Hairstyles look different in 2023. Here are the 6 new 'rules' to know about.

Viral beauty trends can feel... overwhelming. Because half the time, what's apparently "trending" can seem completely inaccessible in the real world. It's true! Especially when it comes to hair.

But that's where the experts come in. Because if you're keen for a new 'do to celebrate the new year (fresh starts, etc.), but don't know where to look, there are a few specific styles that will help you shake it up, while still feeling like you.

Watch: Here are 5 ways to level up your hair game. Story continues below.

So, let's get into it, shall we?

Along with getting back on board with side parts and taking a leap with short hair, there are seven new rules for hair in 2023. And we think you're going to like them.

Rule #1: Side parts are back.

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A post shared by Hailey Rhode Baldwin Bieber (@haileybieber)

As it turns out, the side part is far from dead. Take that, Gen Z! In fact, it's very much alive and kicking and is about to blow up all over again.

There. We said it. 

Thanks to celebrities like Zendaya, Hailey Bieber, Kim Kardashian and Gemma Chan, this year we're pivoting back to side parts. Whether worn up and sleek or out and voluminous - expect to see more of this classic style than ever before.

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A post shared by Gemma Chan (@gemmachan)

According to top hairstylist Jaye Edwards, founder of Edwards and Co, "Clients are definitely looking for a new trend as we step into 2023. Adding a face frame or a side fringe is a quick and easy way to change the overall shape of any haircut."

"I don’t think this look is going to replace the middle part just yet, rather it offers an alternative for a special occasion or night out."

Either way, we're happy to see it back in rotation.

Rule #2: Short hair over long hair.

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A post shared by Jenna Ortega (@jennaortega)

Chop it off! Chop it off! Chop it off!

If you've been wanting to ditch the length for a while now, there really couldn't be a better time to take the leap. But instead of your standard bob or lob, things are getting ~choppy~ and shaggy.

This year we're seeing more and more celebs jump on the choppy bob trend - just take a look at Jenna Ortega, Ana de Armas and Emma Watson.

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A post shared by Zendaya (@zendaya)

And if Pinterest's 2023 predictions are anything to go by, this year millennials and Gen Z will "opt for short braids and chopped fringes", with searches for haircuts such as the 'chopped bob haircut' gathering steam.

So, take a note out of Jenna Ortega's book/Instagram - or Hailey Bieber's new do - and opt for a choppy crop.

Image: Instagram @haileybieber.

Rule #3: Long curtain fringes are here to stay.

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A post shared by Lily Collins (@lilyjcollins)

Yup! These guys aren't going anywhere anytime soon.

The beloved curtain fringe (or curtain bangs, as Americans refer to them), have been trending for a while now - and for good reason - they're perfect if you're keen to dabble in the fringe arena, but don't want to go all in at once.

"Effortless, shaggy layers that frame your face perfectly are here to stay," said Edwards. "They’re both the perfect gateway to full bangs and a killer standalone look."

"These soft, feathered bangs create the perfect lived-in, casual vibe, but be warned, they require the same maintenance as any fringe would, including daily styling and regular trims."

Top tip: Edwards recommends investing in a round brush and a great dry texture spray to keep your fringe in check.

Rule #4: Frame your face with layers.

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A post shared by Chris Appleton (@chrisappleton1)

Classic layers, please take a seat. 

Hear us out with this one. Starting out as a viral TikTok trend last year, the 'butterfly cut' has worked its way into the mainstream beauty world, and is considered by many as the style that shaped 2022. 

If you haven't heard of the 'butterfly cut' before, it's basically a look that blends shorter layers into longer layers for a cool, effortless, '70s-vibe.

The fact that it's wearable, looks good on all different hair textures and can easily be done at home (just don't tell your hairstylist!), makes it a no-brainer.

Just have a peek at Mamamia's social producer Laura Koefoed trying the style for herself.

@lauraelizabethk Post-gym DIY hair cut vibes. Next step, get that re-growth sorted. I’ll show you the full hair all done up in another vid I was too lazy to do my hair properly today x #butterflyhaircut #diyhaircut #bradmondo #haircut #foryou #fyp #foryou ♬ Monkeys Spinning Monkeys - Kevin MacLeod & Kevin The Monkey

It's the ideal option if you're looking for a change, but don't want to go dramatically shorter.

Rule #5: Blonde is making a comeback.

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A post shared by EdwardsAndCo Hair Salons (@_edwardsandco)

'90s blonde is back. Whether you want to thank our current obsession with everything Y2k, Kim K or shows like Pam & Tommy, on the hair colour front, blonde hues couldn't be more popular. 

"An Instagram and TikTok favourite, the '90s blonde is back in a big way," said Edwards. 

"[This is] a bold, golden blonde that’s very buttery, think Pam Anderson in Baywatch," he said. "To keep it free from any yellow or ash tones, this look is going to require regular glosses and some quality products for at-home maintenance."

Rule #6: Level up the volume.

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A post shared by Chris Appleton (@chrisappleton1)

Speaking of '90s beauty trends, Edwards also predicts the return of the voluminous '90s blowout seen on Kim Kardashian above (ahem... can you spot the deep side part, too?).

"Bouncy, polished ’90s blowout vibes are having a moment once again. It's the glamour alternative to textured beach waves that have dominated Instagram for the past few years," said Edwards.

"Defined by sky-high volume at the root and an unapologetic 'done' vibe, this flicky look is the '90s supermodel mood we all need more of in our lives." 

One way to nab that volume? Hot rollers. Yep! Old-school hot rollers are also making a comeback on the styling front - so, go forth!

Rule #7: Need volume? Opt for one length.

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A post shared by Chris Appleton (@chrisappleton1)

While layers and curtain fringes are never going to go out of style, if you have long hair and these options aren't really for you, we have some good news. Because one-length hair is back in and trending again.

In case you're not across it, one-length hair is hair that is the same length around the whole perimeter.

While this style can have the tendency to weigh down certain hair types, specifically thicker hair, if you're someone with fine, thin hair - it may be a winner for you. Not only will it add volume, but it can also be healthier for your hair.

The best part? A one-length style makes it way easier to throw your hair up in a bun or ponytail - there's no farting around with clips and bobby pins, which is always a win.

Would you try any of the above hairstyles? Which is your favourite? Share with us in the comment section below.

Feature image: Instagram; @jlo; @haileybieber @jennaortega.

This article was published on January 11, 2023 and has since been updated with new information.

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