Photo: People Images/Getty ImagesLast year’s hairstyles were characterized by subtle luxury, low-maintenance looks, and subtle influences from past decades. We saw soft moonlight effects and the return of the classic French roll, along with a nostalgic revival of 'calico hair' straight from the early 2000s. But what does 2025 have in store? We asked top stylists to share the hair trends gaining popularity in their salons and what’s set to dominate the coming year.
1. Warm, Effortless Tones
Warm, low-maintenance tones have been gaining popularity, and it seems like they’re here to stay. “Our hair extension specialists have noticed a significant shift from cool to warm tones, as warm shades are easier to maintain and offer a more natural, rooted appearance,” says Victoria Lynch, hair expert and founder of Remi Cachet. Techniques such as moonlights, root smudges, and rich warm tones help minimize upkeep.
2. Effortlessly Chic Long Layers
Long layers offer a glamorous yet simple style that's surprisingly low-maintenance. “These layers are soft and airy, giving your hair just the right texture, so it looks naturally cool as it grows,” explains Marie Nino, a NYC-based hairstylist. “For perfect lived-in long layers, ask your stylist for gentle, face-framing layers and subtle internal texture to create natural movement.” Enhance the look with a light texturizing spray for a tousled, carefree vibe.
3. The Contemporary French Bob
On the other end of the spectrum, short hair is making a strong comeback, with the modern French bob taking center stage.
“The modern French bob is a chic, chin-length style with soft layers or subtle texture that beautifully frames the face. Its popularity lies in its blend of classic elegance with a modern twist, making it an ideal choice for anyone craving a bold, fresh look,” says Jennifer Korab, celebrity hairstylist and owner of Renaissance Salon+Spa. “It’s a minimalist haircut that still highlights individuality. My top advice would be to focus on precise cutting for a sharp, clean finish.”
4. Effortlessly Tousled Curls with Curtain Bangs
2025 hair trends continue to favor simplicity, and one trend that’s rising is embracing your natural texture, with tousled curls and curtain bangs gaining major traction.
“This style pairs soft, carefree curls with curtain bangs for a fun yet refined appearance. It combines vintage-inspired volume with a modern, textured look, perfect for those who want a casual but polished vibe,” explains Korab. “The beauty of this style is its adaptability—it works for all hair types and lengths.”
She suggests using a 1-inch curling iron to create loose curls, leaving the tips slightly undone for an effortless vibe. To style the curtain bangs, use a round brush and blow-dryer, finishing with a texturizing spray for added depth and movement.
5. Bold, Vibrant Jewel Tones
Get ready for a revival of bold fantasy hues in 2025, with jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire, and rich blues leading the way. “These striking, deep shades offer a luxurious, eye-catching look that brings dimension and depth to your hair. They’re perfect for those wanting to make a statement and move away from subtler tones,” says Nino. “For vibrant jewel tones to really stand out, your hair needs to be pre-lightened to a bright, even blonde. Since these colors tend to fade fast, regular touch-ups, color-protecting shampoo, and cold water washes are key to keeping them vibrant and glossy.”
6. Sculpted Wet Look
This trend is all about sleek, sculpted hairstyles with a glossy, high-shine finish that exude elegance and drama. “It’s becoming more popular because it’s so versatile, ideal for everything from casual days to glamorous evenings and even red carpet events. It’s a powerful, bold statement that requires little effort but leaves a big impression,” says Korab. To recreate this look, she recommends using a lightweight gel or shine-enhancing styling cream to smooth hair into place. Comb it through for a sleek finish, then set the style with a strong-hold hairspray.
7. Short, Natural Lengths
While we all appreciate a glamorous moment with hair flipping and tossing, 2025 is shifting towards shorter, more manageable haircuts that are easy to maintain and style. “Shorter, natural lengths are definitely a rising trend,” says Lynch. This might mean a bold chop for a fresh look or opting for shorter-length extensions (12 to 16 inches) rather than the long styles that have been popular for so long. According to Lynch, “It’s crucial to remember that extensions aren’t just for long hair—short styles can also benefit from extensions to add fullness and cover sparse areas.”
8. The Bixie Wolf Cut
When the wolf cut first appeared a few years ago, many thought it was just a passing trend. But they were wrong—it's still going strong in 2025, with a bixie version gaining significant popularity.
“The bixie wolf cut is a perfect blend of carefree cool, combining the voluminous short shape of a bixie with the textured, lived-in layers of a wolf cut,” explains Nino. “It has that effortless, 'just-woke-up' vibe, but still feels fresh and full of movement. A bit longer than a typical pixie, it captures that edgy Brooklyn energy.” It's the ideal cut for those who want to embrace a bold, playful style with attitude—without the need to try too hard.
