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15 Winter Haircuts That Look Amazing—Even When It's Freezing Out

 

‘Tis the season…for good hair.

No matter your hair type or texture, there's no denying that your strands behave differently based on the season. Along with changing up your product protocol, it's not a bad idea to consider switching up your haircut too. Ahead, top stylists share some of the best winter hairstyles. Consider these a foolproof way to ensure good hair days all season long.

‘70s Shag

If you’re trying to cut back on heat-styling this season, opt for a haircut that does the work for you. This Farrah Fawcett-inspired hairstyle marries the popular wispy bangs and shaggy layers for a look that naturally enhances texture and fullness. For extra oomph, use a texture spray throughout for added volume and hair oil on the mid-lengths to ends for softness and shine.

Claw Clip Updo

The '90s are back, bringing with it claw clips in all its glory. Having a quick and easy hairstyle that can be pulled together in less than 5 minutes during the holiday season is non-negotiable. No matter your hair type or texture, this simple yet chic claw clip style is perfect for any occasion and can be dressed up or down. To style, gather your hair and twirl upward into a faux french twist. Secure the claw clip, leaving the ends out and any desired face-framing pieces.

Ghost Layers

While not ideal in the world of dating, getting ghosted is something you'll want to get from your stylist. The special haircut was developed by Ramòn Garcia, a hairstylist from Beverly Hills, and involves chopping off excess length in the layers underneath without cutting too much from the total length of the hair. According to RUSK Global Creative Director Matt Swinney, it adds multifaceted movement and dimension while still maintaining the illusion of long hair.

Liquid Hair

As temps get cooler, people are trading in their textured curls for a silky new look. Unlike the wet hair trend, liquid hair doesn't actually appear wet. Rather, think ultra-shiny, reflective hair that's full and soft to the touch. Its super-sleek appearance makes it reflect the light like water does (hence the name). The final result rests between stick-straight, flat-ironed strands and a voluminous, salon-quality blowout.

Box Braids

Three-strand braids woven into your hair is a great protective style for women with natural hair, plus it looks great with longer lengths. While box braids can be done in a hair salon, it's also possible to be done from home. Use a light cream-based moisturizer to offer more lubrication and moisture when braiding, and be conscious of how tight you are braiding your hair as tight braids can cause breakage. You can also snag some synthetic braiding hair options—Latched and Hooked has some great options—for a seamless transition.

French Girl Bob

Already rocking a bob and want to change it up? Consider going even shorter with this trendy new take on the classic cut, suggests Gia Wendt, a stylist at SPACE by Alex Brown in Chicago. Surprisingly low maintenance, it too can be styled a number of ways, and works well with bangs, as seen here, or without. Plus, it looks super chic skimming a turtleneck or peeking out from under a wool beret, says Wendt.

Textured Curls

Embrace your natural curls for not only an on-trend winter hairstyle, but also one that will be less damaging. Dry indoor heat coupled with the cold, dry weather outside can take a toll on your hair, zapping it of moisture and shine. The less you can shampoo and heat-style, the better, which is why this look is so good; it doesn't require daily shampooing and blow-drying, points out Rivera. Just refresh your curls in between washes with a hydrating, curl-reviving product. The other upshot? "This is also a great look if you'll be wearing a hat, scarf, or earmuffs, since you don't have to worry about them messing up your style," she says.

Curtain Bangs

If you've been pondering fringe for a while, now's the time to make the cut. "Bangs are a great winter addition. With the lack of humidity, it's easier to keep them smooth and flat, and you don't have to worry about them getting greasy from a sweaty forehead," says Dani Hauflaire, stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. Curtain bangs—a choppy bang that softly splits in the center—allow for a good amount of styling versatility, and are nice way to help frame your eyes when you're wearing a mask, adds Wendt. The other nice option? If you don't love them, they'll naturally grow out into soft, face-framing layers that you'll be able to pull back, adds Hauflaire.

Classic Bob

While a bob is a great option year-round, it's especially choice come winter. There's no need to worry about your ends getting caught on the collar of your coat or wrapped up in a scarf, not to mention that a bob is quick and easy to style anytime, anywhere, says Gina Rivera, hairstylist and owner of Phenix Salons and By Gina. While there's no shortage of ways to wear a bob (versatility for the win), this cut is best for those with fine to medium hair. With thicker hair, your risk ending up with an unflattering, triangular or helmet-like shape, notes Austin-based stylist Michelle Pasterski. The other important part? "Don't wimp out on the length," says Pasterski. "A 'lob' doesn't have all of these same benefits." A classic bob should hit about mid-neck.

Clavicut

One of the best winter hairstyles for those who prefer to sport longer length is the clavicut. "Dry winter air can leave old dry ends extra staticky and nasty, so consider taking off at least a few inches so your hair ends right below the collarbone," Pasterski says. "Plus, you'll have less hair to blow-dry, which is always nice given that you probably don't want to run out of the house with wet hair in the middle of winter." This length is also ultra-versatile; it's pretty worn down, either straight or with texture, but also long enough to pull up. Top tip: If you're sporting a winter hat, run a little bit of a styling cream or oil through the visible lengths to add polish and smooth out errant hairs, says Pasterski.

Pixie

Pixies are a good pick for those with fine hair, as they can create the illusion of texture and thickness, Rivera says. The caveat: There are all kinds of nuanced difference among pixie cuts, so "make sure to bring photos of ones you like and don't like," she advises. Stock up on some cute accessories, think fun clips or bobby pins too, as they're a great way to tamp down unruly winter hair and add a festive touch.

Lots of Length

If you've been growing out your hair and want to keep doing so, but are craving a little refresh or subtle change, ask for lots of face-framing layers and movement, suggests Wendt. Hauflaire agrees, pointing out that a cut like this works well for the season because it's all about the length, rather than creating volume at the root that will just get crushed under a winter hat. That being said, "the key to any long style is hydration, especially during the winter," she notes. (It's the secret to warding off errant frizzies and static), so make sure to load up on moisturizing stylers.

Shag

The shag remains a popular winter hairstyle season after season. "Adding shorter layers helps eliminate some of the dry ends that come with winter, while still maintaining length," explains Hauflaire, who adds that this is another good haircut that works well with or without bangs. As an added benefit, it's also a great low-maintenance option, a nice plus if you're trying to minimize salon visits these days. You'll be able to get through the whole winter without having to come in for a trim, says Wendt.

Old Money Bob

The old money bob is a fresh and trending take on a traditional bob that features a lot of movement and texture—so it'll still look great after a chilly wind (or a hat) musses it up.

Heavy Bangs

You can thank stars like Taylor Swift and Julia Roberts for ensuring a thick fringe hairstyle is perfectly in vogue. While thick bangs can easily look sweaty and be uncomfortable in hot weather, when the weather is chillier, they're a cozy look—especially when paired with a cozy beanie.