If fashion is a language, Gen Z is writing poetry — and their hair? That’s the headline.
Born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z is the generation of fearless self-expression. They aren’t just following trends — they’re creating them in real time. From TikTok to Tumblr, street style to salon chairs, Gen Z hair is colorful, chaotic (in the best way), and completely unconcerned with old beauty rules.
So, what exactly is Gen Z hair? Let’s break it down. ✨
🎨 Color: More Than Just Dye — It’s Identity
Gone are the days when vibrant hair colors were reserved for punks and pop stars. Gen Z has mainstreamed pastel pinks, neon greens, and cool blues. Whether it’s a full head of lavender or peekaboo rainbow streaks, color is a canvas for self-expression.
Popular shades:
- E-girl pink
- Icy silver
- Split-dye (half one color, half another — think Cruella vibes)
- “Oil slick” hair for brunettes — a rainbow shimmer effect
Pro tip: Gen Z loves semi-permanent dyes that fade quickly — because their vibe might change next week.
✂️ Cuts: Gender-Free & Full of Edge
Gen Z doesn’t cut their hair based on gender norms — they cut based on aesthetic. Expect to see everything from buzz cuts to mullets to shaggy wolf cuts on all genders.
Trending cuts:
- The Wolf Cut: A wild mix of a mullet and shag — think Billie Eilish or Miley Cyrus vibes.
- Octopus Cut: Layers on layers, with tentacle-like ends that move with you.
- Modern Mullet: Business in the front, party in the back — but with a sleek, edgy twist.
- Bixie: A mix between a bob and a pixie — short, but soft.
Gen Z isn’t afraid of scissors. In fact, many of them are cutting their own hair at home — sometimes live on TikTok.
🧷 Accessories & Styling: Nostalgic but New
Gen Z draws from the Y2K era, but reinvents it for a digital world. Think butterfly clips, claw clips, bandanas, and mini braids — but with a Gen Z spin. Accessories aren’t just cute — they’re a whole vibe.
Iconic looks:
- Baby braids (tiny front braids with curtain bangs)
- Space buns with glitter roots
- Claw clip updos paired with streetwear
- “Wet look” gel styles with swoopy edges (hello, ‘90s R&B)
💻 Influence: Where Trends Are Born
Unlike past generations, Gen Z hair trends aren’t born in salons — they’re born online.
Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Pinterest are the true incubators of new looks. One viral video, and suddenly half the internet is trying curtain bangs or the “clean girl slick bun.”
And it’s not just influencers — regular people with cool hair are the trendsetters now. That’s the Gen Z magic: anyone can go viral, anyone can inspire.
🌈 Final Thoughts: Hair as Identity
More than ever, hair is personal, political, and powerful. For Gen Z, it’s a declaration of who they are today — not who society says they should be.
They’re not scared to bleach it, buzz it, braid it, or bedazzle it — because their hair, like their identities, are beautifully fluid.
So if you’re looking for inspiration, just scroll your feed. Or better yet? Hand Gen Z the scissors — they’ve got the vision.
✨ Are you ready to start your cosmetology journey? Let’s do this! ✨
If you’re looking for a career that blends creativity, flexibility, and personal fulfillment, cosmetology is an excellent choice. With the right training, passion, and dedication, you can build a successful and rewarding career in the beauty industry. Are you ready to take the next step toward a beautiful future? Join Summit Salon Academy of Portland, the leading cosmetology school in Oregon, offers comprehensive education in various beauty disciplines, including esthetics. If you’re ready to turn your passion into a profession, click here to learn more about our programs and how to enroll
