanna. “It also has a tendency to discolour and sometimes appear yellow, so colour masks can be used at home to keep the yellow at bay and inject some ash into the grey.” Plus, switching up your parting can be a good way to show off more or less of your grey hairs—depending on how you’re feeling.

As someone that has never been all that bothered about colouring my hair myself—it’s naturally a really deep, dark brown and I’ve always liked the colour—it’s been interesting to note how I’ve been more drawn to the idea of a colour appointment as the number of grey hairs on my head increases. However, the women ahead are serving up grey hair inspiration in abundance, and these grey hairstyles might just have convinced me to stay away from the salon chair for just a little bit longer.

The 8 best grey hairstyles to inspire you

1. Grey wavy lob

A classic mid-length hairstyle looks great on every hair colour and texture, and Samantha Angelo's side-parted version looks effortlessly chic with her grey hair.

2. Grey micro bob

Grece Ghanem's grey hair always looks incredibly cool, but it's this ultra-short micro bob hairstyle that I'm currently obsessed with.

3. Ultra-long greys

Model JoAni Johnson shows off the multidimensional nature of grey hair with this ultra-long style that has face-framing bright tones at the front and deeper, stormier greys through the lengths. So striking.

4. Grey money piece hairstyle

Colour-blocking your greys or wearing them as face-framing highlights, like this money piece hairstyle, is a really playful way of embracing your changing hair colour and looks undeniably stylish.

5. Grey centre-parted ponytail

Proving that a low-maintenance approach to hair colour and style can still look incredibly polished, Petra van Bremen's sleek centre-parted ponytail is timeless and versatile.

6. Grey French bob

Bobs in all their iterations continue to dominate for 2024, but the French bob really embraces your hair's natural texture and therefore lends itself well to grey hair which tends to be a little more coarse. I love this look paired with the choppy fringe.

7. Half-up, half-down

Switching up your parting and experimenting with hair sectioning is a great way to play with showing off more of less of your grey hairs This half-up, half-down hairstyle highlights just how beautiful the colour is when it catches the light.

8. Diffused grey curls

I love how soft and pretty this grey hairstyle is. Leave your hair to air dry to really let its natural texture shine.

The best products to care for your grey hairstyle

From the rise of the French bob to the return of their namesake braid, it’s pretty obvious that French women lead the way when it comes to hair trends. And it’s no wonder why—the epitome of chicness, French women have long set the bar for effortlessly cool style from top to toe. Don’t believe me? Just check out Fashion Editor Penny’s edit of the best pieces French women are buying right now. When it comes to hair however, the rule still applies, as chic French-girl inspired hair styles are dotted throughout many a Pinterest board or Instagram Saved page (mine included). 

So, what makes them so good? The secret is in the styling. While, of course, French women’s hair can range across many different lengths, hair types and colours, most of the looks we typify as classic French-inspired hairstyles have one thing in common: they exude a sense of understated glamour.

To find out how they do it, I went straight to the experts, and by that I mean French women themselves of course, to find out their favourite hairstyles, how they create them and just how we can bring a little French glamour to our own beauty looks. Here’s what they had to say…

1. The messy bun

Paris-based creator Kenza Sadoun El Glaoui swears by a chic messy bun and a relaxed approach to styling, “French women often like hairstyles that appear casual and natural, so avoid looks that are too perfectly styled," she says. "I don't like overly sophisticated hairstyles in everyday life as I don't feel like myself. While I don't do much hair styling, I do spend a lot of time in the bathroom doing oil baths and hair masks."

"On the other hand, I like to put my hair up in a bun that looks unkempt, so that it stays natural, and sometimes I add a clip to accessorise. I don't use any tools other than the Dyson Airwrap with different [attachments]. ”

To create her tousled bun, Kenza twists her hair into a loose up-do, securing it with a band or claw clips. She leaves a few strands loose around her face, curling these with the Dyson Airwrap so they frame her face.

Her top tip: "Keep in mind that less is sometimes more. Don't overload your hair with products and let its natural texture shine." The result? A chic up-do with instant French charm.

2. The centre part

While Gen Z may have outlawed the side parting in recent years, stylish French women have been owning the sleek, centre-parted look for so much longer. For fashion and beauty influencer Carrole Sagba, it’s her go-to look which she re-works across many different hair styles. “I tend to mix my two cultures, sometimes you will see me with African braids or straightened hair but always with a middle parting. I've had this hairstyle for a very long time, and I love its minimalist appearance,” she says

Once again, rather than focusing on lots of styling products, it’s caring for her hair that is key. “From a young age I was taught to take care of my hair,” she told me “This is why I use castor oil two to three times a week to properly nourish my hair.”

Proof that the effortless French look can work across all hair types and styles, Carrole told me, “In France being effortlessly chic goes from clothing to hairstyles. There is almost no extravagance. So, regardless of hair texture, we favour simple and natural hairstyles for an elegant result.”

3. The slicked side part

Proof that you can channel French elegance no matter your hair length, model and mum of three, Sophie, swears by a slicked side-parted style. “I would say French style is effortless with a lot of effort behind it, actually, and the best way to do it is through our hair, not trying too hard but still being put together,” she told me.

“For me, my hairstyle needs to be quick, as balancing mum life with my professional life takes time. When I have this time for myself I’m looking for effective products that don’t involve lots of time.”

“For a glamorous look, what works the best for me is a simple, slick side part, as it elevates the look without taking the focus off the outfit. I simply put some hair gel on my wet hair and ,once I'm happy with the results, I lock it in with some hairspray.”

4. Elevated texture

One thing all the influencers and content creators I’ve spoken to have agreed on is that, among French women, the way to get the most out of your hair is to elevate and embrace its natural texture, whether it’s straight, curly or somewhere in between. For stylist Lucie Mahé that means leaning into her naturally straight hair and giving it a polished look. 

“I have straight hair so I often respect its nature and just blow-dry it at home to get it nice and straight,” she told me, “I think hair au naturel is very beautiful. If you have curly hair, take care of your curls and style them well. If your hair is straight, accentuate its straightness. The French girl arranges her hair, but not too much: less is more!”

When it comes to this look, once again, hair health is key. “I've always taken care of my hair, but for years I did too much balayage which has made it dry and very brittle,” she says. “I take dietary supplements. JS Health Hair+Energy and Collagen Vital are great for hair growth. For maintenance, I wash my hair every three days, and I use treatments every time!”

5. The French bob

I couldn’t compile a list of the most stylish french hairstyles without including the iconic French bob. For Franny Mozemba it’s her go-to style, characterised by its short length and minimal styling.

“It’s my favourite hairstyle that I have worn for years now,” she told me, “[When it comes to styling], I don't really have a specific approach, it depends on my moods. In general, it is often characterised by an elegant simplicity, so I use products that give me quick results without needing to touch up anything during the day.”

“I often wear natural hair weaves and wigs, and here is my simple routine that I do for my own 4c hair and protective styles: To style my cut, I opt for an easy-to-maintain look. I use Rudolph Care Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner for my own dry, brittle hair, as well as to maintain my natural wigs. Then, I apply a texturising mist to give my cut a little volume. Currently I use a product from Rouje. It's really excellent if you have fine hair.”

Her advice for those who want to adopt a more French approach to haircare? “Favour quality over quantity, but above all listen to your [hair's] needs, opting for what allows you to save time to have that je ne sais quoi!” 

While I’m a big fan of summer and the sunny weather that comes with it, there’s no denying it can play havoc with our beauty routines. From foundation that struggles to stay put to mascara that smudges as soon as you put it on, high temperatures and all that comes with it can require not only re-thinking which products work best for this time of year but also switching up your beauty looks all together. 

One area that I find myself re-thinking everything I thought I knew the minute the sun makes an appearance is my hair, as while in the winter I’m happy to reach for the blow dryer to achieve that perfect bouncy blowout or spend time creating a sleek, straight style, in the summer fuss-free hair is my go-to. After all, nobody wants to get hot and sticky creating the perfect look only to find the humidity takes hold the minute you step outside or you’re left hot and sweaty with your hair stuck to your back (yep, I know gross but we’ve all been there). 

With that in mind, I’ve made it my mission to find the best fuss-free hairstyles that are perfect for wearing on hot summer days, in preparation for when the warm weather finally rolls around.

Ready to see the best fuss-free hairstyles to save to your summer hair inspo board? Just keep scrolling… 

1. Undone waves

Easy-breezy waves emerge as a popular summer hairstyle every year, and for good reason—they’re so easy to recreate. But this year’s are slightly less structured than previous summers. Think the kind of wave that looks as if you’ve just woken up after a nap in the summer sun. If you’re already blessed with natural texture then adding a salt spray or air-dry cream to damp strands will help you amp up that just back from the beach texture, while those with naturally straight hair can enlist the help of a mermaid waver to add a slightly more structured S-shape.

2. The low bun

Sleek, sophisticated and incredibly low-maintenance, the low bun is the perfect warm weather hairstyle if you want to look put together without working up a sweat. Pull your hair into a low ponytail before twisting the strand around the band and securing with bobby pins. 

3. The hydro bob

A new bob trend arises everyday at the moment but this one offers much more than just style. With a glossy, wet look finish, the hydro bob works with your hair’s natural texture, to create a look that will hold up no matter how hot and sweaty you may get.

4. The headband

Remember those stretchy headbands you couldn’t stop wearing in the 00’s? Well they’re back and they’re a smart option if you’re prone to greasy roots or unwanted flyways. 

5. The puff

Combining a sleek high ponytail with juicy, hydrated curls or coils, the puff will keep you cool on hot days. For a sleek, smooth finish that lasts all day, apply a gel at the roots before using a bristle brush to pull hair tight and secure.

6. The claw clip

If you want to create a low-maintenance up-do, keep a claw clip handy at all times. There are hundreds of different looks you can create, from easy styles like this simply twist to more complicated knots and chignons. No hair bands necessary. 

7. The half-up do

Thick-haired girls, if you’re looking for a way to relieve the weight of your hair on a hot summers day, try this clever claw clip trick. 

8. The pineapple

I love the addition of a fun printed scarf to take this curly high ponytail to the next level. Opt for a silk fabric to keep your strands smooth and prevent any unwanted frizz that may arise. 

9. The low pony

Bow stacking is a huge hair trend this season, so why not incorporate it into a chic low-pony style for a stylish look. 

10. Braids

Curly and Afro-hair girls, braids will be your best friend come summer. Protecting your strands from damage and helping retain length, braids not only look great but they'll keep your hair at its best too.

11. Loose plait

I’m obsessed with effortless casual plaits right now and they’re a great option if you want to keep overheating to a minimum. Whether you opt for one, two, or even more, the key to the look is to not pull the plait too tight—you want to keep it feeling relaxed and effortless, rather than the kind of formal plait you would have worn for your primary school class photo.

The best products for styling summer hairstyles

Plus, I’ve also found a few helpful products that will keep your hair looking its best, no matter how hot it gets.

While there are so many different hair trends that look great on older women and definitely no hard and fast rules about what styles you should or shouldn't be wearing, there’s something about a stylish bob hairstyle that just works as we get older. 

Looking chic yet also offering ease and manageability, a great short haircut, such as a bob, is sure to not only look fabulous but make caring for your hair a breeze too. Plus, as bobs are currently having a moment for all ages, there are so many different styles to choose from. From the effortless french bob to sleek, blunt styles, there really is a bob to suit everyone right now.

But, with so many bob hairstyles currently trending, If you’re heading to the salon to make the big chop sometime soon, you’re most likely wondering which one to go for. So, to make it a little easier, I quizzed Rachel Todisco, hairdresser and technical educator at Aveda, to find out the best bob hairstyles for women over 50, as well as the bob trends she's predicting for the season ahead.

“The bob cut can be a great option for those over 50,” says Todisco. “Especially if they feel like they want to add more shape around their face and accentuate any features they would like to showcase, for example cheekbones or jawline. Some guests also feel, as they get older, their hair may become a little thinner, therefore a bob is a great way to keep the hair thicker and fuller.”

Trending bob haircuts for women over 50

One of the great things about a bob hairstyle is its versatility as there really is no one style that suits all when it comes to the short cut. When opting for the big chop, it’s important to go for a style you feel comfortable with and so don't feel that you have to follow trends, however, if you do want someone more fashion forward, these are Rachel’s top bob cuts for the new season:

The blunt bob

Featuring a sharp, straight end the blunt bob feels “modern and chic”, says Todisco. “It works well on straighter hair textures unless the guest is happy to take time to style it each morning.”

The 90s bob

The 90s bob is big on movement with soft layers and added volume. “It’s all about throwing it back to the 90s for inspiration to create a swishy, full bob,” says Todisco. “It’s super versatile for all face shapes as you can adjust the length to suit the person's needs and taste.” 

The Italian bob

“The Italian bob is beautiful on wavy and curly textures as it features soft layers that frame the face creating more volume and movement. It’s beautiful for creating a more polished look that still has body and movement.”

How to style a bob at home

“Products are everything when maintaining and looking after a bob at home, whether it’s straight, wavy or curly,” says Todisco. While it’s useful to tailor your products to your hair type, these all-rounders are perfect for having on any dressing table to keep your bob looking it's best.

Bob haircuts for women over 50

1. The sleek lob

Sitting between a bob and shoulder-length cut, Jennifer Anniston’s lob is great for anyone who's nervous about the big chop. 

2. The timeless bob

The most iconic of all bobs, Anna Wintour has made this style her trademark proving just how timeless a great bob can be. 

3. The Hollywood bob

For a glamorous take on the bob, mirror Jane Fonda’s soft waves and face-framing bangs.

4. The curly crop

Big on volume, Angela Basset’s side parted crop is ideal for curly and Afro hair types.

5. The full fringe

There’s no need to choose between a bob or a fringe with a sleek, modern look like Naomi’s.

6. The tousled bob

Ideal for wavy hair types, the best tousled bobs work with your hair’s natural texture to create a low-maintenance style.

7. Beachy bends

Beachy waves are totally bob friendly and offer a more modern look than traditional curls. 

8. Flicky ends

Turned out ends were a huge trend on all hair lengths this fashion month, and Gabrielle Union-Wade proves here that it’s the perfect look for a chin-grazing bob. 

9. The French bob

The ultimate It-girl bob, the French bob has an un-done feel, like Sigourney's, with natural-looking bend and movement. 

10. Sleek side part

Combining a sharp side part, chin-grazing length and sleek finish, Taraji P Henson’s bob screams red carpet glamour.

11. Chic center parting

While most opt for a side parting when styling their bob, Viola Davis’ chic centre-parted style is a great option, too.

12. Face-framing bangs

Bangs are ideal for softening a blunt bob like Jodie Fosters. When styling, wrap the ends of your bangs towards your face to create a delicate wave. 

When it comes to all things wedding, I'm not a traditionalist. For one, I'm not having a 'proper' wedding but rather a low-key, special day at a registry office. What I am going traditional on, though, is making sure my glam is top-tier. I am a beauty editor; it's in my nature. You can bet I'm getting organised with my wedding hairstyle, make-up, perfume, and nails.

I will start with what I consider the hardest to nail: my wedding day hairstyle. I've trawled through Pinterest, magazines and Instagram for ideas, saving as I go. Because to me while the dress can turn heads the hair really crowns the look.

Leah Hill Fenty Hair Educator gives her wedding hair golden rule; "On your wedding it’s SO important to still feel you! So often people make the mistake of trying to look completely different, but it’s what you feel comfortable with that will make you feel amazing on the day!" Hill recommends Fenty's The Comeback Kid for hair health and for keeping any style in place.

For those with curly or textured hair, don't feel as if you have to straighten your hair for your big day, Hill says "There’s so many styles and products now that work amazingly well to help you look and feel your best without needing to change your natural texture too much! Equally, if you’re feeling more adventurous and want to wear a hairstyle that’s different, go for that too!"

Prepping your hair is the foundation of any hairstyle, so start working on your hair health well in advance. Hill says to start incorporating "conditioning treatments or more regular trims. The condition, length, and style will all play a huge part in what’s possible to achieve on the day!"

But if you're feeling a little stuck and looking for the ultimate "hairspo", fret not, we're here to lend a helping hand, to show you everything from incredibly polished to undone chic. And don't just limit these styles to weddings; they're perfect for special occasions or to spruce up your personal style.

1. Sleek bun

Without a doubt, the sleek bun is one of the most popular hairstyles for 2024 weddings. It is suitable for all hair types (as it can be adapted to suit) and can be used with or without accessorises. This style focuses on being neat and polished when styled without any accessories—great if your dress has lots of detailing and you don't want to draw attention away from it. For this look, you'll want to smooth down those flyaways and add some shine spray.

2. Embrace flowers 

If your wedding day flowers are really important to you, you might want to incorporate them into your hairstyle, too. This is an absolutely beautiful example of that without it looking like the flowers are taking attention away from the beautiful dress, make-up and earrings. If you want to incorporate this but want it a little more low-key, just add fewer flowers or play around with colours to suit your outfit and hair colour.

3. Undone bob

Polished not your vibe? Try a chic undone bob like this one. This one focuses on effortless-looking waves that show off the beautiful highlights and finishes with a jewelled headband complementing the dress.

4. Jewelled bow, half-up

Bows are in and there's nothing I love more than a jewelled bow like this. This is such an easy way to add some glamour to an otherwise very simplistic style, like this half-up look. If you don't want something this eye-catching for your ceremony, consider adding a bow for your reception to change up the look half way through the day.

5. Tucked waves 

Another big trend this year is tucked waves; securing the hair behind the ears to create a strong parting and letting the hair behind flow in front. This style, in particular, has been elevated even more with the addition of pearl gems. You can get these on Amazon, and they're a lot of fun to play around with.

6. Mesh bow up-do

Okay, but why have I never thought about using mesh as a hair accessory? This is such a beautiful, undone but elegant look, and it is great if you don't want to spend a ton on accessories. You might want to trial a bunch of different shades to best suit your hair colour.

7. Old Hollywood Waves 

I'll never tire of old Hollywood waves as a classic and beautiful wedding hairstyle. No matter your length of hair, this is always totally show-stopping. Be sure to stock up on that hairspray to make sure it stays put all day and night long.

