Are you in a hairstyle rut? These are the five most ageless cuts to try right now

Whether it's a simple routine trim or a drastic chop, there's nothing like a new haircut to give yourself a fresh lease of life for spring - or at any time for that matter.

The last few months have seen a host of celebrities having a refresh too. The Duchess of Cambridge's glossy hairstyle during the Royal tour in the Caribbean last month tempted many to try a richer hue too, while Alexa Chung's tousled grown-out bob is an easy everyday style to consider. 

For 2022, statement cuts are still in high demand, but classic fail-safe styles, such as the mid cut, also remain a staple. Most importantly, whatever you opt for should be well executed and suited to your hair type and face shape in order to maximise its youth-boosting benefits. 

Here are our top five youthful haircuts for 2022...

The jawline bob

From graduated bobs, to sharp cuts with blunt bangs, there are many variations of the bob that are suited to different face shapes, depending on length, thickness and the way a particular cut falls around your face. For example, rounder face shapes usually benefit from longer hair styles to slim the sides of face and to create balance, so a long bob or 'lob' would be the best option.

Jawline bobs are the go-to this year and are considered to be a middle ground style that suits most face shapes. Reaching just past the jawline, this cut showcases your bone structure but can also be softened with layers and side swept bangs - a look growing popular for 2022. 

Opt for a sleek finish using a taming serum for pre-styling such as Boots' own Repair Serum with added Niacinamide for a sophisticated and polished look. Or, to make it more youthful and fresh, experiment with loose waves to add detail and texture. The Babyliss Deep Waves Waver creates perfectly sculpted waves that last for hours. Adding texture also softens facial features if your bob has been cut with a blunt baseline.

The pixie 

Pixie cuts can have a lifting effect and are most suited to oval and petite face shapes, says hairdresser and founder of 3 More Inches Michael Van Clarke. 

Generally, short styles have freedom of movement as they're carrying less weight than long hair. The addition of layers and feathered ends, as you would usually see in a pixie cut, makes this short style whimsical-looking and youthful, adds Van Clarke.  

Most importantly, you're not limited to one style here. Although short, the layers in a pixie cut allow you to experiment with texture and direction. 

The new shag 

70s inspired shaggy cuts are going to be everywhere in 2022 - but with a modern twist, says Hannah Munford, Advanced Stylist and Colourist at Mayfive Hair. A fringe and layers is key to keeping this look up to date.

'Generally, bangs should sit slightly shorter in the middle and arch round the forehead; complimented by modern, soft layers around the face for that underdone aesthetic', says Munford. Style with texturising spray for a rock and roll finish or opt for a mouse, such as George Northwood's volume spray to give the hair body and texture. 

The mid length

People often mislabel mid length styles as boring or 'mumsy' but, if cut well, a 'middy' cut can really elevate your features - and experimenting with texture and colour will keep it modern and interesting.

To get the most from this style, Van Clarke recommends having longer, graduated layers around the front of the face to give lift around the eye and cheekbones. Layering hair towards the front of the face also keeps the cut fresh as this is where it's usually the driest and most damaged. 

Van Clarke also recommends adding colour to make hair appear thicker and more vibrant. 'Cleverly placed highlights of various widths are great for bringing life to mid length hair. Generally, alternating between lighter tones and darker contrasting tones around the face will provide the best illusion of movement and thickness, whilst also adding warmth and colour to the complexion.'

The new long

Long, luscious hair is always flattering. But, this year, it's all about curly, wavy textures and fringes. Adding texture gives long, heavy hair more direction and definition, whilst fringes are an alternative to layering and will add dimension and detail around the face.

'For many clients, having a fringe is a step towards shorter hair without giving up their length,' explains Van Clarke. Fringes are also a great way of concealing unwanted wrinkles and fine lines, while drawing attention your eyes and making them appear bolder and brighter.

The key to long hair is maintaining its health so it looks fuller and more youthful. It's often a misconception that older women suit shorter hair styles as the hair becomes thinner, but those with thinner hair types can benefit from a long hair style if they nourish the fabric of the hair with masks and regular trims which will keep it in good condition. 

However, Van Clarke advises against A-Line cuts. 'Long graduation around the front or invisible layers on a blunt, lightly layered base-line is best for fine hair. You can double the visual thickness of hair with this simple cutting technique,' he adds.

This article is kept updated with the latest advice.