From the bixie crop to the kitty cut, new look balayage and liquid brunette. Hair looks for 2024 are feminine yet foxy. Ahead, we unpack five of the biggest hair trends and who is wearing them right now, says editor Trudi Brewer.
The Cuts
The bixie
Somewhere between the bluntness of a bob and the structure of the pixie cut lies the "bixie" crop. In a Vogue article this year, Evanie Frausto, the hairstylist to Bella Hadid, predicted that the bixie would be autumn's "cut of the season," and we'd have to agree. It's short and sweet yet maintains a certain level of edginess when worn messy with a slightly slept-in vibe. Models Taylor Hill and Iris Law are long-time wearers of the bixie cut; one wears it in platinum blonde and the other a cool brunette; each styles their look with ease, including adorning it with hair bows and clips and headbands.
the Styling tools
A styling cream will define and separate, and a shine serum will boost texture.
The kitty cut or the C cut
Feminine face-framing layers define the kitty cut. It’s a rounded shape with loads of long layers that hug the perimeter of the face, the jawline and cheekbones. It’s great if you’re in that growing phase because it’s a mid-length haircut with tons of layers. Even better, the kitty cut can be tailored to suit your hair texture, and it requires minimal styling, so it is perfect for those low-maintenance types. Finally, this is the ideal style for thick, medium or fine hair. Those layers give extra volume, making this style smooth or messy. Stars like Laura Harrier, Elsa Hosk and Suki Waterhouse own this look.
The styling tools
Mousse is your BFF with this style. A shine serum will help add definition and calm frizz.
The Blunt Bob
While nothing new, a bob cut of some description is a staple in most salons. However, that famous face of Hailey Bieber, the same stunner that made us adore glazed doughnut nails and a slew of other food-inspired beauty trends like strawberry girl glam and latte makeup, basically sparked a new look blunt movement when she chopped her brunette lengths into a blunt bob earlier this year.
The styling tools
For encouraging wave and definition, hair oils and creams nourish and add shine.
The colours
Camou-lage the NEW LOOK Balyage
Balyage isn't going anywhere, as one of the most-requested colours at any salon, but now there's also 'camou-lage,' which is a new technique for 2024. Like balyage, it’s also been coined the ‘latte hair colour’. As seen on American actress and singer Hailee Steinfeld below, in a light-to-medium brunette with a smattering of baby lights or a light-brown balayage to add interest and dimension. Think of it like the 'no make-up, make-up' trend but for your hair. The shades can be tailored to your natural hair colour in the most subtle way possible. Ideal for those who want a natural-looking, low-maintenance look.
The Styling tools
Heat protection is a game-changer for coloured hair. It maintains the vibrancy and hairs health.
Wheat Blonde
There is always a fresh reinterpretation of blonde each year; it’s creamy and natural this year. Think warm gold that grows out naturally. Regarding inspiration, look to icons like Sienna Miller, Cara Delevingne and Lila Grace Moss.
THE STYLING TOOLS
Colour-treated hair needs moisture and heat protection, embrace this for frizz-free locks.
Liquid brunette
Think cool, ink brown with outstanding glossiness. This colour is ideal for anyone who wants subtle enhancements to their already dark chocolate tones in dark hair. Celebrity stylist, UK-based Adam Reed, believes this colour, teamed with a shorter style like a blunt bob or a shag, is going to be a big trend for 2024.
the styling tools
Boost shine with leave-in-conditioners, while tinted shampoo and masks keep the colour rich.
Styling foam is hot right now. Find out how it can work for your hair.