New Hairstyles 2016: The Ultimate Guide to Long Hair Trends
2016 witnessed a vibrant explosion of new hairstyles for long hair, offering a diverse range of options to suit every personality and style. From sleek and sophisticated looks to bohemian waves and edgy cuts, the year was a runway of possibilities for women embracing their long locks. This comprehensive guide delves into the most popular and influential long hairstyles of 2016, exploring the key trends and providing insights into how to achieve these looks.
The Reign of the Long Layers
Long layered hairstyles reigned supreme in 2016, offering a versatile approach to long hair management. This style’s popularity stemmed from its ability to add volume, movement, and texture without sacrificing length. The variations were endless: soft layers for a romantic feel, choppy layers for a more edgy vibe, or face-framing layers for a touch of elegance. The key to mastering long layers was finding the right balance—enough layers to create dimension but not so many as to make the hair look thin or wispy. This cut was particularly flattering on thick, heavy hair, providing a way to manage its weight and enhance its natural beauty. [See also: Long Layered Haircuts for Different Face Shapes]
Beach Waves: Effortless Chic
The beach wave trend continued its strong run into 2016, proving that effortlessly chic hairstyles are here to stay. This naturally tousled look was seen everywhere, from red carpets to everyday street style. Creating beach waves didn’t require hours in a salon; many women achieved the look using salt sprays, texturizing mousses, and simple braiding techniques overnight. This style worked particularly well with medium to long hair, allowing for a more pronounced wave pattern. The beauty of beach waves lay in their versatility; they could be dressed up with elegant jewelry or kept casual with minimal accessories. [See also: How to Achieve Perfect Beach Waves at Home]
Variations on the Beach Wave Theme
- Loose Beach Waves: A softer, more romantic interpretation of the classic beach wave.
- Tight Beach Waves: For those seeking a more textured, voluminous look.
- Beach Waves with Highlights: Adding subtle highlights accentuated the waves and provided extra dimension.
The Ombre Effect: A Continuing Trend
The ombre trend, characterized by a gradual transition of color from dark roots to lighter ends, maintained its prominence in 2016. This technique offered a low-maintenance approach to coloring, with the roots gradually blending into the lighter shades, minimizing the need for frequent touch-ups. The ombre effect worked remarkably well with long hair, allowing for a dramatic and stylish visual impact. Many women opted for subtle variations, using shades close to their natural hair color for a more natural look. Others chose more striking contrasts, creating bolder and more vibrant looks. [See also: Ombre Hair Color Ideas for Long Hair]
Sleek and Straight: The Sophisticated Choice
While textured styles dominated many trends, sleek and straight new hairstyles 2016 also held their own. This classic style emphasized the length and shine of the hair, creating a sophisticated and polished look. Achieving this look often involved professional straightening treatments or careful use of flat irons at home. The key was creating a smooth, flawless finish, free from frizz and flyaways. This look was particularly striking with long, healthy hair, showcasing its natural luster. It was a popular choice for formal occasions and events, providing a timeless and elegant aesthetic.
Braids and Updos: Versatile Styling Options
Braids and updos continued to be popular choices for long hair in 2016, offering a range of versatile styling options for various occasions. From simple everyday braids to intricate, elaborate updos for special events, long hair lent itself beautifully to these styles. The popularity of different braid styles such as fishtail braids, Dutch braids, and waterfall braids provided ample opportunity for creativity and personalization. Updos, on the other hand, ranged from classic chignons and buns to more modern and edgy styles, offering a sophisticated yet practical solution for managing long hair. [See also: Easy Braids for Long Hair]
The Influence of Celebrities
As always, celebrity hairstyles played a significant role in shaping the trends of 2016. Many A-list actresses and singers sported long layered haircuts, beach waves, and subtle ombre effects, influencing the choices of millions of women around the world. The media coverage of these celebrity looks fueled the popularity of these styles, making them widely accessible and inspiring countless imitations.
Maintaining Healthy Long Hair
Regardless of the chosen style, maintaining healthy long hair is crucial to achieving the best results. Regular trims to remove split ends, a balanced diet, and the use of quality hair care products are essential elements in keeping long hair strong, shiny, and manageable. Deep conditioning treatments can help restore moisture and prevent dryness, while the use of heat protectants can minimize damage caused by styling tools. Regular brushing can help prevent tangles and knots, while avoiding excessive heat styling can help preserve the hair’s natural health and vitality.
The Evolution of Long Hairstyles
Looking back at 2016, the variety in new hairstyles for long hair reflects a broader trend of embracing individuality and personal style. The year offered a plethora of choices, catering to various tastes and preferences. Whether it was the carefree beach waves, the sophisticated sleek and straight looks, or the versatility of braids and updos, 2016 showcased the enduring appeal and transformative potential of long hair. The enduring popularity of long layered haircuts underscores the timeless appeal of this style, highlighting its ability to enhance both volume and movement while maintaining a flattering silhouette. The enduring success of these styles confirms that classic techniques and creative variations continue to resonate with women who desire to showcase the beauty and versatility of their long hair.
Conclusion: Embracing the Diversity of Long Hair Styles
The new hairstyles of 2016 for long hair offered a wealth of choices, reflecting a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of trends. From the relaxed beach waves to the polished sophistication of sleek straight hair, and the ever-popular long layers, the year cemented the versatility and enduring appeal of long hair. By understanding the key trends and incorporating the essential maintenance tips, women could confidently embrace the perfect style to suit their unique personality and lifestyle. The ultimate takeaway from 2016’s long hair trends is the importance of embracing individuality and expressing one’s personal style through the power of hair.
