2022 Hair Trends and Hairstyles Analysis Includes Surprisingly Hot New Haircuts

Embarking on a new year, one thing we can all expect out of the style trends in 2022 is change. Looking for fresh inspiration, clients are on the hunt for the top trending hairstyles to set their look apart this season. When it comes to 2022 hair trends, these are the top new haircuts we expect to see!

The Hottest New Haircuts For 2022

Based on a Google Trend Analysis, the pixie, mullet and shag have continued to gain popularity over 2021. Do you think the bixie will break out in 2022?! Keep reading below to learn more about the latest hair trends!

Curtain Bangs or Bottleneck Bangs 

Curtain bangs have continued to be a top trending style for the past few seasons. The reason for this is their soft shape and ability to be worn by almost any hair type. In 2022, you might hear them referred to as “bottleneck bangs,” but rest assured they will take on a similar shape as curtain fringe, with just a slightly softer shape. This new shape is more laid back in style and are even more low maintenance than traditional curtain bangs. 

The Shag or Shallet

The shag originally resurfaced as one of the top trending hairstyles in 2016 and has been modernized multiple times over the past few years. As clients move toward wearing their texture in a natural state, this makes it an ideal cut for an easy wash and wear finish. In 2022, we’ll see the shag move toward a shallet (shag + mullet) silhouette with even more disconnection, inspired by the mullet.

Mullet

In 2020, Miley Cyrus was the star of the popularization of the mullet style. Taking risks with her hair, she helped bring this look into mainstream culture again. Helping create gender fluidity in styling, this was the start of the many modern takes on the trend that has helped bridge the gap ever since. Heading into 2022, we will see the shape take on new trends from the shallet to the moxie, and even the modern mullet to give clients new shapes and built-in texture to help their hairstyle shine. 

The Pixie & The Bixie 

A classic style, the pixie has been favored lately with clients of all hair types and textures because of the freedom this length offers them.

In addition to this, the Bixie (bob + pixie) will also be a top trending hairstyle in 2022. The in between length was first seen on celebs like Kaia Gerber and are a great transition length for anyone debating growing out their pixie or going shorter than a bob. This means we’ll see the classic pixie take on more length and longer, heavier weight lines paired with smooth blowouts and slight bends when styling.

The Wolf Cut & The Octopus Cut 

The wolf cut gained traction last year with inspiration from K-Pop culture and climbed the ranks through TikTok. As a debut style from the KEVIN.MURPHY artistic team on their SLEEPING.WATER campaign, the trend has been described as a mix of a “modern shag and rejuvenated mullet” to create piecey texture reminiscent of the glam rock culture of the 70s. This season, experts are predicting that the wolf cut will be replaced by the octopus cut — a shape with even more flair and disconnection.  

The natural progression to the octopus cut actually started with the iconic “Rachel” hairstyle made popular in the 90s by Jennifer Anniston on Friends. Shaping up as one of the top trends for 2022, this style is a blend of short layers that create extra volume at the crown and long, thin layers that create extreme disconnection toward the ends. The layers take on a round shape and through styling create the talked-about “Octopus” look. With slightly softer blending than a mullet, this cut is ideal for straight or wavy hair types and will require more maintenance when it comes to styling.

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