Bobs, Bangs & Bounce: 17 Hair Trends Taking Over AW24
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1 year ago
The salons have spoken
Feeling hair fatigue? Now’s the time to change things up. With summer rolling away to be replaced with the crisp notes of autumn, there isn’t really a better moment to make a transformational change. And if you’re stuck for choice, don’t worry. We’ve rounded up the biggest hair trends forecasted for AW24, as told by stylists and haircare professionals.
The Biggest Hair Trends For AW24
This season will be one of compromises. Bobs will go head-to-head with ultra-long locks, high volume will sidle up to sleek wet looks and invisible layers will sit side-by-side with, well, visible layers. But whatever the final look, it will be underpinned by self-expression.
‘As we transition into autumn 2024, hair styling trends are taking on a more intentional, expressive approach, with each cut and style reflecting personal character and refined taste,’ says Jack Merrick Thirlway, a stylist at Neville Hair & Beauty. ‘This season’s trends are more than just aesthetic choices – they are statements of identity and individuality. Whether you lean toward effortless sophistication or bold, expressive looks, these trends offer a curated selection of styles that promise to inspire and elevate.’
Intrigued? These are the biggest hair trends for AW24:
Trends At A Glance
- Tailored Midi Cut
- Drape Bangs
- Deep Sides
- Invisible Layering
- Big Bounce
- Straight & Glossy
- Lotsa Layers
- Easy Waves
- Nostalgic Curtain Bangs
- The Sleek Bob
- Make It Long
- Low Ponytail
- Textured Updo
- Wet Look
- Textured Bob
- 90s Brit Pop Shag
- Rebel Waves
1. Tailored Midi Cut
The top trend on our list? Mid-length hair. Think grown out bobs, trimmed tresses and everything in-between. ‘This is a new trend which I expect to see many of my fabulous clients opting for,’ says Tina Farey, Editorial Director of RUSH Hair. ‘More often than not, many people want long hair but also some more shorter, versatile styles – yet do not want to lose the length of their hair, it’s a common worry of every individual who wants to cut their hair. Cue the “tailored midi cut” a mid length cut, which enables the individual to go shorter, with a much more versatile look. The tailored aspect comes in with layers throughout, to give it is a much more defined and dimensional feel.’
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2. Drape Bangs
Considering bangs? Now might be the time to get them. ‘Drape bangs are a new take on the traditional curtain bangs, where the two separate sections are voluminous and deep rooted to give a real statement feel,’ explains Tina. ‘This is going to be popular as it is such as simple addition to the hair, yet makes quite the statement when styled with a lot of volume at the root. Drape bangs work well with mid to long length hair, with a seamless blend throughout the length.’
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3. Deep Sides
And it’s a soft goodbye to centre partings (for now). ‘Throughout the year, the parting of the hair is always a talking point,’ says Tina. ‘We’ve gone from centre partings, to zig zags, off centre to diagonal – and now the focus is on the deep side parting. Seen on the runways of the AW24 fashion houses, deep side partings will become a staple hair trend throughout AW24. Hair should be parted extremely to the side, and styled into simple yet sophisticated looks – think slicked back buns, finished with a high shine.’
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4. Invisible Layering
Layers never go out of style – especially on long, healthy locks. ‘Long, layered face-framing looks will continue to thrive in AW24,’ says Stephane Allain, a stylist at RYS Hair & Beauty. ‘It will be a season of volume and bounce. Invisible layering will be especially popular since it works on any type of hair and isn’t too heavy-looking.’
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5. Big Bounce
More energy, more drama – but, most importantly, more bounce. Expect lots of volume in the salon this season. ‘Nothing beats walking out the salon with a fresh bouncy blowout,’ emphasises Becky Hare, Colourist at Brooks & Brooks Salon. ‘Sabrina Carpenter is always sporting this iconic look. Big bouncy hair that is light and has movement is something you’re guaranteed to see on the street and it’s even more accessible at home with things such as heatless curls and hot brushes.’
