30 Recent Women's Hairstyles to Avoid, Ranked main image
Scroll Down To Continue

30 Recent Women's Hairstyles to Avoid, Ranked

There have been a lot of amazing hairstyles to fawn over in recent years. Just in the last decade, we’ve seen the lob, lavender hair, pearlescent hair, and so much more. These styles make you want to run to your hairstylist and drop some real money just to get the same look. However, not every style is absolutely stunning.

Along with these gems, there have also been several looks that are absolutely nothing to write home about. Some of them look truly bizarre. Well, the benefit is that they can make you feel great about your hair even if you haven’t been to the stylist in a couple of years!

We’re talking about the styles that make you wonder “what were they thinking?!” Some of these iconic styles trended thanks to celebrities while others created a life of their own without too much influence from the red carpet. From rainbow hair to too-long bangs, there are some hairstyles that should just be banned at all hair salons. Here are 30 ‘dos you probably aren’t going to be (and definitely shouldn't be) rocking anytime soon! Have you seen any of these looks in public?

 

30. Intricate Braids

30. Intricate Braids

In the words of an internet sensation and meme, “ain’t nobody got time for that.” Who has time to put together these intricate braids? Time and time again, we’ve been told that a waterfall braid or fishtail braid is easy, but here we are doing the same old braid we’ve been doing for years.

Apparently, we aren’t the only ones that have had a hard time because regular braids are back in style while intricate braids have fallen out of favor. For those that know how to do it, good on ya! For those that don’t, don’t worry about it! Those braided crowns ended up giving you a headache, anyway.

Christian Vierig/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

29. Eye-Skimming Bangs

29. Eye-Skimming Bangs

Bangs are slowly but surely having a comeback. One of the most popular bang trends consists of letting your bangs graze your eyelashes. Can you say irritating? Not to mention, no one is going to be able to see your eyebrows or eye makeup! 

Did you get this look by mistake? As in "Give me bangs, they're all the rage right now?" One way to wear them if they're long enough to get in your eyes but not long enough to tuck behind your ear, is to sweep them to the side and clip them to the main part of your hair with a cute little clip.

(Image via Instagram)

28. Voluminous Bun

28. Voluminous Bun

Voluminous buns are back in style, but we aren’t too keen on the “dead animal on top of your head” look. Women with thin hair can make this look work, but for the rest of us, it’s best to try to contain volume rather than exaggerate it. 

Instead, go with something that embraces the thickness of your hair. Those with thick hair can do all sorts of braids and styles that those with thin hair can only dream about. It will certainly look more put together than a messy, voluminous bun. 

Mark Milan/GC Images/Getty Images

27. Two-Toned Long Roots

27. Two-Toned Long Roots

Listen up, ladies, we need to talk about long roots for two-toned hair. Let's be real, it's not a good look. No, it's not some fancy Ombré style that the hairstylists are raving about. It just screams, "I haven't had time to touch up my roots, leave me alone!" But fear not, my beauties, there is a solution to this hair conundrum.

Just go ahead and get an Ombré. Embrace the gradual hair color change and say goodbye to those pesky long roots. And if you're not feeling the Ombré vibe, no worries. Just throw on a cute top-knot or bun and pretend those roots don't exist until you can hit up the salon. Let's say goodbye to the two-toned look and hello to fabulous, effortless hair.

David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Dave Benett/WireImage/Getty Images

26. Wet Hair

26. Wet Hair

Let's face it: we've all had those mornings when hitting the snooze button was the only option. The thought of standing in front of the mirror for 30 minutes to style our hair seems impossible, right? Well, some brave souls have attempted to rock the wet-hair look at work. But, let's be real, it just screams "I overslept and don't care."

However, I understand the struggle, especially for my curly-haired beauties out there. That's why I suggest investing in a product regiment to tame those curls and allow for a quick dry before heading out the door. So, who's ready to ditch the "just rolled out of bed" vibe and embrace a polished, put-together look? 

Kevin Tachman/MG19/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

25. Dyed Gray Hair

25. Dyed Gray Hair

Ah, the latest hair trend. Young women dying their locks gray. I mean, I get it, it looks cool and edgy. But why on earth would you want to skip ahead 30 years and rock the same color as your grandma? Before you know it, you'll be 50 and begging for your natural color to come back.

Trust me, we've seen it all (and we know from personal experience). If you're already deep in this trend and realize your mistake, don't panic. There's still hope for you. Do yourself a favor and update your hair color to something more natural. You'll thank me later.

(Image via Instagram)

24. Beehives

24. Beehives

Back in the '60s, these hairdos were all the buzz. Women flaunted their sky-high locks with pride, and beehives were hotter than a summer day in Texas. But, as with all fads, they eventually died out, like parachute pants and neon-colored socks. That is until the one and only Amy Winehouse, God bless her soul, shook things up and made the beehive relevant again.

