The new year offers an opportunity for transformation, and what better way to embody this spirit than with a new hairstyle? To uncover the next big trends in hair, we consulted some of New Zealand’s leading hairdressers for their predictions on the styles, colours, and haircare that will take centre stage this year.

The Hairstyles Making Waves

Newton Cook, Creative and Education Director at Rodney Wayne, identifies the French Bob as a key hairstyle for 2025. This chin-length, textured cut exudes an effortlessly chic vibe. He also highlights the popularity of “Birkin bangs”, inspired by Sabrina Carpenter, which feature straight bangs that frame the face while maintaining a modern edge for a look that’s “vintage yet fresh”. He emphasises the ongoing embrace of natural wavy textures, with celebrities like Zendaya championing their gorgeous natural tresses, styled with minimal heat.

At Salute Hair & Day Spa in Wellington, founder Chinney Yeap is loving the “bixie”, a hybrid of the bob and pixie cut that plays with varying lengths and textures. The two-time New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year also notes the resurgence of structured bobs with subtle layers.

Similarly, multiple award-winning hairdresser and co-founder of D&M Danny Pato spotlights the Micro Bob, hitting cheekbone length, alongside the voluminous Italian Bob, inspired by the elegance of past decades. He, too, anticipates that the curtain fringe, popularised by Carpenter, will gain prominence, along with a renewed focus on the side part, as showcased at the 2025 Golden Globes. “This style is flattering for a variety of face shapes, evoking a 90s vibe embraced by stars like Selena Gomez and Anya Taylor-Joy.” He confidently states that the mullet is on its way out, declaring, “They’ve been done to death!”

The bob continues to reign supreme, with Andrew Cobeldick, the 2024 New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year from Wellington’s Buoy Salon and Spa also putting his vote to it. “Ultra-short bobs with razor-sharp edges and minimal layering are set to become a must-have. This polished, structured cut screams modern sophistication and is perfect for those craving a daring change.” He also predicts a return to sleek, refined updos after years of relaxed styles for 2025. “Whether its a glossy low bun or a high, sculpted ponytail, these styles exude elegance for everything from casual brunches to black-tie galas.”

Anthony Bayer, a Joico Guest Artist and six-time New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year, foresees a fashionable return of the pixie cut, channelling the elegance of Emma Stone at the Golden Globes. Echoing Pato, he also believes that the middle part may take a backseat while the classic side part will regain prominence. “Full, sharp fringes will replace softer, wispy bangs, bringing a bold and structured look into the spotlight,” he says.

The Colour Palette for 2025

When it comes to colour, each stylist provides unique insights into which shades will rule the year.

Bayer predicts that rich chestnut browns will dominate. “They reflect warm, earthy tones reminiscent of the Pantone Colour of the Year [Mocha Mousse]. As autumn approaches, lived-in, dusty copper hues will gain popularity, providing a soft, natural-looking transition for the season.”

Yeap and Cobeldick both echo the influence of Pantone’s Colour of the Year. “We will see a rise of the brunettes! Rich hues and colour plays of delicious mocha tones.” Yeap shares from her experiences at a training programme in Dublin with Moroccan Oil’s 2025 collection, which showcased a fun twist on traditional brunette. “Rich, deep brunette shades are taking center stage. From glossy espresso tones to dark chocolate hues, brunettes are embracing their natural depth with luminous finishes that elevate their look,” adds Cobeldick.

Cook is backing “bronde” this year, blending blonde and brown into warm tones of caramel and honey, reminiscent of Gigi Hadid. He also highlights “Teddy Bear Blondes”, consisting of soft, warm shades with honey and gold undertones.

Meanwhile, Pato is anticipating “Teddy Bear Brunette” to trend this year. The luxurious chocolate brown shade is enhanced with warm highlights, alongside trendy Hollywood Blonde, featuring a mix of violet and soft golden hues for an ethereal look.

Innovative Haircare

As technology evolves, haircare continues to advance.

Bayer emphasises the move towards healthier hair, celebrating natural curls while focusing on scalp health. He also notes a trend toward sleek, mirror-like straight hair for a striking finish.

Cook also highlights the growing emphasis on scalp care, introducing cutting-edge tools like Kérastase K-Scan, designed to assess scalp health. In line with this, he predicts an increase in scalp serums aimed at maintaining moisture balance and promoting hair growth.

Yeap is excited about the prospect of express colours that won’t darken or continue to process over time. “Some powerhouses of colour, such as Moroccanoil, are anticipated to launch these soon, revolutionising the industry. Imagine being able to refresh your roots during a lunch break without dedicating hours at the salon!”

Pato foresees a shift towards holistic haircare, emphasising nurturing for both hair and scalp to achieve that sought-after healthy glow. Contrary to Bayer’s outlook, he predicts a shift towards soft shine over glassy finishes, nurturing beautiful hair rather than relying solely on cosmetic enhancements.

Cobeldick points to a trend of simplification within haircare routines. “The beauty world is leaning into low-maintenance regimens that embrace natural hair textures while prioritising overall hair health. The result? Fewer products, better outcomes, and more time to shine.”

Main image: @bellahadid