If 2024 was the year of the bob, then 2025 is shaping up to be a year of experimentation. From pixie crops to fringe-filled makeovers, this year’s hair trends are all about breaking free from the tried-and-true and embracing something a little more fun. 

Bobs are going shorter – think pixie cuts that are razor-sharp and unapologetically bold. Fringes are set to make a statement too, with Sabrina Carpenter’s full-bodied fringe and Daisy Edgar-Jones’s soft, tousled curtain bangs inspiring countless salon visits. And let’s not forget volume – whether it’s teased, tousled or tamed, big hair is officially back on the agenda.

Ready for a hair update? We spoke to some of the UK’s leading hairstylists, who shared their predictions for the hair trends set to dominate for the year ahead. From statement cuts to easy colour updates, these are the looks you’ll be bookmarking for your next salon appointment…

“Want to wear your hair long but also keep it cool and modern? Consider a fringe or some choppy layers to sit alongside your cheekbones,” says hairstylist Sam McKnight MBE. “Take inspiration from 70s rock stars, such as Debbie Harry, Stevie Nicks, cool girl Jane Birkin’s brow-skimming bangs and Marianne Faithfull’s choppy cheekbone layers.”

“As seen at 16 Arlington’s spring/summer 2025 shows, there’s nothing more confidence-boosting than a big, bold and voluminous ’do,” says McKnight. “It’s elevating in more ways than one – the ultimate mood booster. Even though there are certain decades that are instantly recognisable due to the volume, shape and silhouette, voluminous hair does feel timeless. It exudes hair health. It feels good and can make us feel powerful and full of confidence. With 60s movie sirens playing a role in volume hair inspirations, we’ll see the return of the velcro rollers to maximise styling efficiently – try Hair by Sam McKnight The Big Set, £50. A great voluminous and full blow-dry never goes out of fashion.”

“The bob is a staple trend and a style that will be reinvented over and over each season, but for 2025 we’re predicting a mega-trend hybrid will emerge as the bob collaborates with the pixie cut to create a super-short, sleek option,” says Maria Sotiriou, hairstylist and co-founder of Silke London. “I’m obsessed with Anok Yai’s highly styled, glossy version of the look.”

“Those who ‘bobbed’ it in 2024 will be game for a change,” says McKnight. “Whether it’s growing out to a midi collarbone shag or going even shorter with a jaw-defining micro bob, 2025 is the year for style-defining cuts.”

“Toffee brunette combines an intense golden caramel tone with a deeper mid-brunette base,” says Laura Elliot, head educator and stylist at Neäl & Wølf. “The blend of chocolate, caramel and gold hues creates a reflective, youthful shine that’s perfect for those seeking a sun-kissed glow without the upkeep of bright blonde hair. This warm shade is particularly flattering on people with lighter olive skin tones, as its golden undertones enhance the natural warmth of the skin. Yellow and green undertones are brought to life by the rich caramel highlights, while the deeper brunette base provides a contrast that complements and balances the complexion.” 

“Going into the new year, I think we will be embracing our natural texture, whether that’s long or bobbed hair,” explains Issey Cook, stylist at Larry King, South Kensington. “Styling-wise, I predict that textured waves will be more of a trend through 2025. Using the more natural textures of the hair and adding to it with soft flowy waves is the perfect way to style the hair without adding too much heat.

“Another big trend for 2025 is the fringe,” says Cook. “Think Sabrina Carpenter’s big bouncy fringe or Daisy Edgar-Jones’s lived-in, effortless fringe. The one thing both these fringes have in common is that they can both be styled differently – either fuller or parted slightly.”

“We’re all about glossy, mirror-like shine that screams effortless glamour in 2025,” says Jay Birmingham, celebrity hairstylist and TRESemme Ambassador. “With the rise of high-gloss finishes in fashion and beauty, hair is following suit. TRESemmé’s Lamellar Shine Oil, £10, is my go-to for achieving that sleek, polished look that reflects light beautifully.”

Images: Getty