"Versatility will dominate in 2010," foresees Lois Sonstegard of Whirl-a-Style. "We've grown accustomed to change and we will want to change our hair on a whim. Cuts that allow styles to be easily maintained and yet allow maximum flexibility will be popular."
This move towards versatility suggests there will be a new shift towards longer hair, because obviously the more hair you have the more options you have as well. Expect pixies to grow out, and women to let their bobs lengthen.
So what's happening with the previous pixie crop? As women everywhere grow our their pixie crops and cropped bobs this year, the style will be cut with longer features. In particular, a brow length fringe swept to the side and held in place by a pomade. Sweeping and sexy or short and rounded are both options depending on your face shape.
"The ultimate Fall and Winter 2009/2010 hair trend is longer hair," says Diana Richardson, the Health and Beauty editor for the Tampa Examiner. "With longer hair lengths, it is good for most face shapes and body types and you can try several options. While the short bob has not taken its final bow, this fall it is fading out slowly, and taking a backstage to longer flowing locks and natural hair styles."
Classic looks will have a new twist - a special touch added to make the style understated at times, and bold at others. Hair will be more purposeful and put together.
There are two 20th century fashion revivals happening in 2010.
1940's- Long waved hair inspired by the 1940s
Having appeared on the radar in 2009, 1940s hair styles will continue as an inspiration for women's hairstyles in 2010. As it was last year, this hair trend is again inspired by the late 40s and, to a lesser degree, the early 1950s. Waves should be firm but not curly. This is suitable for all hair colours, though less effective on black hair. You can wear it with an off-center or side part, but not in the center. Length wise, it must fall below the shoulders. Pair this style with classic make-up and styling techniques.
1970's -
Straight long hair, naturally styled. Smoothly styled, but not so slick that it feels overly styled or straightened. The hair should be voluminous. This hair is usually styled with a side part, but will work well with a center part. It is definitely a style that works for very long hair. Different from the waved hairstyle inspired by the 1940s, this flowing, textured, (and sometimes) waved hairstyle trend in 2010 relies instead on natural-looking waves.
Back to Braids- The popularity of milkmaid braids in 2009 evolves into the braided hairstyle trend in 2010. Braids work great with any hair color.
The side braid can be paired with the slicked side hair style for an edgy interpretation. The fish plait is 2010's take on the simple pony tail. Both the side braid and the fish plait work great with a fringe. Also - don't include your bangs, whether it's cut as a blunt fringe or not, into the braid; instead it is best to style the fringe loosely.
The fish plait can be worn with a center part. The side braid can only be worn with a side part and the part must be on the opposite side of the head to the braid. If you're stuck for a mental picture when styling this in front of the mirror one evening, simply think of it as the Rapunzel braid.