8. Low ponytail

A low pony is also up there with absolute favourite wedding hairstyles. This one is extra voluminous thanks to the use of a curling wand and sleek parting. Plus, wrapping hair around the hair band makes it look extra polished. If you wanted to jazz it up a little, you could add a hair accessory right on the headband, or some gems along the waves.

9. Face-framed up-do

A messy up-do with thick, face-framing pieces always looks beautiful. This is a look you can tailor completely to your preferences and hair type. For example, you could try these face framers with a sleek top knot, emphasise curls with a voluminous up-do, or create a slicked-back ponytail. It's such a great, versatile look.

10. Intricate braid

I cannot get enough of intricate plaits when it comes to wedding styles. There are endless ways to incorporate a plait or braid into your hairstyle, including this mermaid style. It's incredibly intricate as it is, but you might also choose to add some further detailing like these dainty pearls.

11. Long waves 

If you want to keep it classic then long, loose waves are always a safe (and stunning) bet for your wedding day hair. Keep things in place with lots of flexible hold hairspray and a good, quality pair of curling tongs.

12. Low-key bun

Introducing the ultimate cool-girl wedding hairstyle—beautiful in its seeming effortlessness. (Although we always know it takes a lot of skill to appear effortless!) For this one, you'll need a talented hairstylist (or tons of patience and a friend to help) and even more hair grips. Plus, some texture hairspray to finish the look off.

13. Black bow 

Want to try out the bow stacking trend but not keen on white? Try a black, jewelled bow to finish off your look. This one feels a little more special than your regular black bow if that's something you wear day-to-day. You could style this how they have here with a half-up look, or incorporate it into a plait or ponytail.

14. Cascading natural curls

Lots of brides forgo their natural curls in favour of straight hair, but embracing your natural curls is a way of being authentically you. Frame your face with soft curls, Whether your hair is up or in a half-up look, it’s the perfect way to frame your face with soft curls—ensuring that you’re using a curl cream keep them in place all day long.

As we all know, celebrities love to change their hair—and right now, the relaxed bob (or the ‘rob’) is everywhere. Celebrities have the luxury of being able to go for long styles, then back to bobs again, and with seemingly constant colour changes (we’re loving the copper-red hair trend right now). Truthfully, it’s hard to keep up. But, if you’re looking for a new hairstyle that is easy to manage as the weather warms up, the relaxed bob could be the trend for you.

There’s no denying that long hair has been popularised again in 2022, but we have to question whether short hairstyles ever really go out of fashion—particularly when styles like the lob (that’s long bob) are so timeless.

“The relaxed bob is a bob that is just longer than the jaw line that gives a beautiful softness around the face and can be tailored to suit individual hair types and textures,” says Cos Sakkas, Global Creative Director of Toni & Guy.

The best thing about the relaxed bob it's that it comes with versatility. It can be styled with wavy hair, straight hair, curly hair, layered hair, or blunt hair. You can, in theory, just roll out of bed, give it a shake, and go. If 2023 is teaching us anything, it’s to not be afraid of the scissors.

You can try a relaxed bob hairstyle on the longer side or the shorter side—there’s a style for everyone. Oh, and the relaxed bob looks great in every colour too. It can be elegantly dressed up for classier occasions, but also requires little attention for when you need to rush out the door.

“If you have straight hair, like Hailey Bieber, a great way of adding texture to the style is by applying a salt spray, like label.m Sea Salt Spray to freshly washed hair, blast in or let air dry then scrunch in a caring mist, like label.m Healthy Hair Mist, for a lived in, luxe feeling," adds Sakkas.

When it comes to curly styles, the relaxed bob is also a great option—although it will likely need a few more steps. "Zendaya’s relaxed bob might need some extra maintenance, because of her natural hair texture. The key to getting your curls looking and feeling the best they can is to use the right moisturising products in the correct amount and not overloading—anything too heavy will weigh the curls down. Make sure to match the cut to the curl—certain cuts will help to hold the shape of the curl," he says.

So, if the idea of a low-maintenance, relaxed bob is what you’ve been searching for, here's all the celeb inspo you absolutely need to show your hairdresser...

1. Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier's face-framing relaxed bob highlights her facial features expertly—it's goals.

2. Hailey Bieber

Hailey Bieber has owned the relaxed bob for a while now and we don’t blame her—it’s simple, yet so effective. 

3. Margot Robbie

Margot Robbie’s elegant blonde take on the relaxed bob is a true representation of finer hair being no exception to pulling off this hairstyle. 

4. Zendaya

Thick, voluminous and with ashy blonde tones—Zendaya is making the relaxed bob a statement look, and we love to see it. 

5. Selena Gomez

Selena looks beyond stunning with this short curly take on the relaxed bob. It’s both chic and classic—exactly what we needed to see for our inspiration gallery.

6. Kourtney Kardashian

Kourtney Kardashian has been loving a short bob for some time now. Although she often switches between blonde and dark, the relaxed bob always remains—even when it's poker-straight and sleek.

7. Hunter Schafer

Euphoria star Hunter Schafer absolutely nails the relaxed bob look. Short, blunt but also effortlessly relaxed, it's perfection.

8. Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett demonstrates the perfect curly relaxed bob. With a side part and, of course, volume, we love everything about this look. 

9. Lili Reinhart

Lili Reinhart’s beach-waved bob is the chicest look for spring. Plus, if you have straight or wavy hair, it can easily be achieved with your hair straighteners at home.

10. Lucy Boynton

Copper coloured, relaxed and complete with curtain bangs, this bob is surely Lucy Boynton’s way of telling us to steal her look this spring.

11. Lizzo

Lizzo’s wet-look curls are the perfect addition to dress up her relaxed bob. Lizzo wore this look to perform at the Grammy's earlier this year, and it's about damn time—we’re obsessed!

12. Brie Larson

This curly blonde look from Brie Larson is the relaxed bob inspo we didn't know we needed—it's effortless-looking perfection.

13. Greta Lee

Greta Lee’s super-short, rounded bob is the sleek, yet casually stylish, look that will definitely ensure you’re on trend this spring. 

14. Carey Mulligan

Carey Mulligan is schooling us all in how to execute the ultimate relaxed bob.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the bob hairstyle is the most versatile style and reigning champion of the most popular hair trend of all time. However, there’s one style that might just trump it: the lob. Just what the name suggests, it’s a long, grown-out bob, which comes in so many variations. And if Fashion Week street style and red carpet looks are anything to go by, the lob is set to be one of the the biggest hair trends for spring 2025.

Just like that favourite item of clothing of yours that can be dressed up or down, a lob can be styled for special occasions but is well-behaved enough that it’ll still look great on those lazy hair days — all you need is the right haircut and tools in your hair kit. 

Ahead, we’ve called in the experts to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know about the lob, from care at home to types of lobs and how to style them. 

What is a lob?

A lob is what it says on the tin; it’s essentially a long bob. “A bob that is past the shoulder is a lob, and it can have many different shapes,” says Eugene Smith, senior stylist at John Frieda Salon in Mayfair. You can have it purposefully cut to be slightly longer than a typical bob (which sits above the shoulders), or you can specifically ask your hairdresser for a longer cut. They can help guide you on a certain style and the length that suits your hair type most. 

What types of lob are there?

The great news is that there are tons of types of lobs to suit your preference, face shape, hair texture and styling ability (we see you lazy stylers and we are one of them). From blunt lobs, to curly lobs, and even mullet-inspired lobs, there’s something for everyone. It’s perfect for hair commitment-phobes. 

“The lob looks great with either blunt or choppy ends and is styled a variety of ways, from wavy to bone straight. Curly-haired girls, be sure to insist that weight is taken out of the bottom if you want to avoid a triangle shape,” explains Smith. 

How do you care for a lob?

Just like any other hairstyle, you’ve got to care for it to keep it in tip top condition. We recommend using a shampoo and conditioner for your hair type, then applying a serum to keep those ends looking fresh, as well as a heat protector before moving into heat styling using straighteners or a curling wand. Or, if heat styling isn’t your thing, there are plenty of ways to do heatless curls or stay au natural—read on to see all of our top product recommendations. 

Fancy trying or updating your long bob? Keep scrolling for the all the celebs who aced the look for some serious lob-spiration. 

1. Milly Alcock's 90's lob hairstyle

We love everything about Milly Alcock's lob from the Golden Globes. From the ombre blonde ends to the face framing strands. But just wait until you see the glam at the back. Now that is how you do a half-up hairstyle. 

2. Jenna Ortega's shaggy lob hairstyle

The internet went wild when Jenna Ortega ditched her classic Wednesday braids and fringe hairstyle for a lob. And we can see why. Her shaggy wolf cut with a subtle wave is simply stunning. 

3. Lily James's side-swept lob hairstyle

Volume is trending this year and, when paired with a long bob, it's perfection. The side part and softly curled ends proves a classic way of styling a lob that would inspire any one to go for the big chop.

4. Angela Bassetts's Hollywood lob hairstyle

The volume of this 'do speaks for itself. If we ever thought a bob was boring then Bassett has proved us all wrong. This is the hairstlye you want to accept a Golden Globe with.

5. Zendaya's side-swept lob

Zendaya's hair has been all team MC beauty can talk about recently. With a deep side parting and rounded volume, it's an absolute delight.

6. Nicola Coughlan's relaxed lob hairstyle

Forget Nicola Coughlan being Lady Whistledown, in our eyes she's lady of the modern lob; she knows how to keep things fresh, subtly switching up the style and hue. This look is where you can add a bit of texturising spray to give it that messy-chic feel. 

7. Ciara's curly lob hairstyle 

We adore Ciara's curly lob styled in a middle parting and added honey-hued money pieces to make the face-frame pop. 

8. Phoebe Bridgers's grey-lavender lob hairstyle 

Loose waves, grey-lavender hue, and a middle parting... Phoebe Bridgers just knows how to wear a lob. 

9. Jourdan Dunn's blunt lob hairstyle 

Leave it to Jourdan Dunn to teach us how to ace this beautiful sleek, smooth, blunt lob hairstyle. For this look, you'll want to finish it off with a super lightweight oil to keep flyaways at bay. 

10. Amandla Stenberg's braided lob hairstyle 

Amandla Stenberg is often switching up their hair, and this blonde, braided lob look is one of our favourites. 

11. Selena Gomez's curved lob hairstyle 

Just because your lob is sleek, it doesn't mean it's got to be pin-straight. Selena Gomez wears hers in a curved style, which is achieved using your hair straighteners to add volume to the body of the style. 

12. Viola Davis's fringe lob hairstyle 

Adding a fringe, like Viola Davis here, can transform a lob, and we love this sleek, blunt cut.

13. Margot Robbie's beach wave hairstyle 

After seeing Margot Robbie's relaxed beach wave lob, we're taking notes. Paul Percival, founder of Percy & Reed recommends taking the Babyliss Wave Secret Air to add in waves but ensuring to pull down each curled section so that it cools into a loose wave versus a tight curl. 

14. Indya Moore's curly lob hairstyle 

Indya Moore rocks her natural curls and a loose (but full) fringe, and it makes for the ultimate lob hairstyle. 

15. Laverne Cox's relaxed wave lob hairstyle 

Deep side parting? Tick. Relaxed waves? Tick. Dark-rooted ash blonde? Tick. Laverne Cox's lob hairstyle is a yes from us. 

16. Gal Gadot's side parting lob hairstyle 

Gal Gadot was ahead of this yearh's lob trend with this loose Hollywood waves hairstyle, which she wore in a deep side parting, tucked behind her ear. To get this look at home, try using the Cloud Nine Curling Wand and some flexible hold hairspray. 

17. Maisie Williams's mullet lob hairstyle  

Fancy a lob and a mullet/shag hybrid? Maisie Williams showed us how to get exactly that. Ask your stylist for plenty of layers through the lengths and a piece-y full fringe. 

18. Regina King's rounded lob hairstyle

Okay, so this could fall into bob territory but definitely could work as a shorter lob, too. Regina King's side-parted, rounded style is definitely one to keep saved for inspo.  

19. Lucy Boynton's curled lob hairstyle 

With a slightly more prominent wave, but still in-keeping with that relaxed "cool girl" look, Lucy Boynton's lob with its lived-in buttery blonde hue is goals.

20. Kerry Washington's defined curl lob hairstyle 

Full of body and volume, Kerry Washington's lob is one of our favourites (and she's worn many incredible hairstyles over the years). If you find your curls needing a little defining before a big day (or night) try Kérastase Curl Manifesto Refresh Absolu Spray to refresh and define without weighing your lengths down. 

21. Lily Aldridge's wet-look lob hairstyles

The wet-look lob is a style that transitions surprisingly well from the red carpet to real life. Lily Aldridge's slick, centre-parted look would be just as chic as a holiday hairstyle as it would at a summer wedding.

Scroll on to see expert-recommended products to style a lob... 

Despite the endless images and videos on your TikTok and Instagram feeds showcasing all of the best hair trends, it’s normal to find yourself stuck in a hair rut. You can have the best curling wand at your fingertips—but sometimes it's the low-maintenance hairstyles that come out on top.

Let's be clear, there’s nothing wrong with doing the same hairstyle daily (we all love a quick, messy ponytail moment), we do understand that sometimes you want to jazz things up a little —it might even be your 2023 resolution to try more beauty looks. That’s where we come in. With the help of a top stylist, we’ve compiled a bunch of easy hairstyles you can try out at home. 

The wonderful news is that hairstylists don’t expect you to be spending hours on your hair every morning if you don’t want to. They understand that we’re all just trying to get out the door looking somewhat presentable (and the same goes for hairstylists themselves!) as quick as possible. “It’s all about confidence and technique,” says hairstylist Lewis Pallett.  

No matter your hair length or type, there’s a style to suit. From “buns, twists, ponytails, half-up half, messy knots, and even using accessories,” there are plenty of ways to achieve different looks without needing to be a hair expert or waking up an hour earlier to do them. 

We’ve rounded up some of the very best easy hairstyles, taking inspiration from our favourite celebrities and folk on Instagram. 

1. Bubble braid

Trust us, this one looks harder to master than it actually is. Although, we can't guarantee it's going to be as good as Rio Sreedharan's version on Kerry Washington. The trick is gently teasing your ponytail if you need extra volume, then using lots of hair brands (you can play around with this and go multi-coloured or embellished) to separate each section, being sure to pull out the hair in between the bands to create those bubble shapes, and finishing off with a spritz of hairspray. 

2. Teeny tiny plaits

Short on time but want to add a little something to your laid-back style? Add some teeny tiny plaits throughout the front and you're done. Simple as that.

3. Relaxed claw clip 

TikTok declares claw clips are back and we lazy hairstylers are thrilled. Simply get a patterned clip of your choice, twist and clip up. 

4. Half-up half-down hairstyle 

An oldie but a goldie is the half-up hairstyle. Perfect if your hair is a little on the greasy side but you want to keep it down and flowing without the hassle of hopping in the shower. Spritz some dry shampoo into your roots, pull the front section of hair out of your face (you can keep a few wispy tendrils down) and brush out your lengths to smooth them or define your curls with some refresh spray. 

5. Bow-embellished ponytail 

Perhaps the easiest way to jazz up a ponytail in literal seconds is by adding a bow. The more embellished the bow, the more your look will stand out. 

6. Side parting 

Not feeling any embellishments or accessories? Refresh your curls and put them into a side parting (or middle parting if you often wear a side) and you might be surprised how much it changes your overall look. 

7. Colourful hair grips 

Pallett says one of the easiest ways to switch up your regular style is by adding colourful hair grips. He recommends popping them in, not overthinking it and rocking the vibrancy. 

8. Wet-look style 

If you've got short hair, consider using a firm-hold gel to create a beautiful wet-look style like Ella Balinska's here.  

9. Loose scrunchie ponytail 

Always wear your hair in a tight ponytail? Maybe switching things up for you is as simple as loosening it up and popping a black scrunchie in it. The result is simple and beautiful. 

10. Jewelled hairband 

If you often wear your hair down but are a little bored of its simplicity, add in a hairband. There are so many to choose from, including velvet, plain black, pearl-studded, or wonderfully jewel-embellished like this one. 

11. The awkward pony 

Although hairstylist Zoë Irwin calls this her awkward ponytail, there's nothing awkward about it if you ask us. The idea is that you randomly wrap a big coloured hair band (try and choose one the opposite shade to your hair colour) around your ponytail. The result? An accessory that looks like it's been intricately wrapped around your regular pony. 

12. Messy bun 

Sometimes the messiest hairstyles are the chicest. Case in point? Ella Balinska's messy bun here. Keep tendrils out for a relaxed feel that still looks ultra-stylish. 

13. Top knot 

Never underestimate how incredible a top knot can look, especially with a wispy full fringe. 

14. '90s hair clips 

We're in full nostalgic mode in 2023 and that means bring those butterfly and snap clips out of hiding. Halley Brisker showed us exactly how to elevate the '90s classic for a modern finish. 

15. Double low bun

If you often find yourself throwing your hair into a low bun, try separating them into two — it'll transform the style with very little extra effort. 

16. Sleek claw clip 

The claw clip isn't just reserved for messy styles—you can wear it with a sleek, middle-parted bun look too, as styled here. 

17. High pony and clips 

We honestly didn't know these clips could look so stylish, but leave it to Simone Ashley to convince us to try a high pony and blue accessories. 

18. Rhinestone low pony

Our laziest piece of advice? When in doubt, add rhinestones! Be sure to shop for rhinestone clips and grips, rather than going for the less environmentally friendly disposable alternatives.

19. Braids with beads

Look, no one is saying braids are quick, easy or low-maintenance. But what is easy is a quick switch up by either adding, or switching up beads in your braids. 

20. Braided pony 

If you're getting a little bored of your braids, locs, or twists, try putting your hair up into a side ponytail to transform your look. 

21. Bubble braids 

Okay, this definitely isn't something to quickly do before leaving the house in a rush, but if you're looking for a style that is a little more intricate without being overcomplicated, this is it. Style two or more bubble braids, including your tendrils. 

22. Pearl hair chain 

Elevate any plaited ponytail by running a dainty pearl chain through it. 

The bob hairstyle might have been one of the biggest hair trends of last year, but it's already proving to be a firm favourite in 2025 too. From the French bob to the lob, the humble bob isn't going anywhere (although long hair is making a comeback, too). 

