The 13 hottest hair trends for 2022

1. Sleek

With the influx of the "clean look" and "that girl" aesthetics from 2021, we expect the sleek and shiny hairstyles to continue to steal the spotlight this year. From slicked-back ponytails and buns to pin-straight hair tucked behind the ears, this ultimate smooth and silky look brings immediate elegance to any outfit.

Celebs like Jas Tookes and Kendall Jenner are the queens of this look and are the perfect gals to check out for some inspo.

Source: Instagram

2. Middle parts

If you've spent any time on TikTok, you'll know that gen Z will not be accepting any side parts any time soon. The tiny difference between where your part falls on your head has now become the clear distinction between generations.

We're not telling you that you need to have a middle part, we're just warning you of the potential online humiliation.

Source: Instagram

3. Cool girl bob

If you've been looking for a reason to bite the bullet and chop off the long locks, this chic hairstyle could be it. The cool girl bob or the "boy bob" brings a more relaxed and low maintenance reputation to the traditional polished look.

This hairstyle has both a feminine and masculine note, creating a confident and androgynous look reminiscent of the 90s.

Source: Instagram

4. Wispy bangs

Wispy bangs are the perfect baby step to take if you're not quite ready for the blunt fringe. This look is not as bold or high-maintenance as other bangs, making it a perfect middle ground for if you're looking to try something new.

This hairstyle brings a softness to your face and instantly adds a romantic touch to your look. What's even better is that this style suits all hair types, especially fine hair.

Source: Instagram

5. Bouncy blow-outs

Without a doubt we are going to be seeing a lot more voluminous, bouncy hair thanks to the skyrocketing popularity of the Dyson hair wrap. Coined as the "fluffy hair trend" by gen Z on TikTok, this soft and airy look is perfect for those with longer and thicker hair.

Source: Instagram

6. Wolf cut

The wolf cut, made popular by Miley Cyrus and Billie Eilish, is here to stay. A cross between the mullet and the shag, this rock 'n' roll hairstyle is becoming one of the most popular hairdos across all genders.

This unkempt and seemingly effortless look also shines light on the importance of haircare products, particularly with shine and volume.

Source: Instagram

7. 90s-inspired lobs

The 90s lobs are officially back. Tbh, we don't think they were ever out and to that note, we don't think they will ever go out. This seemingly timeless hairdo is relatively low maintenance besides the occasional trim for smooth, blunt edges which makes it the perfect no-frills everyday hairstyle.

For the perfect 90s inspo, look to Rachel Green from Friends or Victoria Beckham's Posh Spice days. For a more modern take, look no further than Selena Gomez.

Source: Instagram

8. Baby bangs

You'll either love them or hate them. Baby bangs or cropped bangs are often a divisive topic but celebs like Hunter Schaefer and Bella Hadid have proven that they can be a hit.

We predict that this edgier and grunge-like look will have a huge comeback right in time for the return of the 2012 Tumblr era that we're beginning to see. But maybe don't try this one at home.

Source: Instagram

9. Buzz cut

Feeling really bold? The buzz cut is the ultimate hair statement, with associations with strength and a new direction of femininity.

Rocked by various celebs like it girl Iris Law, Zoe Kravitz and Lupita Nyong'o, this hair trend is bound to make anyone a style icon.

Source: Instagram

10. Enhanced natural curls

In more recent years, we have seen a lot more movement towards embracing natural curls and texture. In 2022, we're all about making the curls pop and shine with the help of strong hold products to further define the natural waves.

Icons like Tracee Ellis Ross and Marvel's Eternals star, Lauren Ridloff, are perfect examples to show your hairstylist what you're after.

Source: Instagram

11. The bixie

That's right, a bixie is a cross between a bob and a pixie cut. This hairstyle draws from the texture of a shaggy bob and length that falls just over the pixie length.

The bixie, like any shag cut, creates an instant effortless glam look that radiates unapologetic rolled-out-of-bed-and-showed-up-like-this energy.

Source: Instagram

12. Creative parts

Yet another pull from the early 2000s, unique hair parts, particularly the zig zag like Miss Hadid, are going to make a comeback. It's the perfect way to add a bit of personality and playfulness to your hair without needing a trip to the salon.

Source: Instagram

13. Braids

Braids have always been in but we are getting a whole lot of new inspo thanks to Zendaya's recent red carpet looks. Her long, box-braids at the CFDA Awards were a perfect example of the versatility of braids in both everyday wear and full glam.

For more braids inspo, check out Zoe Kravitz, Rihanna and Skai Jackson.

Source: Instagram