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TRENDING HAIRSTYLES

Campus Style Unleashed: The Hottest Hair Trends for NYU & Columbia in 2025

From Washington Square to Morningside Heights, discover the looks defining campus cool.
By The Kiri Editors
HairstylesTrendsBeautyCollegeNYUColumbia2025

Explore these hairstyle portfolio references. Open a photo to view the style and available contact options.

Vibrant teal ombre lob, a bold and trendy hairstyle for 2025 - Preview 1
Vibrant teal ombre lob, a bold and trendy hairstyle for 2025 - Preview 2
Vibrant teal ombre lob, a bold and trendy hairstyle for 2025 - Preview 3

Introduction: Navigating Style in the Big Apple

Welcome to 2025, where campus life at NYU and Columbia is as vibrant and dynamic as ever – and so are the hairstyles! As students navigate demanding schedules, diverse social scenes, and the bustling energy of New York City, their hair needs to keep up. This year, it's all about styles that blend effortless cool with a touch of personalized flair. Forget high-maintenance routines; the trends of 2025 celebrate individuality, versatility, and chic practicality. Join us as we explore the top looks dominating the dorms, lecture halls, and coffee shops of NYC's most iconic universities.

The Modern Layered Movement: Effortless Cool for Her/Them

The 'layered movement' is sweeping campuses, offering volume, texture, and an effortlessly chic vibe that's perfect for dashing between classes or grabbing brunch. Styles like the Butterfly Cut and updated Wolf Cut, often paired with soft curtain or see-through bangs, provide dimension and frame the face beautifully. They’re forgiving, grow out gracefully, and can be styled quickly, making them a student's best friend for a stylish, low-fuss look.

Trendy butterfly cut with face framing layers for long black hair
Trendy butterfly cut with face framing layers for long black hair
Layered wolf cut with face framing layers for long dark hair
Layered wolf cut with face framing layers for long dark hair
Long layered butterfly haircut with see-through bangs
Long layered butterfly haircut with see-through bangs
Long wavy hair with curtain bangs and face-framing layers

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NYC's Braided Beauty: Chic Protective Styles for Her/Them

Protective styles continue to reign supreme, especially for students embracing their natural texture or looking for a stylish, low-manipulation option. Braids, from sleek feed-ins to boho box braids with curly ends, are not just practical; they're a fashion statement. They offer incredible versatility and can last for weeks, perfect for those long study sessions and impromptu nights out. Brooklyn salons are leading the way with innovative designs, providing students with stylish solutions that withstand the urban hustle.

Trendy feed-in braid hairstyle with unique pattern
Trendy stitch braids in zig-zag pattern adorned with delicate hair jewelry
Long, sleek knotless braids with neatly parted base
Boho box braids with curly ends for a trendy, protective style

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The Edge of Color: Express Yourself with Vibrant Hues (All Genders)

College is a time for self-discovery, and hair color is the perfect canvas! In 2025, bold and expressive hues are taking center stage. From vibrant magenta shags to smoky lavender lobs and striking blue ombres, students are embracing color to reflect their unique personalities. Shadow roots and dip-dye techniques keep these looks fresh and relatively easy to maintain, blending edgy aesthetics with everyday wearability. It’s an ideal way to stand out in the bustling university crowd.

Chic, short inverted bob with a stunning lilac ombre
Chic, short inverted bob with a stunning lilac ombre
Shoulder-length lob with face-framing bangs in a smoky lavender shade
Shoulder-length lob with face-framing bangs in a smoky lavender shade
Trendy medium-length shag haircut with bangs in vibrant magenta
Trendy medium-length shag haircut with bangs in vibrant magenta
Long wavy hair with a dark brown to blue ombre and layered haircut
Long wavy hair with a dark brown to blue ombre and layered haircut

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Modern Masculinity: Textured & Permed for Him/Them

Men's hairstyles at NYU and Columbia are all about sophisticated texture and effortless cool. The Korean wave perm, textured crops with fades, and updated mullets are hugely popular, offering volume and a stylish, 'just-rolled-out-of-bed-but-make-it-fashion' appeal. These cuts require minimal styling, allowing more time for lectures or student club meetings, while still looking sharp and modern. NYC salons like Maison de MI Salon and Green Room NYC are perfecting these dynamic looks.

Short textured crop with defined, tight curls for a modern, youthful look
Short textured crop with defined, tight curls for a modern, youthful look
Soft, voluminous waves achieved with a Korean-style perm for men
A soft, wavy perm for men that adds volume and texture, Korean hairstyle
Short, textured crop with a taper fade, a modern men's haircut

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Student Styling Hack: Keep dry shampoo and a good leave-in conditioner on hand! Dry shampoo is your best friend for refreshing roots between washes, especially for layered cuts. For braids and perms, a hydrating leave-in or curl cream will keep your style looking fresh and defined, even during stressful exam periods. Investing in a silk pillowcase can also work wonders for preserving styles overnight!

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Styles and photography from Kiri partner salons.
Campus Style Unleashed: The Hottest Hair Trends for NYU & Columbia in 2025 | Kiri