As 2016 is almost here, extension experts Hair Development have done some research into the most popular hair trends of 2015. Analysed Google searches until August 2015 revealed the three hottest trends in the world of hair: braided styles, bold hair colours and manbuns. 

When it comes to the year’s most popular colours, top searches included silver and grey, which doesn’t surprise the HD team, and blue and purple thanks to celebrities such as Kylie Jenner and Katie Perry. In terms of styling long hair, people were searching how to create French braids, box braids and Mohawk braids more than any other styles. The third trend is a male trend, as 2015 has officially become the year of the manbun. 

In fact, 2015 is the first year that there has been more interest in men’s hairstyles than women’s hairstyles, by 6% according to Google. 

Janis Levy, Creative Director of Hair Development said, “It’s always interesting to see what hairstyles people are interested in and want to try at home. It’s no surprise to us that one of the hottest trends this year lends itself to a male trend, as we’ve had a surge in guys coming to us for hair extensions and other products. Celebrities such as Leonardo diCaprio, Jared Leto and Harry Styles are fuelling this trend.”

It seems like the comb over is also making a comeback, with 10.3 million views on YouTube for how to videos featuring the hairstyle. Men are also searching for products associated with these looks, including pre-styling spray, clip on man bun and sponge wax.

Over to the ladies and braids and plaits are in the spotlight for 2015. Box braids and goddess braids come up in top searches, along with keywords such as ‘how to sleep’ ‘how to wash’ and ‘maintaining.’ Searches for rainbow hair have grown by 148%, while silver and purple remain the firm favourites on Google. Grey hair is now a fashion statement rather than a fashion faux pas, and ever since Katy Perry showed off purple locks at the Grammys in February, it has turned into a hot trend.

Janis added, “Silver and purple hair looks fantastic but it is very difficult to maintain, which is probably why so many people search for articles about it on the internet. We added purple, blue and bright pink to our colour range this year so women could enjoy long, colourful locks like their favourite stars. And of course, we also supply celebrity stylists with our hair extensions so you could actually be wearing the same hair as your style idol!”