Celebrity Stylist Predicts End of 'Perfect Hair' Era, Embracing Natural Texture

The long-held ideal of smooth, glossy, and perfectly styled hair may be giving way to a more natural and undone aesthetic, according to celebrity hairstylist Clayton Hawkins.

Hawkins, known for his work with high-profile clients including Kylie Jenner and Olivia Rodrigo, stated that hair trends are shifting toward embracing natural texture, frizz, and even a bit of "fuzz." This move represents a departure from the ultra-polished looks that have dominated recent years.

Speaking on the podcast "Well with Arielle Lorre," Hawkins described the emerging style as more "earthy, wild, unkempt," contrasting it with the "very structured," "clean," and "sleek" styles of the past. He anticipates seeing hair that is "fantasy-ish," "feathery," and "fuzzy," drawing inspiration from voluminous, textured styles like those worn by Zendaya.

This shift could offer relief for those who find the pursuit of a perfect blowout time-consuming. The changing trends suggest an embrace of natural texture rather than extensive heat styling.

While Hawkins acknowledges that classic blowouts and sleek updos remain timeless for formal occasions, he advocates for a more relaxed approach to everyday hair. "Do what feels good to you. Have fun. Be inspired," he advised, emphasizing personal style over strict adherence to trends.

Unexpectedly, Hawkins noted that embracing natural texture does not necessarily mean foregoing hair extensions. He argued that the right extensions, matched to a client's natural hair texture, can actually make styling more manageable. Modern extensions are available in various textures, including waves and curls, allowing for a more seamless blend with natural hair. Hawkins even mentioned mixing different textures on the same client to achieve a more authentic, low-maintenance look that can be air-dried. This development offers an alternative to fighting natural hair characteristics with heat and product.

Hawkins suggested that being able to look back at old photos and identify the era by the hairstyle indicates a person has been "living in the moment."