From Emma Stone to Emma Chamberlain, and even Renée Zellweger, it seems everyone is loving the pixie cut right now. To find out more about the resurgence of the cut, and how you can make it work for clients regardless of their hair type or texture, we spoke to leading stylists for their take…
What is the Pixie Cut?
A pixie cut is a short hairstyle that features length on the top with short back and sides, and often includes some variation of a fringe. It usually falls into the category of a crop and has links to the 1930s and 1950s.
The Evolution of the Pixie Cut
The pixie cut is having a major comeback, and it’s not hard to see why. A timeless style that has been reimagined by everyone from Audrey Hepburn to Rihanna, the pixie continues to evolve, especially as trends lean toward more individualised, high-impact looks. As Stephen Buller from Buller and Rice points out: “We’ve seen this shift gradually, moving from lobs and bobs to mullets and mixies, all leading to the inevitable return of the pixie.” With its ability to make a bold statement, the pixie cut is more than just a haircut—it’s a symbol of confidence and independence, challenging traditional beauty norms. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it adaptable for various aesthetics, whether sleek and polished or tousled and textured.
The pixie cut is certainly not a new trend, with Shukeel Murtaza, a stylist who’s worked with the likes of Kate Moss and Chanel, explaining: “Fashion works in cycles – and it’s been a while since the pixie cut has truly been trending, so it's no surpirse it's making a comback in 2025. Consumers pick up on what’s going on in fashion and the red carpet, and will definitely want to emulate this trend.” The trend is further fuelled by the resurgence of 90s and Y2K fashion (think Halle Berry and Victoria Beckham) where the pixie cut is once again playing a starring role. But the best part? The pixie cut can fit any client with the right approach, no matter their face shape, hair type or hair texture.
How to Cut and Style a Pixie Cut on Thick and Thin Hair
One of the key reasons the pixie cut is so popular is its adaptability. Whether your client has thick or fine hair, the pixie cut can be tailored to suit their needs – and their individuality. Josh Woodman, Denman Creative, explains: “A pixie cut can work on a variety of hair types, but the key is customisation.” For finer hair, square layering plays a crucial role in adding volume and movement, along with the right blow-drying tools (Josh recommends the Denman Head Hugger brushes).
Meanwhile, Ben Brown, ALFAPARF Milano Professional Digital Ambassador UKI, recommends styling finer hair with volumising sprays and mousses for lift and texture. “Including a side-sweeping fringe into the cut can be another great way to enhance volume, but I also think growth patterns have to be considered and worked with rather than against for an effortless look,” he adds.
For clients with thicker hair, Ben suggests incorporating undercutting or thinning techniques to remove excess bulk while maintaining the shape of the pixie. “Thick hair needs the right balance of weight removal and structure,” he notes, adding that lightweight styling products can help enhance texture without weighing hair down. Stephen’s favourites include Davines Love Smoothing Perfector or Davines Texturising Serum, which he says help to control volume while keeping hair moisturised.
Making the Pixie Cut Work for Different Hair Textures
The pixie cut isn’t just for straight hair—it can work wonders on textured hair too. In fact, as Chris Grimley, textured hair specialist, owner of Fusion Hair Co and Textured Curl Academy points out, a pixie cut on textured hair can be just as versatile as longer styles. “It’s all about precision cutting and working with the hair’s natural shape to achieve a structured yet effortless look,” she says. “Ayra Starr showcased just how stunning a pixie cut can be on textured hair at the MOBO Awards.”
How to Style a Pixie Cut to Suit Your Client
Fringes are another key way to personalise a pixie cut; “Some prefer a softer, more versatile finish that allows them to tuck their hair behind their ears, while others love a clean, structured shape," says Stephen. And the best part? Almost any face shape can pull off a pixie cut. Oval, round, and heart-shaped faces tend to suit the cut the best, but with the right technique and consultation, almost anyone can rock the pixie. With the endless possibilities of a pixie cut, Stephen stresses the importance of a thorough consultation to make sure your client is happy with the look.
Shukeel also agrees that the pixie cut’s versatility is a major selling point. “The pressure points to watch out for when cutting a pixie crop is to still keep an element of femininity in the style, if this aligns with the client’s goals. This entails keeping a little more length at the back to soften the jawline and around the perimeter,” he explains.
Whether your client is looking to channel modern glamour or add and edge to their look, the pixie cut is a bold, flexible style that’s here to stay. From its adaptability to different hair types and textures to its endless styling possibilities, the pixie cut has a lot to offer. “We’re seeing a shift toward low-maintenance, yet high-impact looks,” says Josh. “The pixie cut is the perfect example of a style that contours your face shape and works with your natural features, all while embracing individuality.”
Meanwhile, Andy Heasman from RUSH highlights a variation of the pixie and a classic crop style, 'The Prop', with RUSH predicting it to be the next big hair trend. Featuring more curved edges and blended layers, Andy shares: "Those with a heart shaped or oval face shape will see the style turn heads more than others, with the curves and angular line working in tandem with the short, sharp cut."
The key to making the pixie cut work for your clients is in the customisation—whether it’s tailoring the layers to their hair type, adjusting the length to suit their face shape, or adding a fringe for that personal touch. Whatever your client’s preferences, this year, the pixie cut is ready to steal the spotlight.
