Today’s hairstyles are vibrant and exciting! Thinking about how limited we have been in recent decades (with one style that represents what was in style), it’s obvious that we’ve broadened our horizons in hair fashion.

Coloring has emerged as an art form and new techniques and cutting tools have sparked the creativity of stylists. Now we draw on all the past decades for inspiration and then take it to the next level with modern methods.

With so many incarnations of the hair story to choose from, we walk through them like children playing dress-up with the contents of an old trunk in the attic.

The result? New hair trends.

Let’s see a little of what we will see in 2008…

Hair Styles/Styling

’20s and ’40s-inspired styling is all the rage in 2008. Cut down on the glamour. Sophisticated, sleek waves… A polished look with a low-key “regal” quality.

Strong, blunt bangs or soft, wide bangs (heavier than in the past) make a modern statement this year. And blunt fringes of shorter lengths play into the vintage feel that is popular now. If your hairstyle needs a lift, but you’re not sure which direction to go, try adding bangs (either long or short). This simple change can drastically alter the feel of a haircut.

The texture is all over the map. Sleek locks with the addition of blunt, lash-grazing bangs transform straight hair into a high-fashion masterpiece.

Spikes and swirls add interest to undercut hairstyles. The faux-hawk is a good example of “beaks”. To freshen up the look, take the visor further to the side, following the “to the side” trend of 2008.

A twisting motion creates incredible texture, while also making a strong individual statement. Swirls can also showcase hair color in a way that no other styling technique can.

Curly Hairstyles

Curls continue to take center stage, and looks can range from soft, deep curls and curves to free-flowing waves. Increase the texture of straight/wavy hair with a casual bend here and there (achieved by wrapping random sections of hair loosely around the outside of a curling iron).

bob hairstyle

The resurgence of the bob continues in 2008. What’s the draw? Ease and versatility. This seemingly basic style can take on so many personalities! The simplicity and classic elegance of the Katie Holmes bob give it an air of maturity. In contrast, Rihanna’s whispery, asymmetrical version is fresh and modern, proving that a bob can be fun and fabulous!

Bobs are simple, easy to style, and highlight a woman’s classic beauty… elongate the neck and frame the face to highlight the eyes.

But be careful. Bobs can also have a simple little girl feel. Make sure her stylist pours on layers and texture cut. The bobs look simple and are easy to style, but court A statement, fashionable bob hairstyle that “snaps into place” requires precision craftsmanship.

for the boys

Men’s hair is more creative now than ever. Faux-hawks, emo, mod, surfer-casual, etc… However, the options may be too much for some men. Several major celebrities have recently cut (Matthew McConaughey) or even shaved (Matthew Fox) their hair, many others are returning to the classic men’s crop.

Movement is key to men’s style, whether it’s lively spikes or smooth, mod-inspired movement. Products like wax and putty help achieve these styles without the crunchy factor (and potential flaking) that gel can cause.

on the formal side

There is a move towards low, demure chignons, secured at the nape with height at the crown/back. The bangs can be swept across the forehead or pulled back from the face in a sensual wave.

The side hairstyle is also growing in popularity… hair swept to the side, ending in a collection of curls or waves or a loose, messy bun secured below the ear.

The silhouette of updos (and hairstyles in general) is wider, with more volume in the back and on the sides, while maintaining just a little height at the crown of the head.

Hair color

Deeper shades are in for spring… golden blondes, mocha browns, and wine-inspired reds (both warm and cool tones).

Dimensional color, with multiple shades applied in different widths, is back in style this year. However, the contrast between the shades is minimized compared to recent versions.

Create more drama by adding contrasting highlights or lowlights under or through random interior sections. This application results in “convertible” color that can be enhanced or toned down depending on how you style your hair on any given day.