But let's be real, as much as we love Amy and her iconic style, the beehive is starting to look a little...dated. It's time to let this classic hairstyle rest in peace and move on to something fresh and modern, like a sleek bob or tousled waves. Your hair and your dignity will thank you.

Paul Morigi/WireImage/Getty Images

23. Slicked-Back Bob

23. Slicked-Back Bob

As someone that's been there and done that, let me tell you something — the slicked-back bob is not for everyone. Sure, those with killer bone structures can pull it off, but for the rest of us mere mortals, it looks like a fancy version of the dreaded mullet

And let's be real, nobody wants to be mistaken for an '80s country music star. Bobs are already cute enough, so why mess with a good thing? Skip the hair gel and embrace your natural hair texture because ain't nobody got time for that sticky mess. Keep it simple and stylish, my friends.

(Image via Instagram)

22. Poodle Perm

22. Poodle Perm

Ah, the poodle perm. The iconic hairstyle that makes you look like you're either headed to a Lionel Richie concert or have been sprouted from a garden as an overgrown Chia Pet. But why did this style exist in the first place? Maybe it was the '80s equivalent of the man bun.

Or perhaps it was created by a mad scientist who wanted to see how far they could push the limits of hair manipulation. Whatever the reason, it's time to put this style to rest. No one wants to look like a poodle that's been through a wind tunnel. So, let's bid the poodle perm adieu and move on to more flattering hair trends.

Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

21. Frizzy Waves

21. Frizzy Waves

As a self-proclaimed frizz-hater, I have to say that some women are just superhuman. How do they embrace the frizz with a smile on their face? I tried it once (emphasis on once) and looked like I just stuck my finger in a light socket. But fear not, fellow frizz-fighters, because there are tons of products out there to help us out.

I mean, who needs the added stress of having a bad hair day when there's already so much craziness going on? Let's tame those wild locks and show them who's boss. And who knows, maybe one day we'll all be rockin' the frizz like it's nobody's business. But until then, let's stick to the tried and true methods of taming those frizzy tresses.

Bryan Bedder/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

20. Half Bun

20. Half Bun

The half bun consists of pulling half of your hair back into a (usually messy) bun and leaving the rest down. While this style is super popular because washing your hair is just really time-consuming and it's a great style for when you're short on time, it doesn't look great on everyone.

This style can really only look okay if you have thinner hair, but if it’s thick or curly, the half bun is going to look poofy and overwhelming.

Gregg DeGuire/WireImage/Getty Images

19. Wispy Bangs

19. Wispy Bangs

Wispy bangs are supposed to exude that effortless “I woke up like this” vibe, but let’s be real, they just scream “I couldn’t be bothered to get a proper haircut!” We’re all for a laid-back look, but these bangs are taking it a bit too far. It’s like the person sporting them hasn’t seen a pair of scissors in months, and it shows

And don’t even get us started on the DIY vibe they give off - we can practically hear the sound of uneven snips from here. If you want to rock a relaxed hairstyle, we suggest looking for something with a bit more intention behind it. They can exude a certain charm, but more often than not, it's a no. 

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

18. Bowl Cut

18. Bowl Cut

Why does the bowl cut persist through the ages? Perhaps it's because it's (supposedly) a timeless classic, like a little black dress or a crisp white button-up. Or maybe it's that irresistible urge to have a hairdo that makes you look like you just escaped from a cafeteria dish rack.

Either way, we can all agree that it's a look that should probably be left in the past. Sure, it's cute on kids - they can still pull off anything - but as for the rest of us...let's just say it's time to let go of our inner childhood nostalgia and embrace the world of modern haircuts. Trust us, your barber will thank you.

(Image via Wikimedia)

17. Feathery Flip

17. Feathery Flip

Let's all admit it, we've tried the Farrah flip at least once in our lives. We were mesmerized by the feathered layers and the way it bounced as we strutted down the hallway. But it's finally time to retire this look, and there's one huge reason for that..

Let's not forget how much time and effort it takes to achieve that perfect flip! Ain't nobody got time for that. So let's put down the curling iron and hot rollers. It's time to embrace the more modern hairstyles and leave the Farrah flip back in the disco era where it belongs. For the sake of humanity (and our hair's health), let's just stop.

ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content/Getty Images

16. Rainbow Hair

16. Rainbow Hair

Oh, rainbow hair. How we love it, and how we hate it. It's like having a unicorn on your head but with more hassle. Rainbow hair is not for the faint of heart. It requires time, patience, and a whole lot of cash. Want to maintain those vibrant hues? Get ready to say goodbye to your paycheck.