Although there's a lot to consider—face shape, whether or not you have thick or thin hair, styling capabilities, desired style—one thing's for sure: they'll never go out of style, and that's pretty much a fact. There are so many variations of the cut to choose from that it's virtually impossible not to find one you'll suit.

There's the classic chin-skimming bob, of course, but also more modern iterations such as the Scandi bob and the 90s bob. And the good news is, if you need a visual representation of these choppy styles, there's a whole host of A-listers in the celeb-sphere with great bobs to choose from—there's plenty to choose from in our hair archives.

Keep reading for the best bob hairstyles 2025 has to offer. Tempted much? I know I am, and I've had long hair my whole life.

1. The ghost wave bob

One of the biggest spring/summer hair trends for 2025 is ghost waves—a natural-looking, soft and barely-there wave that Saoirse Ronan makes look effortlessly chic.

2. The sharp side bob

Forget what Gen Z might be saying about the side parting, Leslie Bibb makes this sharply side-parted, structural bob look achingly cool.

3. The Italian bob

Soft, pretty and full of volume, the Italian bob was hugely popular last summer (much in part thanks to Zendaya’s gorgeously bouncy cut) and we predict it will make a comeback this year.

4. The Bieber bob

The boyfriend bob, AKA the Bieber bob, is exactly what comes to mind when you think of a bob. Chin grazing, chunky ends, and a slight wave. It literally looks perfect. All of a sudden I'm considering taking 20 inches off.

5. The French bob

Raye is the moment, and her bouncy French bob is currently giving me all of the inspiration I could possibly need.

6. The slicked-back bob

Florence Pugh is making a very strong case for the androgynous, slicked-back bob—and I'm all ears.

7. The glossy bob

If you are naturally blessed with glossy hair, Charithra Chandran's fringed bob is one for your inspiration board. If, like me, your hair could use a shine boost, look to hair glosses.

8. The soft bob

Thin and fine-hair ladies, here's one for you. Carey Mulligan keeps her bob soft and fluffy to generate lived-in volume.

9. The blunt French bob

While French bobs might be known for being lived-in and seemingly unstyled, Naomi Campbell shows that the polished French bob, with a blunt fringe and finish, looks equally as good.

10. The Hollywood bob

A side-swept, perfectly waved, glossy Hollywood bob? Greta, I'm listening.

11. The lob

Jenna Ortega has made a choppy bob the look of the past couple of years. Adding waves for extra texture creates gorgeous movement which looks effortless.

12. The ombré bob

If you thought you couldn't experiment with colour with a bob, then let Milly Alcock's Golden Globes 2023 look inspire you. The blonde ends make the sleek bob extra special. We love the addition of the face-framing strands too.

13. The wavy bob

A bob cut above the chin might feel super short, but it looks incredible on so many people, including Lana Condor. And hey, think of all the time you'll save drying it.

14. The wispy bob 

Rihanna's wispy bob and fringe style might've debuted back in 2016, but I still love it just as much to this day. 

15. The wavy lob 

Probably the go-to hairstyle of the decade is the lob, aka the long bob, popularised by many a celebrity over the last few years. Whether you like a curly lob or tousled, mid-length waves, this is probably the most versatile hairstyle you can go for, as Chrissy Teigen shows.

16. The braided bob 

Marsai Martin gives us a lesson in how to create a middle-parted, blunt braided bob. I couldn't love this look any more if I tried.

 17. The side-swept lob

Even more dramatic than chopping off all your hair is chopping off all your hair and having a fringe cut in. Whether you prefer a blunt full fringe or sweeping side bangs, your hairdresser will help you choose the right one to suit your face shape. 

18. The asymmetric bob 

Want a dramatic 'do that makes an impact? A poker-straight asymmetric bob ticks all the boxes.

19. The cropped bob

Allow Kerry Washington to convince you to try a blunt, cropped bob with a micro fringe. It's sure to turn heads and get compliments.  

20. The wet-look bob 

Charlize Theron has tried so many bobs on the red carpet, but this 2021 bob has to be up there with our favourites—a tousled and slightly wet look. 

21. The coiffed lob 

Margot's coiffed, asymmetric long bob is the epitome of chic.

22. The curly bob 

Yara Shahidi wore her curly hair with blunt cut ends and a slightly wispy fringe. 

23. The half-up bob 

Emilia Clarke's look is a perfect example of how to style the half-up do with a bob.

24. The undone bob 

Take your cue from the original queen of the bob and go for a centre parting and a subtle side fringing.

25. The vintage bob

She may have grown it out now, but Lily Collins had one of the best bob hairstyles we've ever seen. Although she usually styles it wavy, we also love this vintage vibe.

Get the look: 

I'm putting it out there: I am the laziest beauty editor to have ever existed. My nails are rarely manicured, my make-up routine takes two minutes and, most notably, my hair is never styled. While the latest hair trends of course appeal to me, I prefer to opt for low-maintenance hairstyles that can be executed in a matter of seconds. I'm very much a roll-out-of-bed-and-go sort of girl.

I spend my working days envious of those who have the motivation to wake up every morning and style out their immaculate bob or give their thin hairstyles next-level volume. As a result, I'm always on the look out for quick, easy, low-maintenance hairstyle inspiration that I can lean on. So when celebrity hairstylist (and let's face it, hair royalty) Sam McKnight invited me into his studio to school me on quick, lazy-girl hairstyles, I was more than a little excited.

I explained to Sam that my hair is not something I spend a great deal of time on. It is thin, void of texture and, for the most part, pretty lifeless. I often feel as though any time spent on my hair is wasted considering whatever style I opt for drops out after an hour or two.

To help me make the most of my situation, Sam walked me through three simple hairstyles that can easily be tweaked and transformed into something new. All I have to do? Start off with the perfect base (in this case, a textured, wavy down-do) on day one post-wash day. On day two, I can transform my look into a very chic messy ponytail. While day three, when my hair is at its greasiest, an undone bun is the way to go. 

My main concern? Such hairstyles were never going to be easy enough for me to actually keep up. But I was wrong. With Sam's simple tips, my morning routine has been revolutionised. Here's the three low-maintenance hairstyles he walked me through that are perfect for lazy girls.

1. Textured down 'do

While you need to spend a little more time on this look (compared to the following two), Sam walked me through a very simple and very speedy way to achieve a chic tousled hairstyle. To start, spritz a volumising spray into sections at the root. Then, hang your head upside down and brush it out while applying heat with a hairdryer at the root (with the direction of the air pointing down towards the ends). Once you're done, twist the hair up into a top knot and leave it for as long as the rest of your morning routine takes.

Once you're ready to finish up your hair, release the top knot. "If you have the time to leave it like that for a while, it will add a nice wave to the hair," says Sam. If you're heading straight out, grab some curling tongs and add some quick waves into your hair, changing the direction of the curls as you go. "Spray the hair with a dry hairspray that contains heat protectant first. If you don't have time to spray each section, just hang your head upside down and make sure it's coating all of the hair," he says.

Finish up by working your hands through the waves and blasting some texturising spray through the lengths. You can also back-comb some texturising spray into the roots if you'd like. "Just make sure it's a product that can be easily brushed out that also has some hold," says Sam.

This style can be topped up if you have the sort of hair that holds for days before having to move onto look two.

2. Messy ponytail

When your tousled waves start losing their magic, it's time to pull this messy pony hairstyle out of the bag. Start by gathering your waves at the nape of the neck. "Be sure to pull out some strands around the face now. If you wait until you've secured the ponytail you'll end up with broken hair," says Sam. 

If you find you're lacking volume, Sam suggests pushing the hair back on itself to create some lift. "Don't stress about making it perfect. Perfect can be the enemy sometimes," he says.

His biggest tip? "Use a silk tie or something softer than a typical hair band. It means you can manipulate the hair more to create a sort of shadow around the outline of the face."

Once your band is secure, take a thin piece of hair from the outer section of the ponytail and spritz it with a long-hold gel to boost shine. Then, carefully wrap the hair around the band to disguise it. Finish up by blasting the lengths with some texturising spray and working in some volume with your hands.

3. No-fuss bun

Your final hairstyle before another wash day? A bun, of course. By this stage, the foundations for a messy-looking (but chic) bun are already there thanks to the work you've put in to nail the perfect ponytail. Securing your ponytail (as you did yesterday, topping up with any product if you need it), take the lengths and twist them to create a 'rope' of hair. 

Then, wrap the hair around the fastening, securing with pins at various stages as you go but leaving the ends loose.

Secure the ends throughout the bun with pins to create an undone, slightly nineties finish. It's also worth teasing out and loosening some hair at the roots. "Doing this and misting it with some holding spray will create some lift—it's all about preventing the style from going flat," says Sam.

And there you have it—a few days' worth of hairstyles for the effort of one.

Shop the products Sam used for these low-maintenance hairstyles

We know it's not the end of the year just yet, but we can't be the only ones already thinking about what 2023 might bring—particularly when it comes to our hair. Look, we're not wishing time away, but fact is, the cold winter is really starting to take its toll on our hair, and we're ready for a change. 

It should be needless to say, therefore, that when we received the 2023 trend report according to Google hair trend data from extensions brand Cliphair, we got excited for a New-Year switch up.

After analysing Google trend data, Cliphair stylist, Lynn Chambers has pinned down the five hair trends that are destined to be big in 2023. While blunt bobs and short hairstyles reigned supreme in 2022, next year things are set to look a little different. 

From ponytails and clips to copper shades and 'hair cycling', these are the five hair trends that are already picking up in Google search (and will no doubt keep garnering popularity in 2023).

1. Preppy hair accessories

With a cool 749.2k views (and counting) on TikTok, the preppy girl hair aesthetic is everywhere right now. It makes sense then that Google search for 'preppy hair accessories' has skyrocketed 4200%. Think pretty clips, hair ribbons, sleek ponytails and padded or bejewelled headbands.

Turn to celebs such as Maude Apatow, Alexa Chung and Laura Harrier for ultimate Blair Waldorf-esque inspo. 

2. Wednesday Addams

There' no doubt that we've all been lapping up the gothic beauty looks since Netflix's Wednesday came to our screens. And while Wednesday's make-up looks have been serving heaps of inspo, it's her hair looks we're desperate for more details on. 

With a 9800% uplift in search for 'Wednesday Addams' (understandably, too), we're expecting gothic hair trends to lead the way for the rest of winter. We're talking jet-black colour, trailing braids, full fringes and intense blunt cuts.

3. Copper hair

Look, we know—copper hair was a huge trend in 2022. But it's not going anywhere for 2023. With Kendall Jenner and Zendaya all sporting copper hair this year, copper has certainly been the hair colour du jour. And you'll be pleased to know it's not a trend that's going anywhere fast, with Google search going up 8000% in the past month alone. From deep purples and auburns to orangey coppers, this trend is eternally versatile. 

4. Ponytails

It might sound silly but it's true that ponytails dip in and our of 'trendiness'—and they're on the rise right now. With 3.2billion views on TikTok and a 181% increase in Google search, the ponytail is expected to have a major moment in 2023. Whether you want to go for a slicked-back low pony, an undone, tousled pony or an XXL, Ariana-style pony, next year is the time to do it.

5. Hair cycling

Okay you got us, this isn't a hairstyle per se but that's not to say it's not going to be a massive 2023 trend. Chances are you've heard the term skin cycling at some point this year, well, hair cycling adopts a similar mindset, just for your lengths. The idea is you adopt a rest-day approach to your hair routine and 'cycle' through different targeted treatments.

Each hair cycling routine will be different from person to person. For example, you might go for a clarifying scalp scrub if you have oily roots or reach for nourishing butters if your hair is naturally dry—you just have to take some rest days. 

With a 4600% boost in Google search, we can guarantee TikTok will have loads of inspiration for you should you be interested in adopting a hair cycling routine for 2023.

It can be really difficult to know how to style your hair if you have a fine or thin hair type. And it can also be tricky if you're experiencing thinning for any reason. But fear not, we've called in the pros to help figure out how to navigate short hairstyles for thin hair, plus how to style them. 

What defines thin hair?

Thin hair? Fine hair? You've probably heard the two used interchangeably, but they're actually slightly different. Often with thin hair, you'll find there are fewer strands with a slightly thicker diameter. Whereas, with fine hair you'll often have more hairs but smaller diameter of strands. 

However, due to the negative connotations the term 'thin hair' can bring, some experts actually don't use the term 'thin hair' at all. Hairstylist and founder of Arkive Headcare, Adam Reed notes, "We tend not to call clients' hair thin, we tend to say finer hair." 

Often fine hair is described as a hair type whilst thinning is a loss of density, which can be caused by a variety of reasons.

Haircuts for thin and fine hair

Taking a pair of scissors to thin hair to chop it all off can feel counterintuitive, but the right haircut can actually add the illusion of both density and volume. You've just got to know what to ask for.

When it comes to hair, there's no right or wrong answer and you can absolutely have whatever cut you want. Most people with thin hair find that they prefer shorter styles so give it the most oomph possible. The main reason? Short hair equals more volume. 

"It is all about getting that balance between movement and volume, explains Reed. "I like when it has a stronger, weightier outline and a soft movement within the interior, but that would be dependent on how fine the hair is and the texture."

So, which cuts are best? 

Regardless of whether it's long or short, "it's equally important is keeping the cutting technique blunt," says hairstylist Halley Brisker. "Blunt lines are a good way to give the illusion of thicker hair." 

If you aren't a fan of daily styling, "I recommend styles that don't require too much work and have very few layers!" explains Brisker. "Avoid fringes if possible as even with thick hair they can be a lot of work and if your hair is very thin you want to have a simple silhouette." However, if you don't mind getting stuck into the pomade and having a styling sesh every morning, get those layers in and fringes snipped — we've got lots of inspo regardless of your preference. 

For curly hair textures, "you wouldn’t go in with massive amounts of layers because it will tend to shrink up," Reed adds. 

Hairstyles for thin or fine hair

Once you've decided on your dream cut, it's now time to move onto styling, which is where the real magic happens and is where the adding volume really comes into play. 

"Preparation is absolutely key here," says Brisker. "Blowing out your hair with a good thickening balm or spray on damp hair will dramatically change the feel and density of your hair compared to without."

Key products they swear by include: A root lift, which gives (yep you guessed it) added volume to limp roots; hair primer and protector to protect against any damage used during heat styling; texturising spray to add some movement to fine strands; and dry shampoo to not only keeps roots feeling fresh, but also add lots of volume.

Then we move onto hair tools, some experts say that investing in good styling tools means they do most the leg work for you. The Dyson Airwrap (although the biggest investment of all the hair tools) can help tame flyaways, add volume with its curl attachment and makes lightwork of drying with its smoothing brush. Other expert favourites include, the ghd Helios Hair Dryer to dry hair without frazzling ends and the Babyliss 9000 Cordless Hair Straightener. 

Finally, finishing products — don't be quick to skip this step. These guys help to give a sleek, smooth finish, add in extra texture, or define and hold curls. 

Short hairstyles for thin hair inspiration

1. Finger waves 

These finger waves are an incredibly elegant way to embrace a finer hair texture. This is a style you might want to call in the expertise of a short-hair specialist to help you choose the right products to refresh those curls and keep your strands in place. 

2. Curtain bangs 

This cut gave us a lesson in how to master the art of volume. With a snip off the ends, lots of movement with waves and a big root lift, you can give the illusion of much denser hair. 

3. Modern bowl cut

Leave it to Charlize Theron and hairstylist Adir Abergel to school us on how to modernise the classic bowl cut. Inspired by Linda Evangelista's '90s shaggy bowl cut, Abergel gave Theron a blunt cut to give sharp definition. 

4. Curly pixie 

We're all about embracing your hair texture, including this curly pixie cut. This cut is shorter on the nape of the neck with plenty of fullness on the top of the head. The individual curls have lots of undone texture and the fringe kept wispy. 

5. Buzz cut 

Take this as your sign to get a buzz cut. When it looks this good, you'll never turn back! 

6. Angled buzz cut 

If you're finding that you have thinning on one part of your scalp, get creative with an angled buzz cut like this one. Give the rest of your hair a blunt edge to give the illusion of thicker hair. 

7. Swooped fringe 

Sometimes, chopping your hair off actually makes it look longer and fuller. Case in point? This transformation, which keeps the back and side shorter with a deep side parting for plenty of volume. 

8. Blonde buzz

Using cut and colour together is a great way of adding density to the hair, as shown here with blonde ends and added detail on the side. 

9. Volume, volume, volume 

Queen of volume, Selma Blair teaches us that more is more when it comes to choppy cuts and root lifts. 

10. Modern comb over 

Who said a comb over couldn't be chic? Not us! One look at this look for Michelle Williams and you'll be convinced to brush all of your hair to one side in a deep side parting secured with a couple of hair grips. 

11. Short shag cut 

Defying the rules of layers and fringes in fine hair is the short shag cut. The premise of this cut is lots of choppy layers, a cut-in fringe and plenty of undone volume. 

12. Blunt bob 

Blunt bobs are a great way to give the illusion of density to the hair, even more so if you decide to add in a wavy texture. 

13. Pixie cut 

"Keep shorter crops on the textured side to give the cut volume and density," says hairstylist Lewis Pallett, which is exactly what the stylist has done here to give the hair plenty of volume despite its short length. 

14. Asymmetric bob 

This asymmetric bob might be short but it's not lacking any fullness thanks to its middle part, sleek finish and low-maintenance feel. 

15. Buzzed bowl cut 

Bet you never thought a buzzed bowl cut could look this good? For fine hair, keep the nape of the neck super short and create sharp lines with the micro bob to give the illusion of thick hair. 

16. Lob cut 

If you want to give your lob cut some more fullness, add lots of movement using a curling iron and even some micro highlights to bring out dimension. 

Shop the best styling products for fine hair, according to pros:

Hair trends come and go, often quicker than we can keep up, but there’s one hairstyle that never, well, goes out of style — the blunt bob hairstyle. 

The haircut is striking and works for all face shapes (it might just need a bit of customising) and hair textures, plus it’s relatively low-maintenance if you know how to style it well (don’t worry we’ve got tips to share!). We’ve seen countless celebrities over the years snip their ends into razor sharp styles. 

We asked the pros to break down everything you need to know about blunt bobs and plenty of inspiration to inspire you to brave the chop.

What is a blunt bob?

