Top Winter 2023 Hair Trends: Expert-Approved Styles and Colors
Uncover the season’s most stylish hair trends—from sculptural braids to glossy wet looks—with pro tips and must-have ideas.
Winter 2023 Hair Trends: The Ultimate Guide from Runway to Real Life
Winter may traditionally be a quieter time for hair experimentation, but the 2023 season is all about making a noticeable statement. From glamorous accessories to visually striking braids, rich colors, and bold partings, this winter’s hair trends are too stylish to keep hidden under hats and scarves. Drawing inspiration from top designers at New York, Paris, Milan, and London Fashion Weeks—and guided by expert stylists—these are the must-see, must-try looks for the coldest months of the year.
1. High-Shine Wet-Look Hair
The wet-look hairstyle dominated the winter runways, offering a modern way to embrace natural shine—or even faux grease! Models at Brandon Maxwell, Adeam, and Maison Margiela showcased hair that was slick, glossy, and pulled behind the ears, while Zimmerman gave the look a twist by sweeping it into tight, low buns. Iconic figures like Gigi Hadid exemplified this radiant trend, making it approachable for both casual and formal outings.
- Achieve the look by applying a generous dollop of mousse or spritzing shine spray over the hair to create a luminous, moist effect.
- For an ultra-glossy finish, use a shine-enhancing serum and comb hair back smoothly.
- This trend works on both straight and textured hair—just ensure the finish looks hydrated, not greasy.
Expert Tip: For best results, finish by tucking your hair behind the ears and securing the look with a light hold hairspray to combat winter’s potential frizz.
2. Cinnamon Cookie Butter Hair: The Trendy Warm Hue
Cinnamon cookie butter hair emerged as the go-to color for the style set, with Hailey Bieber’s rich, reddish-cinnamon locks serving as major inspiration. The shade is a soft blend of coppers, reds, and browns, bringing a comforting warmth that’s perfect for the colder months.
- This hue offers a radiant transition from autumn and suits a wide variety of skin tones.
- To preserve color vibrancy, use a color-safe shampoo and avoid excessive heat during washing and styling.
- Limit your exposure to UV rays and opt for products with built-in UV protection.
Expert insight: Red-based colors can fade quickly, so schedule regular gloss treatments and minimize exposure to harsh environmental factors to maintain brilliance all winter long.
3. Sculptural Braids: Braiding Becomes Art
Sculptural braids elevated the braid game for winter 2023, turning traditional plaits into intricate works of art, as seen at Tia Adeola and Chanel. These eye-catching styles are versatile enough for special events or even day-to-day flair for the daring.
- Request micro braids pulled into ballerina buns for a chic, polished look.
- Try dramatic updos combining jumbo braids twisted and pinned in creative shapes, such as bows or swirls.
- Don’t be afraid to accessorize with bobby pins, beads, or metallic accents for added glamour.
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Stylist Tip: Rely on a talented braider or stylist for the most intricate looks. Use a strong-hold gel to keep flyaways smooth and styles crisp throughout the day.
4. Fox Hair Color: The Dip-Dye Statement
The fox hair color technique has gone viral, especially among Gen Z. This dip-dye trend focuses on adding bold, contrasting color just to the ends of the hair, reminiscent of the bushy tail of a fox. It’s a playful, low-commitment option that lets you flirt with bright color without all-over change.
- Popular shades include fiery orange, copper, and even vibrant red or fuchsia for the bravest trendsetters.
- If you want to revert, simply trim the colored ends as your hair grows.
- Maintain brightness with color-preserving conditioners and minimal use of hot styling tools.
Why try this trend? It’s a stress-free way to experiment with color—and update your look for the season with minimal commitment.
5. Side Parts: A Comeback for Classic Volume
The debate about hair partings takes a decisive turn this winter: side parts are officially cool again. Designers like Acne, Fendi, and Vivetta celebrated this look, featuring both understated and voluminous approaches.
How to create the perfect side part:
- Use the pointed end of a rat-tail comb and align it with the arch of your eyebrow to ensure a symmetrical, stylish part.
- Create soft, glam waves for old-Hollywood allure or leave the look more undone for a laid-back, minimalist vibe.
- Secure with no-bend hair clips for 10–15 minutes to set the part in place, finishing with a mist of hairspray for hold.
Expert Pro-Tip: If your strands tend to fall back into their natural placement, set the part as soon as you exit the shower and let it dry in place for staying power.
6. Birkin Bangs: The Chicest Way to Try Fringe
Fringes are back in a big way for winter 2023, with Birkin bangs offering a vintage-yet-modern approach. Channeling the effortless cool of Jane Birkin, these thick, blunt bangs can be styled down or parted in the center—transforming into trendy curtain bangs as desired.
