If you had asked any beauty insider back in January what the big hair trends for the year ahead would be, it’s unlikely anyone would have said grown-out roots, wonky fringes, and patchy box dye jobs. Yet here we are. The year is finally drawing to a close, and it’s safe to say that the face of beauty has changed substantially over the past 11 months, most notably when it comes to our hair. Whatever your signature style, whether you started the year with ice-white lengths or a sleek, glass-like bob, chances are 2020 has messed with your hair game.
Sure, we all started this ride feeling optimistic that we would be able to return to our trusty stylists and get our signature locks back just as soon as things “blew over,” but as time has moved on so have our hair priorities. The truth is chic but high-maintenance styles just aren’t cooperating with the rest of our lives right now. We are having to deal with a lack of salon appointments and social events, but above everything else, we just can’t be bothered to style our hair every day.
So how do we proceed? Well, most experts we have spoken to advise that 2021 could be time to embrace a hair change. However, unlike big hair trends of yesteryear (blunt bob, we’re looking at you), the It style for 2021 is set to be a whole lot easier to deal with. At a time when we’re all looking for a hairstyle that’s fuss-free, easy to manage, and versatile, it’s no surprise that the iconic ‘70s shag is making a comeback. Revlon Professional global artistic ambassador Mark Leeson says, “The shag is the ultimate undone statement haircut. It’s choppy and full of texture and makes for a refreshing change to long, one-length hair. On a daily basis, you don’t need to do much to a well-cut shag style, as the texture and shape are already cut into it.”
“The feathered texture works for most lengths and is great for curly and Afro hair, too. To keep it modern, combine voluminous curls with a short, face-framing, ringlet fringe,” says Leeson. The key to executing the style in 2021? Keep things textured and carefree but opt for a softer cut. “You have to make sure your stylist doesn’t cut in too many layers because this could really date the look,” he adds.
Convinced? Keep scrolling for the very best shag hairstyles out there and to get some serious inspiration ahead of your next (and long-anticipated) hair appointment.