What hair trends can we expect to see in 2024? “We are seeing a lot of techniques – such as hair slugging and treatment buns – to help restore the hair back to full health,” says hairstylist Irinel De León. “There will be a big emphasis on hair health.”
Reset years tend to follow periods of excess, and 2023 was nothing if not abundant in fun hair trends. From romantic ribbons and Renaissance braids to modernised mullets and blunt bobs, the styling in 2023 came down to the details. Meanwhile, toasty shades of blonde and an entire palette of copper tones pushed natural hair hues to the side in favour of something spicier.
From a return to organic hues to styling your hair in a less-is-more way – save for one particularly fragrant accessory trend – 2024 is all about looking after the needs of your hair, and simplicity, rather than switching it up every couple of months.
Here, five hair trends to look out for in 2024.
Natural colours
Variants of blonde and copper have made for some dramatic hair transformations this year, but 2024 will see a collective return to our roots. “I’ve been seeing a lot of clients and friends returning to their natural colour, or close to it,” says hairstylist Gregory Russell, who notes an uptick in subtle, strategic balayage. “Whether it’s adding more dimension to blonde or going all-over brunette, low-maintenance colour is the name of the game,” adds hairstylist Rena Calhoun. Still, tones will continue to lean warmer rather than cooler, which is a continuation of this year’s toastier trends.
Midi cuts
Since short chops are growing out, medium-length styles are on their way in. The year 2023 saw a continuation of modern shags and mullets, along with a parade of blunt bobs that made the case for a certain amount of polish. “Short cuts that sit above the shoulders have become a big trend this year and will still be popular next year,” says De León. “We will also be seeing medium-length haircuts in 2024.” Medium-length manes lend themselves well to hair health and minimal styling, an extra inch or two of length adding weight and making styling an easier feat, without all of the maintenance that comes with down-to-there hair.
Minimal styling
In keeping with a desire for minimal maintenance, cuts and styles that require less effort to look their best are slated to dominate the scene. “I expect to see minimalism and more personalised haircuts – simple yet chic cuts that are great for air-dried styles and effortless looks,” says Russell.
Holistic hair health
Consider 2024 the year of healthy hair, from root to tip. In addition to gentler styling routines, hairstylist Lacy Redway expects an uptick in access to (and interest in) scalp care. “While having great products on hand to style your hair is worthwhile, they can also cause product build-up that clogs your pores,” explains Redway. “Scalp health is something we should pay closer attention to.” A focus on hair health doesn’t have to mean sacrificing on style, she notes. “Air-drying doesn’t necessarily mean wash and go. There are so many new techniques and advanced products now to create texture and shapes in the hair without using hot tools.” Russell agrees, “It’s about prioritising hydration and learning how to style your hair with the least heat possible.”
Fresh accessories
While ribbons reigned as 2023’s hair accessory of choice, 2024 will find you factoring flowers into your styling routine. This fresh intel comes courtesy of Redway, creator of the mother of all ribboned hairstyles for Christian Siriano’s spring/summer 2024 show. “I designed a beautiful ‘cornrose’ hairstyle with Tessa Thompson back in March of 2023, and six months later I am starting to see the trend catch up,” says Redway, who notes that OffSet finished his dreads with roses on a recent appearance on The Fallon Show. Consider the rosettes a whimsical blend of this year’s well-loved Renaissance hair and coquette detailing.