Hairstyles from The Paris 2024 Olympics We're Going to See Everywhere
If you, like us, are glued to your screen watching athletes from around the globe compete for the top spot, then you've certainly noticed the unsung hero of the Olympic games: hair.
From gymnastics tumbles to sprints and swimmers-- these athletes put their hair through a LOT. And the influence of the games is further reaching than just a few weeks in Paris. We are sure to see the influence of their hair choices throughout the next trend cycle.
Summer Olympics 2024 Hair Trends
Athletes across all categories have a strict dress code to adhere to for both practical performance reasons and as required by the International Sports Federation (ISF). It's important enough that there is even a hair salon in the Olympic Village for athletes to visit for a free haircut!
Because each sport requires different specialized hair styles during competition, let's break it down by sport and explore the styles as well as what we see trickling down to become a mainstream trend this year.
Gymnastics Hairstyles
They flip, turn, go upside down, and swing on bars and beams-- this hair needs to hold up to a LOT! That's why gymnasts tend to turn to protective braid styles and slicked back buns that aren't budging during competition.
How We See This Trending
Braided styles were already on the rise and paired with the popularity of the "quiet luxury" slicked back bun this is the natural evolution of a trend. Expect to see polished braided ponytails on runways and sidewalks alike. This also pairs well with the "decorated hair" trend as you can easily add adornments, ribbons, and tinsel to slick braids for added interest and fun.
Track & Field Hairstyles
American track & field superstar Sha'Carri Richardson is known for her expressive hairstyles ranging from colorful extensions to protective braids. And while some may wonder if certain hairstyles can slow down an athlete that is all about wind-resistance to get that extra .5 seconds of time-- when you're the fastest woman in the world you can wear whatever hairstyle you want to.
How We See This Trending
Taking a nod from Richardson's ever-changing but always fabulous hair, we expect to see people embracing their natural texture, opting for less permanent styling options to allow them to mix it up, and funky top knot and half-up styles returning for a practical yet trendy look.
Swimming Hairstyles
While this may seem like the easiest Olympic sport to style hair for, you'd be surprised how much goes into maintaining healthy hair for swimmers. Tossing hair into a swimcap doesn't protect it from chlorine damage and the dreaded "swimmer's hair". Dry, brittle, and bleached-- it can happen to any hair type, but it's especially important to keep an eye on the hair of color-treated clients who spend a lot of time in a pool.
How We See This Trending
While we don't see much of their hair under the caps, we can turn to the podium for trend inspiration. Expanding upon the "wet look" trend of the past few years, the beachy wave of still-damp locks is a summer staple that is likely to only gain more traction thanks to Katie Ledecky and her peers.
Sporty Stylings for 2024
Whichever sport inspires you most, hairstyles that are up for the challenge of intense daily activities while maintaining style will always be a good idea. What sporty hairstyles are you seeing in your salon? Let us know in the comments.