Medium Hairstyles 2017: A Retrospective on Trends and Timeless Classics
2017 offered a diverse range of medium hairstyles, catering to various hair textures, face shapes, and personal styles. From sleek bobs to textured lobs, the year saw a captivating blend of classic cuts reimagined with modern twists and entirely new trends emerging. This article explores the defining medium hairstyles of 2017, examining their impact and enduring relevance.
The Reign of the Lob
The long bob, or lob, undeniably reigned supreme in 2017. Its versatility made it a favorite among celebrities and everyday women alike. The lob’s adaptability allowed for various styling options, ranging from sleek and straight to wavy and textured. The length, typically falling somewhere between the chin and shoulders, offered a flattering framing effect for many face shapes. Variations included blunt cuts for a sharp, modern look, and layered lobs for added volume and movement. The lob’s enduring appeal stems from its effortless chic and low-maintenance nature, making it a practical choice for busy individuals. [See also: Medium Length Hairstyles for Fine Hair]
Textured Waves and Beachy Vibes
The natural, beachy wave look continued its popularity throughout 2017. This style, often achieved with texturizing sprays and diffusers, embraced a carefree and relaxed aesthetic. Medium-length hair provided the ideal canvas for these effortlessly tousled waves, creating a soft and romantic feel. This trend showcased the beauty of embracing natural texture, offering a less structured alternative to perfectly smooth styles. The beachy wave style complemented both casual and more dressed-up occasions, highlighting its versatility. [See also: How to Style Beach Waves on Medium Hair]
The Modern Take on Classic Bobs
Classic bobs experienced a modern revival in 2017, with stylists introducing subtle yet significant updates. The blunt bob, with its clean lines and sharp edges, projected a confident and sophisticated image. Variations included asymmetrical bobs, adding a touch of edginess and dynamism. These modern bobs retained the timeless elegance of their predecessors while incorporating contemporary elements, making them suitable for a wider range of personalities and preferences. The precision required for a perfect bob often signified a commitment to hair care and maintenance, further adding to its appeal. [See also: Different Types of Bob Haircuts]
Layered Medium Hairstyles: Adding Volume and Movement
Layered medium hairstyles provided a solution for those seeking to add volume and movement to their hair. Long layers, strategically placed to accentuate the hair’s natural fall, offered a dynamic and flattering look. This technique is particularly beneficial for those with fine or thin hair, creating an illusion of thickness and body. The layers could be subtle or more dramatic, depending on the desired effect. Layered medium hairstyles catered to those who appreciate a less uniform look, embracing a natural, textured appearance. [See also: Medium Layered Hairstyles for Thick Hair]
Specific Variations within Layered Styles
- Long layers with face-framing pieces: These layers created a soft, flattering frame around the face, enhancing facial features.
- Graduated layers: This technique involved shorter layers at the top gradually lengthening towards the ends, creating volume and movement.
- Choppy layers: These layers added texture and a slightly more edgy and rebellious vibe.
The Influence of Hair Accessories
Hair accessories played a significant role in shaping the medium hairstyles of 2017. Headbands, barrettes, and scarves added a personalized touch, transforming a simple hairstyle into a stylish statement. These accessories allowed for versatility and creativity, enabling individuals to adapt their look to different occasions and moods. Whether used to hold back hair or add a decorative element, hair accessories were an integral part of the overall aesthetic.
Color Trends in Medium Hairstyles 2017
Color trends complemented the diverse range of medium hairstyles in 2017. Balayage, a highlighting technique that creates a natural-looking sun-kissed effect, remained incredibly popular. This subtle approach to color added depth and dimension to medium-length hair, enhancing its movement and texture. Other popular color trends included ombre, sombre, and variations of blonde and brunette shades, all adapted to flatter medium hairstyles and complement different skin tones. The focus was on creating natural-looking color transitions, enhancing the overall style rather than overwhelming it.
The Enduring Appeal of Medium Hairstyles
The enduring appeal of medium hairstyles lies in their versatility and adaptability. They offer a practical length that is easy to manage and style while providing enough length to experiment with various looks. Unlike very short or very long hair, medium hairstyles offer a balance between practicality and style, making them a perennial favorite among women of all ages and hair types. The medium hairstyles of 2017 showcased this adaptability, highlighting the many ways this length could be styled and customized to suit individual preferences.
Conclusion: A Look Back at Medium Hairstyles 2017
2017 presented a diverse and exciting range of medium hairstyles, encompassing classic cuts, modern trends, and innovative styling techniques. From the ubiquitous lob to textured waves and layered styles, the year’s offerings reflected a shift towards natural-looking styles that embraced texture and movement. The integration of hair accessories and a focus on subtle color enhancements further contributed to the overall versatility and beauty of medium hairstyles in 2017. Looking back, it’s clear that many of these styles continue to inspire contemporary trends, highlighting their lasting impact on the world of hair fashion. [See also: Medium Hairstyles for 2024]