As 2017 unfolded, hair trends leaned toward lived-in texture and versatile shapes that moved easily with busy lifestyles. The year celebrated precision cuts paired with soft, undone finishes, giving structured styles a fresh, modern edge.
From runways to city streets, 2017 hairstyles balanced tailored lines with relaxed, natural movement. These looks emphasized clean sections, subtle asymmetry, and refined details that translated well from office to evening.
| Key Trend | Description | Best For | Styling Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleek Low Bun | Polished, low-lying bun with smooth lines at the nape. | Professional settings, formal events | Refined and architectural |
| Textured Crop | Short layers with piece-y definition and soft fringe. | Everyday wear, face-framing styles | Casual and modern |
| Center-Parted Straight Hair | Long, straight locks with a precise center part. | Workwear, classic elegance | Polished and balanced |
| Soft Waves | Loose, natural-looking waves through mid-length to long hair. | Weekend looks, transitional styles | Effortless and romantic |
Tailored Precision Cuts
Tailored precision cuts defined 2017, with sharp lines and clean angles creating a polished appearance. Stylists focused on strong silhouettes that still felt lightweight and modern.
These cuts worked well across hair lengths and textures, especially when styled with subtle graduation and internal layering. The result was a shape that held its form without appearing heavy or static.
Textured Movement and Natural Layers
Adding Dimension with Internal Layers
Internal layers removed bulk while preserving overall shape, allowing hair to move naturally. This technique enhanced body and bounce, especially in mid-length styles and shoulder-length cuts.
Face-Framing Pieces
Soft face-framing layers around the cheekbones and jaw softened features and added movement. These pieces were cut slightly longer to maintain a gentle, modern profile.
Sleek and Refinished Looks
Sleek styles benefited from refined blowouts and smooth blow-drying techniques that minimized frizz. Pin-straight finishes were popular, especially when paired with low buns or tight ponytails for formal occasions.
Gloss treatments and smoothing serums helped maintain the polished look throughout long workdays. For textured styles, a bit of undone separation preserved edge while keeping the overall line neat.
Effortless Waves and Beachy Texture
Creating Loose, Natural Waves
Loose waves created with curling wands or flat irons added movement without appearing overly styled. The key was to alternate curl direction and avoid uniform ringlets.
Beach-Inspired Texture
Texturizing pastes and sea-salt sprays delivered that lived-in beach look while maintaining healthy shine. This approach worked especially well on longer styles that needed extra volume at the roots.
Key Takeaways for 2017 Hairstyles
- Prioritize precision cuts with clean lines and subtle graduation.
- Incorporate internal layers to remove bulk and boost natural movement.
- Balance sleek finishes with relaxed, piece-y texture for versatility.
- Use firm-hold products sparingly to maintain style without stiffness.
- Schedule regular trims to preserve shape and manage growth effectively.
FAQ
Reader questions
Are blunt bangs still suitable for professional workplaces in 2017?
Yes, blunt bangs were acceptable in many professional environments in 2017 when styled neatly and kept out of the eyes. Pairing them with a sleek low bun or a precise side part preserved a polished, office-ready appearance.
How can I maintain sleek straight hair in humid conditions?
Use a smoothing anti-humidity serum before blow-drying and finish with a lightweight hairspray. Avoid touching the hair frequently, and consider a subtle backcomb at the roots to extend the sleek hold through long days.
Do textured crops require frequent trims to stay stylish?
Yes, regular trims every four to six weeks help preserve the shape and prevent overgrowth that can soften the cut. Request internal layering during each visit to maintain movement and reduce bulk.
What is the easiest way to transition long hair into a short textured crop?
Start with a consultation to plan a gradual reduction in length while keeping some weight at the nape. Stylists typically recommend building layers incrementally to control thickness and maintain overall balance.