Fashion and style in 2021 have been pretty confusing. Besides the fact that we’ve been in the middle of a pandemic for the better part of a year, fashion trends seem to be repeating from eras like the 70s, 80s, and 90s – including hairstyles.
So what are the top hairstyle trends for 2021? Well, the truth is it’s a mix of many styles that are hot in the fashion world right now. However, the theme seems to be that you can honestly rock any hairstyle you feel like – no matter what decade it originated in.
From the comeback of the mullet to the revival of the buzz cut in all genders, here are the most exciting hairstyling trends you should be looking out for this year.
The Mullet
Anyone who lived through the 80s probably didn’t think that they’d live through another Mullet phase, but the hairstyle started to make a comeback in 2020, and in 2021 the mullet is stronger than ever. So popular that the Hairstyle has even made it all the way to Hollywood, with celebs like Miley Cyrus and Zendaya rocking them on social media and red carpets.
The hairstyle itself is a little different than it was 30 years ago. The 2021 spin involves having a more relaxed mullet that is easier to control and style. Like the professionals at MacGregor hairstylists say, It’s important to “stay at the cutting edge of style” in order to offer a variety of styles, new and old. Sometimes that involves adapting popular hairstyles to match the era.
The Shag
The good old shag cut – also known as the hairstyle that is just neat enough to pass as both casual and put together. This hairstyle focuses on many different layers and can, for the most part, be achieved at any hair length. It’s actually been categorized as a softer version of the traditional mullet.
But what probably makes it the most popular is how low maintenance it is. All you need is an excellent conditioner to keep your hair shiny and smooth, and you’re good to go. Just let those layers speak for themselves.
Bangs
Bangs have come and gone over the years, and in 2021 they’re one of the hottest cuts. Unlike previous trends where hairstylists often cut bangs to look neat and put together while resting over your brow – it’s a little different his time around. Many people are opting to give more length to their bangs in order to frame their faces. The 70s are also calling with this new trend – curtain bangs are on the rise. Curtain bangs are long enough and layered enough to be versatile no matter when you feel like doing with your hair.
These longer bangs are gaining traction because they’re the best alternative to getting the real deal without the commitment of having to later go through the awkward phase of growing them back out. Long gone are the days of getting our bangs perfectly straight as well – curly and messy bangs are in!
The best part? Bangs can be paired with any other hairstyle on this list, including the Mullet and shag.
Bouncy Bobs
Bobs are back with a twist! The chin-length hairstyle might be the cutest one on this list, but the bob cut’s sleek traditional look has been thrown out the window. In 2021 it’s all about the bobs bounce. The more volume and curl, the better! The industry is also seeing a rise in lopsided bobs where one side is longer than the other. It gives the style a little extra taste while staying tame and professional.
Buzz Cuts
If you thought bobs were short, wait until you hear how popular buzz cuts are in 2021 for all gender. Celebs like Halsey have been pulling them off for months now, and the general population seems to be following along. If you’re looking for a major change that’s low maintenance, a buzz cut could be for you. You can even take it a step further and dye your hair a wild color like purple!
The only drawback to this hairstyle is if you don’t plan on maintaining it – the grow-out process can be long and awkward. It requires a full commitment, so make sure you think it through before heading for the salon or picking up the shaver yourself.
Blunt Cuts
Layers might be all the rage of 2021, but so are blunt cuts. There’s something about the clean-cut that people and hairstylists are loving. This is also the perfect cut to easily maintain your hair if the pandemic has gotten in the way of your hair care plans.
It’s generally easy to style because there are no layers to worry about, and this style is absolutely perfect when tied back into a slick ponytail. But one can also apply this blunt look to shorter chin-length hair and even bobs. It works because of its versatility.
It’s a low-commitment look for both you and your hairstylist.
Crimped Waves
If you’ve spent years trying to perfect the beach wave, we’re sorry to tell you that crimped waves have taken their place. When you think crimped, it may take you back to the horror of the 90s where people spent hours using a crimper to get their hair, honestly not looking that great.
However, just like the mullet, the crimped look has adapted for 2021 – it’s more of a crimped wave now, giving it a more natural wave curl, and they even have new devices to help get you this desired look. The hairstyle is typically seen on individuals with longer hair, but who says it won’t work on short? If you love it, try it out.
The Time For The Salon
Overall the hairstyle theme for 2021 seems to be revolving around the concept of doing your own thing. There’s no specific hairstyle people prefer over another, and you do you by choosing a hairstyle you think will work for you. You can even talk to your hairstylists and ask for their opinion before committing to anything.