- Perfect for those not ready for a major haircut but seeking a noticeable change.
- Bangs are practical for winter, minimizing worries about oily foreheads thanks to lower seasonal humidity.
- Ask your stylist for a full fringe that still allows flexibility for middle- or side-parting styling options.
Maintenance suggestion: Keep dry shampoo handy to refresh bangs between washes and prevent flatness.
7. Bold and Glitzy Accessories: Instant Glam for Any Look
Glitzy hair accessories emerged as a major styling shortcut on the winter runways, with crystal-encrusted pins, jeweled headbands, and bold hair clips stealing the spotlight. These accessories offer anyone the opportunity for instant, high-impact glamour without a salon appointment.
- Choose statement barrettes to accentuate a sleek style, or layer multiple pins for a maximalist effect.
- Wear a sparkling headband with loose hair or updos for festive or everyday occasions.
- For added impact, coordinate hair jewelry with matching earrings or makeup accents.
Trick for longevity: Use lightweight styling spray before adding accessories to help them grip without slipping on sleek strands.
8. Glossy and Healthy-Looking Hair: The Unmissable Finish
Regardless of cut, color, or style, shiny, healthy hair stood as a top trend in its own right. The runway showed radiant, reflective finishes for all textures and lengths—a look achievable with a proper routine.
- Invest in a weekly hair mask to boost moisture and repair dryness from winter air or heat styling.
- Finish styling with a shine spray or serum for an instant boost.
- Keep split ends at bay with regular trims every 6–8 weeks.
Expert Tip: For deep hydration, switch to silk pillowcases or bonnets to minimize breakage and maintain hair moisture overnight.
9. Hair Health and Maintenance: Tips for Thriving Winter Hair
A successful winter hair transformation isn’t just about trendiness—it’s about maintaining healthy, resilient hair through the stress of seasonal changes. Dry, cold air can lead to breakage, frizz, and dullness, so it’s vital to give your hair extra care during these months.
- Limit washing to avoid stripping natural oils.
- Opt for gentle, nourishing shampoos and conditioners tailored to your hair type.
- Use a leave-in conditioner or oil for extra protection against harsh weather.
Stylist advice: Never skip heat protectant sprays prior to using hot styling tools, and reduce heat exposure whenever possible to help keep your hair shiny and strong.
Winter 2023 Hair Trends Table
| Trend | Main Features | Expert Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Wet-Look Hair | Glossy, slick, tucked behind ears or styled in a bun | Use mousse or sheen spray; finish with light hold spray |
| Cinnamon Cookie Butter Color | Reddish-cinnamon shade; warm and vibrant | Color-safe shampoo; limit hot water and UV exposure |
| Sculptural Braids | Artistic micro or jumbo braids, creative shapes | Work with an experienced braider; strong hold gel |
| Fox Hair Color | Dip-dyed ends in vivid hues; easy to revert | Minimal heat, color-protecting products |
| Side Parts | Volume, versatility, old-Hollywood or minimal finish | Rat-tail comb for clean part, clips to set |
| Birkin Bangs | Full, blunt fringe; can double as curtain bangs | Dry shampoo to refresh; flexible styling |
| Glitzy Accessories | Barrettes, jeweled pins, eye-catching headbands | Layer for effect; prep hair with light spray for grip |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which hair trend is easiest for a quick winter refresh?
A: Accessories are the fastest way to update your style—add a sparkling pin or headband for instant glam with minimal effort.
Q: How do I keep red or cinnamon hair color from fading quickly?
A: Use color-protecting shampoos, limit exposure to hot water and sunlight, and schedule salon glosses to keep the color vibrant.
Q: Can sculptural braids work on short hair?
A: Yes, but you may need to use extensions or opt for micro braids to achieve more intricate shapes.
Q: What’s the best way to get glossy, healthy-looking hair in winter?
A: Incorporate hydrating masks weekly, minimize heat styling, use a silk pillowcase, and finish styles with a shine serum or spray.
Q: Are Birkin bangs high maintenance?
A: They do require regular trims and occasional refreshing with dry shampoo, but their versatility makes them easier to style for any occasion.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g45000445/winter-2023-hair-trends/
- https://www.ipsy.com/blog/2023-hair-trends
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/beauty/winter-hair-trends-colours
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/a45549275/autumn-winter-beauty-trends-2023/
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/tags/autumn-winter-hair-trends-2023
- https://arcscissors.com/blogs/press/winter-2023s-biggest-haircut-trends
- https://maxinesalon.com/cosmopolitan_june_26_2023/
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