It’s the season of change and reinvention—and if you’re feeling the urge to chop all your hair off to freshen things up, you’re not alone. Fortunately for you, short hair styles are majorly trending right now so there’s a tonne of short hair trends to refer to if you’re looking for some inspiration.
For one, the bob is more popular than ever—so much so that in 2023 alone it’s already had several new variations. The box bob, Italian bob, blunt bob, and bubble bob are just a few we’re covered here on Who What Wear UK, and we’re certain that this chic, low maintenance style is going to be just as popular through the rest of the year.
PHOTO: @CARODAUR
From cuts and colours to styling techniques and product recommendations, we’ve covered the biggest and best short hair trends for 2023. Whether you’re considering taking a leaf from Hailey Bieber’s book and getting a chop, or you’re looking for a new way to freshen up your already short hair, scroll down for all the inspiration you need.
1. The Box Bob
PHOTO: @THEOLUWASEUN
A box bob is all about structure. We love the way that this one combines a strong side part with flicked-up ends.
PHOTO: @AMAGODSON_A
Sleek, straight, and styled inwards at the ends, Ama’s box bob is perfection.
The key to a box bob looking fresh is to maintain a little bit of volume at the roots. Spritz it in when things start to fall flat.
If you’re after a smooth, polished finish, this silky finishing cream is perfect.
Smooth down humidity-induced frizz and flyaways with this handy kit.
2. The Micro Fringe
PHOTO: @FRANNFYNE
If you’re ahead of the trends and already sporting a bob for 2023, one way to mix things up is to experiment with a fringe. We particularly love a brow-skimming micro fringe—it’s cool, edgy, and looks so chic.
PHOTO: @ALYSSAINTHECITY
Alyssa’s micro-fringe has become her signature look, no matter what the length of her hair.
Keep this mini brush on hands for touch ups throughout the day—it will help you to prevet your fringe from looking ‘gappy’.
To stop your micro fringe from looking flat, add a tiny bit of this texture spray in and brush through from side to side.
Fringes (of any length) can run the risk of getting greasy quicker than the rest of our hair. To save yourself from too-frequent hair washes, keep a dry shampoo on hand instead.
3. The Slicked Back Bob
PHOTO: @LACYREDWAY
Slicked back buns and ponytails may be out of your reach if you have short hair, but sleek, combed back hair can still be achieved if your hair is above shoulder-length.
PHOTO: @HAILEYBIEBER
This neat, tucked back look is not only easy to achieve, but also perfect for hiding greasy hair come day three.
A tiny bit of this pomade warmed up in your hands will help you to achieve a sleek and smooth finish.
Gel is often a go to for a slicked back look, but try to find a lightweight or moisturising one, which won’t restrict movement or feel heavy.
This brush is perfect for super controlled stying and sectioning as well as brushing flyaway strands into place.
4. The Italian Bob
PHOTO: @SIMONATABASCO
We’ve no doubt that The White Lotus‘ Simona Tabacaso inspired hundreds of new bobs when Season 2 aired late last year. Now known as the ‘Italian bob’, this look is all about volume from roots to tips.
PHOTO: @BETTINALOONEY
With a combination of the right products and the right heat tools, this voluminous, bouncy style is surprisingly easy to achieve.
Lift, volume, and shaped ends no longer require mutliple brushes and heat tools—the Dyson Airwrap will make achieving this style feel effortless.
You’ll need a heavy-duty mousse to not only keep the shape in the lengths of your hair, but also to keep roots bouyant.
For hair that feels as well as looks thick and voluminous, a growth-stimulating serum is essential.
5. The 90s Blowout
PHOTO: @LUCYHALE
If your hair is still short but edging towards your shoulders, it’s easy to fall into a rut or start shoving it up in a messy bun or ponytail. To freshen things up, ask your hairdresser to cut in some 90s-inspired layers.
PHOTO: @CARODAUR
To ensure that your layers take centre stage, you’re going to need to get to grips with juggling your hairdryer and a round brush. This look is all about volume.
If you want to smooth and style hair but don’t want product to way your hair down, this lightweight styling milk is the answer.
Mousse is a blowdry essential, but unlike the heavy, sticky formulas of yesteryear, this one is weightless and invisible.
A good hairdryer is of course essential to any blown-out look. This one uses an innovative light technology to help to safely dry hair—increasing shine, smoothness, and moisture retention in the process.
6. The Barbie Blonde Bob
PHOTO: @LILYALLEN
With the Barbie movie airing this summer, bright platinum blonde hair is set to be one of the biggest colour trends for 2023. As seen on Lily Allen, it looks incredible with a short sleek bob.
PHOTO: @HOSKELSA
Loose waves styled away from the face are a great way to make blonde hair pop.
Misting this through your hair pre-blowdry will help to add shine and freshen up your blonde.
If your hair isn’t naturally blonde then you’re going to need to give it some serious TLC. This one-and-done treatment brightens and hydrates.
Banish warm and brassy tones and give your blonde an ice-cool refresh with these clever blue and purple-toned toner drops.
7. The Shag
PHOTO: @SELENAGOMEZ
Undoubtedly 2023’s edgiest short hair look, the shag is proof that layers and volume really are on trend. This is another style that looks low maintenance, but actually requires a bit of behind-the-scenes work to maintain texture and lift.
PHOTO: @AIKI_KR
While it can be easier to make a shag work in curly hair, this look is proof that it looks just as great in straight hair too.
Focus on scalp care and exfoliation to keep roots lifted and maintain volume.