According To Pros, The Tousled '90s Updo Will Take Over In 2023

If you've ever found yourself on beauty TikTok, you know it's jam-packed with micro-trends. It seems like every day there's a new makeup look or hairstyle that's considered new and noteworthy. Take the "clean girl aesthetic," for example (which actually isn't very new at all): It blew up last year and is now being replaced with a wave of shaggy, effortless looks.

Pro stylist and founder of Trademark Beauty Joseph Maine said that 2023 will be the "return of the updo." But we're not talking about anything prim and proper—instead, the new aesthetic is all about tousled waves, bouncy curls, and a perfectly undone finish.

"For the last few years, we have seen lots of down, loose waves or tucked-behind-the-ears styles all over the red carpet," Maine says. The updos, however, followed a different trend—especially the super-sleek bun. Now we're starting to see more intricate updos take over, Maine says. But why the switch? 

Apart from the general shift toward more effortless beauty trends, the tousled updo mimics the classic Pamela Anderson–esque style that has seen a resurgence throughout 2022, especially after the limited series Pam & Tommy was released earlier this year.

"From the tousled Pam Anderson–inspired look to sculptured upstyles including finger waves, it will be a glamorous red carpet year," Maine adds.

The best part is that these looks are easier to nail (especially for those with curly or wavy hair), and they're a healthier alternative for your scalp and strands. You see, when the hair is pulled too tight, you risk damaging the scalp and potentially experiencing targeted bald spots—more formally known as traction alopecia.

Finally, flip the top ponytail toward your face and start pinning it down with U pins. "You don't have to think twice about where you put the pins; just make sure that all of the hair gets secured," Maine says.