Starting off the new year with some fresh changes to your look is one of the best ways to give your confidence a boost and try out new styles which may speak more to your creativity and personal taste than before. As we grow older it’s only natural to begin to show signs of aging, and finding fun ways to style your hair is a simple hack for refreshing your look while simultaneously allowing you to appear stylish and youthful.
We spoke with Elle Westby, Co-Founder of Gem House Salon to get her take on the five styles you should try this year to reduce signs of aging while allowing you to feel effortlessly beautiful, and we have to say…we’re trying these immediately.
Top Knot
A top knot is one of the best anti-aging hairstyles out there, naturally giving you a gentle face lift while keeping your hair out of your face to show off your cheekbones. “This look will instantly perk up your whole face by pulling your skin taut. This style looks amazing paired with a statement lip while keeping the rest of the makeup subtle and highlighting the cheekbones for a youthful glow,” says Westby.
Full on Fringe
If you’re ready to try out a little more of a significant change, adding fringe to your look can help to minimize the appearance of forehead wrinkles while softening your appearance. “Forehead wrinkles won’t stand a chance with a full on fringe that will give you added style,” says Westby. “Ask your stylist for a full on fringe with piecey ends to add a bit of softness and texture to give skin an added glow.” Worried about maintenance? Westby suggests getting your bangs trimmed every 5 weeks for the best results.
French Bobs
Ready to make the chop? French bobs are predicted to be one of the biggest cuts of 2022 and for good reason. “French bobs are still trending and have just the right amount of chicness and je ne sais quoi to be trendy yet practical when styled using your natural texture for that effortless look,” says Westby. As this cut allows for you to play up your texture, it will help you to steer clear of a more buttoned up look that would only add to your age. “French bobs can vary a touch so I recommend bringing in a photo of inspiration that you are drawn to and then letting your stylist take the wheel,” Westby adds. Making sure to avoid bluntly cut bobs is also essential for looking more youthful, as this will limit movement and can tend to look severe.
Textured French Braid & Center Part
For longer haired ladies, a french braid with a little extra texture can go a long way both in the moment and for added appeal when you remove the braid later. “Texture is key to give it some softness, so play up your natural texture with a sea salt spray or first add a wave into your hair,” suggests Westby. “If your hair isn’t quite long enough for this look, you can pop in some individual clip-in extensions for length and fullness.” Braiding your hair will enhance that carefree, youthful look, instantly allowing you to feel your best.
Curtain Bangs
Blunt bangs may be too much of a commitment for some, but curtain bangs can be just as effective for enhancing your youthful appearance and highlighting your best features. “Curtain bangs starting just at the cheekbones will accentuate an age defying part of a woman's face and add some sultry sex appeal,” explains Westby. “Part fringe in the middle for extra cool girl points. This look will highlight the cheekbones and give you endless options whether you want to wear your hair pulled back or down and loose.”