A blunt bob is a short haircut that sits above the shoulders and features ultra straight ends. The iconic bob was a popular trend in the 1920s often signifying rebellion, and there were a variety of bob styles — including the blunt bob. Although popularity of the style dwindled back then, nowadays, it’s more popular than ever. "Gone are the days of graduated 'I’d like to speak to the manager' bobs," says hairstylist Lewis Pallett, and we couldn't agree more. 

Our love for the trend has meant that there’s actually now more than one style of blunt bob, too. This all depends on your face shape, hair texture and preferences. Popular types of blunt bobs include, asymmetrical, chin-grazing, side part, middle part, blunt braids, layered, and a blunt bob worn with a fringe. Of course you can even combine a few together. 

Who suits a blunt bob?

Everyone suits a blunt bob! The key is to understand what type of blunt bob you’re after and then calling in a hairdresser who can cut it according to your texture and face shape, as well as help guide you through at-home styling. 

"For thicker hair, try a soft bevelled layer or a slightly textured base line to help hair stay neatly tucked in place," says Pallett. For finer hair, he recommends going more blunt with the cut to help thicken the look of the hair. For curly hair types, "embrace the width and have shorter, uneven layers to help create more height and less width, or pull the curls downwards to create more of a wavy, shaggier curl," he adds. 

Is a blunt bob high maintenance?

The short answer: it doesn’t have to be. Being low-maintenance is often a reason people cut their hair short and stay loyal to it. Your blunt bob simply turns into another incredibly trendy style: the blunt lob. 

"Blunt bobs are always popular because they are actually very low maintenance," says hairstylist and founder of Arkive Headcare, Adam Reed. "They’re easy to style, cut and maintain. They are a classic, they’re not a trend-driven hair do and they grow out nicely," he adds. 

There are a few tips and tricks to keep yours looking in tip-top shape, though. "Definition is key. Whether your hair is straight and smooth, I would iron it," explains Reed. "If it’s curly, get some definition in the curls. Definition and shine conditioners are a key tip to maximise the effects of a bob," he adds. 

Read on to get inspiration straight from the celebrities and stylists who did it best. 

1. Middle part bob 

Olivia Wilde knows how to rock a bob and we love this poker-straight, middle part version. For this style make sure your ends are snipped and you've run some finishing oil (we're huge fans of Kérastase Elixir Ultime L'Original Oil) through the mid-lengths. 

2. Braided bob 

Of course, your hair doesn't have to be poker-straight to get in on the action, Marsai Martin shows us how to achieve this beautiful braided bob look. 

3. Micro bob

Go micro with an ultra short bob and fringe, which we adore. Use heat protector, straighteners and some smoothing hair oil or cream to achieve this sleek look. 

4. Wispy bob 

Okay, okay, this isn't the bluntest bob around but it's so gorgeous it definitely deserves a mention. Plus, it shows how you can play around with texture and waves to get that 'messy and undone' look when you don't fancy going poker-straight. 

5. Blunt bob with side fringe 

Venus Williams looked incredible with a sleek blunt bob styled in a deep side parting. 

6. Curved bob and full fringe

Throwing it back to 2007 to take a moment for Naomi Campbell's iconic rounded bob and choppy fringe. If you want to really make your look standout, take it really short, 1920s style. 

7. Deep side part 

Nicola Coughlan will forever be our bob inspo, which includes this deep side part look. This particular bob style features more shape around the face with a swooping side part, which makes this a really modern look, according to Reed. 

8. Bouncy bob 

Blunt bobs don't have to be lacking volume—Elizabeth Olsen showed off how they can have plenty of bounce. Achieve this by using a round brush and hair dryer to create that softened look, which doesn't lack any glamour. 

9. Blunt micro bob and fringe 

How could we not include Lily Collins's 2017 Met Gala look? If you want to really turn heads with your blunt bob, take inspiration from this iconic look with a micro bob and bangs. 

10. Curly blunt bob 

Yara Shahidi shows how you can wear your natural curls in a blunt bob style, without losing any volume. Her ends are trimmed and curls refreshed, and she's styled her look with a short blunt bob to give that overall sharp effect. 

11. Beach waves 

Kerry Washington shows us how to style a blunt cut with beautiful beach waves. 

12. 1920s bob 

Another favourite by Washington is this this incredible 1920s-esque micro bob with an immaculately cut fringe on the red carpet. If you're going to go short, you might as well go short, short. 

13. Sleek bob 

No one does a sleek bob quite like Jourdan Dunn, and this look has to be one of our favourites. 

14. Rounded bob 

Lucy Liu absolutely rocked this elegant rounded bob and a deep side part.  

The best product for blunt bob hairstyles, according to pros

Balayage has been around for a while, but this timeless technique has crept its way back into the best hair salons as one of the most popular and requested styles.

Want the low-down on its sheer magic? We've spoken to the some of the leading experts to get some professional insight into this much-loved hair trend.

For more inspiration for your next trip to the hairdresser, don't forget to check out our guides to cherry red and copper hair.

What is balayage hair?

The term balayage is taken from the French word for 'sweeping'. "It’s a freehand hair colouring technique that gives a really blended, natural look with no harsh or obvious regrowth lines," royal and celebrity hairdresser Richard Ward tells us.

"I love balayage," says Adam Reed, founder of Arkive and editorial ambassador for L’Oréal Professionnel Paris. "It’s such a beautiful technique and one that really showcases the craft and artistry of the professional and in-salon colour."

Balayage allows for a sun-kissed, natural looking hair colour, with softer, less noticeable re-growth. The principal idea being less is more when creating a natural, multi-tonal finish. The technique uses patches of light and shade to create multiple dimensions to the colour.

Balayage is quite different to traditional highlights, because no foil is used and the colour is painted on freehand. The finished result is "less uniform than typical highlights" says Ward. If you’ve ever been worried about having stripey colour after a visit to the hairdresser's, balayage is a sure way to avoid that harsh contrast between colours – especially if you’re going blonder.

The colour created is totally bespoke to you and can even be placed in a way to compliment or distract attention away from certain features on the face. It’s a great method if you want to refresh your colour but don’t want a bold overhaul of your look.

How do you create the perfect balayage? 

The secret ingredients to a perfect in-salon balayage are normally kept under wraps. Thankfully, we have Daniel Galvin OBE on hand to share his top tips for the best balayage.

"First is the blend, it's super important that the colourist has the skill to apply the colour properly. They must use the right technique so that it looks like the colour comes from nowhere. Then, the colour choice should never be more than three shades lighter than the natural hair colour, this will ensure you get a 'sun-kissed' look."

Want to ensure your stylist is putting the colour in the right places? Daniel has the answers: "The front section should be the lightest part of the hair as this is what shapes your face. Also, your colourist should allow your natural colour to take centre stage, this is how to achieve the best results."

How is balayage applied?

Balayage is painted on the surface of the hair strand and not saturated through the section until the very tips. This ensures a smooth, blended stroke of colour. It can also be called a freehand technique because no foil or meche are used to create the highlights.

How long does it take?

"The depth of balayage can vary so much from a few small highlights that will only take a matter of minutes to a full on, triple process look that can take up to 3 hours," says Josh Wood, master colourist and Redken's global colour creative director.

It can take quite a long time to do a multi-tonal, layered balayage compared to regular colour. But the benefit of the application means you will be able to leave longer between your next colour appointment. If you want a few balayage babylights, this can take as little as 45 minutes.

Why is balayage so popular?

Ten years ago balayage wasn’t the colouring phenomenon it is today, it’s quite a specific method of colouring that hasn’t been widely taught in the UK until recently. "It's especially popular with celebrities and is a classic look for the red carpet," says Ward. After spotting it on celebrities like Gisele, Chrissy Teigen and Jessica Alba, there has been a surge in interest for the technique as people are requesting the look.

"There is currently a slight turn away from the standard balayage look to something more subtle," explains Josh. "We are looking at low-fi colour but high-fi condition. Multi-tonal, natural effects are what we’ve been perfecting for the runway and now in the atelier.

"You should question whether it’s actually coloured or not; it’s about a low-key, hyper-natural vibe. For the high-fi condition, I would recommend the Redken in-salon glossing treatment. The Redken 'Toning Tweakments' in-salon service menu includes the 'Balayage Booster', a Shades EQ gloss shot.

"These are demi-permanent colour that have been coined the 'lip-gloss' of hair, due to their conditioning properties that give a flawless shine and vibrancy. Non-committal, easy in-salon use – colour that enhances hair condition."

Some celebrities who love balayage include Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Olivia Palermo, Jessica Biel, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian and Miley Cyrus.

Does it require a lot of maintenance? 

"Typically balayage requires far less maintenance than traditional colour. It grows out beautifully and there are no strong regrowth lines," says Ward. "It also means you can wait for longer between appointments so it’s the perfect technique for a modern, busy woman."

"If you want to make your balayage last as long as possible, opt for a babylight – it’s the most subtle type of colour you can go for," advises Wood. Investing in some good quality colour care styling products is also advisable to keep your colour looking fresh for longer. For example, have a look at hair toners or one of the best purple shampoos.

If your colour turns brassy after a while, Wood says you can refresh it without going for a full top up with a toner or gloss to give your shine back.

Grace Lindsay, Marie Claire UK's beauty writer, loves her balayage because of how easy the upkeep is. "I will never go back to highlights after getting balayage. It allows me to lighten my hair without having to get my roots touched up every couple of months. Plus, I only have to get it done about twice a year, so I save money too."

Is it suitable for all hair types/lengths?

"Balayage is for all, all hair types and hair colours," says Reed. "It’s a wonderfully beautiful technique that can be dialled up or down, perfectly personalised depending on the desired end finish. The key to maintaining this look on all hair types is colour maintenance."

It works on both light and dark hair depending on how much lighter you want to go and all hair textures. You can ask for balayage to blonde or balayage for brown hair or dark hair, and your colourist will be able to tailor the style to you. Straight, wavy or curly; whatever category your hair, the colour can work well and look great.

"Balayage works on all hair lengths apart from on very short or cropped hair (think Pixie crops)," advises international hair colourist, L'Oréal Professional ambassador and Marie Claire UK's 2018 Colourist of the Year Jack Howard.

The technique is particularly popular amongst celebrities with long, textured hair as it creates a beautiful, beachy style.

If however, you have balayage on your short hair – let's say a bob – and then want to try the long beach style, Hershesons recently launched a range of balayage tape hair extensions, that will seamlessly blend in. The 60-minute service includes a colour-matching consultation, fitting, cut, wash and blow-dry and the tapes should last you up to eight weeks, and the hair can be re-used up to three times.

How long does balayage last?

"One of the biggest perks of this style is that it doesn’t require as much upkeep as traditional colour," advises Wood. The blended finish means you can leave longer between your salon appointments. And depending on the style you go for you can leave up to four months between top-ups.

Maintaining balayage at home

Reed explains that balayage looks its best when it's super vibrant and glossy. "My favourite product to keep hair healthy and offer that glass hair effect is L’Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil. Use this once a week and leave-in hair overnight for a deeper treatment for luscious, high-shine hair

"My top tip for anyone looking to have their colour done for the best result long-term is to add-on the L’Oréal Professionnel Metal Detox in-salon treatment. This is an incredible innovation that works to help neutralise copper levels in our water and pipes that can cause hair breakage during the colour service. This is a game changer."

Don't have time to go to a salon? L’Oréal Professionnel's at-home treatment protects your hair from that pesky copper in under five minutes. Simply, cleanse your hair with the L’Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Metal Detox Anti-Metal Cleansing Cream Shampoo. Then slather some of the Serie Expert Metal Detox Anti-Deposit Protector Mask on your mid-lengths and ends. Et violà, you've banished any damaging metals.

How to refresh your own balayage

If you are desperate to refresh your colour at home, read our guide on how to dye your own hair at home, and follow Carolyn Newman's below tips on how to refresh a blonde balayage, using Schwarzkopf Permanent Colour.

1. Apply some of the enclosed treatment sachet to the lengths and ends to protect the existing blonde. This will help protect the hair – do not colour this section.
2. Mix and apply the colour to your roots first – the first 1-2 inches of your hair – and leave to develop for 15 minutes.
3. Then, using a tangle teezer style brush or wide tooth comb, pull the root colour down another 1-2 more inches, using a brush to blend so you don’t get a line and leaving the conditioner-covered mid lengths and ends. Develop for a further 10 minutes.
4. Rinse really thoroughly with shampoo (do two shampoos if required). Then use the rest of the Colour Expert treatment sachet, apply to the lengths and ends and leave to soak in for 2-5 minutes. Rinse and style as usual.

What to buy to keep your balayage looking vibrant and glossy

Keep on scrolling to shop some of the best products to help keep your colour looking fresh in between appointments.

What’s the difference between ombre and balayage hair?

Balayage is a totally blended hair look, there are no lines or blocks of colour and the graduation between shades is much more subtle. Some lengths of the hair are kept darker for a seamless colour finish.

Ombre hair has a more defined contrast between the roots and tips of the hair with colour starting mid-way down the strands. "Ombre colour is a more noticeable, statement look compared to balayage," says Ward. Want to know more? Check out our roundup if you want to find out more about ombre.

Does balayage work on grey hair?

"The style works for all colours but the only thing is it won’t cover grey hair," advises Wood. "It will only help blend in the grey to disguise it, so if you want full coverage for greys it might not be the right choice for you."

Does balayage damage hair?

Some good and bad news for you here. Lots of stylists agree that balayage is a lot less damaging than a full head of bleach or getting your roots done every six weeks. Thanks to the lack of foils and heat, your hair will be less dry and processed when your do is complete. That said, balayage is a chemical treatment so expect for some dryness.

Don't worry too much though, our handy guides to the best shampoo for dry hair and best hair masks will bring back any lustre you've lost.

What makes it timeless?

Balayage creates a totally bespoke, personalised colour finish. Healthy, natural looking hair will always be 'in', which is why the technique has remained popular for so many years. Depending on what you’re looking for the finish can be subtle or quite bold. It’s the ability to completely tailor the colour effect that makes this such a popular colour choice.

So, there you have it, everything you need to know about balayage. Be right back, off to book a hair appointment...

When it comes to the ideal hairstyles for round faces and general hair trends, there are a few things to take into account to land on one that will compliment this particular face shape. If you need visual inspiration, though, the good news is that many celebrities (with the help of their hairdressers) have mastered the art of creating a timeless hairstyle that works perfectly on a round face.

But first, what makes this face shape exactly so? Round faces are characterised by a soft jawline and equal dimensions; the widest point of the face is the very middle and it's about as long as it is wide (a face that’s longer than it is wide is oval).

As for advice on choosing a style, award-winning hair stylist and salon owner Charlotte Mensah advises "[staying] away from a bob or cut that is all one length. Instead, opt for layers that will give definition and more structure visually."

Certain styles will also appear to lengthen your face. "You can elongate round face shapes by creating soft layering just below the jawline, keeping the shape square throughout," adds Sam Burnett, KMS Global Style Council Member and owner & creative director of Hare & Bone. On that note, ahead are 25 great examples of ideal hairstyles for round faces, as seen on celebrities.

Hairstyles for short hair

You may have previously written off all hairstyles for short hair out of fear that it will accentuate the roundness of your face. In actual fact, you can really work a short hairstyle with a bit of expert advice (and celebrity proof).

"If a bob is your choice of style, go a few inches longer than a traditional bob to balance the roundness of the face," advises Sam. "By creating layering, you ultimately affect the shape [of your face] – round faces should opt for square layers." Charlotte adds: "Tapered natural hair is perfect for women who want a short style with options."

1. Lily Collins

Lily Collins gives her blunt bob a slightly asymmetric look by tucking it behind one ear.

2. Selena Gomez

We love this long bob on Selena Gomez.

3. Zendaya

Can Zendaya do no wrong?

4. Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union showing us how to do an asymmetrical hairstyle.

5. Kaia Gerber

So chic.

Hairstyles for medium hair

If you're after a mid-length hairstyle, the good news is that your choice is a pretty simple one. "Medium length hair looks great when it’s maintained well. Think fuller, blunt styles with no layering," Sam says. Browsing these hairstyles for medium-length hair is sure to inspire you ahead of your next trip to the salon.

6. Halle Bailey

This twisted lob looks exceptional on Halle Bailey.

7. Amy Adams

Amy Adams is rocking this blunt cut.

8. Mindy Kaling

Mindy Kaling's glossy strands suit her face shape perfectly.

9. Chrissy Teigen

Another winner.

10. Emma Stone

We've always been a fan of Emma Stone's hairstyles, and this one is no exception.

11. Nicola Coughlan

With her 90s-esque curtain fringe, Nicola Coughlan's mid-length hair looks great in this updo.

Hairstyles for long hair

When it comes to hairstyles for long hair that also suit round faces, there's a lot of choice to work with. Long and sleek styles with a soft side part work well, as does added volume and texture past the chin to elongate your face.

12. Gemma Chan

Tousled to perfection.

13. Dakota Fanning

Dakota Fanning knows how to do a soft side part.

14. Vanessa Hudgens

A brunette beauty.

15. Mila Kunis

We love these loose waves.

16. Lana Condor

These beachy waves are everything.

17. Jennifer Lawrence

We love Jennifer Lawrence's ultra-long side-swept hair (a great example of the anti-bob trend).

18. Jennifer Hudson

A high ponytail is always a winning choice, as Jennifer Hudson proves.

Hairstyles for thick hair

Hairstyles for thick hair don't have to be a difficult ball game—in fact, the added volume will make a round face seem less spherical with a few longer layers. When it comes to celebrities, Kate Upton is one of the stars of thick, long hair, as is Priyanka Chopra.

19. Kate Upton

Hair goals.

20. Priyanka Chopra

These voluminous waves will never go out of style.

Hairstyles for thin hair

Lots of layers are your friend when it comes to adding oomph to fine hair– but don't overdo it. "If you have fine hair keep layers longer, as over-layering will only make the hair appear thinner and sparser," Sam explains. These hairstyles for fine hair are all the proof you need that fine hair and a round face can be a winning combination.

21. Gigi Hadid

Gigi's soft layers perfectly frame her face.

22. Miranda Kerr

We will be recreating this look ASAP.

Hairstyles for curly hair

The good thing about curls, whether natural or tonged, is they lift the appearance of your hair and can even help to elongate your face shape. Grab your best curling wand to create your own, or clean into your natural coils, curls and waves.

