There is one hairstyle dominating social media feeds right now, and it’s all about volume. The blowout hairstyle has made a massive comeback, growing by over 900% in popularity this month. But this isn’t just your standard blow-dry; it’s a cultural reset.
Inspired by the supermodels of the 90s, today’s blowout is bouncy, glossy, and effortlessly chic. It’s the perfect “clean girl” aesthetic with a touch of retro glamour. Whether you have a short bob or long layers, we have rounded up 15 trending blowout styles that will give you that “just left the salon” look at home.
1. The “90s Supermodel” Bounce
This is the look that started it all. Think Cindy Crawford or Naomi Campbell. This style features voluminous, bouncy curls that curve away from the face. It is the ultimate “hair flip” style.
- Why it works: It adds instant glamour to any outfit. The height at the roots and the curved ends create a flattering shape for all face shapes.
- How to style: Use a large round brush to lift the roots and roll the ends under. Finish with a spritz of hairspray for hold.
2. The Medium Length “S” Wave
For those with mid length hair blowout needs, the “S” wave is perfect. It’s less curly and more wavy, creating a smooth “S” shape pattern throughout the hair. It looks polished but relaxed.
- Why it works: It’s easier to maintain than tight curls. It looks professional enough for work but casual enough for the weekend.
- How to style: Use a curling iron with a large barrel. Clip the curl in place until it cools to set the “S” shape.
3. The Bouncy Bob (Short Hair Blowout)
Think you can’t get a blowout with short hair? Think again. A blowout hair short style is trending hard. It involves curling the ends of a bob under to create a rounded, voluminous shape.
- Why it works: It makes a bob look expensive and intentional. It adds width and volume to fine hair.
- How to style: Use a smaller round brush to get a tight curl on the ends. Tuck one side behind the ear for a modern vibe.
4. The “Rachel” Layers
The 90s inspiration is strong, and “The Rachel” cut is back. This layered cut relies entirely on a blowout to look good. The layers are flicked up and out around the face.
- Why it works: It frames the face perfectly. The layers add movement, so your hair never looks flat.
- How to style: Use a medium round brush and direct the front layers away from your face. Use a volumizing mousse before drying.
5. The “Glass Hair” Blowout
This style focuses less on curls and more on shine. The hair is blown out perfectly straight with a slight bend at the ends, creating a mirror-like “glass” finish.
- Why it works: It looks incredibly healthy. This is the peak of the “clean girl” aesthetic.
- How to style: Use a flat boar bristle brush to smooth the cuticle down while drying. Finish with a few drops of hair oil on the ends.
6. The Curly Blowout
For those with natural texture, a curly blowout stretches the hair slightly but keeps the curl pattern intact, just with way more volume and definition.
- Why it works: It extends the life of your wash day. It creates a halo of frizz-free curls.
- How to style: Use a diffuser attachment on your dryer, or use a blow dryer with a comb nozzle attachment to stretch the roots.
7. The Half-Up Bump
Take your blowout to the next level by pulling the top half of your hair back. Tease the crown slightly before pinning it to create a “bump” of volume.
- Why it works: It keeps hair out of your face while showing off the length and volume of the blowout underneath.
- How to style: Smooth the sides back gently to keep the volume at the crown. Leave two face-framing pieces out in the front.
8. Side-Swept Drama
Part your hair deeply to one side and blow dry the majority of your hair over one shoulder. This creates a dramatic, asymmetrical look.
- Why it works: It covers one eye slightly for a mysterious vibe. It looks very editorial.
- How to style: Use a tail comb to create a sharp side part. Blow dry the heavier side forward and then sweep it back.
9. The “Butterfly” Cut
This is a specific cut designed for blowouts. It features short layers on top that blend into long layers at the bottom, resembling butterfly wings when styled.
- Why it works: It gives the illusion of long hair while removing weight and bulk. It is the most requested cut in salons right now.
- How to style: Focus the blow drying on the shorter layers around the crown to get them to lift and blend into the longer lengths.
10. The Flipped Ends
A nod to the 60s and 70s, this style flips the ends of the hair up and outwards rather than curling them under.
- Why it works: It looks retro and fun. It adds a playful element to medium-length hair.
- How to style: Roll your round brush upwards at the ends instead of under. Use a strong hold hairspray to keep the flip in place.
11. Brushed Out Curls
This is the secret to the perfect blowout. Set your hair in velcro rollers or curling irons, but then brush it all out. This creates one uniform, smooth wave rather than separate ringlets.
- Why it works: It creates that “expensive” hair look. The waves look lived-in and soft.
- How to style: Don’t be afraid to brush! Use a paddle brush to smooth the curls together.
12. The Tucked Behind the Ear
This is a styling trick for blowouts. Blow dry the hair with volume, then tuck one or both sides behind the ears. This forces the hair to dry with a “bend” and shows off your face.
- Why it works: It looks effortless. It highlights your jawline and earrings.
- How to style: Tuck the hair while it is still warm from the dryer to set the shape.
13. The Deep Side Part Volume
Changing your part can change everything. Flip your part to the opposite side for instant root lift, then blow dry.
- Why it works: It creates “wow” volume at the roots that you can’t get with your natural part.
- How to style: Flip your hair upside down to dry the roots, then flip it to the side.
14. Loose Beach Waves
A softer version of the blowout. It uses less heat and tension to create a “day at the beach” texture.
- Why it works: It is low maintenance. It looks good even if it gets a little messy.
- How to style: Twist sections of hair around your finger while blow drying, or use a diffuser.
15. The Accessories Blowout
Elevate your blowout with accessories. A chunky headband or a silk scarf placed over the voluminous hair creates a princess-core look.
- Why it works: It dresses up a basic blowout instantly. Perfect for events or bad hair days.
- How to style: Place the accessory after the blowout is finished to avoid flattening the roots.
Final Thoughts
The modern blowout is all about embracing your hair’s natural movement while adding that salon-quality shine. Whether you go for the retro 90s flick or the sleek “glass hair” look, the key is a good round brush and a heat protectant.
Which blowout style is your favorite? Save this article to your hair board for your next salon visit!