Crimped hair is having a fashion moment again, and this time around, it feels less like a throwback to the early 2000s and more like a runway-worthy styling choice. Spotted at New York Fashion Week, the zigzag texture is a reminder that hair does not always have to be sleek, polished, or perfectly undone to make an impression.
The new take on crimped hair is all about playing with texture. Think subtle ripples through the lengths, crimped sections mixed with smoother strands, or all-over volume that gives hair an almost sculptural quality. It has the nostalgia of the original trend, but the styling feels more intentional, with a little editorial edge.
The best part? You do not need to commit to a full head of zigzags to try it. A few textured sections can give a ponytail, half-up style, or loose hair an entirely different feel.
The New Way to Wear Crimped Hair
Forget the overly uniform crimps of the past. Today's version is more flexible, whether you want soft, barely-there bends or a more defined texture that becomes the focal point of your look.
For a modern approach, concentrate the crimping around the mid-lengths and ends, leaving the roots relatively smooth. This creates contrast and movement without making the style feel too costume-like. You can also crimp just a few pieces around the face or weave textured sections through a ponytail for a detail that feels unexpected.
If you prefer a more dramatic result, crimping the hair throughout can create impressive volume and dimension. The key is to keep the finish touchable rather than stiff, allowing the texture to move naturally.
Heat Protection Is Nonnegotiable
Before reaching for a crimping iron, prep your hair with a heat protectant. Since the look relies on direct heat to create those defined ridges, a protective product helps limit heat-related damage while keeping strands smooth enough for that high-shine finish.
amika The Wizard Detangling Primer is a useful first step, particularly if your hair tends to tangle or feel rough after heat styling. It detangles, smooths, and provides heat protection, helping create an even base for the crimper without leaving hair feeling heavy.
amika The Wizard Detangling Primer
Apply it evenly through damp hair, then blow-dry completely before using a crimping iron. Working on dry hair helps the tool create a more consistent pattern, while starting with smooth lengths gives you that runway-inspired contrast between sleek hair and defined texture.
The Finishing Touch: Texture Without the Crunch
The difference between a crimped style that feels editorial and one that looks stuck in the past often comes down to the finish. You want the ridges to hold their shape, but the hair should still have movement. Heavy styling products can make the texture look stiff, so a flexible finishing spray is worth keeping close.
Living Proof Style Lab Flex Hairspray is a good option for setting the finished look without sacrificing touchability. Its medium-hold formula can be used during styling or as a final step, helping the crimped sections stay in place while leaving hair brushable rather than rigid.
Living Proof Style Lab Flex Hairspray
Once you have finished crimping, mist lightly over the style rather than saturating it. For a more undone result, gently separate a few sections with your fingers. If you are going for a sleeker runway look, leave the ridges defined and smooth a tiny amount of lightweight shine serum over the straight sections.
A Retro Trend With a Modern Point of View
The appeal of crimped hair is its ability to transform even a simple hairstyle into something more considered. A few zigzag sections can add dimension to a low ponytail, bring a little drama to loose lengths, or give an updo an unexpected detail.
NYFW's take on the trend makes a convincing case for experimenting with texture rather than recreating a look from decades past. Keep it sleek, make the crimps intentional, and let the contrast do the work.
Some of the products featured here may contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are based on personal use, stylist feedback, or product performance.
