The coming of a new year often prompts us to try something new, as well — new clothes, new makeup, and especially new haircuts and hairstyles. You may be in the mood to get up to speed on trends and looking forward to trying a few out yourself. There’s never a need to be beholden to fresh styles, and haircuts that others may deem out of style can boast the shape and length that’s perfect on you. But if you’re in the mood to try on something a little more stylish, we present to you four old-fashioned hairdos that are going out of style this year, and four more hairstyles to try on for a fresh, youthful look. These styles work on all ages (and many are universally flattering, regardless of your hair type). But they’re especially killer on anyone over 50.
Out: Severe Center Part
Long, straight hair can look youthful if your hair is full and shiny. But if you’re experiencing normal thinning and shedding, the longer your hair, the more stringy and flat it can appear. A severe center part can also highlight shedding on your crown more than a side part or a zig-zag part.
In: ‘90s Bob
If you’re comfortable parting ways with some length, the ‘90s bob continues to dominate. This chin-length haircut is defined by its blunt ends and long layers, which give it a sexy, tousled look.
Out: Super-Straight Hair
With or without a center part, super-straight hair can be less flattering than hair that features a bit of texture, especially if your hair is on the thinner side. It has a tendency to fall flat at the roots and the length can drag down your face.
In: Textured Shag
On the opposite end of the spectrum from super-straight hair we have the modern shag, which features tons of layering for movement and lift, with texture — courtesy of your natural waves and curls or a bit of product, heatless curling tools, and a diffuser. This cut is a top contender when it comes to hairstyles that provide optimum amounts of volume.
Out: Very Blonde Hair
Blonde will always be in style — but the shade of blonde that’s on everyone’s mind this year isn’t bleached or severely lightened. It’s a lot warmer and less high maintenance, we’re happy to report.
In: Butter Blonde
Butter blonde is warm, with sunny richness and fewer cool-toned highlights. It’s one of the colors of the moment and you needn’t look too far for color inspiration. Bring a photo of Sabrina Carpenter or Molly Sims to your stylist to show off a perfect example of this natural-looking hue.
In: Mocha Mousse
If you’re in the mood to go darker than blonde (or lighter if your hair is black or dark brown) consider mocha mousse — aka Pantone’s Color of the Year. This is a rich, medium brown shade with coffee undertones and the perfect blend and warm and cool undertones.
Out: Tight Ballerina Buns
Loosen up this year — tight hairstyles like slicked-back ballerina buns are being replaced by looser updos, some of which even feature cascading tendrils and pieces that appear “undone” in the back. The goal is a lower maintenance style that is elegant, but not rigid.
