Twenty years ago a killer hairstyle wasn’t complete without a dollop of strong hold gel, a few butterfly clips, and two strands of hair stylishly framing your face. Whether you wore your dark brown hair up or down, long or short, ropy face-framing strands were a constant. The two single face-framing strands may seem like a blast from the past, but (like most of our favorite ‘90s trends), they’re back and better than ever!
Face-framing haircuts and styles have absolutely taken over our social media feeds, and we are here for it! Unlike the two strands that hung loosely from an updo in high school, the face-framing strands of 2019 are a bit chunkier and create a statement style that’s still ethereal and romantic. The best part about the ultra-flattering style is that it looks fantastic on everyone, no matter your face shape, hair texture, length, or color. We tapped Nick Arrojo, L’Oréal Professional brand ambassador and owner of Arrojo Studios, to learn everything you need to know about the hottest hair trend of the year.
It seems hair trends have been all about drama over the last decade. From shaved sides to flashy fantasy colors, the hottest haircuts and styles were meant to turn heads. After years of slaying jaw-dropping hair looks, however, Arrojo says hairstylists and clients alike are embracing more toned-down, charming styles.
“After so many shock-factor styles, we are seeing a return to classic beauty and getting a hairstyle that complements the beautiful features of the face, especially the eyes,” the stylist explains. “It may be a cliché, but it’s also true: Your eyes are the windows to the soul, the focal point of your face, and when your hairstyle provides beautiful face-framing shape it maximizes youthfulness and beauty.”
Face-framing haircuts and styles don’t just make your hair look good; they put your best facial features on display like never before!
If the idea of face-framing strands conjures up images of your middle school yearbook, fear not! Arrojo says there are tons of ways to bring this trend into 2019. The stylist says the best way to modernize any blast-from-the-past trend is to add texture, volume, and movement, and there’s no better way to do that than with the razor cut that made Arrojo a household name.
“A razor cut will create extra taper and diffusion but can also build the volume and texture synonymous with ‘90s haircuts. And rather than stripy highlights, today we can use hair painting or balayage techniques to avoid lines of demarcation or re-growth, creating natural-looking colors that light up the face.”
If it sounds like the face-framing trend is perfect for you but you don’t know where to start, ask your stylist for layers. They’re a great way to create a face-framing effect without getting rid of too much length or completely switching up your signature ‘do.
“Layers do a lot: they remove weight, add volume, boost waves, and enhance features,” Arrojo explains. “I recommend a layered razor cut.”
If you love the look of face-framing hairstyles but don’t want to stray from your go-to haircut, allow two small sections of hair to hang loosely from your ‘do for a style fit for your perfectly curated Instagram feed.
Looking to try a face-framing haircut or style for yourself? We’ve rounded up five looks we can’t get enough of.
The Best Face-Framing Haircuts And Styles To Try Now
Face-Framing Layers
If you want to slay a sultry face-framing style all year round, opt for these face-framing layers. Longer than bangs but shorter than long layers (say that five times fast!), these face-framing layers will make your eyes the center of attention wherever you go.
Face-Framing Razor Bob
Looking for a haircut with tons of movement and texture? Look no further than this razor bob. This style is one of Arrojo’s favorites and for a good reason—it looks spectacular on everyone!
Face-Framing Updo
This curled updo is perfect for your next big event! Set your look with a firm-hold hairspray like Redken Control Addict 28 Strong Hold Hairspray to ensure your ‘do stays put all night long.
Face-Framing Highlights
Face-framing haircuts are great at making your gorgeous face the center of attention but if you really want to take things up a notch, pair your haircut with strategically placed highlights. They’ll brighten up your face and hairstyle instantly.
Face-Framing Braided Crown
You don’t have to let your hair hang loose to take advantage of the face-framing trend. Pull a few strands free from your braided crown style for a romantic final touch.
Interested in a face-framing haircut or style? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
