hairstyle
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /hˈeəstaɪl/
US
- /ˈhɛrˌstaɪl/
Description
- way hair is cut & styled
- look of your hair
- fashion for hair
A hairstyle is the way a person's hair is cut, shaped, or worn. It is more than just a haircut. It can include braids, buns, curls, waves, straight hair, or the way someone wears their natural hair. A person might choose one because it looks good, feels easy to manage, fits a fashion trend, or shows something about their personality.
You may see the word when people talk about a new look, a famous person's hair, old styles from history, or advice from a hair stylist. Someone might ask for a style that suits their face shape, or say that a certain look makes them feel more confident. In everyday use, it often means the overall look of the hair, not just the cut.
Hairstyle refers to the way hair is cut, arranged, and styled – essentially, the overall look of someone's hair. It's a surprisingly rich concept that goes far beyond just length or color. A hairstyle isn't static; it evolves with fashion, culture, and personal preference.
Historically, hairstyles have been powerful symbols of status, religion, and identity. Think about the elaborate wigs worn by judges in colonial times, the shaved heads of monks, or the intricate braids of certain African cultures – each tells a story. Today, we see an incredible diversity of hairstyles, from classic cuts like the pixie cut or layered bob to more adventurous styles like dreadlocks, cornrows, or vibrant color treatments.
The term "hairstyle" is used in many contexts. You might find articles discussing "trending hairstyles" on fashion blogs, tutorials demonstrating how to achieve a specific hairstyle on YouTube, or stylists specializing in particular hairstyle techniques (like balayage or perms). It's also common to describe someone by their hairstyle: "She's the woman with the bright red asymmetrical hairstyle."
Beyond aesthetics, hairstyles can also be practical. A short, low-maintenance style might be preferred by someone who is very active, while a long, protective hairstyle could be chosen to promote hair health and growth. Ultimately, your hairstyle is a personal choice—a way to express yourself, embrace current trends, or simply feel comfortable and confident in your own skin.
Examples
- 1
Personal change
She changed her hairstyle before starting her new job.
- 2
Summer style
I'm thinking about getting a shorter hairstyle for the summer.
- 3
Compliment
That hairstyle really suits you.
Pattern
suit someone
look good on them
- 4
Daily routine
He wants a hairstyle that is easy to manage in the morning.
- 5
Wedding styles
The magazine showed several wedding hairstyles for long hair.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- hairstylenoun