The Broccoli Headbangers
Call it the bird’s nest, the bushy curls, or curl flaunt, men are going bonkers over the latest broccoli haircut
You may love or hate broccoli, but you can’t miss the latest broccoli haircut buzz! The 'Broccoli perm' (aka Zoomer perm) has swayed the youth with its sex appeal, cheekiness, and funk. This haircut resembles the broccoli floret, giving it a rounded yet voluminous appearance.
The style first gained prominence in the 80s and 90s. It involves perming the hair to create a barrage of curls, giving it a punch filled with volume. Ditto like the vegetable it gets its name from- a nice, mushy broccoli!
Retro-look
Dipannita Halder, a hair stylist & Make-up artist says, “The broccoli haircut originally sprung up from youth subcultures, particularly young skateboarders and e-boy esthetics.” It gained popularity due to its appeal on TikTok and Instagram. Many believe it is a variation of the epic bowl cut or mushroom cut. It has an added layer of bushy volume on the top!
Sunny Pandey, a content creator & artist says, “One can keep the broccoli perm hairstyle messy and casual or dress it for a more polished look.” He adds that perm being a versatile hairstyle, works for everyone.
Amit Bittoo Dey, Beauty creator & Creative Director says that in countries like South Korea, Japan and India where trendsetting hairstyles are embraced, the Broccoli Perm is gaining traction. He adds, “It reflects a broader trend of experimenting with unique and eye-catching looks.”
Bolly Blast
Bollywood has been a trendsetter since its very inception. From the famous ‘Bachchan Cut’ in the 70s to Sanjay Dutt’s long locks in the 80s to Sallu bhai’s ‘Tere Naam’ cut. Today, many B-town boys are ‘growing’ the Broccoli bush! Be it AP Dhillon’s signature perm, Siddhant Chaturvedi’s curly tails or social influencers who are talking nineteen to a dozen about broccoli benefits. This trendy haircut reached the Olympics too. Track stars like Amoj Jacob and Avinash Sable have been spotted with the poofy curly little crop in recent times.
The broccoli haircut trend has swept across all genders and age groups. “The broccoli haircut typically suits hair types that have natural volume, curls or waves,” says Dippanita, a hairstylist. Those with straight or fine hair may require some styling or product. Dipannita explains that maintaining a broccoli haircut would require regular trims, the use of curl-enhancing or volumizing products or simply keeping the hair hydrated. “While the Broccoli perm adds a unique and stylish look, maintaining its appearance definitely involves some commitment to hair care and styling practices,” says Amit Bittoo Dey. Such as regular touch-ups, moisturizing and conditioning along with overheating of the hair or overwashing. Amit adds that K-pop and Japanese street styles tend to influence such practices largely!
Bangs & Blends
Apart from the broccoli perm, other styles such as the wolf cut, mullet and curtain bangs have made a comeback with a modern twist. Sunny says, “Today instead of the exaggerated spikes and curls, the mullet is now being styled in a more subtle and refined way.” Be it the broccoli, the wolf or simply the curtain bangs, perhaps there are bangs & blends for all!
Latest Bold Cuts
Mullet Revival: One may spot variations such as the modern or curly mullet
Wolf Cut: A hybrid of mullet and shag, it has layers, volume for a textured look.
Shag Haircut: Has choppy layers and messy aesthetics (retro+modern blend)
Curtain Bangs: Popular for their soft face-framing effect and versatility
Latest Bold Cuts
Mullet Revival: One may spot variations such as the modern or curly mullet
Wolf Cut: A hybrid of mullet and shag, it has layers, volume for a textured look.
Shag Haircut: Has choppy layers and messy aesthetics (retro+modern blend)
Curtain Bangs: Popular for their soft face-framing effect and versatility