The Top Hairstyles for Men 2017: A Korean Influence

2017 saw a significant surge in the global popularity of Korean men’s hairstyles. This wasn’t just a trend; it represented a shift in global aesthetic preferences, with Korean fashion and grooming significantly influencing men’s looks worldwide. This article will delve into the most popular hairstyle trends for men in 2017, with a specific focus on the Korean influence that shaped the year’s styles. Understanding these trends provides valuable insight into the evolution of men’s grooming and the enduring impact of Korean fashion.

The Rise of Korean Men’s Hairstyles

Korean pop culture, or K-pop, played a massive role in popularizing Korean hairstyles globally. The meticulously styled hair of K-pop idols became aspirational for many young men, leading to a significant increase in demand for similar looks. These hairstyles often featured a blend of precision cutting, careful styling, and a focus on texture and volume. The influence extended beyond K-pop, with Korean dramas and films also contributing to the widespread adoption of these styles. The clean-cut, often slightly tousled looks became synonymous with a youthful, sophisticated aesthetic. This appeal transcended geographical boundaries, influencing barbers and stylists around the world to incorporate these elements into their work.

Key Hairstyle Trends of 2017: Korean Inspired

Several key hairstyles dominated the 2017 men’s grooming scene, and many carried a distinct Korean influence. These included:

• Undercuts: The undercut remained a popular choice, often paired with longer hair on top, allowing for versatile styling. Korean interpretations often featured a softer, less drastic fade than some Western counterparts. The top hair could be styled in a variety of ways, from slicked back to textured waves, depending on the desired look. [See also: Modern Undercut Styles]
• Textured Pompadours: The pompadour, a classic hairstyle, underwent a modern Korean twist. Instead of a perfectly sculpted, rigid look, 2017 saw a more natural, textured pompadour. This involved less product and a more relaxed approach, achieving a softer, more approachable aesthetic. [See also: Styling Your Pompadour]
• Side Parts with Volume: The classic side part made a strong comeback, but with a Korean flair. Instead of a flat, lifeless side part, the 2017 versions emphasized volume and texture. This often involved techniques like teasing or layering to create a fuller, more dynamic look. [See also: The Perfect Side Part for Your Face Shape]
• Long, Flowing Hair (with layers): While shorter styles remained popular, longer hairstyles gained traction. However, these were often styled with layers to avoid looking unkempt. Korean influences emphasized maintaining a sense of style and refinement, even with longer hair lengths.
• Fringes and Bangs: Fringes and bangs, whether swept to the side or styled straight across, were a staple in many popular 2017 Korean men’s hairstyles. These often incorporated a slightly tousled or textured finish, contributing to the overall casual yet stylish feel.

The Role of Hair Products

Achieving the popular Korean hairstyles of 2017 often required specific hair products. Pomades, mousses, and texturizing sprays were common choices, used to create volume, texture, and hold without appearing overly stiff or unnatural. The emphasis was on achieving a natural-looking finish, even when using significant amounts of product. Many Korean brands introduced products specifically designed to facilitate the creation of these styles.

Beyond the Hairstyle: The Broader Korean Influence

The impact of Korean men’s hairstyles in 2017 wasn’t isolated. It was part of a larger trend reflecting a broader adoption of Korean beauty standards and grooming practices. This included a focus on skincare, a trend that saw increased popularity among men globally. The emphasis on achieving a clean, healthy, and naturally radiant look influenced not just hairstyles, but overall grooming habits. [See also: Korean Skincare Routine for Men]

The Lasting Impact

The 2017 Korean influence on men’s hairstyles had a lasting impact. Many of the styles and techniques remain popular today, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this aesthetic. The emphasis on texture, volume, and natural-looking finishes continues to be a cornerstone of modern men’s grooming, proving that the styles of 2017 weren’t just a fleeting trend. The Korean influence, therefore, continues to shape the landscape of men’s hairstyles across the globe. The focus on meticulous grooming and natural-looking styles still continues to be a strong influence on many modern hairstyles for men. Many barbers still draw inspiration from the Korean style movement.

Analyzing the Success of Korean Hairstyles in 2017

The success of Korean hairstyles in 2017 can be attributed to several factors: Firstly, the rise of K-pop and Korean dramas introduced these styles to a global audience. Secondly, the styles themselves were versatile and adaptable, appealing to a wide range of men. Thirdly, the focus on natural-looking styling contrasted with some of the more extreme styles prevalent in previous years. Lastly, the emphasis on healthy hair and skin, which is a cornerstone of Korean beauty culture, further enhanced the appeal of the overall look. This holistic approach to grooming proved very effective.

Korean Hairstyles: A Continuing Trend

While 2017 marked a significant moment in the global adoption of Korean men’s hairstyles, the influence remains strong today. Many of the styles and techniques seen in 2017 continue to inspire barbers and stylists, demonstrating their lasting impact on the world of men’s grooming. The emphasis on natural-looking texture, volume, and well-groomed hair remains a significant trend. Therefore, understanding the 2017 Korean hairstyle trend offers valuable insight into the ongoing evolution of men’s fashion and grooming. The trends set in 2017 helped define many modern hairstyles for men.

Conclusion

The 2017 surge in the popularity of Korean hairstyles for men represented more than just a trend; it was a significant moment in the evolution of global men’s grooming. The influence of K-pop, Korean dramas, and a focus on natural-looking styling contributed to the widespread adoption of these looks. Understanding the key hairstyles and the broader cultural context provides valuable insight into the ongoing trends shaping the world of men’s fashion and grooming. Many of the popular 2017 hairstyles for men continue to inspire modern looks.