7 Fresh Off The Runway Hair Trends For Spring 2022
Behind every brilliant designer, there is a daring hairstylist. The runway provides a stage for some of the world’s most talented hairstylists to showcase their work for virtually everyone to see. From ultra-wet locks and intricate up-dos to can’t-see pastel bobs and elaborate braids, noteworthy hairstylists like Guido Palau, Sam McKnight, Odile Gilbert, and Jawara, leave nothing to the imagination when bringing their expansive creative minds to life. Take Jawara, for example, whose experimental, gravity-defying hairstyles have caught the attention of Beyoncé, Solange, and FKA Twigs. Furthermore, Guido Palau’s impressive luxury portfolio, including Lanvin, Balenciaga, and Prada, speaks for himself. Simply put, both of their runway work is editorial in motion—a performance-type art.
If there’s one thing about runway hairstyles, it’s that they never (unintentionally) fall flat. After all, these looks offer a glimpse into how each fashion house is envisioning the next season, acting as a blueprint or reference for how we’ll inevitably end up reimagining these hairstyles for everyday wear. Ultimately, it becomes one of the first places we turn to when we’re dying to change up our ‘do.
No matter how avant-garde or seemingly simple the hairstyle appeared, the SS22 runways across all four major fashion capitals presented a never-ending, and most importantly, an inclusive array of hairstyles. However, it’s important to note that there was still an underrepresentation of Black/African hair textures and understanding of protective hairstyles on the runway, leaving Black models like Victoria’s Secret Angel Leomie Anderson to do their own hair. While there is a long way to go with not only accepting but embracing, those natural hair textures, the spring shows still managed to unveil something fresh and exciting for everyone.
With spring not too far in the distance, it’s only natural to start scouring the Internet for inspiration. At a glance, the overall hair trends ranged between super-sleek tresses (perfect for those who like to keep it casual and don’t have a lot of extra time in the morning) and head-turning braided up-dos (perfect for those who devote a little bit more time to their hair each day). Luckily for us this spring season, we can put the scissors down and step away from the bleach. Unless we all decide to follow in the futuristic footsteps of the models at the Loewe show, then we may have to reconsider that... Nonetheless, the anticipated hair trends positioned to take over Spring 2022 are privy to those with hair commitment issues—no support groups are needed this season.
From Fendi and Giambattista Valli to Courreges and Simone Rocha, here are seven spring hair trends that require no long-term commitment and are sure to inspire your hair goals no matter your hair length, texture, or color.
THE WET LOOK
There’s something about glistening wet hair that just feels fresh, and David Koma and Lanvin agree too. Whether you wash and go your ‘fro, diffuse your curls, or just step out of the shower, there are many ways to intentionally wear your hair wet. Opt for a lightweight hair gel designed for your hair texture, and then lock in the wetness with a few spritzes of hairspray. Finish off with a glossing spray for added shine to achieve this sultry look.
SUPER SLICKED BACK BUNS
Sleek buns are no stranger to the runway. Whether you’re a high-bun or low-bun type of person, the SS22 shows displayed a plethora of both. All that’s needed to accomplish this look is a smoothing brush, a lightweight gel, and a wax-based pomade for flyaways. Secure your hair with your choice of elastic hairband and accessorize to your liking.
PLENTY OF PETITES PLAITS
Showed in the style of ponytails or face-framing pieces, plaits and twists made a big appearance on the runways of Rejina Pyo and Altuzzura, and they’re already Hailey Bieber and Dua Lipa approved. This is a beginner-friendly style of braiding and twists that can be done in a few short minutes. When doing these styles, use a smoothing gel or spray on the twisted or braided parts of your hair to minimize the appearance of split ends, and then secure with a rubber band close to your hair color for a seamless look.
EMPHASIZED TEXTURES
Emphasizing natural textures for all hair types dominated this season, and we can expect to see more people embracing their hair’s natural frizziness, coils, or waves. It’s another effortless hair trend that designers, Tom Ford and Blumarine, used hair clips and silk scarves to make runway ready.
CORNROWS + BOX BRAIDS
A pleasant surprise, cornrows and box braids were amongst the braided hairstyles for Black women. Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello, Balmain, and Erdem are just a few of the designers that sent their models down the runway with the easier-said-than-done hairstyles. I don’t recommend these hairstyles for fine hair textures, as these are protective hairstyles for Black women since our hair can handle the tension caused by tightly braiding. Whether you’re a naturally gifted braider or a regular at your local braiding salon, get ready for extremely clean and even parting with slicked back, barely-there baby hairs for this look.
CHOPPY BOBS
Now, if you’ve already committed to some sort of bob look since they never really go out of style, it looks like 2022 will be no different. The Paris shows nodded to the signature French-girl hairstyle, including Chanel, Loewe, and Alaïa, putting their own twists on the oftentimes impulsive, yet low-maintenance chop.
ELEVATED PONYTAILS
While ponytails are an easy style to accomplish, there are some surprisingly easy ways to elevate them. From adding accessories to laying your edges, these ponytails require just a few extra minutes to create and are another way to show personality in your style.
Honorable mentions: the controversial middle part and face-covering fringes. It’s safe to say with the resurgence of Y2K trends, the deep middle part has made a strong comeback, and most of the trends listed above show the model’s hair done with this parting style. Additionally, curtain bangs and longer, choppier fringes will continue to stick around after being overwhelmingly popular in 2021. The more voluminous and blowout looks (where texture is emphasized) suit this haircut really well, nodding to the nostalgic ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s.
Whether you consider yourself ahead of the trends, or you’re simply embracing the transition into a new season, hopefully, these spring hair trends will give your hair something new to look forward to.