And don't even get me started on the upkeep. Bleaching, toning, and conditioning can take hours, and let's not forget the dreaded touch-ups. But you know what they say, beauty is pain (and a hefty credit card bill). So, to all my fellow rainbow hair enthusiasts, keep fighting the good fight. It may be hard, but damn, does it look cool.

Jeffrey Mayer/WireImage/Getty Images

15. Sleek High Ponytail

15. Sleek High Ponytail

Along the worst ponytails are the sleek, high ponytails. First, we don't really get how it doesn't just hang in your face. Why not just cut some bangs? Second, it doesn't look good on many people for the same reasons as the bouffant and pompadour phenomena. Finally, it pulls your hair pretty tight which could cause damage. Hair loss is already a natural consequence of aging; better to avoid exacerbating things while you're young! 

That being said, it’s time to let your hair down—literally. Don’t let that high ponytail damage your hair, obstruct your vision, or distract people from your beautiful, shining face. The eyes are the window to the soul, but high ponytails are the shutters blocking entry.  Not a perfect metaphor, but you get the point. 

Steve Granitz/WireImage/Getty Images

14. Center-Part Bob

14. Center-Part Bob

We all love a good bob and a chic center part. But when it comes to actually combining the two, things can get a little hairy...literally. Unless your hair is as straight as a board like Gwyneth Paltrow's, you're likely to end up looking like you have two giant puffs of cotton candy on either side of your face. 

That's not exactly the look we're going for. Maybe it's time to stick to one or the other or invest in some serious hair straighteners. Either way, let's raise a glass to all the brave souls who have attempted the bob and center-part combo, and may they rock it with confidence no matter what.

Melodie Jeng/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

13. Towering Top Knot

13. Towering Top Knot

Remember when the red carpet was dominated with the same Kardashian-chic top knots? Oh, wait, that's still happening today! Originality really is dead. Women who pile their hair on top of their heads know that hair doesn’t actually contribute to their height, right? Perhaps not. This style can make you feel a little taller, but when the trade-off looks like you’re a citizen from Whoville, is it really worth it? 

And let's not forget how painful these tight hairstyles can be. Some are so uncomfortable that they trigger terrible headaches! Instead of wearing your hair in a tight top knot, try pulling your hair back into a loose, low ponytail, especially if you're prone to migranes. It will cause less stress on your hair and keep your hair out of your face for the day. 

(Image via Instagram)

12. Chunky Highlights

12. Chunky Highlights

Chunky highlights are a no-go. They make you look like a zebra who got lost on its way to the savannah. Do you really want to be mistaken for a lost animal? Didn't think so. Instead, try a Bayalage.

It's like the sophisticated sister to chunky highlights. Bayalage is subtle yet stunnnn-ing. Plus, you won't have to worry about your hair looking like a hot mess. So, say no to chunky, and yes to Bayalage — your hair will thank you.

11. Shelf Layers

11. Shelf Layers

The issue here? Shelf layers. If you've got naturally curly hair, you're in luck, my friend. Those layers will work like a dream, creating volume and bounce without much effort on your part. But for those of us with straight locks, well, good luck

You'll need to be fully committed to the curling iron morning routine if you want to get any kind of shape or movement from your hair. Who has time for that? Unless you're a morning person with a serious passion for heat tools, it's probably best to just move on from the shelf layer trend. Time to press the snooze button for an extra 30 minutes of sleep. 

Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

10. Super Long Extensions

10. Super Long Extensions

Ah, extensions, the blessing, and curse of every hair enthusiast. One minute you're rocking a luscious mane that would put even the most glamorous Hollywood starlet to shame. The next, you resemble someone who went DIY in a bad way. Who knew that adding a few extra strands to your hair could be such a tricky business?

Sometimes it's best to let your natural hair do its thing and embrace the unique beauty that makes you, well, you. Because let's face it, no matter how long or short, thick or thin our hair may be, it's what's on the inside that truly counts.

(Image via Instagram)

9. Hair Bow

9. Hair Bow

Unless you're a pint-sized beauty queen, it's time to retire the hair bow. Sure, it may have been cute when you were still learning how to write your name, but you're a big kid now. It's time to let your hair down and embrace your grown-up style.

If you're tempted to argue that a hair bow is a timeless accessory, just remember - there's a reason you don't see many adult women walking around with pacifiers or teddy bears. Sometimes, it's best to leave the little-girl styles to the actual little girls.

(Image via Unsplash)

8. Slicked Back Pixie

8. Slicked Back Pixie

So you went ahead and got yourself a pixie cut. Welcome to the club! Now, listen up. We're all well aware that this short 'do can be a bit limiting when it comes to styling options. But for the love of all that is fabulous, please don't resort to slicking your hair back like it's been dipped in a vat of oil.

