Right about now, we’re probably all in need of something to look forward to. It could be that major trip you’ve had to postpone for the past two years, the return of a highly anticipated TV show, or, in the case of all beauty enthusiasts, a new hairstyle. Maybe the start of a new year is your annual cue to switch up your vibe with a fresh cut, or your reason could be that 2021 was just a complete dumpster fire that you want to erase all memories of, hairstyles included. Either way, we understand—which is why we looked to several hairstylists for their thoughts on which looks we should add to our mood boards for the upcoming year. Ahead, you’ll find 2022 hair trends which include some throwback looks that you’ll actually want to revisit, along with new hairstyle ideas that feature a mix of hair textures.
1. Dramatic Braids
“Long textured ponytails will be huge—long dramatic braids,” says hairstylist Takisha Sturdivant-Drew, who has styled the manes of Kerry Washington and Renée Elise Goldsberry. “My best tip on creating this look is to tailor it to yourself. Finish off the style with the Sebastian Professional Potion 9 for conditioning and the Sebastian Professional Shaper hairspray to hold all of the hair in place at the end. Last but not least, accessorize if you want to turn up the heat!”
2. Choppy Layers
Sturdivant-Drew also says that if your hair is on the shorter side, the details of your cut will be key. “[Keep] the sides very tapered as well as the back, and laid flat when styling but longer on the top. It’s a choppy layered look.”
3. Short Cuts
The verdict is in: “2022 will be the year of the chop,” says Joseph Maine, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of Trademark Beauty. “The grown-out tresses of the past couple of years will be a thing of the past. Women are ready for a change and open to cuts that require a bit more maintenance.” If you prefer to ease into a more cropped style, Maine says that there’s not just one short haircut that will rule over others. “Any length from chin to collarbone will be on point. We will see them styled from sleek and shiny to bouncy and curly.”