There’s a noticeable shift happening with hair trends this year. After years dominated by sleek finishes, deliberately polished styling and ultra definition, we’re swinging back towards softness. Rather than hair that feels obviously styled, summer in particular has seen a wave of laidback styles that feel less controlled and more instinctive, with movement, texture and an inherent sense of ease taking precedence over precision.
The shift is evident in the haircuts that people are asking for in salons right now too. Forget blunt bobs and coiffed pixie cuts; it’s styles with fluidity—think waterfall layers, lazy bobs and pared-back shags—that are proving popular. And it’s this shift that has put brushed-out curls firmly on the agenda.
Rather than perfectly sculpted curls or immaculate mermaid waves, brushed-out curls have an airy, almost cloud-like texture that manages to feel both relaxed and effortlessly elegant. “I’d describe this look as soft, brushed-out glamour with a modern feel,” explains STIL Salon Style Director, Neale Rodger. “The curls are there, but they’re not the main event—it’s more about the movement, volume and silhouette they create once they’re brushed out. I would say there’s definitely a nod to old Hollywood hair, but it also feels very current.”
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Rodger points to Olivia Dean’s voluminous, bouncy curls that she wore recently on her The Art of Loving tour as the epitome of this trend. “Dean wears brushed-out curls beautifully because it never looks too polished or overly done,” he says. “It sits somewhere between natural texture and glamour, which is exactly where a lot of hair trends are heading right now.”
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Part of the appeal of brushed-out curls is certainly their versatility. The softly diffused finish works just as well with a T-shirt and jeans as it would a wedding guest dress, making it a versatile option for everyday styling and a special occasion ‘do. But does the trend work for every hair type? Rodger certainly thinks so, but you need to tailor how you approach the styling depending on whether you have textured or naturally straight hair.
“For textured hair, I’d focus on enhancing what’s already there rather than fighting against it,” Rodger explains. “Using a diffuser, some curl-defining products and gently brushing out once the hair has completely cooled can create a really beautiful version of the look, while still maintaining the hair’s natural character.”
“However, for naturally straight hair, you will need to build the shape first,” Rodger says. “I’d use a large barrel tong or rollers to create soft curls throughout the hair and then leave them to cool completely before brushing through.”
The biggest mistake that people make when attempting the brushed-out curl trend, according to Rodger? “Stopping when the curls look perfect. Don’t be afraid to brush the curls out,” he says. “Most people spend ages creating curls only to leave them exactly as they are. The magic actually happens once you brush them out and let everything blend together into one soft shape, giving that effortless, expensive-looking finish that everyone’s obsessed with right now.”
The Best Products for Brushed-Out Curls
Aveda
Phomollient Styling Foam
“Product-wise, I love anything that encourages movement rather than stiffness,” says Rodger. “A lightweight mousse before styling can help create hold.”
GHD
Chronos Curve Max Wand
While Rodger doesn’t think that the specific tools you use matter too much, he does recommend a large barrel tong—and this 38mm one from GHD is perfect for getting those large, oversized curls.
Once you’ve created those curls it’s time to brush them out. “Use a wide tooth comb and brush through the mid-lengths and ends to shape a flawless, brushed-out curl,” says Ryan Wilkes, Hairstylist at Hershesons Belgravia
Hershesons
Almost Everything Cream the Best Styling Cream
“Using the right products and tools is essential for achieving brushed-out curls,” says Wilkes. “Apply a smoothing heat protection spray and Hershesons Almost Everything Cream to finish.” This multitasker adds shine and smooths flyaways while enhancing natural texture too.
A look that’s all about the texture means a texture spray is inevitable. Finish the look with a spritz of this lightweight one. “A texture spray or soft finishing spray afterwards keeps everything airy and touchable,” explains Rodger.