Spring hair trends to know and try in 2022

Spring has (almost) arrived in Australia and frankly after the abysmal winter we’ve endured, we couldn’t be more excited for sunshine, longer days and a new look on top of our heads. Of course, we’re not just talking about hats and headwear – it’s time to unbox the spring 2022 hair trends! Whether you prefer a short bob or appreciate longer locks, there’s a style for everyone as we head into a new season and look into summer. Here’s what the experts say.

Layered bobs

It was the year of the cutlet, from the latest Medusa-cut French bob girls you’ve seen on everyone from your favorite TikTokkers to Nicole Kidman. Looking to spring, it’s time to invigorate your shorter locks with the layered bob, featuring layered ends and a looser structure, a departure from the blunt ends we’re used to. To achieve the look, apply a texturizing shampoo or spray, introducing volume and movement to the hairstyle.

If the layered bob just isn’t short enough for you, the pixie cut will also have a moment, with Xin Twenty One owner Xin Guo saying the shorter style is making a comeback this season.

The modern shag

Shades of the 1970s filter through with the retro shag haircut receiving a modern makeover for spring. This season it combines elements of the 70s original with 90s shades, natural waves and movement, the key to nailing the cut. The shag has versatility, with the likes of Billie Eilish and Zendaya fanatics of the style. Hair growth or curtain bangs are an easy way to achieve the look, and letting it air dry using a cream and volumizing spray will help cultivate the look.

Pink, purple and warm colors

If color experimentation is more your speed, pink and purple shades are the hues of the season. After the dominance of the neon trend in 2021, the affinity for vibrant colors is now manifesting in predominantly feminine hues, with a growing demand for pink and purple makeovers. We’ve seen this look on Dua Lipa and the aforementioned hair chameleon Billie Eilish.

Ali Holmes, co-owner of Wildlife Hair Sogo, says alongside pink and purple, copper will also have its moment in the sun throughout spring, alongside peach hues.

“There’s a copper that will suit every skin tone,” says Holmes. “[We’re] Certainly see people warming up their blondes with beige toners (warm cool), right down to the more adventurous folks opting for full copper. The brass are still light keeping them in the blond turmoil. Think: strawberry blonde, peach and salmon hues.”

Full, rich colors are likely to be most popular in the spring, and to support the longevity of your color, be sure to use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner.

Air-dried textures

In keeping with the upkeep required for the shag (read: zero maintenance), air-dried textures are all the rage as we head into warmer weather. While this is often the case when the sun stays in the sky for longer hours, less is more style has become more important over the past three years. Kirby Lago, owner of Pelo by Lago and hairstylist to Miranda Kerr, says that as spring approaches, enhancing natural textures will be key.

“In the spring and summer, we expect to see more custom cuts, long hair, bangs and many face shapes,” says Lago. “The style will hug and enhance your natural texture, while summer [and] spring colors will be bright and dimensional.

Air-dried textures can work on any color, but work exceptionally well with bronde and balayage colored hair, tying in with the cultured undone aesthetic. Look to a texturizing spray as your friend here.

The explosion of the models of the 90s

Our love affair with the 90s isn’t stopping any time soon, so why not let your hair enjoy the trend as well as your wardrobe? The model’s blowout is reminiscent of the tousled, shimmering locks seen on the heads of Claudia Schiffer and Cindy Crawford, where volume reigned supreme. OTT style has surged in popularity since late 2021, tied to polished post-lockdown party glamor filtering from runways to beauty campaigns. Gone is the messy bun and loose, undone mane; more is more, and a thickening spray is your friend to get the look.

The curly fringe

Those of us with natural curls, rejoice! Natural curl bangs are the bangs of the moment and one of the spring hair trends of 2022. Consider having a custom cut, which shapes each individual curl to perfection and transforms the look of your hair – the key is to always cut curls longer than you think you need because short hair shrinks. Thicker hair won’t need as much hair to cut into shape, but those with finer locks will benefit from a more generous portion.

Picture: Instagram