Mocha Mousse Waves in L.A., Romantic Updos in Paris: The 6 Hair Trends That Fashion Influencers Can't Get Enough Of, According to…

      In the beauty industry, there are a few key names we turn to for the latest trends. Whether it's the celebrity makeup artist enhancing the looks of today's popular musicians or the facialists shaping the cheekbones of the rich and famous, we editors have a trusted list of experts across various beauty domains. Among them is Chris Appleton, the renowned celebrity hairstylist known for creating viral hairstyles for stars like Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, and Dua Lipa, among others. It would be an understatement to say that Appleton often finds himself traveling frequently, hopping from one glamorous city to another to style his illustrious clients’ hair in eye-catching ways. We recently spoke with the hairstylist about the hair trends currently favored by the fashionable crowds in stylish cities and what styles to leave behind. (Spoiler: It's fashion's hottest trend involving haircuts right now.)

      “There’s a unique vibe in different cities,” Appleton shares with Who What Wear. “New York has a cool-girl aura, Paris feels more romantic, and L.A. conveys a ‘hot girl’ energy. They each represent different worlds, and each tells a story. That’s what hairstyling is about: storytelling.” Below, discover the most in-demand hair trends seen in New York, Los Angeles, and Paris, along with the reasons Appleton believes the "cunty bob" should be retired.

      **NYC Cool Girl**

      Appleton emphasizes that hair should serve as an accessory, allowing for self-expression and regular changes that reflect one’s evolving style. New York City, known for its fashion-forward individuals, is where those willing to take risks thrive, earning Appleton’s designation of it being the center of “cool girl” hair.

      Bobs have been prevalent in the city, featuring everything from ultra-short, ear-length microbobs to jaw-length cuts as integral to Manhattan fashion. However, Appleton feels it's time to move on. “I think we should say goodbye to the cunty bob. I just don’t like it,” he reveals with a chuckle. “When it’s extremely short, you’re somewhat locked into that look, and growing it out is no quick process. Hairstyles should come with a caution.”

      **Natural Texture**

      “One of the prominent trends today is the acceptance of natural hair texture,” notes Appleton. He points out that many are leaning toward a “more undone, less polished” aesthetic, especially in the summer heat of the city. Many, however, struggle to manage and embrace their natural curls or waves after years of fighting against their natural look.

      He recommends the Color Wow Dream Curl product, stating, “It helps maintain that natural texture [while] keeping curls or waves frizz-free—it’s beneficial for setting the hair.” To truly enhance texture, Appleton advises using a diffuser—particularly the long-pronged Shark FlexStyle diffuser attachment—even if you don’t have “curly” hair. This technique promotes more volume, movement, and definition than rough drying offers.

      **Creative Chop**

      Appleton frequently finds himself in Paris, where he crafts sleek looks with waist-length extensions on Kim Kardashian or styles Kris Jenner’s dark hair into a chic bob. His frequent presence in the fashionable city makes him attuned to the populace’s trendy styles.

      “I think hairstyles reflect where we are and the story we’ll tell. … My surroundings always influence me,” he shares. “In Paris with Kim, it felt classic and stylish,” recalling their latest trips to France. Appleton admires the combination of softness and a polished yet modern feel seen in Parisian styles, whether it's intricately styled for a couture show or a voluminous bun.

      **Sophisticated Updos**

      Appleton reflects fondly on Kim’s updo in Paris, describing it as feeling very couture. “It framed her face beautifully—it was feminine and glamorous yet maintained that ‘snatched’ look.” He favors hairstyles that balance chic and glamorous, a skill the French possess effortlessly. While recreating Kardashian’s specific updo at home may be tricky, Appleton offers tips for achieving easy, pulled-back looks that simplify salon styling.

      “To achieve that polished look, ensure all the hair flows in the direction of the ponytail,” Appleton advises, emphasizing the importance of prepping hair for styling to avoid lumps. “Those small strategies make a significant difference for me,” he adds.

      **Down and Draped**

      The French typically embrace their hair’s natural state, often allowing it to air-dry or accessorizing with a scarf. For those wanting an extra touch, Appleton suggests trying old Hollywood waves like Kardashian's or adding soft curls to the ends of hair like Jenner's. “She’s had that iconic haircut for so long—it was refreshing to see her soften it while retaining a classic appeal,” he notes.

      For a simplified version of Appleton's elaborate French styles, he recommends letting hair air-dry with mousse or using a round brush for a blowout. He