WHAT’S HOT IN HAIR?

Spring awakening calls for the newest short cuts and fresh crops that’ll keep you ahead of trends.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

"Short and dark tones are in, as observed backstage at Tod’s S/S 2020"

Looked in the mirror lately and felt that your locks haven’t been giving you Beyoncé feelin’ myself vibes? Or need something to spruce yourself up in a flash? Either way, a new chop can always boost your confidence and reset your outlook (the year is still young...). With 2020 already seeing celebs springing for fresh cuts (think Dua’s short hair and Kaia’s lob that we simply love!), it’s practically impossible to avoid the temptation to follow suit. If you aren’t sure if short cuts are for you or your hair texture, #TeamCLEO was able to speak to Ian McCabe Studios’ top hairstylists, Amy Putens who has with her over 14 years of styling experience to learn more about the trends that are already dominating 2020.

Hi Amy! What are the latest trends we should absolutely try this year?

Adding hidden pops of your personality (hidden fun colours) underneath your everyday look is definitely trending. They allow you to express yourself without interfering with your ‘day job’. If pops of colour aren’t your thing, I would also say dark is in! You can’t go wrong with a textured or blunt bob, and adding a curtain fringe won’t hurt.

How would different hair textures rock them in terms of styling?

Often we think “Can my hair do that?” The answer is usually ‘yes’ — it just depends on what you are willing to do in terms of upkeep and maintenance.

How would the styling or shaping of the bob differ with different hair textures, especially with curly hair?

If you have extremely curly hair, can you really have a sleek blunt bob? YES, but only if you are willing to put in the work to style it. If not, you can rock a textured bob and allow your curls to feel free.

What should be done to maintain the look (and healthy feel) of these hairstyles?

With shorter hair, you want to lean more towards the eight-week time frame. Bobs, lobs and pixies have surprisingly quick grow outs and require more maintenance. Often times, it isn’t the ends that you feel need dusting, but the interior shape that requires some attention: like the volume, movement, etc. Once that has grown in, your shape collapses and the style is dull and hard to work with.

What are the hottest hair colours to try out this season (and how to make them last longer)?

Honestly, I think dark and dainty is coming back. But, if chestnuts and midnight tones aren’t your thing, red is always trending too. Oftentimes we forget that these hues need maintenance just as much as any other. Talk to your colourist about a regimen that works for you. If maintenance is a hassle, then avoid going dark or red. Colours like these get dull, flat and lifeless. They’ll need glossing between every application.

Which hairstyle(s) looks the toughest to pull off but is actually a lot less complicated than it looks?

Some of my favourite hairstyles are twists that can give you a ‘half up, half down’ look. Even small updos are simple to do if you only have bobby pins. I recommend these for that work day hair change-up!

Located in Washington DC, Ian McCabe Studio boasts some of the best, worldclass stylists and colourists under one roof. Visit http://ianmccabestudio.com.

 
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"Nellie Hairband, $29, Pieces on Zalora"

HOT HAIR PICKS

Pick up these beauties to cop that oh-so-trendy 2020 hairdo now.
 
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Pearl and Marble Hair Pin Set, $9, Pomelo
 
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Love Beauty And Planet Blooming Colour Shampoo, $11.90, Watsons 

TEXT AND INTERVIEW MONISHA SIVANESAN MAIN PHOTO COURTESY OF TODS