5 Haircut Trends Everyone in New York Is Trying Right Now

While the Italian bob made waves in 2023, Priano is still seeing the trendy cut on the streets of NYC. “It’s a shoulder-length haircut that is sleek and blunt. It offers a slightly tousled, lived-in look that feels effortless yet sophisticated with just a bit of texture for volume and movement,” she says. “It’s popular because it’s a low-maintenance cut, which is perfect for busy city life.” Luckily, the bob doesn’t need much styling—just a bit of mousse (or styling cream) will do—but if you’re looking for more volume, Priano suggests using a blow dryer and a round brush combo directed at the root. 

If there’s one hairstyle that New Yorkers can rely on it’s a sleek ponytail. Whether you prefer it high or low, Priano says this polished look is everywhere right now. “It’s often styled to perfection with smooth, glossy hair that stays in place all day. It exudes confidence and sophistication that matches the city’s dynamic energy,” she shares. In order to achieve the look, the stylist recommends applying gel (or hair serum) before using a brush to smooth the hair back to your desired height and securing it with a hair tie. One helpful salon trick: “Wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic band and use a shine spray for extra gloss,” Priano explains. 

Despite newer fringe styles popping up, curtain bangs remain a top choice for city dwellers. “Curtain bangs are soft, face-framing bangs that are parted down the middle or slightly off center,” says Priano. “They add a casual, retro touch to any hairstyle and are designed to blend seamlessly with the rest of your hair—creating a flattering and versatile look.” For more volume, she suggests using a blow dryer and a round brush—or wrap your fringe with rollers and allow them to set as you style the rest of the hair. Once you unravel the rollers, spritz on some texturizing spray before heading out the door. 

Speaking of curtain bangs, this voluminous haircut was predicted to be huge for fall and it looks like it’s still a hit for New Yorkers. As Akaneya shares, “This haircut is very popular right now as it consists of long layers and curtain bangs to create volume and add weight to the hair.” If you’re looking to style this cut, apply a volumizing spray before using a blow dryer and round brush, focusing on the bangs and face-framing layers to help frame the face. The stylist adds, “Also, consider using hot curlers or a curling iron to create bouncy curls.” 

As I’ve reported over the last few months, a pixie haircut is the most-requested look this year and the experts I’ve interviewed agree. “It's wonderful to see the abundant variations of pixies on the streets coming to life,” says Cutler. “There’s an unlimited number of techniques that can be used to bring the pixie to life, so don't be afraid to texturize the hair and bring movement to the look. The most crucial thing is that the stylist understands the comfort level of each client, so they can adjust the shape and length to help them adapt to their new cut. We have so many clients who have a desire to be bold and reinvent themselves, and these variations of the pixie, whether worn longer or softer, helps ease them into a new look.” Once you get your fresh cut, the easy part is the maintenance. Aside from monthly trims (which is the biggest part of maintaining this otherwise breezy style), all you’ll need is some texturizing paste to add definition to your look.

OK, I’m Ready for a Haircut. What Should I Ask My Stylist?

The best thing to do is communicate with your stylist about everything. Tell them exactly what you want and show them any visual inspiration you have in mind for the look. (Psst, I’ve found five references above to get you started). Once you have your photos ready, march into your appointment and walk out the salon with a fresh cut that you can show off at your next shindig.