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6. Straight & Glossy
Ultra-healthy locks will also be a priority come AW24. ‘We’re finally at a place where hair health is a lot more important to people than it used to be,’ says Becky. ‘Why not show that off with a classic straight blowdry, so you can really see the shine? Olivia Rodrigo is frequently seen with her healthy hair styled this way and it looks amazing.’
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7. Lotsa Layers
Are we witnessing the return of the shag (yet again)? We think so. ‘Layered haircuts bordering on shag styles are set to make a major comeback this season, offering a fresh take on classic face-framing layers,’ says Suzie McGill, International Artistic Director of Rainbow Room International. ‘This edgy yet versatile cut incorporates choppy, textured layers throughout the hair, with shorter pieces around the face that can be styled for dramatic or subtle effects. The modern shag adds incredible dimension and movement, creating an effortlessly tousled look that’s perfect for achieving that coveted “lived-in” aesthetic.’
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8. Easy Waves
Low-maintenance minimalists, rejoice – easy, natural-looking waves are in for AW24. ‘Loose waves are set to be a major hair trend for the upcoming season, offering a relaxed and effortlessly chic look,’ says Suzie. ‘This style embraces natural texture and movement, creating soft, undone waves that appear as if you’ve just returned from the beach. The appeal of easy waves lies in their versatility and low-maintenance nature, suiting various hair lengths and face shapes. Achieved through simple techniques like overnight braids, heatless curlers, or quick styling with a wide-barrel curling iron, this trend caters to the modern desire for uncomplicated, yet stylish, hair.’
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9. Nostalgic Curtain Bangs
This season is also set to put the ‘bang’ back into bangs. ‘Curtain bangs are poised to be a major trend for the upcoming season, drawing inspiration from 70s styles and popularised by celebrities like Sabrina Carpenter,’ says Suzie. ‘The appeal of curtain bangs lies in their ability to add a soft, youthful energy to any hairstyle while aligning with the current Y2K and ’90s revival trends.’
‘We’re also seeing people look to style icons like Dakota Johnson and Alexa Chung,’ adds Zoe Adams, an International Artist at Taylor Taylor London. ‘These soft, face-framing bangs add a touch of retro glamour to any look. Paired with long, flowing layers, they create a relaxed yet refined vibe that is perfect for the autumnal transition. There is a reason that the curtain bang stands the test of time, as it is perhaps the quickest way to add an update to your style.
‘It’s easier to manage than a straight fringe and able to grow out much more easily when you are ready for a change,’ she continues. ‘Depending on where the fringe is cut, it will highlight different areas of your face – which means there is a curtain bang for everyone. It can soften more singular facial features, hide a larger forehead, accentuate your cheekbones or even bring attention to your lips. It works with pretty much any mid to long cut and looks effortless styled with a hair band or with your hair up and when it reaches that awkward grove out length is will be long enough to pull back with clips of hair accessories.’
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10. The Sleek Bob
Bob mania continues in the salon, with AW24 giving rise to a slew of new, experimental iterations. ‘Bobs are a timeless cut,’ says Zoe. ‘For a while people have been opting for lobs, but in the salon we’re now seeing people fully commit and are asking for chin length bobs. I think this is perfect for the autumnal weather as you won’t have to bother with your hair getting caught in your scarf.’
And the bob leading the pack this season is a sleek take on the classic style. ‘No more messy bobs or lobs,’ confirms Zoe. ‘The classic bob is now getting a sleek, polished update this season, with stars like Kaia Gerber and Lily James leading the way. This sharp, chin-length cut is all about precision and shine, making it a versatile option that works for both day and night. Whether worn straight and smooth or with a slight wave, the sleek bob is the epitome of chic, minimalist style for AW24.’
