10 of the Hottest Hair Trends That We Can’t Wait to Try in 2023

1. The Uber Ponytail

Of course the ponytail will never go out of style, but according to hairstylist, braid and extension specialist, and CURLS brand educator Janelle Sands, ponytails are going to be over-the-top in 2023. “Uber ponytail styles can be characterized by larger than life-sized ponytails of all textures,” says Sands. “So whether you wear it high or low, add a little extra oomph by teasing the base of the pony and adding a lavish amount of hair extensions.”

Sands recommends sculpting the hairline with CURLS Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Paste for medium hold or the CURLS Hair Under There Protect Me Edge Styling Pomade for maximum hold.

2. Fulani Braids

Get ready for a history lesson: Fulani braids actually originated from the African Fula people, and Sands believes this braiding trend is going to be bigger than ever in 2023. “These trendy looks involve natural hair seamlessly blended with bulk hair extensions,” explains Sands. “These braid styles will showcase varied hair braiding techniques within one particular style. Expect to see different sized braids from thin to large, as well as different braid patterns, all within the same look.”

3. Short Curly Hair with Pixie Bangs

Sands thinks the new year will bring an abundance of shorter chops and texturized bangs. The goal of this look is light, airy, and edgy. Sands advises that you can make your shorter bangs pop with a lightweight curl-defining foam. We love DEVACURL’S Supermousse to define each curl.

4. Long Curls

Those with naturally curly hair are looking for new ways to showcase their hair’s texture. “Stretch methods like soft headband curling rods and overnight rollers are making space, along with curl elongation techniques like roller sets,” says Sands, “These methods produce smooth, long curvature curls and waves and bring excitement to stagnant styles.” This style will elevate your look no matter what you’re wearing. Sands says to make sure to use a leave-in conditioner to keep curls moisturized and in-tact all day long.

5. The Retro Chop

This minimal hairstyle tweak gives off major Clueless energy with a modern twist, and we’re kind of obsessed (if you’ve ever purposefully tucked your hair behind your ear like Cher Horowitz, this is a safe space for you). It’s a total vibe and we’re loving this low-maintenance (yet elevated) look paired with a middle part or side-swept bangs. Plus, the pros 10/10 would recommend it. “The ‘90s are back! Long, side-swept bangs can be a very playful look. When styling make sure to bevel (aka slope) the root of your hair to get a good bend. This added root lift will help keep hair out of your eye,” says Alessandra Bruno hairstylist at the FEKKAI Soho Salon.

7. The Flippy Updo

When it comes to hair trends, Zendaya is always on top of them or way ahead of them. So when she arrived at the 74th Primetime Emmys with this flippy updo, we couldn’t help but stop and stare. This hair look creates the illusion of a half-up, half-down hairstyle that's the perfect mix of low maintenance, with a flirty, elegant feel. We can't wait to recreate it on repeat all year long. Curl your hair midway down to the ends. Once cooled, brush them out and spritz with a light-hold hair spray (such as Bumble and Bumble Does It All Hairspray). If you have thick hair, gather all of your hair into a high ponytail, smoothing out the top (while making sure the top of your hair is slicked back). If you have fine hair, leave half of it down and secure the top half with an elastic. Love Zendaya’s headband? This black silk headband is a super cute dupe.

8. Red Hair Hues

When it comes to hair color trends, red never goes out of style. Shout out to Sadie Sink for serving us with major red hair inspo (and envy!). “For winter, look out for an abundance of deep, warm reds, evoking the cozy vibes we all need right now,” says Jordan. The best part about red is its versatility. It’s so easily customizable to your skin tone—and your personality. From deep cinnamon to warm ginger, to vibrant paprikas, there’s a shade of red out there to suit anyone and everyone. 

9. The Barbie Ponytail

It may not be out until next summer, but we’re counting down the days, minutes, and seconds until the new Barbie movie is released (talk about the ultimate throwback). And with all of our childhood dreams finally becoming real (Ryan Gosling as Ken…sigh), it's no surprise that the sky-high Barbie-inspired ponytail is making a comeback too. The tricky part with creating this look is achieving height and hold. But, with a few easy tricks, it's totally doable. “High ponytails are so fun. I use FEKKAI Brilliant Gloss Multi-Tasker Perfecting Cream to keep hair smooth, then brush hair upwards and secure it in place. Next, I take a small toothbrush or beard brush and spray with hairspray to slick back any flyaways and keep it as smooth as possible,” Bruno tells us. Need a visual? Check out this easy high ponytail tutorial.

10. Low, Sleek Chignon

The best part about a chignon is that it flatters pretty much anyone. From oval to heart-shaped to round faces, a chignon is like the low ponytail of the bun category and we’ve spotted the look all over fashion week. You can dress it up, or dress it down for carefree style or something a little more fancy. “A low, sleek chignon is a classic, never-goes-out-of-style look.

“For a modern take, twist your hair back and secure it with a small metallic or tortoise-shell claw clip, keeping it a little messy. Or conversely, use gel for a super slick wet look,” Jordan recommends. Obsessed with accessories? Try a scarf. “There are so many beautiful scarves, wearing one in your hair is a great way to incorporate it into your outfit. For fine hair, you can tease it a bit, tie a scarf around the base of your ponytail leaving one side longer than the other, and twist the hair and scarf together into a bun. Then, secure with bobby pins,” says Bruno. Try this cute scarf scrunchie to fake the look in minutes: MARADJI Scrunchie Foulchie in Anita Powder.

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