23. Lupita Nyong'o

Simply stunning.

24. Megan Thee Stallion

Let the hair do the talking like Megan Thee Stallion.

25. Samira Wiley

The added height of this style on Samira Wiley perfectly compliments her face shape.

Best products for styling hairstyles for round faces

Shop a few of our go-to styling products to help you achieve these looks below.

Whether you want bangs or a sultry sweeping style, these are the coolest cuts to bookmark for this year

I'm pretty sure all of us can say that we've experimented with side fringes at least once in our lifetime. Whether you dabbled in soft bangs or a fuller look, it's one of those universal styles we all try at some point.

When the Duchess of Cambridge stepped out with her newly-side fringed hairstyle in 2015, the media went mad. It's a subtle look and one that really works if you don't want to go for full-on blunt bangs. And just about every supermodel has experimented with a side fringe and put their own stamp on it, from Kate Moss, to Naomi Campbell, to Sienna Miller.

The good news is that if you're thinking of joining the side fringe camp this year, whether as a newbie or a returning member, there are now so many versions that you're guaranteed to find one that works for you.

'Soft side fringes with a shag hair cut are a key look for 2020,' says Antony Rawlings, Creative Director at Lockonego for Redken.

'For a rounder shape, opt for a curve, so it's longer in the middle and shorter on the sides to bring the eyes down the face to elongate the shape and frame the face.' See our guides to hairstyles for round faces and hairstyles for square faces for more inspiration.

So, how should you style your newfound fringe? 'With a heavy fringe, you need it to look healthy, shiny, and glossy,' says ghd Global Ambassador Adam Reed. He advises using a natural bristle round brush like the Natural Bristle Radial Brush, £19.50 at Fabled, to 'give your fringe the perfect shape, plus shine and gloss.'

Don't forget his number one styling tip: 'Don't spray hairspray directly onto your fringe! Spray it onto a brush and then brush through for a very soft hold.'

So, whether you're looking at trialing a wispy or full side fringe for the first time, or just want a new-season update, keep reading for all you need to choose the right fringe for you.

How to choose a side fringe for your face shape

'You should approach a fringe the same way you would approach dressing,' explains Antony. 'Parting placement is important to consider when opting to have a fringe cut in. A side parting is perfect for a longer face, as this will draw the eye to the side of the face – a centre parting would draw the eyes down and lengthen the face, creating more height rather than width.'

Side fringes with long hair

A fringe can add uniqueness to much longer styles, as seen here on Jameela Jamil, and can also help to frame and flatter your face shape. Even the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton famously experimented with the style back in 2015, sending royal fans into a fringe frenzy. Safe to say it's a winning look.

Celebrity inspiration: Jameela Jamil, Selena Gomez, Naomi Campbell and Kate Middleton

with bobs

A side fringe paired with a bob is a timeless nod to 1960s fashion icons of a decade gone by, and looks good on pretty much any face shape with the right layering towards the ends. Rihanna is no stranger to experimenting with hairstyles, pulling off the (temporary) bob perfectly. Read our guide to bob hairstyles for even more hairspo – you'll leave desperate to go for the chop.

Celebrity inspiration: Rihanna, Zendaya and Lara Condor

Side fringes with short hair

Short hairstyles with fringes are a winning look every single time, and Kerry Washington's newest look is physical proof of that. Pixie crops are made complete with the addition of a sweeping, layered fringe.

Celebrity inspiration: Kerry Washington and Jennifer Lawrence

and with an updo

Effortlessley stylish and oh-so-chic. We're in.

Celebrity inspo: Emma Stone, Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez

Side fringes with straight hair

She's the queen of the fringe, so why not take inspo from Alexa Chung for your next side fringe cut? You're so welcome.

Celebrity inspo: Alexa Chung and Emma Watson

Side fringes with curly hair

Forget everything secondary school taught you about having to straighten the life out of your fringe every morning – fringes look seriously great worn curly, as demonstrated by the gorgeous Halle Berry.

Celebrity inspiration: Halle Berry, Ciara and Jessica Biel

Time for a new 'do? Check out the hottest hairstyles with bangs and side fringes below to take straight to the hairdresser's chair.

Alexa Chung

As mentioned, it wouldn't be a round up of the best celebrity side fringes without Alexa Chung. The ultimate cool girl, lived in bangs complement the model's face shape perfectly, and it's the ultimate effortless fringe.

Naomi Campbell

One of the original supermodels, Naomi Campbell looks incredible with or without a full or side fringe.

Sienna Miller

When it comes to celebrity fringes, Sienna's wispy layers are fairly iconic in the A-list ranks. A perfect side fringe for heart-shaped faces.

Emma Stone

Fact: Emma Stone is queen of the side fringe, whether it's a chunky full one or subtle side layering. These days she tends to fall into the latter camp, opting for a softer fringe to the right of her face.

Jennifer Lawrence

It's been a while since J-Law has had this fringed, short cut, but it's nonetheless one of our favourite pixie crops and side fringe combo of all time.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge

Proof that even the royal family like to dabble with a fringe, Kate Middleton sported this side fringe back in 2015.

Kate Moss

Proof that nobody rocks a side fringe like one of the supers, Kate Moss seriously pulls a fringe off. Bring it back, we say.

Rihanna

Rihanna's side swept full fringe paired with a topknot was one of our favoruite beauty looks from the 2017 Met Gala.

Blonde comes in so many different shades – so where do you start? We asked an expert about everything you need to know

Thanks to the likes of Sienna, Gwyneth and co, blonde hairstyles never seem to lose their appeal. And whether you’re after Nirvana blonde, honey tones or bright white bleach blonde, there’s a style out there to suit you.

We spoke to Sally Northwood at George Northwood, AKA the genius colourist behind Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s perfectly natural-looking, sunshine hair, and Ellie Goulding’s golden locks, for the low-down on blonde trends.

Below she talks us through the three blonde hair updates you need to know about for 2020, covering everything from exactly what you need to say when in the hairdressers chair to the products that will keep your locks lustrous for longer.

Keep reading for your blonde hairstyles cheat sheet...

Blonde hairstyles: 2020 trends

Nordic blonde

This is a soft, feminine look that adds youth. It is also great at disguising greys and white hair, but Sally says you have to do it right to avoid potential damage.

'This is a colour trend that works best if your base colour is already mousy or mid-to-light blonde, as bleach damages hair,' she explains. 'So if you have longer hair, consider the damage first as you may need to go shorter to keep it as healthy as possible.'

She also says to ask for a creamy vanilla blonde, not ashy blonde as this could look more ageing, dull and grey. 'Ask for highlights, but it’s crucial not to overlap the colour; two sessions in one day will give the drama.'

Hair care: If you are bleaching already-lightened hair, strengthen strands by using Olaplex, or any bleaching agent that has a built-in bond. Then for aftercare, use a hydrating, sulphate-free shampoo like Pureology Hydrate Colour Care Shampoo, £19.95, Cult Beauty.

To remove any brassiness, use a violet shade of purple shampoo, like Philip Kingsley Pure Blonde Silver Brightening Daily Shampoo, £19.50, Lookfantastic, or Redken Colour Extend Blondage Shampoo, £8, Feelunique, twice a month.

Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment like Kérastase Genesis Masque Reconstituant Hair Mask, £36.40, Lookfantastic, to prevent hair from getting brittle and snapping.

Sunshine blonde

This bright, golden shade has been a no-no in the past for fear of it looking brassy – but this warm hair colour is super-striking and flattering on people with pale skin tones. Those with olive complexions can go slightly more honey in tone.

If you are starting with naturally fair hair, ask for babylights using a high-lift tint instead of bleach. It will have a dramatic effect – though the downside is that the roots will need to be retouched every month.

If you are starting on darker hair, ask for an all-over tint or a back wash smudge that lifts the hair, and baby-fine highlights on top for a sandy, relaxed glow. It needs to be bright and glossy rather than brassy, and the micro-lights will make the blonde look like the real thing.

Hair care: Hair will need hydration and body so use a nourishing shampoo and conditioner like Maui Moisture Thicken and Restore + Bamboo Fiber Conditioner, £7.37, House of Beauty World, along with a conditioning mask, like the L’Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Masque, £18, Feelunique.

Use twice weekly to keep bright locks lustrous and vibrant for longer, as well as a nourishing hair oil like Kérastase Elixir Ultime L’Original Hair Oil, £43, Feelunique.

And if your roots are coming through quickly, dust through Color WOW Root Cover Up in Blonde, £28.50 at Lookfantastic – it's also available in shade 'Platinum' for lighter blondes.

Balayage blonde

This sun-streaked blonde look has a sandy root colour and softly transitions into buttery ends. The best bit? It's seriously low maintenance and doesn’t have to be a beachy look – strands can look extra polished with a smooth blowout.

Balayage is a great way to work mousy hair if you want a more natural feel. Leaving some of your natural hair colour exposed will make it look like your hair, but better. Sally says bespoke placement is what you want. 'I always add ribbons of light through the lengths - the secret is the meticulous placement.

'It needs to be light and bright in all the right face-framing places. I always add some of the tips of the hair in foils to get different tones to make the ends pop out. It also gives hair tonnes of depth and dimension.'

Hair care: This look should last you the whole of spring and summer, but if you want to go brighter during the hotter months, you can pop into the salon for a touch up or gloss at six to eight weeks to revive the colour and add shine.

As the roots can be flat due to the no colour, try using a volumising shampoo and conditioner like Philip Kingsley Body Building Weightless Shampoo and Conditioner, £19.50 at John Lewis, which will give hair an all-over boost of body.

Looking for more inspiration? Keep scrolling through for the celebrities who have got blonde hairstyles down to a tee.

Sienna Miller

Aside from possibly Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Moss, few people can rival Sienna's status as the go-to blonde queen. Her fine hair always looks effortless and 'lived in' for that real cool girl blonde.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Blonde hair and Gwyneth Paltrow is as classic a combination as any – we're not sure what we'd do if she ever went brunette.

Blake Lively

Blake Lively is the modern muse for long, blonde tresses that are perfectly styled at all times. The key to long hair looking great is keeping it in tip-top, healthy condition at all times (which of course, Madame Lively's hair always is).

Zoë Kravitz

A super short blonde crop is one of the most popular styles in Hollywood of late (Kate Hudson, Cara and Kristen, we're looking at you). Big Little Lies' Zoe Kravitz has the perfect face shape and sharp cheekbones to pull it off.

Margot Robbie

Margot's platinum blonde locks look superb in this vintage wave – which is no doubt why it's the go-to style for many an A-Lister on the red carpet.

Selena Gomez

Remember this? Selena's time as a blonde may have been short-lived, but we can't get enough of this lived-in look.

Emilia Clarke

In an undeniable nod to her Game of Thrones character Daenerys Targaryen, for a while Emilia Clarke sported platinum locks – she suits both brown and blonde hairstyles but we do love this look.

Instantly update your look by taking inspiration from the red carpet

If you're heading to a glamorous event, you can't go past the elegance of hair updos.

Not only do they work for formal events and special occasions, but they're also the easiest way to keep your hair out of your face.

Red carpets, from fashion parties to movie premieres, are all lined with celebrities wearing their hair up. Pulling the hair away from the face is the perfect way to show off a stunning make-up look, whether a smokey eye or a splash of your best red lipstick, and accentuate your face shape.

There's never been a better time to start looking for hair ideas, and with our gorgeous red-carpet finds you're spoilt for choice.

Easy hair updos

Without a doubt the easiest updo is the classic topknot. How something so simple can look so elegant, we'll never know, but we're eternally grateful that it does.

A tight topknot can take years off your face as it accentuates your cheekbones – there's a reason some refer to it as the 'instant face lift'. Bun hairstyles are another great updo choice – see how to do a messy bun for the perfect lived in style.

Wedding updos

Because of their natural elegance, ability to work well with a veil and the fact that you can see both make-up and your face structure better, updos are particular popular wedding hairstyles for both brides and guests alike. There really is no limit on what works for a bride; simply take a picture to your trial hair appointment to perfect the look.

Hair updos with braids

Braided styles require a bit more dexterity to plait and secure in place, as well as a job lot of the best hairspray that doesn't leave your hair crunchy. Read our guide on how to do a French braid with six different variations, next to master the art.

For celebrity inspiration, look to the likes of Kerry Washington, Lupita Nyong'o, Emma Watson and Sienna Miller for the perfect braided styles.

Scroll on for prettiest updos to ever grace the red carpet.

Lupita Nyong'o

Actress Lupita Nyong'o is often changing up her hair, wearing her braids in a bun for a recent movie premiere.

Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence often wears her blonde hair in a wispy looking updo with loose hair to frame the face. Can we also take a moment to appreciate this magical make-up look?

Kerry Washington

Often called an 'instant facelift', a tightly pulled back updo works wonders for the cheekbones, as Scandal's Kerry Washington knows.

Gal Gadot

Bringing back a quiffed updo is Gal Gadot, paired perfectly with a power red lip.

Emma Watson

It might seem like a more mature style for English rose Emma Watson, but she really knows how to rock this plaited updo. Parting her hair on one side, Emma braids the hair on each side into a low bun and teams the up hairstyle with a striking red lip. Perfection.

Olivia Munn

A timeless classic is the topknot – probably the easiest hairstyle out there, but also the most elegant. It adds emphasis to your facial structure and whatever make-up look you've opted for for the evening.

Sienna Miller

An updo with a braided twist (literally), we love the prettiness of Sienna's updo here.

Thick hair, don't care

While everyone thinks you should feel blessed, sometimes it can be a right ball ache finding hairstyles for thick hair that actually work.

Thick hair can take ages to style, not every haircut works and sometimes it's almost impossible to create a 'do that doesn't look like it's straight out of the 80s.

If you want to create the illusion of thinner hair, you need to section parts off. Diane Kruger is a master of weaving her hair intricately, making it look more delicate, while Kate Middleton often uses the good old half up 'do to help hers seem less thick.

For a quick fix, simply tuck your hair behind your ears to create a dual texture look. The sleekness at the top will nicely balance the fullness at the ends. Same goes for pushing your hair back on one side à la Gigi Hadid. Ombre hair also works well, as the lighter shade makes ends look less heavy.

Short hairstyles for thick hair

Ever-popular bobs and lobs both look great with thick, bouncy hair. Go for a blunt edged bob if you have a round face, or softer tapered layers with a square face to soften your jaw line. If your hair is textured, use it to your advantage for volume on top like Lupita.

Celebrity inspiration: Lupita Nyong'o and Chrissy Teigen

Medium length hairstyles for thick hair

If you want to keep the fullness of your style without adding layers, aim for a length just past your shoulders. It's long enough to style, but won't take you half day to curl, wave or straighten.

Keep in mind that chin to shoulder length hair can be hard to work; waves will add an interesting element to mid length hairstyles for thick hair.

Celebrity inspiration: Kate Middleton and Emma Stone

Long hairstyles for thick hair

Long, thick hair is great because you can do SO much with it; the world is your oyster when it comes to choosing from intricate braids, bun hairstyles or other hair updos.

Celebrity inspiration: Blake Lively and Salma Hayek

Read on for our guide to the top ten hairstyles for thick hair, as demonstrated by our favourite celebrities.

Gigi Hadid

Pushing your hair back off your face and adding movement towards the ends is a great way of styling thicker hair.

Lupita Nyong'o

If you ask us, Lupita Nyong'o has never stepped out with a bad hair do. Her thick hair lends itself really well to intricate updos, braids and looks great in shorter styles, too.

Salma Hayek

The benefit of having thick hair and a lot of it is that it lends itself well to being piled into a thick topknot.

Kate Middleton

The Duchess of Cambridge has some of the best coiffed locks in the country, and her thick hair is the envy of us all. Here she perfectly demonstrates how a mid-long length blow dry is THE timeless style.

Emma Stone

Thick hair looks great in a classic pony, without the need for extensions, as demonstrated here by Emma Stone.

Rose Byrne

A naturally voluminous style, the classic wavy lob lends itself so well to thick hair.

Blake Livley

A fishtail plait or braid will work wonders with thick hair, as demonstrated by thick hair idol Blake Lively. You get to see far more detail with these styles when you have thick hair than you would if you had thin hair.

Plaits are a timeless way to work a chic updo. Here's how to make them work for you...

Looking for great plait hairstyles to take you from work to the weekend?

Well, look no further. We've collated the best of the best plaits hairstyles for work, weekend and play, inspired by some very famous faces – whether you're a DIY kind of woman or let your hairdresser take the wheel.

Because the plait is a 'do that can easily be tailored to suit individual style preferences, it's not hard to see why they've surged in popularity in recent years.

Previously the domain on Pippi Longstocking, the plait has evolved into a high end fashion hairstyle over the past few years thanks to numerous appearances on the catwalk.

But perhaps the simplest way to work a plait is by twisting three sections of hair together to create a solo braid, a look adored by Cameron Diaz. The star worked this hairstyle as she owned the red carpet at the New York premiere of Annie a couple of years ago.

Meanwhile Emma Watson, Sienna Miller, Margot Robbie and a whole host of other A-listers all rock a braided hairstyle on the regular. No red carpet is without complete without a couple of celebrity plait hairstyles.

The plait is a great option for fine or thin hair and anyone with layers as the loose front and relaxed style of plait means you don't need to fret about it being too tidy or perfect.

How to recreate the French braid

• Section your locks into three to braid the hair on top and at the sides
• After creating three French plaits without including the mid-lengths and ends, secure the hair at the crown of the head with bobby pins
• Spritz with hairspray to ensure it holds all evening

Need some more plait magic in your life? Read on for all the plaitspiration you need, for festival season and beyond.

Laverne Cox

We're obsessed with this huge braided bun as seen on Laverne Cox. Ob. Sessed.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé's super high, super long plait is hairstyle goals.

Lucy Boynton

Bohemian Rhapsody actress Lucy Boynton proves that plait hairstyles for short hair are seriously chic, with a braided headband framing her pinned back choppy bob.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell attended the CFDA Fashion Awards sporting a show-stopping fishtail braid that grazed her waist on the red carpet, pairing it with a plunging black gown.

Emma Watson

Emma Watson's tightly plaited 'do reminds us how long it's been since the days of her pixie crop.

Joan Smalls

Joan Smalls keeps her plaited hairstyle neat and preened to perfection with a tight plait that runs over one shoulder.