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11. Make It Long
On the flip side, ultra-long hair is also making a comeback this season. Just look at Maya Jama and Naomi Campbell. ‘After a few years of effortless, low-maintenance hairstyles, XL hair is back,’ agrees Zoe. ‘Be warned, it’s not for the faint of heart. It takes a lot of effort to keep this style looking good. Wear super long hair straight or with volume. The longer, the better.’
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12. Low Ponytails
And speaking of long hair – when it’s not cascading down your back, tie it up (or down?) in a low ponytail. ‘These are making a stylish return, again, with celebrities like Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski showcasing their versatility,’ says Zoe. ‘Whether sleek and tight or loose and tousled, the low ponytail is the ultimate in understated elegance. This simple yet sophisticated style is perfect for those looking for a quick and easy way to stay on trend while keeping hair off the face in cooler weather.’
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13. Textured Updos
But if going low isn’t your style, you can always go for a classic updo. ‘Messy, textured updos are the go-to for those seeking a more relaxed, yet elegant style,’ highlights Zoe. ‘Inspired by the effortless beauty of models like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Zendaya, these updos are all about embracing natural texture and creating a look that’s both sophisticated and carefree. Perfect for evening events, these styles offer a blend of structure and softness.’
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14. Wet Look
A sleek, shiny hairdo will also be a winner this season. And what shines better than water? ‘The wet look trend continues to make waves, with influencers like Hailey Bieber and Kim Kardashian popularised the style,’ says Zoe. ‘This bold, high-shine look is perfect for creating a dramatic, fashion-forward statement. Worn slicked back or with a deep side part, the wet-look hair trend adds an edgy, modern touch to any outfit, making it a standout hair trend for AW24.’
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15. Textured Bob
Still fancy a bob (without the high-maintenance care)? You’ll want a textured bob. ‘This is not just a hairstyle; it’s a statement of refined ease,’ says Jack Merrick Thirlway, a stylist at Neville Hair & Beauty. ‘With its tousled waves and deliberately undone finish, this cut exudes a quiet confidence. The beauty of the textured bob lies in its versatility – it effortlessly transitions from day to night, from casual outings to more formal settings. It’s for those who understand that true luxury often lies in simplicity. It’s a chic, low-maintenance style that’s perfectly aligned with the transitional nature of autumn, offering a blend of casual elegance with a polished edge.’
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16. The 90s Brit Pop Shag
Did we mention nostalgia was in vogue? ‘Drawing from the iconic 90’s Brit Pop era and the cultural wave anticipated from the Oasis reunion, the shag cut makes a bold return this autumn,’ highlights Jack. ‘This style captures the raw energy of the 90’s, characterised by its choppy layers, voluminous texture, and a hint of rebellious spirit. It’s for those who thrive on individuality and nostalgia. This cut is all about expressing personality through texture and movement, making it perfect for those who want to channel the edgy, carefree vibe of the era. It’s a style that says you’re here to stand out, not blend in.’
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17. Rebel Waves
Brat season doesn’t have to end – especially when it comes to hair. ‘Rebel waves are the embodiment of the edgy, unapologetic attitude that defines autumn 2024,’ confirms Jack. ‘Inspired by Charli XCX’s Brat movement, these waves are all about embracing your inner rebel with a hairstyle that is intentionally unpolished and effortlessly cool. The look is characterised I think what they do they provide for example us that they don’t provide list I believe they do that they provide one place. They don’t provide all around the place. I think that’s what I believe because I checked the branch every town has only one salon by loose, tousled waves that convey a carefree, don’t-mess-with-me vibe.
‘Rebel waves resonate with those who reject the polished, over-styled looks in favour of something more authentic and raw,’ he continues. ‘This style is perfect for anyone looking to channel a bit of 90s grunge with a modern twist, embracing the idea that imperfection is the new perfection. Charli XCX’s influence with the Brat movement – an ethos of defiance and self-expression – makes this trend particularly powerful and relevant.’
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Featured image: AW24 Copenhagen Fashion Week Streetstyle (c) Noor-u-Nisa
