Is anyone else noticing that hair trends are moving faster than ever?!
Social media is filled with fresh looks every day and it’s amazing how a look can dominate one day and so easily be replaced by something new the next.
The conversation of trends versus timeless artistry has come up recently, and it makes me wonder if the true art of hairdressing is getting lost in the fast-paced shuffle of today.
The good news is not all styles come and go; some have stood the test of time and continue to remain relevant no matter what.
Timeless iconic shapes, such as the shag, the classic bob, and the mullet are not just hairstyles. They’re shapes that set the standards of iconic foundations that continue to be reinvented today.
I encourage you to embrace these enduring silhouettes. They will always be relevant in some way or another!
The Shag
A layered shape that became popular in the 70s, the shag has continued to be popular due it its versatility. I love it … tousled, sleek, or casual, it’s great for all hair types and genders, therefore making it a favorite that will always be embraced.
The Classic Bob
This is another chic, enduring look that continues to be a staple and inspire — think Coco Chanel, Anna Wintour, Zendaya.
The new bobs have added touches like textured ends or asymmetrical angles. Some are finished more organically, while others are sleek and polished. These elements keep the cut relevant while honoring its timeless roots.
The Mullet
A variation of the mohawk, the mullet is rooted in warriors from the Americas to the Romans, Vikings, and even Ancient Celts who found it practical for keeping their necks warm and dry.
The style went viral long before it started trending on TikTok, and today is a symbol of individuality, rebellion, and freedom from traditional beauty standards. It’s a statement haircut that challenges gender norms and fashion rules.
Why Trends Matter So Much
The cool thing about trends is that they offer a chance to revisit the past and pull inspiration into the present, creating an ongoing conversation between then and now.
Trends signal shifts in consumer behavior and cultural values, allowing us to identify new opportunities to stay relevant. They give us a way to connect to a feeling, mood, or even a specific moment in time.
Trends reflect culture, personal identity, and a collective inspiration.
Here’s the thing about trends: as one takes its final bow, another one steps onto the stage, and the cycle continues. It’s a beautiful part of what keeps our industry fresh and exciting.
The Stylist's Secret to Staying On Trend
Three words: Solid. Foundational. Skills.
What makes these shapes stand the test of time? It’s not just the design; it’s the knowledge behind them.
Being a great hairdresser is not just about knowing what’s popular now; it about understanding the “why” behind a particular look. Having a solid foundation in principle-based skills allows you to play with iconic shapes to make them relevant for today.
You don’t have to adopt every trend. You can adjust a shape to the personality sitting in the chair, because you have the confidence and skill to get creative and see past the surface of a trend!
Understanding the principles behind a classic shape like the shag, bob, or mullet allows you to make it fresh without losing what makes it special.
These timeless shapes serve as foundations and frameworks from which you can build: Shags = Layers; Bobs = Precision/ Graduation; Mullets = Disconnection.
As hairdressers, we need to be ready with the right tools and techniques to create either trendy or timeless looks. I love my swivel shears for the ease and comfort of cutting lines, the shorter version for precision cutting and the longer version for dry and condensed cutting. Blending and texturizing shears are a must for removing bulk and creating movement.
Remember, “the past is where we learn, and the future is where we apply it.”
Repeat After Me: Learning Never Ends!
Education is the key to long-term success. As hairdressers, we must never stop learning. Why? Because there is danger in the comfort zone.
At Sam Villa, we have built our reputation on education, it’s the cornerstone of growth, not just for your career but for your creativity and confidence. By investing in education, you’re committing to staying inspired, honing your craft, and offering the best experience to your guests.
Come learn and share at the beauty shows our team frequents! And if a bespoke curriculum in your own salon is more your style, you can schedule that here. No matter what you choose, get out there and LEARN.
My friends, great hairdressing is about honoring traditional fundamentals, principles, and foundations, and using that knowledge to create something new and exciting.
So the next time you see a new trend, don’t think you have master it to be great. Believe in your foundational skills and add your own sauce. Current hair styles are usually evolutions of a past shape with an added modern twist.
So get creative and have fun!
Sam Villa is an award-winning global salon educator, the Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken, and the co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Sam Villa®. Among other accolades, he is the recipient of the 2018 NAHA Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2020 International Hairdressing Awards Hair Influencer of the Year.
