Layered manes, textured styles, bobs: These hairstyles are currently trending

The Star

30-04-2025

The latest hair trends are a mix of throwback charm, contemporary edge and bold short cuts.
From the romantic revival of long waves to the effortless cool of chic bobs styles, this season's looks are equal parts nostalgic and next-gen.
Whether you're eyeing a sleek blunt style or luscious locks that scream main character energy, the current top hair trends are anything but boring.
The flip
Glamour names this trend as one of this year's biggest, a style that's reminiscent of style heroines of the 1960s.
The modern flip involves getting the ends of your hair to curve up, which can be tricky but is definitely achievable with the right products and technique.
Grab a round brush and flip your ends as you blow dry and layer up on the hairspray, or head to your favourite stylist to get it done professionally.
A style that works well on short and midi hair lengths, it can also be achieved with longer hair.
Read more: Vanity Fare: Take your pick of slick, shiny and shimmery lipsticks
Making waves
Big, romantic curls are a constant go-to style for those with long tresses, and the latest form of this dreamy trend is known as 'ghost waves'.
On Refinery29.com, the style is described as being 'soft, barely-there waves that undulate in a gentle 'S' shape, rather than the usual spirals or coils'.
Invisible layers that blend seamlessly into the rest of the lengths help enhance this look, which the site recommends using a cream-based product to minimise frizz after air-drying your hair to achieve.
Sharp, ultra-short cuts draw attention to your features: cheekbones, brows and jawlines. Photo: Freepik
Bob's your uncle
Short 'dos aren't just for those who want a low-maintenance style, they're a hot beauty statement that pretty much anyone can rock.
Bobs are everywhere lately, according to Cosmopolitan, from Kendall Jenner's blunt version at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party to the Parisian bob seen on many a runway, including Prabal Gurung and Proenza Schouler.
Jenner's sleek, chin-grazing sleek style gives modern chic vibes while the Parisian version conjures up the roaring 1920s, with a contemporary twist.
The latter is a textured blunt cut to the jawline, and bangs are optional.
Another current style is the bouncy bob, a chic, voluminous take on the classic bob, characterised by lively, springy movement and polished finish.
This style draws inspiration from Old Hollywood glamour, featuring soft waves or curls that add body and bounce.
The boyish crop
A sharp, ultra-short cut that's equal parts edgy and effortlessly cool, this style draws all the attention to your features: cheekbones, brows and jawlines.
Go for the 'boyish' pixie crop, a daring look for those looking for a standout style, or a more grown-out look with slightly longer layers and a softer finish – both styles are uber chic.
To style it for a tousled, lived-in look, try working in a texturising paste or matte pomade with your fingertips, or slick it back for a more polished, androgynous vibe.
Either way, it's all about embracing bold simplicity.
Micro bangs
If there's one cut that says cool-girl confidence, it's micro bangs.
Sharp, straight-across and unapologetically bold, this fringe style is making a major comeback at the moment.
Whether paired with a bob, long layers or a sleek updo, this type of bangs adds instant structure and edge.
They work best when kept thick and polished, as evidenced by the likes of actress Britt Lower.
To style your micro bangs, use a fine-tooth comb and a flat iron to keep the shape crisp, or add a hint of gel at the ends for an editorial finish.
Read more: Do you have really knotty hair? Here's how to make it behave and not act out
Boho chic
Milkmaid braids, fishtail braids, box braids – thanks to festivals like Coachella, all types of braids are trending at the moment.
They're not just practical for long days under the sun, they also add a boho-glam edge that is quintessential festival fashion.
From cornrows that are rich in cultural history and full of personality to fishtail braids that give off that mermaid-goddess vibe, this is a style that is not just practical but will also last the entire day.
For extra flair, weave in some colourful threads, beads, or metallic cuffs.
These are little details that can elevate the look and make it your own.
A little something extra
For any hairstyle, one sure way to enhance your look is by adding accessories.
Hair gems offer a glamorous way to elevate any look — from rhinestone-studded braids to scattered gems along the hairline, these accessories add a touch of sparkle.
No longer restricted to at-home use, alligator clips are a practical hair tool perfect for securing large sections of hair.
From mini versions for half-up styles to oversized ones for full updos or messy buns, they are a great way to achieve a chic look.