You don't want to look like you just stepped out of the shower with no time to blow-dry, do you? No, girl. That ain't a look. It's just not cute. Let's leave the slick look for our more oily days and opt for something that'll make our cute pixie cuts pop, shall we?

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

7. Half Shaved

7. Half Shaved

At one time, the half-shaved 'do looked cool and punk rock. But at this point, so many stars, celebrities, and everyday people have sported it that it’s begun to lose its edge. Rihanna and Miley Cyrus made the style a wildfire phenomenon, but think about how painful that growing-out process will be. The "awkward stage" is very real and shouldn't be challenged because it can always get worse. 

There are plenty of other bold hairstyles to try before majorly transforming your hair. Don’t shave any part of your head without talking to a stylist first (obviously) unless you want to suffer a terrible Britney 2007 moment. But Britney actually didn't look that bad. Us? Better to not tempt fate...

Michael Tran/FilmMagic/Getty Images

6. Crimped Hair

6. Crimped Hair

Crimped hair didn't even look good in the '90s, so what makes us think it'll work out for us now? No adult should be caught dead in this trend when it cropped up during the same decade as butterfly pins. We'll allow teenagers to dominate the crimping-iron market once they figure out that they can style their hair with hot tools, but that's it. Not to mention, crimping irons can damage your hair quite a bit. 

Heat can majorly damage your hair—so if you’re going to put heat on it, let it be the heat of a hairdryer, straighter, or curler—not a crimper. We all know that whenever you use heat, some sort of heat protection spray should be used beforehand. There are some modernized hairstyles that implement crimping in a way that isn't utterly horrific, like Kim Kardashian's stylist. But for us normies, lets stick to our curling irons for now. 

Charles Eshelman/FilmMagic/Getty Images

5. Modified Mullet

5. Modified Mullet

The modified mullet is a hairstyle that just won't quit. It's like a zombie - it just keeps coming back to life no matter how many times you try to kill it. If you're unfamiliar with the look, think ScarJo circa the early 2000s.

It's a mix of short and long layers, with the shorter layers in the front being longer than the ones in the back. It's a hairstyle that screams, "I'm not afraid to take risks" or "I'm stuck in the past." Either way, it's managed to stay relevant in the world of hair for way longer than anyone would have imagined.

J. Vespa/WireImage/Getty Images

4. The Kate Gosselin

4. The Kate Gosselin

We’ve all seen it before: the infamous “Kate Gosselin” or “I need to speak to your manager” cut. It may have looked cute on the reality TV star back in the day, but for most of us, it’s a hard pass. It’s one of those cuts that’s short, but somehow still manages to be long, and it’s spiky, yet somehow still smooth.

Plus, let’s not forget the side effects- — constant complaints to management. It’s a hairstyle that just says, “I’m not taking any nonsense today,” and honestly, we can all relate to that on some level. But unless you’re Kate Gosselin herself, it’s probably best to steer clear of this haircut. Just sayin’.

(Image via Wikipedia)

3. Super Short Bangs

3. Super Short Bangs

Why on earth were baby bangs and super short bangs ever a trend to begin with? But for some reason, they cropped up in the last couple of years become the bang of choice. Gross. They accentuate the forehead and honestly look awful. No one wants to look like they have a five-head, right?

The only exception to the no-short-bangs rule this year is if you’re getting a mullet. Oh, yes, you read that right. Mullets are back, but the “short on top” encompasses wearing short baby bangs with it. We hate to be the bearer of bad news for this one, but we don’t make the rules. We just relay them.

Jesse Grant/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

2. Pigtail Buns

2. Pigtail Buns

Khloe Kardashian and Miley Cyrus popularized space buns (most likely inspired by afro puffs), and they did look kind of cute in their Instagram posts and on tour, but the look doesn't quite fit their hair types. Also, in real life, space buns tend to look immature on thin hair or unmaintained hair. So, please don’t try rocking this style to your next business meeting unless you know what you're doing.

They’re usually not professional and definitely should not be worn on a regular basis. They’re only acceptable for themed parties and events if you're dressed like an alien or Princess Leia from Star Wars. All we're saying is to check your privilege. If you don't have the hair to rock it, better not try to cop it. 

1. Tiaras

1. Tiaras

Have you seen this craze in hair accessories? It's none other than the tiara. Yes, you read that right - the same glittering headpiece that our inner child used to dream of wearing to become a princess. But before you start digging through your childhood dress-up box, let's pause for a moment.

Do we really want to walk around looking like we raided our little cousin's toy chest? Let's leave the tiaras for the young royals and rock some chic hair clips or headbands. Trust me, you'll still look like a queen without the unnecessary regal garb.

Taylor Hill/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images