I realize it’s just spring, but the most fashionable celebrities are already subtly introducing the biggest hair trend for summer.

      It’s not every day that I encounter a hair trend I genuinely want to embrace. Although I admire the elegance of bob cuts and stylish fringe trends, I've stuck with the same look for my entire life (super-long, center-parted balayage) and have no intention of trying something different. However, in recent weeks, I've noticed a significant new hair trend emerging, which doesn't require scheduling a cut or color appointment; it's simply about styling. My expert predictions suggest that summer 2025 will usher in the era of piecey waves.

      This trend kicked off a few weeks ago when I was browsing through street style during Paris Fashion Week. I became quite taken with Kate Moss's relaxed, model-off-duty piecey waves. She showcased various versions of the style throughout the week, but the slightly tousled version she wore in the front row at Stella McCartney truly captivated me.

      Since then, I’ve noticed piecey waves appearing everywhere—celebrities like Katie Holmes and Rochelle Humes have been seen sporting this low-fuss, low-maintenance style. It’s such an appealing look that my instincts as a beauty director tell me it’s going to be the standout hair trend this summer. Here’s why I believe everyone should take note of the piecey waves trend.

      What Are Piecey Waves?

      To grasp what piecey waves entail, you must first understand the concept of piecey hair. “Imagine clusters of strands or small, defined sections of hair that intentionally differ in texture and/or shape from the overall hairstyle, creating distinct pieces,” explains Antonio Hector, a hairstylist at Hershesons Belgravia. “It’s almost as if the hair settles into sections that disrupt the way it hangs, giving it a bohemian vibe, resembling the effect of running your fingers through your hair.”

      While piecey hair is often associated with shorter styles like cropped bobs and pixie cuts, this new trend merges the lived-in essence of piecey hair with casual waves. “Instead of a uniform, polished wave, piecey hair possesses a more organic and slightly tousled effect, with gently defined sections for a contemporary, effortless look,” says Sam Burnett, founder of Hair & Bone salon.

      Why Are Piecey Waves Trending?

      So what leads me to believe that piecey waves will define summer hairstyles? It’s part of a broader movement towards relaxed, low-fuss styles following years of high-maintenance shine and glass-like finishes. “There’s a genuine appreciation for hair that looks chic yet not overly styled—it’s about embracing natural texture and movement rather than striving for perfection. We’re also witnessing a revival of '90s and early 2000s aesthetics, which often favored that slightly grungy, effortless wave—something Kate Moss epitomized back then and continues to do now. Piecey waves strike a balance between versatility and wearability,” Burnett affirms.

      The Best Piecey Waves Hairstyles

      Katie Holmes’s piecey waves have a more tousled yet voluminous appearance. Rochelle Humes showcases that piecey waves can look polished as well, with her glass bob exuding a relaxed softness. I’ve saved an image of Hoyeon Jung’s piecey style on my desktop for months as a reminder to show my stylist in my next appointment. This trend proves that piecey waves can work on all hair lengths. A French bob beautifully meets the piecey wave aesthetic. Waves can achieve a piecey finish without heat styling—straight hair can air dry for a similar look. Laura Harrier’s delicate piecey curtain bangs are simply stunning. This updo on Lili Reinhart displays ethereal softness thanks to the piecey waves and gentle flyaways. Piecey waves have long been a stylish way to add subtle texture to pixie cuts. Blonde highlights and balayage can enhance the appearance of soft movement.

      How To Style Piecey Waves

      The method for styling piecey waves will ultimately depend on your hair texture, but Burnett insists on achieving a balance between texture and separation. Start with air drying or heat styling: “Begin by enhancing your hair’s natural texture. A solid foundation is key. If your hair has natural waves, apply a lightweight mousse or sea salt spray to damp hair, allowing it to air dry or diffuse. For straight hair, create gentle waves with a large-barrel curling iron, keeping the curls loose and irregular,” he advises. If your hair is naturally curly or coily, begin by straightening your hair before using a curling tong or straightener to introduce soft bends. A hair waver can also help achieve natural waves.

      Next, apply product: “A lightweight texturizing spray, pomade, or dry oil applied strategically to the mid-lengths and ends will help define sections without weighing the hair down,” Burnett explains. Use your fingers to separate and shape individual pieces instead of a brush, focusing on the face-framing sections to create separation and a lived-in texture. Finish by comb