Salon Trends Rewind: The Hottest Styles Of 2016

Hey everyone! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the hottest salon trends that rocked 2016. From bold hair colors to innovative cuts and styling techniques, 2016 was a year of fearless experimentation and gorgeous transformations in the beauty world. Buckle up, guys, because we're about to dive deep into the styles that had everyone talking and booking appointments like crazy!

The Rise of Bold Hair Colors

In 2016, bold hair colors weren't just a trend; they were a statement. Forget subtle highlights – people were going all-in with vibrant, eye-catching hues that turned heads wherever they went. Whether it was a daring dip-dye or a full-on fantasy color, the bolder, the better!

One of the biggest color crazes was undoubtedly the rise of unicorn hair. This magical trend involved blending multiple pastel shades like lavender, baby blue, and soft pink to create a dreamy, ethereal look. It was all about embracing your inner mythical creature and sporting a mane that looked like it belonged in a fairy tale. Getting the perfect unicorn hair was no easy feat, often requiring multiple salon visits and a skilled colorist who could blend the colors seamlessly.

Another popular color choice was rose gold. This romantic and sophisticated shade combined warm pink and gold tones to create a stunning, metallic effect. Rose gold hair was incredibly versatile, complementing a wide range of skin tones and adding a touch of elegance to any hairstyle. Whether it was a subtle rose gold balayage or an all-over color, this trend was a surefire way to add some sparkle to your look. Plus, it photographed like a dream, making it a social media favorite!

But it wasn't just pastels and metallics that dominated the color scene. Vibrant jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and amethyst purple were also making waves. These rich, saturated colors added depth and dimension to the hair, creating a mesmerizing effect that was both edgy and glamorous. Jewel-toned hair was perfect for those who wanted to make a bold statement and stand out from the crowd. To keep these colors looking vibrant, special color-safe shampoos and conditioners were a must.

Moreover, the ombre trend continued to evolve, with bolder and more contrasting color combinations. Think deep blues fading into vibrant greens, or fiery reds melting into bright oranges. These dramatic ombre styles were perfect for those who wanted to experiment with color without committing to a full head of bold hues. The key to a great ombre was a seamless transition between the colors, which required a skilled hand and a keen eye for detail.

Cutting-Edge Haircuts

Beyond color, haircuts in 2016 were all about embracing individuality and expressing personal style. From edgy pixie cuts to long, flowing layers, there was a haircut to suit every face shape and personality.

The lob, or long bob, remained a firm favorite. This versatile cut, which typically falls between the chin and collarbone, was universally flattering and easy to style. Whether worn sleek and straight or tousled and textured, the lob was a go-to choice for those who wanted a chic and modern look without sacrificing length. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Emma Stone rocked the lob, further cementing its status as the haircut of the year. The lob’s adaptability made it a hit, as it could be easily dressed up or down for any occasion.

For those who dared to go shorter, the pixie cut was a bold and empowering choice. This super-short style exuded confidence and attitude, and it was a great way to showcase your facial features. From choppy and textured pixies to sleek and polished versions, there was a pixie cut to suit every taste. Stars like Michelle Williams and Ginnifer Goodwin proved that short hair could be incredibly stylish and feminine. The key to pulling off a pixie cut was finding the right length and shape to complement your face. Regular trims were essential to maintain the pixie's sharp lines.

Long layers were also a popular choice for those who wanted to add movement and dimension to their hair. These layers helped to create volume and texture, making the hair look fuller and more dynamic. Long layers were especially flattering for those with thick hair, as they helped to remove weight and prevent the hair from looking heavy. Whether paired with a center part or side-swept bangs, long layers were a timeless and versatile option.

Additionally, textured bobs were gaining traction. This cut involved adding layers and texture to a classic bob, creating a more relaxed and effortless look. Textured bobs were perfect for those who wanted a low-maintenance style that still looked chic and stylish. A bit of texturizing spray or sea salt spray was all it took to enhance the natural waves and create a beachy, tousled effect. The textured bob was a great way to embrace natural hair texture and create a modern, carefree vibe.

Styling Sensations

No discussion of 2016 salon trends would be complete without mentioning the styling techniques that were all the rage. From effortless waves to sleek, polished looks, there was a styling trend to suit every occasion.

Beachy waves continued to dominate the styling scene. This relaxed and tousled look was perfect for those who wanted to achieve an effortless, California-cool vibe. Whether created with a curling iron, a wand, or even just by braiding the hair overnight, beachy waves were a go-to style for everyday wear. A texturizing spray or sea salt spray was essential for adding grip and enhancing the natural waves. The key to perfect beachy waves was to keep them looking natural and undone – the more imperfect, the better!

Sleek and straight hair also made a comeback, offering a chic and polished alternative to the more casual waves. This style was all about achieving a smooth, frizz-free finish with plenty of shine. A good quality flat iron and heat protectant spray were essential for creating this look without damaging the hair. Sleek, straight hair was perfect for formal events or for adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. A shine serum or hair oil could be used to enhance the gloss and create a healthy, radiant look.

Braids remained a popular styling option, with countless variations to choose from. From classic French braids to intricate fishtail braids and bohemian-inspired braids, there was a braid to suit every style and occasion. Braids were a great way to add texture and visual interest to the hair, and they could be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether worn as a single braid or incorporated into an updo, braids were a versatile and stylish choice.

Accessorizing was also key to many popular styles. Hair scarves, headbands, and decorative clips were used to add a touch of personality and flair to any hairstyle. These accessories were a great way to elevate a simple look and express individual style. Whether it was a colorful silk scarf tied around a ponytail or a sparkly hair clip adorning an updo, accessories were the perfect finishing touch.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the hottest salon trends that defined 2016. From bold hair colors and cutting-edge haircuts to effortless styling techniques, 2016 was a year of fearless experimentation and self-expression in the beauty world. Whether you were rocking unicorn hair, sporting a chic lob, or mastering the art of beachy waves, 2016 was a year to remember for its innovative and inspiring salon trends. It's amazing to see how these trends have evolved and influenced styles in the years since! What were your favorite salon trends from 2016? Let us know in the comments below!