Fashion 263 Correspondent
From boyfriend bobs to sculptural Afros, this season is all about playful proportions and textured shape.
Boyfriend Bob: We’re happy to report that the bob is not going anywhere, so if you’re overdue for the big chop, this the perfect time to reconsider. We’ve seen everything from the French bob to the bixie — now, cue the boyfriend bob. A relaxed, slightly masculine cut that falls between the jawline and shoulders, it has a blunt, square shape with a low-maintenance, textured feel, just like slipping into a boyfriend’s hoodie or baggy jeans.
Oversized Clips: As maximalist beauty makes an ever bigger comeback on the runways, hair accessories become ever more artistic. From clips and scarves woven into braids to lace bandanas and headbands, accessories have become the main event, not just the after-party. As seen at Ermanno Scervino or on Nambitha, the key is to go ridiculously big: think oversized, exaggerated shapes or bold fabrications.
Halo Braids: We have The Odyssey, Zendaya, and the rise of goddess-inspired beauty to thank for the resurgence of this soft, romantic staple — the halo or crown braid. A popular style in the late 2000s, it can be worn as an updo or paired with tousled, lived-in waves, with two frontal braids wrapping around the crown of the head like a headband.
Sculptural Afros: The runways have been a masterclass in sculptural hair and updos; however, actress Lupita Nyong’o has given us the perfect interpretation of natural, Afro-textured hair. Nyong’o opted for shorter Afro lengths that looked regal and powerful when styled in sculptural twists, soft hi-top fades, and beehive bouffants that added romance and architecture.
Five ways to Wig check
Under model Connie’s crimped bob wig lies her healthy, natural hair. Here’s how to keep your natural coils happy while undercover.
Don’t neglect your natural hair just because you’re wearing a wig and no one will see it. Wigs can be very drying, so prioritise hydration, conditioning, and regular cleansing to support hair and scalp health.
Protect natural hair by putting it in protective styles such as simple cornrows that are not tight, and wear a wig cap to prevent any pulling when putting on or taking off a wig.
Opt for glue-less wig installations. Wig glues and adhesives can be very damaging to the hairline and forehead skin, so use them sparingly if you can’t avoid them entirely.
Give your natural hair a break and avoid keeping wigs on day and night. Sleeping with wigs on not only prolongs the contact time of wig glue on the skin or hairline, but also keeps your hair from getting the moisture and care it needs to stay healthy.
Wash your wigs regularly. Wearing a dirty wig does your natural hair no favours, as you may transfer old product, dust, or bacteria from sweat onto your hair. Wash your wigs regularly at home or take them to a salon for a professional wash.
