Trends operate in a cyclical pattern, and every season the fashion magazines and trend forecasters claim that the ‘90s are back, or the ‘80s are in again, and so on and so forth. While there are some trends of the past we’d rather not revisit (looking at you, 80s mall bangs or those chunky highlights of the 2000s), there’s plenty from the past to love—and more than a few ways to make the most iconic cuts and styles look totally 2018.
Which era are YOU feeling for fall and winter? We’ll show you how to bring it into the 21st century.
The ‘20s bob
In the ‘20s, bob haircuts were all the rage, and for good reason—they were a reaction to a new independence! Women bobbed their long hair, shortened their skirts, ditched the corsets and went out to party. The flapper cut has always been chic; traditionally, it’s a chin-skimming bob, often paired with a matching fringe. It’s a bit carefree but still classic, and it looks great with lots of different hair types and textures. And don’t forget about styling! Any bob needs a little styling action, which is why we’ll send you home with one of our favorite styling pastes, like Aveda’s Control Paste.
The ’70s shag
Got curls or waves, or crave some extra texture? The shag, a ‘70s favorite that’s recently come back into vogue, is perfect for you. This isn’t the mullet-y style of the past, though; the modern shag is more Stevie Nicks, full of soft, flattering layers. Your stylist will work with your natural texture to create lots of body and texture from your cheekbones down, and if you’ve been thinking about cutting bangs, this is the time to do it! We love long, brow-skimming bangs paired with a shag cut. To add more texture and an undone, sexy piece-y vibe, spray your shag with Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray.
The ‘80s volume
Don’t worry—the days of sky-high mall bangs and Aqua Net are (probably) behind us for good. That doesn’t mean we’re giving up on the over-the-top ‘80s entirely, though! A little volume is a great thing, and no era gave it to us like the ‘80s. To channel your inner ‘80s icon, invest in a few volumizing products. We’re huge fans of Bumble’s Thickening Full Form Soft Mousse, a modern take on the foamy stuff you probably loved as an ‘80s teen or saw your mom apply. Prep your damp hair with mousse and blow dry; flip your head over while drying for even more volume!
Today’s celebs like Jennifer Lawrence have been rocking the “blow back” style on the red carpet, which we love, and it’s super easy to do at home. First, prep your hair with mousse and a little bit of Aveda’s Volumizing Tonic at the root. While drying, direct your hair away from your face like you’re in front of a fan. It’s ‘80s, but still chic for today. And, of course, if all else fails, pull your hair into a high ponytail and tie it up with a scrunchie, because scrunchies are in again, too!
The ‘90s bob
We’re not talking about the layered, face-framing “Rachel” cut. Think about the supermodel styles worn by stars like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner; they’re more Linda Evangelista than Rachel Green, with a little bit of ‘90s Britney Spears thrown in for good measure. If you’re feeling the urge to travel back to 1997, ask for a blunt-cut collarbone-length bob. The ‘90s bob looks modern when paired with your natural texture, but we also love the throwback vibes of a sleek, straight curled-under bob—time to break out the flat iron! Be sure to treat your hair with a heat protectant before straightening; we like Oribe’s Soft Lacquer Heat Styling Spray for thermal protection and serious shine. Butterfly clips…optional!
Ready to make a change?
Book an appointment with your favorite Cole’s stylist and they’ll help you determine the kind of cut and style that works best for your hair type and styling routine—no matter the era you’re going for!