Laura Bailey

Laura Bailey hit a party at Kensington Place with a duo of French plaits, the ultimate relaxed summer party/festival hairdo.

Jourdan Dunn

For the Met Gala 2015 in New York, Jourdan Dunn opted for a braided look that we love.

Margot Robbie

Margo Robbie offset her uber-chic white strapless gown with a messy plaited updo, and we think she totally nailed it. Pulled gently off the face with a slight backcomb to create a little volume, Margot opted for multiple braids for her look, all pinned loosely in a bun at the nape of the neck.

Kate Bosworth

From the back, you can see how amazing Kate's plaits really are. This festival style is perfect for bouncing around in and knowing your hair will still look amazing.

Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana's halo braid looks gorgeous on dark hair. Create that high shine finish by brushing the hair delicately all the way through the plaiting process.

Kate Bosworth

Kate Bosworth again, this time with a clever centre-parted braid resembling a golden crown. Definitely a look we'll be copying for festival season.

An easy updo to emulate, be inspire by A-list buns and topknots

Bun hairstyles are one of the most versatile around; wear them to work, to socialise or to formal events and you're guaranteed to look seriously chic, whatever your outfit of choice may be.

As well as telling the world that you mean business, bun hairstyles are great on a practical level for keeping your hair out of your face as well as showing off your make-up look.

And the best bit? They're one of the easiest hairstyles you'll ever learn how to style. Just finish with a spritz of your best hairspray and you're good to go.

Read on for the Marie Claire guide to the best bun hairstyles, plus the celebrities who nail the look on the red carpet every single time.

Messy bun hairstyles

Messy buns are those 'lived in' looking styles favoured by supermodels and film stars alike – think wispy, can't-be-bothered, perfectly placed and barely held together all at the same time.

The idea is to look like you've slept in your bun, without looking like you actually slept in it.

Watch our guide on how to do a messy bun to master the art of the ultimate 'I woke up like this' hairdo.

Bun hairstyles with braids

Becoming ever more popular are braided bun hairstyles, a more detailed version of your classic hair updos. Whether it's a braid that's been styled into a bun, or a braided crown or French braid with the rest of the hair knotted in plac, they're dominating red carpets everywhere right now.

Look out for stars like Millie Bobby Brown and Jessica Biel in our round up for examples of both simple and intricate bun hairstyles with braids.

Ready for all the bun hair inspiration you could ever need? Keep scrolling to see some of the greats from the red carpet.

Jourdan Dunn

Jourdan Dunn works a swept back low bun on the red carpet. There's something seriously effortless, while at the same time elegant, about this look. And if you've got the bone structure of a supermodel...

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex

Meghan has reinvigorated the messy bun's popularity by wearing the style to a number of public engagements over the last couple of years. – proving it's a classic, time and time again.

Chrissy Teigen

Chrissy Teigen certainly knows how to pull off a classic bun/topknot on the red carpet.

Kaia Gerber

Model of the moment Kaia Gerber wears a classic, neat bun with a centre parting. The look is perfectly polished with statement earrings and a red lip.

Joan Smalls

Even better than the classic topknot is a topknot with detail - we love the height on Joan Smalls'.

Kendall Jenner

Kendall Jenner has already graced many a red carpet in her lifetime, with a topknot showing off her enviable facial features. (Those brows, though).

Jennifer Lawrence

We don't need to tell you that J-Law has exceptional hair game. Her short hair makes for a super dainty looking, neat knot.

Millie Bobby Brown

Stranger Things Millie Bobby Brown wowed the world when she stepped out with a seriously pretty bun with braids at the Golden Globes. Goals!

Olivia Palermo

A fashion week regular, Olivia Palermo often chooses a bun to draw the attention to her game-changing make-up looks.

Bella Hadid

Bella Hadid perfectly demonstrates how to work a power bun with wispy front detail.

When it comes to long hairstyles, celebs have got it down

If you get serious hair envy every time you see Jennifer Lopez sporting long Hollywood curls or Beyoncé with her lengthy waves, you're not alone. When it comes to hairstyles for long hair, celebrities have got it down.

It can feel like pretty hard work to think of new 'dos that can transform your long hair to a masterpiece. But, with the right tools, a bit of patience and some celebrity inspiration, it's not just possible, but totally achievable.

And make sure you keep your hair in tip top condition. If you find that your hair gets to a certain length and then breaks off, you need to look through our round up of the best shampoo for dry hair. Similarly, if you find that your hair looks greasy quickly, you need to work out the best shampoo for your hair type. A little bit of care will go a ˆ way (literally).

Now that you've got those points ticked off, find the best long hairstyles 2019 will be all about here.

Layered hairstyles for long hair

Layering on long hair is a great way to add texture, volume and, well, a bit more life to your hair. Keeping layers tapered towards the ends of your hair will add bounce to your overall look, while feathered layering around the face can soften your overall face shape.

Celebrity inspiration: Beyoncé and Jessica Biel

Hairstyles for long thick hair

Thick hair works great with longer layers, and usually doesn't need a lot of help adding volume – look to celebs like Beyoncé, Priyanka Chopra, Zendaya and Jessica Biel for inspiration on how to master it. These hairstyles for thick hair will give you even more inspiration on how to style yours.

Celebrity inspiration: Beyoncé and Zendaya

Hairstyles for long thin hair

Longer hair gives you more to work with when styling and makes it appear fuller. 'If you have fine hair, keep layers longer as over layering will only make the hair appear thinner and sparser,' Sam advises. Stars like Cara Delevingne and Keira Knightley are the pros when it comes to styling longer, thinner hair, so look to them for inspiration on hairstyles for fine hair.

Celebrity inspiration: Keira Knightley and Cara Delevingne

Hairstyles for long hair with bangs

When done right, fringes are one of those hairstyles that anyone can get right – if you have a square face, stick to a softly layered fringe, while rounder faces can pull off shorter, blunt bangs. Wondering how to cut your own hair? Read our guide to trimming your own fringe to ensure you don't have a DIY disaster.

Celebrity inspiration: Jessica Biel

Hairstyles for long hair with curls

Long, curly hair looks great whether natural or heat styled; if it's your natural texture, don't over-layer as this will create a whole lot of extra volume your hair probably doesn't need. And if you're using one of the best curling wands to create beautiful bouncy waves, be sure to use a heat protecting spray to avoid damage.

Celebrity inspiration: Beyoncé and Zendaya

Hairstyles for long straight hair

Although the hairstyles of the moment tend to focus on blunt ends with textured waves, straight hair is still an elegant and chic option for how to wear your hair if it's longer, and tucking it behind one ear softens the overall look whether you have a centre or side parting. Always use a heat protecting spray before using the best hair straighteners if your hair isn't naturally sleek.

Celebrity inspiration: Kendall Jenner, Jessica Alba, Lily James

Hairstyles for long hair on round faces

Longer hair is great for elongating a more spherical face shape to make it appear more oval, especially with softer, shorter layers around the face. To master choosing a style for this face shape with expert hair tips, read our guide to choosing hairstyles for round faces.

Celebrity inspiration: Priyanka Chopra, Kendall Jenner and Kate Upton

Hairstyles for long hair on square faces

Square faces often come with a more angular jaw shape, with the forehead, cheekbones and jaw all spanning the same width. These can be softened with more rounded layers, especially with soft curls that fall past the jawline. If you have a more angular bone structure, look to these celebrities' hairstyles for square faces to master styling your hair for your face shape.

Celebrity inspiration: Jennifer Lopez and Jessica Biel

Hairstyles for long hair on oval faces

If you have an oval face, you're in luck, because this is considered the most adaptable face shape – that's to say that it works with just about any and every hairstyle. 'The most important consideration to take into account is the individuals’ natural texture,' says Sam. 'This will determine the style, shape and length.'

See our round-up of the best celeb hairstyles for oval faces.

Celebrity inspiration: Kim Kardashian

Priyanka Chopra

Layering works great with long hair because there's so much more to work with. Priyanka's long, feathered style works really well with her round face shape.

Ariana Grande

Ariana's signature 'do is a super high, super tight ponytail – her motto is definitely the longer, the better.

Zendaya

Big, curly hair with lots of volume is a winning look as demonstrated by Zendaya. Curly hair is naturally drier, so use a hair oil to keep the ends soft.

Beyoncé

It's fair to say that nobody does curls like Queen Bey. She set off her impossibly bouncy, lustrous mane with a slick of red lipstick.

Jennifer Aniston

Classics are classic for a reason, which is probably why Jen has kept her famous long, layered style as her signature look.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex

Nobody does the perfect blowout quite like the royal family, and we don't need to tell you her long and lustrous mane is the envy of us all.

Rihanna

An oval face shape like RIhanna's is the most versatile, giving you the ability to pull off pretty much any style you like. And if you ask us, long waves are never going to go out of fashion.

Victoria Beckham

Before she went for the chop again, this was something of a signature style for Victoria Beckham. VB gave the classic wavvy hairdo a new-season spin by tucking her long glossy locks neatly behind the ear and wearing it swept to one side. A great style to go for should you be wearing a strapless evening dress.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba's long hairstyle is brushed in a sleek, straight style where the lengths fall down her back, perfectly accentuating her bone structure.

Kendall Jenner

Kendall Jenner is the queen of sleek long hair. She brushes all her hair back over her shoulders to show off her cheek and collar bones and opts for no parting to add volume up top.

There are so many incredible short hairstyles around at the moment that most of us have toyed with the idea of going for the chop—in fact, short hair is reigning supreme in 2023 hair trends. But going for that dramatic length-change can be a daunting prospect, especially if you're an established member of the long-haired club.

Often when people think about short hair, they assume that there aren’t as many hairstyles available as there are to those with long hair. We’re here to tell you that that’s absolutely not the case. There are actually so many different ways to style short hair so that you’ll never be bored. “Short hair cuts are some of my favourites as the cut is short, they grow out super quick and then you can mix it up again,” says hairstylist Lewis Pallett. 

Why do we find it so risky? 

So why is it so hard for us to take the plunge? “I think sometimes people can't picture themselves with a short haircut if they have had long hair for a long time”, says celebrity hair stylist, Orlando Pita. Plus, you might be struggling to pin down one idea with so many to choose from. 

“There are hundreds of options,” says Pallett. We’re talking: buzzcut, pixie crop, boy crop, baby bobs, cropped mullet, blunt bob, layered textured cut, shag cut, angled micro bob… you get the picture.

Short hair and your face shape

The good news? Any face shape can pull off a shorter hairstyle. “Face shape isn’t key for short hair, but by creating layering, you ultimately affect the shape”, says Sam Burnett, owner of Hare and Bone. “For example, round faces should opt for square layers and vice versa for square face shapes,” he adds. 

When it comes to inspiration, “I would suggest looking at celebrities for inspiration, but be realistic,” advises Pallett. “Look at celebrities within your similar age bracket and take references with you to your appointment so your hairdresser can get a sense of what you're thinking; your stylist as they have a wealth of knowledge and can help you figure out what works best,” he adds. 

Styling short hair

Once you've settled on a cut, it's time to talk styling. This is something that your hairdresser can also help you with. "While short hair is easier to blow dry, it needs product to make the cut come alive. I like to create texture and lift with dry texture sprays and pomades," says Eugene Smith, senior stylist at John Frieda Salons in Mayfair. 

Final words of advice from Pallett? “Whatever happens, remember: it grows back!” 

Ready to have the chop? Take a look at the best short hairstyles 2023 has to offer—looking back at the old classics and taking inspo from new favourites. 

The best short hairstyles for 2023

1. Dua Lipa's blunt bob

The blunt bob isn't going anywhere in 2023, and we cannot get enough of this look from Dua Lipa from 2021. 

2. Gabrielle Union's asymmetric bob 

A choppy, chin length, asymmetric bob looks great on a round or oval face, much like Gabrielle Union's hair here. Either wear it full and bouncy or slick it back. 

3. Hailey Bieber's wavy crop 

Can't decide between blunt and wavy? Do both. Take inspo from this look of Hailey Bieber's from 2020 that features blunt ends styled with beachy waves. 

4. Viola Davies's blunt bob 

There's nothing quite as stylish as a super blunt cut — fringe and all! Viola Davis starts 2023 off with a chin-length angled bob and blunt bangs. 

5. Zoë Kravitz's pixie crop

Zoë Kravitz's sharp jawline and cheekbones are perfectly accentuated by her mega short crop styled with an angled fringe.

6. Florence Pugh's flicked ends 

Florence Pugh had many (many!) great beauty moments last year, but this style has to be a favourite. Featuring a deep side part (one of 2023's biggest hair trends), slicked back roots and a dramatic flick on the ends. 

7. Jennifer Hudson's layered crop

Layered crops can be styled for any face shape, and we love Jennifer Hudson's version when she grew hers out into a flattering '60s style rounded bob, which perfectly complements her square face shape.

8. Samira Wiley's buzzcut 

In 2023 why not try and buzzcut and a new hair colour? Take inspiration from Samira Wiley who, in November 2022, debuted an incredible bright blonde buzzcut. 

9. Janelle Monáe's waved fringe 

Turn your fringe into the main event by styling it in curls as Janelle Monáe did here. Next, add a larger-than-life accessory to make your hair the standout of any outfit. 

10. Duckie Thot's curved bob 

Duckie Thot proves that you can have the bluntest of bobs but style it in a slightly curved way to switch things up. She wore her in a middle part with the body of the cut slightly curved to give it more volume. You can do this at home with a hair of hair straighteners and some smoothing cream. 

11. Jennifer Lawrence's side part bob 

This cut might be from 2013 (yes, really!) but it still such an epic cut we're not yet over it. Jennifer Lawrence rocked short hair with this wavy bob styled tucked behind one ear with plenty of volume. 

12. Evan Rachel Wood's short and coiffed crop

Evan Rachel Wood's is known for pulling off a her short hairstyles with aplomb—and her slick blonde quiff is no different. So. Cool.

13. Taraji P. Henson's natural micro bob

Taraji P. Henson stunned with this look from 2021 featuring her natural curls styled in a middle part micro bob. We simply cannot get enough of it! 

14. Gina Rodriguez's layered lob

For a vintage look, style your lob with tonged waves and a side parting à la Gina Rodriguez.

15. Lupita Nyong'o's short sides and volume on top

Short hairstyles don't come cooler than Lupita Nyong'o's super-styled locks. The actress has rocked a series of crops since stepping into the limelight, with her stylist Ted Gibson creating short hair hit after hit. Our favourite? Her MTV Movie Awards quiff.

16. Michelle Williams's platinum blonde pixie crop

Her signature style for a few years now, Michelle Williams's blonde super-short crop has gradually got lighter, progressing into a cool (quite literally) icy platinum blonde.

17. Kerry Washington's blunt bob and bangs

Kerry Washington is always convincing us to try a blunt bob and sharp bangs, this look is no different. 

18. Gemma Arterton's angled boy crop 

Gemma showed us how to go super short with this boy crop, finished off with an angled fringe and we cannot get enough of it. 

The best products for short hair

There are a few products that are especially helpful to have in your haircare arsenal, especially if you're new to styling a crop. 

Inspiration overload

We're here chaps; it's the party season. Welcome. We don't know about you, but we've been inundated with invitations, we can't move for sequins on the high street and we're dusting off our finest dancing shoes. What's needed now is some inspiration for the best party hairstyles to rock this Christmas.

Whether you choose a decorative plait hairstyle or a fancy hair updo, party hairstyles have the power to transform your look from simple to stupendous in a matter of minutes.

One of the easiest ways to jazz up a party hairstyle, is to embellish it with one of this season's most popular hair accessories...

Party hairstyles - embellished hair slide

As seen on so many of London's party scene, the embellished hair slide might just be the easiest party hairstyle to achieve. You can either wear your hair down or tie it into a low bun, then pop a slide (or two for extra glamour) in at the front, close to your parting. Our food columnist, Laura Jackson, demonstrates this marvellously on her wedding day.

Accessorize Pearl Cluster Barrette Hair Clip, £5

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Party hairstyles - velvet

Another simple, yet incredibly effective, party hairstyle is adding a touch of velvet to your look. You could opt for a padded headband or a velvet bow tied neatly onto a ponytail.

Donni Dolce Velvet Headband, £46 Moda Operandi

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Of course you don't have to accessorise, there are plenty of party hairstyles to choose from. Knowing the kind of hairstyle that will work with your outfit is hard enough without having to actually find the perfect 'do, which is why we've done the hard work for you and rounded up the best party hairstyles around.

Because when it comes to inspiration, the more the better. See this as your print off and keep style guide.

Alexa Chung

As ever, Alexa giving us tonnes of style inspo. The embellished hair slides add a touch of femininity to her tough leather jacket.

Janelle Monae

We love the shape Janelle Monae has created here with her hair.

Rooney Mara

Rooney Mara perfectly balances the hard edge of a sleek 'do with the softness of a plait.

Blake Lively

Try a modern twist on a classic pony like Blake Lively. Wrap a small section of your pony around you hair bobble and use kirby grips to keep it in place.

Solange Knowles

Why use one hair clip, when you can use the whole pack. Don't be afraid to over-accessorise.

Sienna Miller

This style is extremely easy. All you need to do is twist the front and pin your hair back.

Jennifer Lawrence

J-Law looks smoking with this white blonde lob set in a loose wave. Wear your wave in a low-side parting for something a bit different come party season.

Margot Robbie

A halo braid is an easy way to add a delicate touch to your overall look.

Ciara

Ciara's braids are automatic, supersonic, hypnotic, funky fresh. We love!

Lily Collins

The 1920s decade has always been one of our favourites. With such distinct style, it really sets a mood for any look.

Jessica Alba

A simple twist knot can add a whole new dimension to an outfit. Take cue from Jessica Alba.

Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger is somewhat the Queen of hairstyles. Every time she hits a red carpet, she blows us away with a new hairstyle.

Taylor Marie Hill

A sleek ponytail may be simple, but it sure does make a statement.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell's sleek tresses are the ultimate long hair goals. Ah, to have the hair of a supermodel...Click through to see our round up of the best party hairstyles for your next soiree. They'll definitely put you in a party mood.

Kate Bosworth

A new take on the halo braid comes courtesy of Kate Bosworth...

