Hair trends, like many things in life, tend to come and go, however the impact of some can be groundbreaking. From the 'Rachel' cut in the '90s to Farrah Fawcett's flicked out curtain bang in the late '70s, a good haircut has the power to influence generations. BEAUTYDIRECTORY had the opportunity to chat with the winners of the 2023 Australian Hair Industry Awards, who told us exactly what hair trends are set to kick off.
NATHAN YAZBEK- AHIA NSW/ACT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR 2023
Salon Yazbek, NSW
FLICKED OUT BOB
"This look is inspired by the cool '90s grunge vibes, but it is a more refined version. It’s sleeker and more put together and a fun way to mix up a bob style with something unexpected. Think Kourtney Kardashian deep in her Travis Barker era."
WOLF CUT
"The Wolf Cut is still going strong as it's such a flattering, yet edgy cut. With the choppier texture and pattern of a mullet but the softer appearance, the key is many more layers running through it and a more consistent length than the ‘short front, long back’. This is definitely one that requires the precision of a master cutter to get the best result."
BERNADETTE BESWICK- AHIA VIC HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR 2023
BOBS REINVENTED
"It’s all about the bob! Whether it’s a classic bob, all the one length, or bob at the front and shorter length at the back, there is so much you can do with this versatile cut. I’m also loving the look with really strong bangs and bold colours to make it unique."
GENDER FREE
"All rules are off with the myriad of options around short, cropped hair. Think of the Annie Lennox comeback and her iconic take. Whether it's a natural colour or a more dramatic peroxide or copper, this look is not for the faint of heart, but it does look incredible."
STEVIE ENGLISH- AHIA COLOUR EXPERT OF THE YEAR 2023
Stevie English, NSW
BLONDE WARMTH
"Right now, if you're blonde, we are warming you up. The overtone and flat cool tones are gone and it's all about the honey and soft or pale rose golds. For a neutral blonde, it’s more about the beige/pinky blonde."
FULL COLOUR
"There is a distinct shift away from balayage and an exciting move towards strong, full colours. In the mid-tones, we will see a rise of rich coppers which are surprisingly wearable, and in dark bases it is all about shine, perhaps with a soft hint of violet or red shine."
JUSTIN PACE- AHIA AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR 2023
Co. & Pace Salon, QLD
TEXTURED CURLS
"There is definitely a movement towards curly textured hair, reminiscent of the '70s with a more voluptuous feel. A big part of this look is having a strong shape on the exterior, making the interior softer."
COPPER DREAM
"Gone are the days of the blanket blonde, now it’s time for other colours to shine. I’m loving all of the warm coppers and rich chocolates that we are creating. There is so much room for depth and dimension with these shades. There is also a real push towards exceptional hair health, and with these colours, hair can look shinier and healthier than ever."
DANNY PATO- AHIA NZ HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR 2023
d&m Hair Design, New Zealand
FRENCH BOB
"I love the French bob because pretty much all hair textures suit this cheekbone-length style. Although, a person's face shape is important to consider when cutting this style. Oval and pear shapes faces really suit it while rectangle face shapes also suit it with a shorter fringe. For round or heart shaped faces stretch it out in a lob."
GROWN-OUT SHAG
"The longer-length shaggy cut is so versatile and is amazing for bringing any hair colour to life. It can be worn either soft and chic for a feminine finish or tousled and matte for a rock-and-roll edge. The layers give instant volume and bounce, enhance natural texture, and take the weight out of thick hair. "
SCOTT SLOAN- AHIA CREATIVE TEAM OF THE YEAR 2023
Sloans Of Lane Cove, NSW
THE CROP
"The latest incarnation of this short cut has been everywhere lately and I love how empowering it is for women to embrace this dramatic look. In the eternal obsession with all things '90s, this look fits right in and looks incredible in so many colourways."
THE HAILEY
Ever since Hailey Beiber cropped her brunette locks, the bob has been on everyone’s lips. Whether it's her rich brunette shade, Lara Worthington’s creamy blonde or something in between, this look allows the hair to look refreshed and bouncy with plenty of shine. It also has a that subtle '90s edge to it to set it apart from back then."
FABIAN FUENTES- AHIA QLD HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR 2023
Jack Horton Hair, QLD
ALL THINGS '90s
The '90s are back (again). We are seeing plenty of texture exaggerated with shorter layers, especially when it comes to the Shag and Wolf Cuts that people are still loving. This is not limited to straight hair either, plenty of wavy guests are amplifying their curls as well."
BRIGHTNESS
"As we know, consumers are being more strategic with their money. When money gets tighter, colours get lighter. Just like in the GFC of 2007, clients are lightning their mood and spirits by experimenting with lighter hair. The twist is seeing our 'lived in' clients opt for bolder placements."
