Winter is a magical season filled with plenty of decadence, but its harsh temperatures can make it challenging to look good. Especially when it comes to hair.

From freezing cold winds to drying indoor heating, it’s a battle to keep hair looking fresh and healthy. That’s why so many of us look to change our hairstyle when the temperatures drop. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for upcoming holiday events or you’re just wanting a seasonal refresh, we’re sharing the hottest winter hairstyles — as well as essential tips to keep your locks nourished — for long and short hair below.

Best Winter Hairstyles For 2024

Prepare for your next salon visit with these winter hairstyle ideas

Winter Hairstyles: For Short Hair

1. The Mob Bob

Inspired by Michelle Pfeiffer’s iconic hairstyle in Scarface and the more recent mob wife aesthetic trend, the mob bob is a bold and punchy style that emphasizes bounce and thickness. It looks best with blunt ends and soft layering that adds extra volume. Typically between chin and collarbone length, the mob bob haircut is ideal for bringing a glamorous touch to your holiday party looks.

2. The Pixie Trixie Cut

This updated take on the classic pixie cut is the latest chef d’oeuvre from hair styling legends TONI&GUY. It’s a more fluid version of the short crop, using the point cutting technique (which involves creating diagonal snips at the end of a strand) for a texture boost. A pixie trixie cut will be perfect for anyone with short and wavy hair.

3. The Bell-Bottom Bob

Reminiscent of both the namesake pant style and the voluminous hairstyles of the 60s, the bell-bottom bob is one of the biggest hair trends of the year. As the name suggests, it’s a sleek and flippy bob with a distinctive outward curve at the bottom. To get the look, ask for a blunt bob (it can be chin to shoulder length). The bell-bottom effect can be created with proper styling: use a round brush and a hair dryer if working with wet hair, or use a flat iron for dry hair. Flick the ends outward, and voila!

4. The Soft Mullet

Prefer a shaggier, choppier look? Consider a soft mullet. This is a gentler take on the quintessential rocker hairstyle, with soft, feathered layers that gradually blend together towards the back of the head. It’s a versatile style that works well for many different hair types and face shapes, and can be as short as chin length or cascade down to the shoulders.

5. The Lob

A perennial favorite of bob lovers, the lob (or long bob) is perfect for those who want the ease of short hair with the styling options of longer styles. Lobs are typically a shoulder-skimming length and have a softer feel than a blunt bob thanks to subtle layering. Depending on your face shape and style preferences, you can add in some curtain bangs for extra texture.

Winter Hairstyles: For Long Hair

1. Hourglass Layers

2024’s most popular hairstyles are all about creating distinctive silhouettes, which can be harder to do with long hair. Unless you ask for hourglass layers, of course! These voluminous layers taper inwards to create an hourglass shape. Ideal for those with extra long hair, hourglass layers are designed to fall to the waistline.

2. The 90s Supermodel Cut

We’re still seeing plenty of nostalgic throwbacks in long hair trends this year, one of them being the 90s supermodel cut. Think bouncy, face-framing layers à la Cindy Crawford and Claudia Schiffer. For the full 90s effect, add in some bold curtain bangs.

3. 60s Layers

Want a look that’s even more retro? 60s layers are essentially the long hair equivalent of the bell-bottom bob, with long layers featuring distinct inward curves. This cut is inspired by 60s style icons like Jean Shrimpton and Brigitte Bardot — bouffants are optional. It works especially well for those with straight hair craving extra volume.

4. Side Bangs

In an intriguing update to the Gen Z/Milliennial middle part vs. side part debate, side bangs are back. Equal parts Y2K throwback and a contemporary take on the classic side part, side bangs are typically grown out extra long and paired with a side swept hairstyle — ultra chic for both holiday party and everyday winter looks.

5. Invisible Layers

We always hear about face-framing layers. Invisible layers (also known as ghost layers) are their more discreet sibling, subtly adding volume by sitting a few inches shorter than the ends of your hair. This is a fantastic low-maintenance haircut for anyone that finds their shorter layers grow out too quickly.

Winter Hair Care Tips

To ensure your winter hairstyles look their best, you’ll need to give your hair some extra love and care during the cold months. Winter can be a hard time for your locks, as they become more prone to damage due to cold air, wind, and even indoor heat.

Keep your hair soft and healthy by practicing the following tips:

• Try to reduce hair washes. Everyone’s hair is different, and some of us may find we need to wash our hair daily to keep it feeling fresh. But overwashing hair can strip it of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and brittle. To avoid this, try to space out your hair washing days as much as possible. For some it might be every other day, for others it might be once a week — it just depends on your hair type.
• Wear a hat when you’re outside. Yes, you might get dreaded hat hair, but your strands will benefit from the cold protection. Try to find a hat with a silk or satin lining to keep your hair smooth and undamaged underneath the hat.
• Pro tip: Use an oil spray to prevent static electricity buildup; it’ll simultaneously moisturize your hair while you’re wearing a hat.
• Wash your hair in lukewarm water. As tempting as a scorching hot shower may be in the dead of winter, hot water can strip hair of moisture.
• Lukewarm to warm water will be gentler on your hair.
• Prioritize moisture in your hair care routine. You may need to switch to extra nourishing formulas in your shampoo, conditioner, and any products you use. Consider a weekly hair mask if you find your hair suffering because of the cold.
• Use heat styling with caution. Heat damage can occur any time of year, but it can be especially detrimental when your hair is more prone to damage in the winter. You can still use your tools, as it’s better to get your hair dry as fast as possible than to leave it wet, but try to avoid high heat settings. Opt for cool or warm temperature settings, and choose tools that prevent heat damage, like Laifen hair dryers and their innovative temperature cycling mode.
• Get regular hair trims. Maintain your hair’s health by going for a trim every 4-8 weeks. This ensures regular removal of split ends and overall renewal.
• Invest in a humidifier. Indoor heating often creates dry air, which can pull moisture out of your hair. A humidifier can help bring that essential moisture back.

Conclusion — The Best Winter Hairstyles

From bouncy bobs to luscious long layers, there’s a winter hairstyle for every taste this year. Our roundup of the best winter hairstyles for 2024 feature chic styles that work well for both everyday and all of the special occasions that come with the season. Just make sure you’re giving your hair all the attention and care it needs to thrive in the cold, and you’ll be enjoying your most glamorous winter yet.