For those wondering what this multi-layered hairdo is, the Hime haircut (Japanese for “princess”) dates back to the Heian period, when noblewomen in Japan’s imperial court rocked the sharp, structured style as a sign of their elite status and would grow out their hair to extreme lengths. Think Lady Mariko in Shōgun—but with a fringe. In its modern iteration, it’s equal parts edgy and elegant—comprising a wispy fringe, sharply defined cheek-grazing layers, with a contrasting cascade of long, straight hair.
Of late, the geometric haircut has been spotted on everyone from K-pop band New Jeans’ Danielle, Blackpink member Lisa, and actor Bae Suzy.
If you’re looking to switch things up without chopping off all your hair, the Hime might be ideal for you. Naturally, the haircut is best suited for straight hair but can work for wavy hair too with the help of some styling tools. You can even customise your Hime cut by making the bangs thinner or forgoing them altogether.
While it requires maintenance and upkeep (you’ll need to keep getting regular trims to ensure the shorter bits remains sharp), it also offers major versatility. You can tie your longer hair and tuck it into your shirt with the short pieces hanging down so it looks like you have a bob (like Eilish), or you can tuck the short pieces behind your ears and pull the longer parts ahead for a more blended look.
Given the style now has not one, not two, but three of music’s greatest stars’ stamp of approval, we’re sure the style will trickle down to salons soon. It’s a little rebellious and a little bit royal. Long may the Hime reign.
