With each new season comes a flurry of exciting new hair trends to try, and summer is almost invariably the most exciting time of year for embracing change and dipping your toe in the water by doing something new.
Summer 2023 is no different, and from bold transformations to subtle updates, there are some thrilling trends emerging that we can’t wait to try. We asked the experts at the country’s top hair salons, as well as some of the nation’s leading stylists, to spill the tea on the trends we should all be jumping on board with, and we couldn’t be more excited with what they came out with. It’s certain to be a summer of fun when it comes to hair – and these are the looks to try now, before the season is out.
Curtain bangs
If you thought fringes had fallen out of favour, then think again, because this season they are back in the shape of curtain bangs. These face-framing, wispy bangs are inspired by the hair trends of the ’70s and ’90s and add a touch of femininity to any hairstyle, long or short. Although the classic curtain bang is quite subtle, we’re also seeing a shift towards heavier curtain bangs, which create a bolder, statement look – so if you’re keen to rock a hairstyle that’s certain to make an impact this summer, then look no further. Best of all, you don’t have to change anything else about your cut – just add curtain bangs, and you have an entirely new look in an instant.
The shaggy bob
The classic bob is a timeless style that will never go out of fashion, but for summer 2023, it’s been given a fresh and modern update. The shaggy bob is an edgier take on the look, and exudes effortless sophistication and cool. If you have fine hair and have always struggled to pull the bob off, then this version is perfect for you, as it creates extra volume with the help of layers – and looks just as good on all hair types, whether curly, wavy or straight. You don’t have to go really short with it, either, as it works just as well as a ‘lob’, or long bob, which just grazes the shoulders.
Money piece highlights
Summer has long been the season of the highlight, which offers a simple and subtle way to uplift hair, add dimension and lighten things up a bit for the warmer months of the year to create a natural-looking, sun-kissed look. But this year, it’s all about money piece highlights, which frame the face and feature bold tones to create a more dramatic effect – think rich coppers, fiery reds, white blondes and pastels – anything goes. This isn’t a look for the faint hearted, but if you like to stand out from the crowd and are eager to mix up your hair colour this season, then it’s a simple way to add interest and a sense of fun.
Pastel tones
A few years ago, baby pinks and rose golds were all the rage when it came to hair colour, and this year, pastels are back with a bang. But this time, they’re going all the more adventurous. Think mint greens, creamy blues, lilacs and lavenders, all of which are big news this season. There are no hard and fast rules about how to wear them, either – so whether you like the idea of frosted tips or want to go all in with balayage or a full head of colour, you can be sure of being bang on trend. Most pastel hair dyes are temporary, so it’s a low commitment look, but if you want to keep rocking it for the foreseeable then bear in mind the considerable upkeep it requires to maintain vibrancy.
Summer 2023 is set to be the summer of self expression – and by the looks of it, there are some pretty fun ways to embrace it and nail some major trends along the way. From striking cuts like the shaggy bob and the curtain bang to daring colour changes in the shape of pastel accents and money piece highlights, these top looks for the season will leave you feeling fresh, stylish, and ready to outshine everyone around you.