Short Messy Hairstyles 2018: A Retrospective on Trending Looks
2018 witnessed a surge in popularity for short, messy hairstyles, offering a refreshing departure from meticulously styled looks. This style, characterized by its undone texture and effortless chic, resonated with women seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish option. This article delves into the specific trends that defined short messy hairstyles in 2018, analyzing their enduring appeal and influence on contemporary hair fashion. We’ll explore the key features, variations, and the reasons behind their widespread adoption.
The Rise of the Undone Look
The beauty industry in 2018 showcased a significant shift towards natural and effortless aesthetics. This movement embraced imperfection, celebrating individuality and rejecting the stringent standards of perfectly coiffed hair. Short messy hairstyles perfectly embodied this spirit, offering a relaxed and approachable alternative to more formal styles. The popularity of this trend speaks to a larger cultural shift valuing authenticity and self-expression. [See also: The Evolution of Effortless Hair Styles]
Key Characteristics of 2018’s Short Messy Hairstyles
Several key characteristics defined the short messy hairstyles prevalent in 2018. These included:
- Textured Layers: Many styles incorporated choppy layers to add volume and movement. This textured effect was crucial to achieving the desired messy look.
- Asymmetrical Cuts: Asymmetrical cuts, with varying lengths and angles, added a modern and edgy touch to the overall style. This unevenness contributed significantly to the “messy” aesthetic.
- Piecey Bangs: Piecey bangs, rather than blunt or perfectly symmetrical ones, were often incorporated to complement the textured layers and overall messy vibe.
- Natural Hair Color: While highlights and subtle color variations were sometimes used, many opted for natural hair colors, enhancing the overall sense of effortless beauty.
- Low-Maintenance Styling: A key factor driving the popularity of these hairstyles was their low-maintenance nature. Styling was often quick and easy, using minimal products and tools.
Variations on the Theme: From Pixie Cuts to Bobs
The short messy hairstyle trend wasn’t limited to one specific cut. It encompassed a range of styles, each with its unique characteristics.
The Messy Pixie Cut
The messy pixie cut, a perennial favorite, experienced a resurgence in 2018. This short, cropped style, with its uneven layers and textured finish, was incredibly versatile and flattering on a wide range of face shapes. The short messy pixie was a go-to choice for women seeking a bold yet manageable hairstyle.
The Textured Bob
The textured bob, another popular variation, offered a slightly longer length compared to the pixie cut. However, the emphasis on textured layers and a purposefully messy finish remained consistent. This style offered a balance between a classic cut and the trendy, undone look. [See also: The Ultimate Guide to Bob Hairstyles]
The Shaggy Lob
For those preferring a bit more length, the shaggy lob (long bob) provided a chic and effortless alternative. This style incorporated long layers that created texture and movement, contributing to its messy yet stylish appearance. The shaggy lob was a great option for those wanting a touch of length without sacrificing the ease of a short hairstyle.
Styling Short Messy Hairstyles: Products and Techniques
Achieving the perfect short messy hairstyle in 2018 often involved specific products and techniques. Popular choices included:
- Texturizing Sprays: These sprays added volume and grip, helping to create the desired textured look.
- Sea Salt Sprays: Sea salt sprays provided a tousled, beachy wave effect, perfectly complementing the messy aesthetic.
- Mousses: Mousses added body and volume, especially helpful for those with finer hair.
- Hair Oils: Hair oils added shine and helped to tame flyaways, ensuring a polished yet messy look.
- Diffusers: Diffusers, when used with a hairdryer, helped to enhance the natural texture of the hair.
The styling process generally involved applying the chosen product(s) to damp hair, then either air-drying or using a diffuser to encourage natural texture. For a more defined messy look, a small amount of pomade or wax could be used to separate and style individual pieces of hair.
The Enduring Appeal of Short Messy Hairstyles
The enduring appeal of short messy hairstyles stems from their versatility, low maintenance, and ability to complement a wide range of personalities and styles. They offer a refreshing break from traditionally polished looks, enabling women to embrace their natural hair texture and express their individual style with ease. The trend continues to influence contemporary hair fashion, demonstrating the timeless allure of effortless beauty.
Short Messy Hairstyles 2018: A Legacy of Effortless Chic
In conclusion, the short messy hairstyles of 2018 weren’t just a fleeting trend; they represented a larger cultural shift towards embracing natural beauty and effortless style. The textured layers, asymmetrical cuts, and low-maintenance styling cemented their place in hair history, leaving a lasting legacy of chic, undone sophistication. Their influence continues to be felt in modern hair fashion, highlighting the enduring power of a truly effortless look.
The variety of options, from pixie cuts to textured bobs and shaggy lobs, ensured that there was a short messy hairstyle for everyone. This accessibility, coupled with the ease of styling and the overall aesthetic appeal, propelled this trend to remarkable heights in 2018 and beyond. The short messy hairstyle remains a testament to the power of embracing imperfection and celebrating individual beauty.