Fearne Cotton

Usually seen rocking a sleek blow-dried bob we love these tight curls on Fearne Cotton. To create this for your next summer party section hair and use a small barrelled tong all over.

Gigi Hadid

Gigi Hadid pairs her strong dark lip with this sleek, slicked back hair look on the red carpet. If you're going for a statement lip or dress this party season team it with this simple statement 'do.

Sienna Miller

This modern interpretation of a bee-hive with just a little volume at the back is great for everything from a prom to a christening. Wear yours tousled like Sienna Miller for a laid-back party look.

Selena Gomez

Party hair doesn't have to be complicated and Selena Gomez proves it with this classic blow-out.

Rachel McAdams

Rachel McAdams channels a 90s rock chick with this party 'do. Tong hair using a large barrel and then shake out for a sexy party look.

J Lo

The bun is the ballet dancers best-friend for a reason - it lasts a full night of spinning and twirling around without frizz, without stress and without falling out. J-Lo rocks this high version of the classic bun for a carefree party hairstyle.

Kate Middleton

Kate Middleton looks every bit the leading lady in this chic plaited up-do. Ideal for a summer wedding celebration re-create this at home by plaiting hair from the temple down and securing at the nape of the neck.

Rosie Huntington Whiteley

Don't have a lot of time to spare? Slick back your hair like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley for a bombshell look that's simple and chic.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts is our inspiration for the ultimate in vintage party glamour. Her classic wavy hair at the front is the perfect frame for her face.

Emmy Rossum

Want something more complex? Try Emmy Rossum's intertwined plaits and place them high on the top of your head for a glamorous party look that takes all the attention.

Heidi Klum

Never one to shy away from an outlandish hairstyle or outfit, this boho-chic plait is relatively low-key for Heidi, but the perfect way to add a relaxed party-feel to her hair.

Kate Bosworth 85th Annual Academy Awards Oscars, Vanity Fair Party

For Kate Bosworth, the halo braid is her party saviour, sitting pretty around the front of her face to give her whole look an ethereal vibe.

Zooey Deschanel

Zooey Deschanel lands old school glamour with luxurious large curls and a girlie fringe. Keep in mind that if your hair has volume, your bangs need it too.

Sarah Hyland

Simple and elegant. Sarah Hyland's party hairstyle is understated, simple to achieve but looks glossy and sophisticated. Wear a long ponytail and wrap the lengths of the hair around your hair elastic to give it a polished look.

Jessica Alba

For your party hairstyle, try running some simple waves through your hair, like Jessica Alba. Her party look would be great with bare shoulders to show off the full effect of the lengths.

Cat Deeley

Cat Deeley's simple 'do looks elegant and relaxed with her long golden hair in a loose side plait with a sweeping fringe.

Marion Cottiliard

For a party hairstyle with feminine glamour, Marion Cottiliard has rolled the tips of her hair into tight ringlets for shine and added a girlie clip to top off the glamour.

Miroslava Duma

Miroslava Duma's party hairstyle adds a touch of vintage class to her short locks. Simply roll the ends in towards your neck.

Emma Watson

Emma Watson is the epitome of chic with her hair swept up at the back of her head and a slick of red lipstick.

Cat Deeley

Channel Cat Deeley for a really glamorous bouncy curl look. Create a glorious 'do with large barrel curlers or giant rollers for lots of body in the lengths.

Julianne Hough

Creating party hairstyles with shorter styles is sometimes harder. To get Julianna Hough's short and curly style create flicks in the end using a reliable pair of tongs, always twisting the hair away from the face.

Georgia May Jagger

Georgia May Jagger has gone all-out party with a late 70s inspired 'do. Her crimpers definitely had a work out to get this look.

Julianne Hough

Instead of a front of face braid, try subtle detail in the back of your hair, like Julianna Hough. She's mastered the tuxedo braid - with a little help from her friends, no doubt.

Lily Collins

Lily Collins nails party hair. With big volume in the back, her 60s style is one we're definitely trying out this party season.

Rita Ora

This masked beauty is perfectly framed by little twisted buns for a very cute style.

Carey Mulligan

Carey Mulligan's pretty face suits a whole host of hairstyles; from blonde and cropped, to long and brown. We love this centre-parted sweet and simple party style.

Harley Viera-Newton

Try a halo braid for your party hairstyle. It provides a perfect frame to a naturally made-up face.

Jessica Hart

If you can get a bun as impressive as Jess Hart's, definitely do it.

Katy Perry

A party hairstyle for Katy Perry is always an experimental 'do. The sweeping fringe makes sure this one isn't too harsh on her face.

Cindy Bruna

We love Cindy's high ponytail. It lifts everything for a fresh faced look.

Emily Ratajkowski

Emily Ratajkowski's soft style perfectly frames her face, while giving her an overall ethereal look.

Karlie Kloss

Karlie Kloss

If you don't have time to do something intricate with your hair, but still want to make a statement, add a headband or bow.

Chanel Iman

We love how Chanel's halo braid sits right at the very front of her hairline.

Gwen Stefani

If your hair lacks volume, tease it at the roots and then push forward, before pinning into place to create height.

Pixie Geldof

Another sparkly hair accessory. This one is HEAVEN.

From the zany to the minimal...

Another year, another gloriously messy weekend at a music festival. It's safe to say that along with the kimonos, denim shorts, flower crowns and glitter you'll see at literally every event you go to, there's a few major festival hair styles that come back every year. I'll rattle off the list for you now: flower crowns, dutch braids, space buns, glitter roots...sound familiar? Well when I went to Isle of Wight festival earlier this year, I made it my personal mission to discover the unsung hair heroes and shine a light on other potential hairstyles that I didn't see that need to make an appearance.

Read on for more...

Hairstyles at the Isle of Wight Festival

Half up, half down

When I went to Isle of Wight Festival, I was fortunate enough to wind up in Aussie’s Joozh Tent - a place where you can relax away from the bustle of the main stage, grab a juice and get your hair did by one of their professionals. I sat down with one of their pros and he whipped up a simple look I loved, a half up half down look.

After whipping my greasy locks into shape with some Aussie dry shampoo, he primped and curled my hair into beach waves. Then he carefully pinned just half of it up for an asymmetrical look that I loved so much, that I’m still rocking it off the festival circuit. It’s easy enough to recreate but super cute, the trick is to secure it tightly so it doesn’t all come tumbling down when you’re bopping along in a sweaty tent. The look managed to survive the drunken crowds at a Guns N’ Roses tribute band set, so the team at the Joozh Tent really know what they’re doing.

I’d recommend dropping by the Aussie Joozh tents at any festivals you’re heading to in the future, as you can also grab sachets of their 3 Minute Miracle deep conditioner while you’re there - ideal for sorting your hair out after the weekend’s taken its toll.

Split dye

I came across this beautiful human while I was halfway through a plate of cheesy chips and literally dropped everything to go talk to her. While space buns aren’t exactly a novel idea - we’ve seen every iteration at this point: braided space buns, glitter space buns, space buns with little metal rings in them - I’d never seen them done the way she had. She had dyed her hair half pink and half blue, kind of like an ice cream take on Harley Quinn’s signature do, and it looked absolutely amazing.

Obviously, this look requires a lot more commitment since split-dyeing your hair is more than a weekend’s commitment. (I still say go for it, TBH.)

The off-duty Dutch braid

This totally wearable look isn’t the boldest one on the list, but it’s still one of my favourites. All you have to do is start off with two regular dutch braids on either side of your head, then once you hit the base of your skull - stop braiding and just tie them up like regular ponytails. It’s a little different and thankfully also a little less work: perfect for that hungover Sunday when your brain can’t handle anything else.

Hairstyles I wish I’d seen at the festival

The Mohawk

IT IS TIME FOR THE MOHAWK TO RETURN. The bigger, the better in my opinion. It’s a great look that even short-haired gals can rock - if you spice things up and spray it through with glitter or a shot of colour, you’re on your way to being snapped and popped in a list just like this one. Sure it might push you out of your comfort zone a little, but that’s what festivals are for.

I'm also a big fan of this braided take above, which I'm going to leave to a much defter hairstylist to figure out.

The Solange

I will literally never be able to get Solange’s album cover for A Seat at the Table and now that we’re in full 90s nostalgia mode, it’s time to get your barrette on. Perfect for the girls with volume that just won’t quit, grab some colourful barrettes, butterfly clips and have fun with it. If you have any clip on miniature pearls and florals on hand, they’d probably look super cute too.

The Met Gala extravaganza

Some days, your hair just isn’t going to work with you and that’s okay. That doesn’t mean you still can’t be extra. Take inspiration from the Met Gala and make one of your accessories say it all for you with a statement headband or halo in this case. Just a little tip: Amber Heard’s was literally bought off Etsy for £25, but you can recreate it at home if you have a headband and a few zipties lying around. Just - um - mind you don't take someone's eye out.

The whole head floral takeover

Flower crowns are old hat now at music festivals, I want to see them go to the next level. This is a look that will probably take a steady hand and a little more time to perfect, but this beauty/hair combo is a total winner. After fixing your floral crown in place, use pressed flowers in the same or alternate shades like above to continue the trail down onto your cheekbones. It's a refreshing modern take on a classic Woodstock look.

Think rich coffee, chocolate, espresso and ebony tones...

These days, the saying 'blondes have more fun' is pretty out of date. Stars like Bella Hadid, Dakota Johnson and Kiera Knightley are all the proof the world needs that women with brunette hairstyles have just as good a time as those with blonde hairstyles.

Alright, this is written by a brunette. I'm biased. But in all seriousness, rich brown tones can look just as good as platinum blonde, as the red carpet has demonstrated time and time again.

Take fashion mogul Victoria Beckham for example. Aside from a brief stint as a blonde years ago (we all remember her iconic wedding pictures), VB is firmly a brown-haired beauty, often wearing her locks in her signature updo.

And she's not the only famous brunette to work hair updos on the reg. Emma Watson and Kendall Jenner are also well-versed in the elegance of an up style for awards season, red carpet premieres and parties.

Then of course, there are the brown-haired supermodels proving that it's never been all about the blondes. Naomi Campbell's sleek, dark tresses have been giving us life for decades now, while Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington and Helena Christensen are icons when it comes to brunette hairstyles. And many of the Victoria's Secret Angel squad are all flying the flag for brown-haired girls everywhere (thanks Adriana, Irina, Alessandra and co).

Not a natural brunette? Be sure to use one of the best hair masks at least once a week to maintain its colour and glossiness, and choose the best dry shampoo for dark hair to store in your beauty arsenal for in between days. This will keep your brown locks as rich and lustrous as possible.

Consider this your one-stop destination for brown hair inspiration, from styling ideas to colour trends.

Haven't found quite what you're looking for yet? See all the chicest brunette celeb styles here to inspire your next chop.

Naomi Campbell

'The Face' judge and model extraordinaire Naomi Campbell always looks completely perfect with her long dark tresses. We love this face-framing straight style.

Bella Hadid

Bella Hadid seamlessly works the tightly scraped back power pony (is it any wonder we envy her?)

Solange Knowles

Solange Knowles ups the ante with a seriously curly 'do. She keeps the rest of her look neutral to ensure her hair stays the main focus.

Kendall Jenner

Kendall Jenner brushes the top section of her dark hair back, leaving the rest loose at Las Vegas' Billboard Music Awards.

Victoria Beckham

By allowing a few loose strands to break free, Victoria Beckham works a relaxed take on the traditional neat updos.

Kerry Washington

You can't go wrong with a super tight, sky high ponytail, as Kerry Washington well knows.

Miranda Kerr

Baby faced model Miranda always looks perfectly put together. She hit a glamour high at the Met Ball with this Hollywood Golden Age-influenced curled style - which is perfectly finished with her deep red lips.

Rose Byrne

Rose Byrne's wavy lob is the hottest hairstyle of the moment - we love the colour detail here.

Gemma Chan

Humans star Gemma Chan looks typically gorg here, showing off her glossy brunette locks while attending the Royal Television Society awards in London.

Emma Watson

Though some of us are still see her as Hermione Granger, Emma sure knows how to work a red carpet with classically glamourous up-dos and minimal make-up.

The colour fade trend is stronger than ever...

We may not love it so much now, but dip dye is without a doubt one of the biggest hair trends of the decade.

As seen on the likes of reality star Khloe Kardashian, Gossip Girl's Jessica Szohr and Modern Family actress Ariel Winter, to name just a few. Now replaced with insanely popular balayage, the colour fade can help you feel ready for a new season.

Give sultry chocolate locks and champagne shades a kiss of platinum blonde to lighten up your 'do for the festival season and give your post-winter locks a sun-kissed holiday feel.

Jessica Biel, Jessica Alba, Alexa Chung and TV presenter Caroline Flack have all championed this winning ombre hair look in the past.

But if a glance at Emma Stone's stunning strawberry blonde isn't quite enough to convince you to make the change, check out how flamboyant Nicki Minaj manages to totally transform her appearance with a vibrant pop of bright pink.

The Super Bass singer isn't the only VIP fan of a striking dip-dye. Hair chameleon Lady Gaga has been snapped working a yellow shade, while Jaime King is all about the blue.

Drew Barrymore is another who's not afraid to make a strong statement with ombre hair - black tips ensure she remains the centre of attention as she promotes her new film Whip It.

Worried that your dip-dye won't be visible if you decide to fashion an up-do? Don't be. Lauren Conrad's kooky fuchsia colour is hard to miss as she rocks a flirty and feminine high ponytail with retro flicks of winged eyeliner at a book signing.

While dip dye isn't getting a revival any time soon, there's no shame in looking back on the best celebrity hair looks of an era gone by.

Read on for our favourite celeb dip dye looks, ever...

Lea Michelle

As if leaning over a pot of Lea Michele has dipped her long locks in a fine golden colour - and doesn't she look gorgeous?

Bella Thorne

We love Bella Thorne's twist on ombre hair and her sleek, chic ponytail.

Ariel Winter

Ariel Winter reveals the playful side to her personality at Nickelodeon's 28th Annual Kids' Choice Awards with tumbling turquoise tresses.

Jessica Biel

With a hazel colour of top, the lovely Jessica Biel creates a tonal dip dye with a mousey brown colour at the tips to get a less obvious contrast.

Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens spruces up her curls with a lighter shade of brown at the tips. It can be the perfect option if you're bored of all over colour but your hair is too dark for blonde highlights.

Nicole Richie

Nicole Richie has rocked a whole host of styles and shades over the years but she's recently opted for an edgy dip-dye with a poker straight black over blonde bob.

Olivia Wilde

Olivia Wilde has dipped just the very tips of her hair creating a golden contrast to her naturally dark and shiny roots.

Jessica Alba

An original subtle dip dye looked great on Jessica Alba. It's a hard look to achieve as the underneath is still the colour of her roots but bad the right hairdressers and you're golden.

Leighton Meester

Leighton Meester warms up her chocolate locks with some copper-coloured tones.

Sofia Vergara

Dip-dyed hair doesn't have to be crazy or colourful, it can just liven up your locks and add a healthy shine. Sofia Vergara spruces up her glossy locks with some lighter brown.

Hot off the catwalk this modern twist on braids is set to be next summer’s hottest hair trend

From deconstructed buns, to finger-dried waves and corkscrew curls the SS17 shows bought with it a whole host of new hair looks for us to swoon over. One of our favourite (and perhaps the most swoon-worthy) hair look this season had to be the free-spirited, pagan-inspired braids spotted at Preen by Thorton Bergazzi SS17 show. Created by Wella Professionals Global Creative Director, Eugene Souleiman the braided hair-do was roughed-up and carefree.

Plaits can conjure up images of high-school gym class and pig tail plaits but this new-take on braids challenges the association of orderliness and uniformity for plaits. Souleiman magicked up this new style that was slightly disheveled and outdoorsy but ‘definitely not romantic’.

Four different types of braids were used on the girls in 4 strand, 3 strand, bound and blanket-stiched styles. Hair was plaited and braided in these 4 different sizes, in varying directions to add interest and give each girl a unique, wild look. Souleiman described the style as “abstract and well-travelled.” We love that the hair was slightly mussed up and rebellious. You needn’t worry about having to re-do this style after a rocking night on the dance floor either which is good news for festival season.

To create perfectly, imperfect braids without the fuss, follow our simple step-by-step guide below.

Step-by-step guide to creating the Preen SS17 braids at home:

• Start by spritzing Wella EIMI Sugar Lift, £9.90 into the roots of the hair and massaging in with your fingers. This helps to texturise the hair and keeps your new 'do in place.
• Divide hair into randomly placed, sections of different sizes. Start with around 5 sections depending on how thick your hair is. The beauty of this braided hairstyle is you can create a totally unique look each time, so experiment with the number of sections and arrangement of braids until you find your favourite look.
• Next braid hair into different sized plaits using either 3 or 4 strands. Mixing two different styles of braid adds another level of interest. Secure your braids with an hair bobble.
• Let any shorter strands fall naturally and tease natural wisps of hair out from your braids to frame the face, whilst loosening up the plaits with your fingers.
• Spritz with Wella EIMI Dry Me, £12.90 a matte dry shampoo that will help keep your braids in place and add texture for a mussed- up, carefree braid style.
• Accessorise your braids with bows or ribbon to finish your look.

Images courtesy of Wella

From glamorous to understated, sleek to wavy, we've got your big day covered

Looking for the perfect bridesmaid hairstyles for you - or your mate's big day? Well look no further. In the gallery above, we've collated some of the most on-trend and modern bridesmaid hairstyle ideas to compliment your chosen gowns.

On your big day you want everything to be perfect - the venue, your dress, the cake, the ceremony, the party and most definitely your wedding hairstyles. And that definitely includes your lovely bridesmaids hair, too. Whether your wedding is a glamorous event, an understated ceremony or a boho chic beach affair, there's a style for all, you just need to find the right one.

For versatility, try a half up, half down approach, which can look super sophisticated as well as laid-back, depending on the texture of your bridesmaids hair or embrace our summer favourite hairstyle, braids, which can add a touch of softness to a look when worn wispy, as well as amp up the drama when worn tight and sleek.

Wedding hair accessories never go amiss either. A simple headband can take an otherwise understated blow dry to the next level, while a cutely printed scrunchie can turn a sleek ponytail into a sweet bridesmaid hairstyle, worthy of the big day. And if it's glamour you're going for, don't slight the power of glossy curls. Worn with a side part, they'll give any look a retro red carpet vibe.

