The New Year is the perfect time to update your look by reinventing your hairstyle. We consulted with Kristy Lash, master stylist and colorist to the stars, for the best new looks. Find your new hairstyle with these top cut, color, style, and accessory tips:
Cut
Old: Last year brought serious length and the return of the lob, but now we’re seeing more mid-length cuts. Short, spiky styles are moving over to make room for a softer look.
![fall scents for your home](http://www.livingbetter50.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Our-Aroma-Opium-Oil-Banner-2.jpg")
“While we still see versions of the lob, it’s not the heavier blunt from last year,” Lash said. “Now it’s a lighter, shabbier version styled with sea salt or texturizing spray.”
New: Medium-length cuts with texturized ends and shoulder-length shag are the current trend, especially for those not ready to cut off their length. Lash advises women to use their natural texture when styling.
“We’re seeing a lot of bangs accompanying updated versions of popular haircuts,” Lash said.
Get the look: Lash recommends asking for choppy, visible layers at the salon. If you’re considering bangs, she cautions that full fringe can be a serious commitment, but adds that lighter, airy versions are easier to maintain.
Color
Old: Visible roots, bold color, and edgy, ash-blonde shades are in the past. Lash notes that “dip-dyed” ends are the exception but that they can be difficult to maintain.
New: Nothing freshens up a look like new color, and this year’s twist is about subtlety.
“Baby-lights are everywhere,” Lash said. “Fine strands of highlights create a subtle, multi-dimensional look. We love baby-lights because they frame your face and you can just pop a few in.”
Tortoiseshell color that combines warm blonde, chocolate, and caramel tones is another trend for 2016. “It creates a lot of movement and is great for all hair textures,” Lash said. “It gives the illusion of fullness, which we all love.”
Get the look: Lash recommends women go for a more natural look, with warmer blondes, beige, and creamy tones.
Style
Old: “We aren’t seeing heavily styled or blown-out looks,” Lash said. Top knots and loose, bohemian braids are also phasing out.
New: Think natural texture that allows you to wash and go. Lash recommends using salt spray or pomade to keep locks under control while still looking effortless.
Get the look: Consider low nape buns for dressing up or down and functional, streamlined braids. Embrace your hair’s natural texture using styling products to keep strands smooth.
Accessories
Old: The streamlined, natural look means hair charms didn’t make it into the New Year, but we are seeing more sophisticated accessories for 2016.
New: Satin headbands and ribbons made an appearance on the runway, giving a modern update to sleek ponytails.
Get the look: For a slicked, sophisticated look pull hair off the face with a grownup headband like this silk one.
Vanessa Sheets is a freelance journalist who specializes in natural health and beauty. She has written for True North, Natural Child, Newport Health, and Greenmaple Wellness and worked in public health as a community educator for a non-profit. She lives in Bend, Oregon.