8 Hairstyles That Feel Current but Classic

The Modern Shag

Gone are the days of the overly teased, rock-and-roll shag of the 70s. The modern shag is a masterclass in artful texture and lived-in ease. This cut is all about personalized layers, curtain bangs, and a shape that enhances your hair’s natural movement, whether it’s pin-straight or wildly curly. The key difference today is a softer approach—less uniform, more bespoke.

Why it’s a classic: The shag’s foundation is in liberation and movement, a staple of iconic eras. Why it feels current: It’s perfectly aligned with the “less is more” and “effortless cool” aesthetics. It works with your natural texture, requires minimal styling, and grows out beautifully. Ask your stylist for internal layers and feathered ends to remove weight without sacrificing length.

The Blunt Bob

Precision meets power in the blunt bob. This is perhaps the purest form of a classic haircut, tracing its roots to the rebellious flappers of the 1920s. A single, clean line that falls anywhere from the chin to the shoulders commands attention through its simplicity and sharpness. It’s a definitive statement that never whispers.

Today’s iteration often plays with slight asymmetry—a bit longer in the front, or a deeply parted side—to add a contemporary edge. It can be worn sleek and glassy, or with a subtle bend at the ends for a more relaxed vibe. The beauty of the blunt bob is in its architectural shape; it looks expensive and editorial, yet is surprisingly versatile.

The Curtain Bang

Not quite a full fringe, the curtain bang is the accessory your hairstyle has been waiting for. This face-framing piece harks back to 60s and 70s icons but has been perfected for the modern age. Parted down the middle and grazing the cheekbones, these bangs blend seamlessly into the rest of your hair, offering softness and a flirtatious frame for your features.

Their enduring appeal lies in their incredible versatility and low commitment. They work with long hair, short bobs, and everything in between. They can be styled with a round brush for a retro bend or left to air-dry for a piece-y, French-girl effect. They are the ultimate gateway bang—dramatic enough to change your look, but classic enough to never feel like a mistake.

The Textured Lob (Long Bob)

The lob, or long bob, has earned its permanent place in the hair hall of fame for good reason. Sitting just above the collarbone, it’s the ideal compromise between short and long hair. The classic version was often sleek, but the textured lob is what keeps it feeling utterly now. This is achieved through subtle layering, choppy ends, and a focus on creating body and wave.

It’s the go-to cut for those seeking a change that’s still manageable and feminine. You can wear it straight and sophisticated, or embrace a beachy wave for everyday cool. The textured lob is forgiving, flattering on most face shapes, and looks incredible with everything from a silk scarf to statement earrings.

The Slicked-Back Bun

From ballet studios to red carpets, the slicked-back bun is the epitome of timeless chic. It’s a look that speaks of confidence, control, and elegance. While the classic ballerina bun is tight and neat, the contemporary version has a bit more attitude. Think: a perfectly smooth ponytail base twisted into a low, taut bun at the nape of the neck, with not a flyaway in sight.

What makes it feel current is its association with clean-girl aesthetics and high-fashion minimalism. It’s a powerful style that puts the focus squarely on your facial features and accessories. The key is in the preparation—using a strong-hold gel or pomade and a fine-tooth comb to achieve that impeccable, glossy finish.

The Modern Afro

A celebration of natural texture and cultural pride, the Afro is a profoundly classic style with deep roots. Its modern resurgence is all about health, shape, and personal expression. Today’s Afro is not just a style but a statement of embracing one’s natural coils and kinks in their full, glorious volume.

Stylists now focus on sculptural shapes—rounded, squared, or tapered—and incredible shine achieved through dedicated moisturizing routines. It can be worn proudly as a full halo, or accessorized with headbands, scarves, or cute clips. The modern Afro is a testament to the beauty of authenticity, making it eternally classic and powerfully current.

The Braided Crown

Braids have been woven through hair history for millennia, and the braided crown (or crown braid) is their most romantic iteration. This ethereal style evokes images of Renaissance maidens and Bohemian festivals. Its classic nature is undeniable. The modern take is less rigid and more relaxed—think of it as a lived-in halo.

Instead of a tight, perfect braid circling the head, the current style might feature two looser Dutch braids starting at the temples and pinned loosely at the back, with tendrils purposefully left out. It’s a beautiful way to keep hair off the face while adding a touch of whimsical, fairy-tale elegance to both casual and formal looks.

The Polished Pixie

The pixie cut has been a symbol of bold femininity since its cinematic debut in the mid-20th century. The classic pixie was short, gamine, and required confidence. The polished pixie of today retains that spirit but offers more versatility. It often features longer, textured tops that can be swept to the side, piece-y bangs, or undercut details.

This cut feels incredibly current because it’s a canvas for personalization. It can be spiked with product for an edgy look, smoothed for sophistication, or tousled for a day at the beach. It’s a liberating cut that highlights bone structure and expresses a fearless, modern attitude, proving that short hair is anything but limiting.

Finding Your Timeless Signature

The true magic of these eight hairstyles lies in their adaptability. They are not rigid templates but inspirational foundations. The best hairstyle for you is the one that makes you feel most like yourself—a version that feels both authentic and aspirational. When consulting with your stylist, bring photos, but also discuss your lifestyle, your hair’s natural texture, and how much time you want to spend styling.

Remember, a classic cut with a modern twist is often more about how you wear it than the exact cut itself. It’s the confidence with which you toss your textured lob, the nonchalance of your curtain bangs, the power of your slicked-back bun. Invest in a good cut and simple, quality products to maintain your style’s health and shape.

In a world of constant change, anchoring your look in a style that has proven its worth across decades is the ultimate act of stylish wisdom. These eight hairstyles offer that perfect balance—a nod to the past with a firm, and fabulous, footing in the present.