Want Pinterest worthy Wedding hairstyles? We've pulled together some of the best celebrity red carpet styles, from Blake Lively's victory rolls at the Costume Institute Gala Benefit to Olivia Wilde's braided bun from the 88th Annual Academy Awards and Diane Kruger's soft half up top knot at the MoMA Film Benefit. Consider your bridal party hair sorted...

Blogger and celebrity stylist Roxie Nafousi has got party season all wrapped up with easy-peasy, high impact hair dos

The festive season is upon us and while we frantically try to wrap up our work, do our Christmas shopping, prepare for New Year and attend our annual Christmas parties, time is at more of a premium than ever before. There is a sense of excitement in the air but with it a sense of stress, franticness and panic! So, to make your lives a little easier, I wanted to find five easy hairstyles that you can do in the office before your parties that will not only make you look gorgeous, but will save you time. and money going to the salon.

I went down to my favourite hairdressers Clo & Flo and asked them to teach me their quickest and most popular styles so that I could then teach you!

1: The Messy Bun Inspired by the STUNNING Cheryl Fernandez-Versini on the X Factor a couple of weeks ago, this is my go-to hairstyle when I'm in a rush. I love a high bun because it gives the face an instant face lift, and it looks effortless-yet-sophisticated which, to me, is the winning combination for any look.

Step 1: Scrape your hair up into a high pony tail (the higher the better in my opinion). For a sleeker look, brush the hair into position and then spray with hair spray, or for a more textured look simply use your fingers.

Step 2: Wrap the ponytail roughly around and pin into place. There is no need to be neat with this, the look is supposed to look effortless so don't worry about making it look perfect.

Step 3: My new favourite trick to complete the messy bun is to pull out a couple of wisps of hair in the front and a couple at the back to give that totally nonchalant chic to it. It completes the look and makes it look very boho chic.

2: The Low Bun This hairstyle looks so much more complicated than it is and low buns are just always so glam.

Step 1: Divide your hair into two sections and tie into two ponytails at the back of the head.

Step 2: Twist each section of hair and tie up at the end.

Step 3: Pick up both sections, loop them around each other and pin into place.

3: The Fishtail I have always been a fan of fishtail plaits but they always look SO hard to do yourself, however discovering this little trick was a total game-changer.

Step 1: Divide your hair into three sections and plait each section and tie at the bottom

Step 2: Plait the three sections with each other and tie at the bottom

Step 3: Pull out the plaits gently to make the fish tail look wider and fuller

4: The Simple Plait This is the simplest boho look around. I love wearing my hair like this with a 70s style floaty dress to really complete the look.

Step 1: Take small sections of your hair from the front and divide at your natural parting.

Step 2: Plait each section.

Step 3: Pull each small plait back and tie together.

Steph 4: Add a ribbon over the knot for a festive feel!

5: The Pull Back This will probably take you under a minute to do and I love how you can change your whole look so quickly. When I'm out I hate having hair in my face, especially if I'm going for a dance; this keeps your hair out of your eyes whilst still looking 'done'.

Step 1: Take a small section of hair from the front of your head

Step 2: Pull Back and twist at the end of the hair.

Step 3: Pin into place et voilà!

...And if any of these don't work either then stick on a Christmas hat and wear it with pride! Lots of Love, Roxie xx

p.s. Want a bit of mid-winter motivation to get to the gym?

Merry Christmas!

Decades on we’re still obsessed with Audrey Hepburn’s timelessly classic hair styles.

Okay, we admit it. We're more than a little obsessed with Audrey Hepburn and our love shows no signs of waning. Her classic style and eternal beauty - not to mention those wondrous eyebrows - still captivate us decades after she graced the big screen. What's more, her hair evolution over the decades continues to give us inspiration.

Talk about a chameleon: Hepburn's style received a dramatic overhaul with every new movie she signed up to. Wild and unkempt in The Unforgiven, a glossy beehive and neat fringe in The Children's Hour and cute kiss curls in War and Peace. And of course, there's the high glamour Breakfast at Tiffany's up-do. The diamonds. The pearls.

There is something timeless about Audrey Hepburn. While her hairstyles changed as often as her movie roles, there was one constant: gorgeously glossy, chocolate brunette locks.

The man responsible for Hepburn's healthy, glossy finish was British Trichologist Philip Kingsley. Kingsley met Hepburn in London in 1974 when she took time out of filming and booked into his clinic under her married name Dotti. It wasn't until she was sat in his chair that Kingsley even realised he had a world-renowned movie star for a client.

Hepburn wanted something to mend her hair from the constant heat styling and processing it received on set. Kingsley met the challenge with Elasticizer, a pre-shampoo treatment that's still popular today (we can't get enough of the stuff). Hepburn obviously felt the same because she used Elasticizer religiously for the rest of her life and had huge amounts of the treatment shipped out to Switzerland where she lived.

Audrey Hepburn

Now you've nailed the signature Hepburn colour and condition, here's our favourite Audrey Hepburn hairstyles of all time...

Audrey Hepburn

Now you've nailed the signature Hepburn colour and condition, here's our favourite Audrey Hepburn hairstyles of all time...

Audrey Hepburn, Roman Holiday (1953)

Roman Holiday (1953)

Who could forget the glorious scene when princess Anya walks into a barbershop and chops her hair off to celebrate her freedom? We call this cropped fringe "the one" because it just belongs to Audrey in the 50s.

Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina (1954)

Sabrina (1954)

This rags-to-riches tale is now considered legendary - not least because of Audrey's style transfomation. Sabrina called for a classic 50s up-do. 60 years later its a hairstyle we still associate with Hepburn's iconic look.

Audrey Hepburn in War and Peace (1956)

War and Peace (1956)

The 50s were all about waves and Audrey embraced them with abundance with this loosely curled fringe in 1956. It's just lovely, isn't it?

Audrey Hepburn in Love in the Afternoon (1957)

Love In The Afternoon (1957)

This waved, pinned style gave Audrey Hepburn an elegant and mature look in 1957. It's certainly a timelessly chic look for the character she played - a young cello student in love with Gary Cooper.

Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face (1957)

Funny Face (1957)

Watching Funny Face is like taking a vibrant trip through fashion history. Bearing this in mind, with countless Givenchy costume changes and hair restyles, it was difficult to pick just one. But we couldn't resist this stunning look - a slicked-back bun adorned with a beguling bejeweled headband. It's utterly divine.

Audrey Hepburn in The Unforgiven (1960)

The Unforgiven (1960)

This is an usually long and bohemian 'do' for Hepburn in The Unforgiven. It was also an unusual casting for Hepburn who steered clear of westerns after this was made.

Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

Breakfast At Tiffany's (1961)

Introducing the chignon to triumph over all chignons. Sporting a lighter shade than usual - Audrey's divine beehive was streaked subtley with lighter highlights to give an iconic new look for the star. Often mimicked, it will never be bettered.

Audrey Hepburn, Charade (1963)

Charade (1963)

The beehive is starting to evolve in 1963 and we start to see a more modern twist as she gets into capers with Cary Grant - and styles them to the max with an array of fabulous pillbox hats.

Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady (1964)

My Fair Lady (1964)

Now this is how you rock an up-do. Kids, don't try this one at home. Definitely one for the professionals...

Audrey Hepburn in The Children's Hour (1961)

The Children's Hour (1961)

As the 60s arrived, Hepburn still held onto her whispy beehive - although she wouldn't keep it for long. We love Hepburn's neat fringe and beehive for The Children's Hour.

Audrey Hepburn in How to Steal a Million (1966)

How To Steal A Million (1966)

In 1966, Audrey was on a quest to modernise her classic look. She achieved it when she chopped off her hair to star in this critically-acclaimed heist movie. Who did the honours? Alexandre de Paris, a famous French hairdresser to the stars. He named this style "Coupe Infante '66″.

Audrey Hepburn in Two for the Road (1967)

Two For The Road (1967)

Audrey Hepburn indulged in her mischievous side signing up to this 1967 film starring Albert Finney. In it, Hepburn embraces her inner mod with this Vidal Sassoon inspired crop. Hepburn was fully on board with the swinging 60s.

Audrey Hepburn in Bloodline (1979)

Bloodline (1979)

Beauty doesn't age and Audrey Hepburn proves it in this film still from 1979 thriller, Bloodline. A simple scraped-up bun is decorated with a striking polka dot veil. What more do you need? Perfection.

Rightly or wrongly, what we remember first of all when we think of all the accomplished and iconic women of the last few decades is their hair.

When Jennifer Aniston debuted Rachel Green's choppy cut on Friends, we *all* wanted to rush to the hairdressers and copy her - whether it made us look ridiculous or not. At a time when we were more than obsessed (seriously, in a rather unhealthy way - we can still quote every line, of every episode, of every season - verbatim) we couldn't get enough of what Rachel did. It really didn't matter to us that Jennifer didn't actually like the haircut; if she had it, we wanted it.

A little known band (we jest) called the Spice Girls became as famous for their fashion choices and hairstyles as they were for their songs (we're not even slightly embarrassed to admit that Say You'll Be There is still a firm favourite... Okay, maybe a little embarrassed). You could hardly wear a pair of sparkly platforms without dividing your hair into Baby's pigtails, or pull on your Adidas trackies without pairing them with a tight ponytail àla Sporty. That would just be ludicrous to do anything, but!

And so it goes with some of the most famous, and easily recognised hairstyles of recent times. Amy Winehouse's messy beehive is as synonymous with the late singer now as it ever was, Grace Jones box-cut fro will forever remind us of her balsy turn as May Day in James Bond thriller A View To A Kill - and a mere glimpse of a wildly shaggy wig will undoubtedly make us dance weirdly and rock out to Steamy Windows in some awful attempt at channeling Tina Turner.

You could say today's styles are tame in comparison but while we may not necessarily go to same extremes we can still be comfortably inspired. A Jane Birkin or Marianne Faithful fringe will forever be flattering (especially if you have a large forehead you would like to disguise) and Veronica Lake's trademark glossy waves are a surefire party pleaser.

Veronica Lake

Veronica Lake's waves are still as wearable today as they were back in the forties and they're a certifiable red carpet staple. Everyone from Reese Witherspoon, to Blake Lively, to Jessica Chastain, have taken inspiration from the Old Hollywood movie star. The key to its recreation is a side parting.

Victoria Beckham

This now infamous chop represented Victoria Beckham's transition from chart topping Spice Girl to credible and internationally successful fashion designer. The Pob (as it was affectionately known) was copied by everyone from Cheryl Fernandez-Versini (then a fellow WAG) to Katie Holmes.

Twiggy

Twiggy's (originally Lesley Hornby) influence over a swinging and ever party-ready London was acute in the sixties. Women throughout the capital copied the model's signature spider lashes eye make-up and, of course, her glossy and elfin crop. Whether it was sheared short and close to the nape of her neck, or allowed to grow out into something almost like a bob, Twiggy's hair style was seen everywhere and is still identifiable as belonging to her today.  

Tina Turner

That hair! No one does it better than Tina Turner. Her wild - and larger than life - mane of hair from the 80s is instantly recognisable. It's difficult to pull off hair that big in the real world but get yourself a wig and you'll win best dressed at every fancy dress party you go to.  

Mia Farrow

The late, and legendary, hairdresser Vidal Sassoon is frequently credited with cutting Mia Farrow's hair into a pixie but the truth is the Rosmary's Baby star cut her own hair. In an interview she explains that she had experimentally cut her hair short with a pair of nail scissors. Her then-boyfriend, Frank Sinatra, loved it so much she kept it short and trimmed it into place herself. Impressive stuff. 

Michelle Pfeiffer

So simple, so chic, Michelle Pfeiffer's sleek and glossy bob deserved its own credit in 1983's Scarface. It's the fringe that does it, somehow transforming a rather ordinary cut into a style that's still popular 32-years on. 

Jennifer Aniston

What can we say about 'The Rachel' cut that hasn't been said before? This style inspired an entire generation to walk into the hair salon with a picture of Jennifer Aniston torn out of a magazine and ask for the 'The Rachel, please?'.  

The Duchess of Cambridge

Who has the most covetable hair in Britain? That belongs to The Duchess of Cambridge. Her trademark glossy Chelsea blow dry has inspired a whole new generation to re-discover the humble - but impeccably groomed - glossy blow out.

Kylie Minogue

Remember that perm? We all had it didn't we? The tight curls and hoops combo immediately takes us back to Scott and Charlene's wedding. Happy days. While fluffy curls - and even fluffier fringe - might have fallen out of favour they'll forever remind us of Kylie and the Eighties.   

Marilyn Monroe

As the original bottle blonde, Marilyn Monroe (formerly Norma Jean) came to single-handedly represent what it meant to look sexy in 1950?s Hollywood. While her blonde fluctuated over the years Monroe?s first tested the waters in 1946 in Frank and Joseph salon in LA ? and she didn?t look back. 

Freedom And Rebellion

Even today, these denim icons have lost none of their magnetism: from James Dean to Marilyn Monroe and Jane Birkin to Madonna, this straightforward fabric still speaks to the rebel in all of us. Here are just a few of the most iconic looks of all time...

Grace Kelly.jpg

Grace Kelly?s perfectly demure and glossy subtle wave, are as wearable now as they were in the fifties. Her high-shine, expensive looking blonde was highlighted by a bold, and slightly darker, brow. Diamonds optional. 

Grace Jones.jpg

Grace Jone?s turn in ?A View To A Kill? is legendary. Not only is a she a kick-ass, take no prisoners Bond Girl (the best in our opinion) but her military style clothing and box-cut afro deserved their own credits in the film. A truly cinematic moment and iconic hairstyle in one.

Princess Diana.jpg

Princess Diana?s eighties shaggy cut came to define a decade. The layering allowed her to peek out from beneath her fringe and, just like the Duchess of Cambridge, her style was copied by . The style was so famous that it has been voted one of the most iconic of the last fifty years. 

Farrah Fawcett.jpg

Audrey Hepburn.jpg

Type ? Audrey Hepburn?s Breakfast at Tiffany?s hair? into Google you?ll get over 371,000 results and most of those will be hair tutorials. It seems we can?t get enough of Hepburn?s sophisticated (and lets face it) high maintenance up-do. While times have moved on and the general feel right now is for a more relaxed approach to hair, Hepburn?s twist will forever be relevant and never more so than during wedding season.  

Brigitte Bardot.jpg

Debbie Harry.jpg

The fringe, the cut, the ! Debbie Harry put the punk into blonde with her chopped peroxide platinum cut. The two-tone colour layering is something copied today. Timeless. 

Amy Winehouse.jpg

The beehive was born in the sixties but it has enjoyed a resurgence thanks to Amy Winehouse whose messy beehive became a signature of hers. Winehouse reinterpreted the look and transformed it from a prim and proper up-do, reserved for swanky evening affairs and weddings, and into something thoroughly modern (with a nod to the retro) by breaking down the texture and throwing in a cutesy hair accessory such a ribbon or a flower. 

Bouncy blow dries, statement updos and everything in between - yes, it's the best celebrity hairstyles of 2015

Another reason to love celebrities, they provide endless hairstyle inspiration. From ultra-glam Hollywood hairdos on the red carpet, to easy laid back looks to consider for the weekend there s no shortage of styles to choose from. Whether it's Angeline Jolie's big bouncy blow dry, or Jessica Chastain s elegant wavy side style and even Kate Hudson s wedding-worthy top knot, pretty much every do is covered in our edit of the most memorable hairstyles of 2015 so far. If it s tousled waves you fancy, we would suggest looking to Keira Knightley who opted to wear her brunette locks loosely pinned for the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Or, should you prefer something a little more classic, Katie Holmes and Kendall Jenner have your sleek styles covered. And for all your boho-inspo needs, look to Sienna Miller for her take on the half-up, half-down Hollywood braid.

Celebrity Hairstyles 2015

Click through to see all the very best celebrity hairstyles of 2015

Celebrity Hairstyles 2015

Click through to see all the very best celebrity hairstyles of 2015

Sienna Miller

Rita Ora

Katie Holmes

Keira Knightley

Sarah Jessica Parker

Jessica Chastain

Kate Bosworth

Kate Hudson

Kendall Jenner

Cara Delevingne

Jennifer Aniston

Kim Kardashian

Cheryl Fernandez-Versini

Cat Deeley

Laura Bailey

Sienna Miller

Reese Witherspoon

Karlie Kloss

Maggie Gyllenhaal

Jessica Chastain

Jennifer Lopez

Heidi Klum

Emma Stone

Blake Lively

Beyonce

Angelina Jolie

Alexa Chung

The actresses give us major hair envy when they step out for the premiere of their new film Aloha with chic short cuts.

Thought it wasn't possible to have a bigger girl crush on Rachel McAdams and Emma Stone? Think again.

After our initial excitement that the actresses had been cast alongside one another in new film Aloha, they go and debut amazing haircuts at its premiere in LA.

The duo are both rocking variations on the bob, but have interpreted the hot SS15 hair trend in slightly different ways - proving it's a style that can easily be tailored to suit individual preferences.

Rachel has opted for a chin-length tousled cut, which she side-parted for last night's star-studded screening the movie.

The 36-year-old complemented her choppy dark blonde 'do with a sweet and summery make-up look consisting of soft pink blusher and a bright lipstick.

And you guessed it, she totally wowed with her choice of outfit too. Rachel tucked a see-through top into a navy blue pencil skirt featuring a thigh-split and ruffled section at the front.

She accessorised her striking ensemble with a pair of plain pointed courts.

Emma, on the other hand, is sporting a slightly longer hairstyle. Her locks now sit just above her shoulders and for a relaxed vibe yesterday evening, she teased them into gentle waves.

Just like Rachel, the 26-year-old was keen to impress with her red carpet fashion look.

Emma - who displayed her natural beauty with a clear complexion, subtle sweep of mascara and a neutral lip shade - turned heads in a cream flapper-style dress.

She teamed the embroidered frock with a structured white blazer jacket and added a couple of inches to her height with a pair of patent heels.

Rachel and Emma showed their bond at the event by laughing together and beaming as they posed for photographs with director Cameron Crowe.

Aloho also stars Bradley Cooper and Emily Blunt's handsome husband John Krasinki. As if we needed another reason to go and watch it...