The past two years have been unpredictable, stressful and turbulent, to say the least. But it’s time to move on and go forth with an open mind. Surely, there’s no better way to embrace a new you than with a new hairstyle? Here, we spot the biggest hair trends from Korea, and shell out the tips you need to rock them.
Often seen underneath the surface and around the face, peekaboo highlights add an interesting surprise to any hair cut or colour. While there is no right or wrong way to wear the two-toned look, the “hidden” second colour is more apparent when the hair is pulled up or sectioned in a certain way. The best part? It is also easy to maintain if you opt for a darker colour (on the top) as you won’t even need to bleach that part.
A cherry red is for anyone who wants to make a statement. When it comes to maintaining the colour, book in with your salon every two to three months. When you’re in between appointments, maintain your colour by topping up with red hair masks and shampoos. Also, prevent the fading process by swapping out your regular shampoo and conditioner with sulphate-free colour protecting ones.
This rich and warm hue is a great, natural hair colour that will work for those in conservative offices. It’s also flattering on all skin tones and will work with most hairstyles.
Related article: The Coolest Hair Trends For Fall 2019
Keep your locks flowing this year. Yes, we know, Singapore gets too hot and uncomfortable for long hair but keep in mind that this hairstyle gives you the opportunity to try out different looks whenever you’re in the mood for something different. Let your hair down (literally), tie it in bunches or pigtails, or experiment with unique tied/untied/half-tied looks. The opportunities are (almost) endless.
When it comes to red hair, it can definitely turn heads. But you don’t have to go full Singapore-flag red to get the best effect – try out a copper tone, which gives your hair an alluring reddish look which is still muted enough for anyone who doesn’t want to be too adventurous. It’s also a gorgeous colour.
Love drinking red wine? Why not turn your hair into that colour too? But seriously, wine could also be your starter colour to red hair. It’s subtle as it’s not bright but it’s also a unique look. Be careful not to veer too much onto the purple edge of this colour, but instead try to keep that reddish tone.
It might sound like a drastic cut – especially if you’ve never had your hair this short before – but it’s a chic look that’s quick and easy to wash and style. This style especially suits women with small faces and long necks but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go for it if you don’t fit this criteria.
There are also several options with this style – very layered at the top, textured bangs etc. It’s also a great style for hot weather so let your neck breathe and feel the wind instead of being home to your often-sweaty hair.
Related article: TikTok #BackToOffice Hacks: 9 Quick Hairstyles
Whether it’s a Korean perm or not, soft perms are in for 2023. Some advantages are that it gives your hair more volume plus it can frame your face well too. Find out from your hairdresser the best way to look after your permed hair so that you make it last longer and don’t cause unnecessary damage to your hair.
If you don’t feel brave enough to change your hair colour, start by getting some streaks in 2023. And the best part is – you can personalise your look! Pick a colour you like then choose how bold you want your streaks to be. Do you just want two or three subtle streaks to spice up your look? Why not. Or you prefer to get streaks all around your head? Go for it!
With spring coming up soon, why not get into the mood for cherry blossoms by giving your hair an ash pink tinge? Or just have it all year round, we won’t judge.
It’s a subtle colour that stands out and it won’t change your overall look too much. And it’s a colour that matches lighter Asian skin tones. It also might just be the closest we’ll get to cherry blossoms in Singapore.
Related article: 24 Korean Hair Trends That Will Be Everywhere In 2022
A few soft bends with a curling wand or flat iron coupled with a relaxed attitude are all you need to pull off this dreamy look seen on singer IU. Prefer heat-free styling? Apply a dime-sized amount of curl mousse to damp locks and scrunch.
Want to spice up your one-length long haircut? We have just the right thing for you: face-framing layers. Seen on Red Velvet’s Joy, this hairstyle involves cutting your hair in varying lengths to define and frame your features. If you want to create the illusion of a slimmer and sharper visage, ask for long, face-framing layers that start just below the chin.
If you’re looking for a haircut that will make a statement, Goblin actress Kim Go-Eun’s micro bangs is the perfect ‘do for you. Baby bangs are wispy or blunt bangs that are usually a couple of inches above your brows. It’s a great way to make any haircut look more edgy, and open up your face.
This beautiful pastel purple hue spotted on K-pop idol Ji-yeon will require a round or two of bleaching before pastel purple hair dye is applied, so we definitely recommend going to a professional rather than DIYing the colour at home. Pro tip: before you bleach your tresses, prep your hair two weeks in advance by cutting back on heat-styling and applying an oil through your ends as often as possible.
Korean celebs like SNSD’s Taeyeon tend to go for ashy undertones regardless of whether they are going blonde or silver. The cool shades are flattering on Asian skin tones because they cancel out the yellow and red tones. They also help to cancel out redness that Asians tend to have in their dark hair so any dye that is applied can look more lively.
Brunettes can have fun too. Brunette hair might have the reputation of being a basic hair colour, but it’s far from boring. There are different ways to elevate your mane. Sandara Park’s rosy brown mane has become a popular pick. It’s a low-maintenance option that adds depth to brown tresses.
Extensions are a great way to get through that awkward stage of transitioning from short to long hair. As far as possible, try to get extensions that are similar to your natural hair texture.
Related article: The Biggest Hair Trends For Spring 2022
On the other end of the spectrum, we’re seeing Korean celebs such as Oh Yeon-Seo going back to their natural jet black hair to eliminate complex maintenance and regular trips to the salon. Bonus tip: apply leave-in conditioner to moisturise and add incredible shine to your tresses.
This article originally appeared on Her World.