Explaining the Hime Haircut, Lady Gaga's Surprising New Hair Look in 2025

Lady Gaga has never been known to shy away from experimenting with her look. Whether it be experimenting with makeup, fashion sense, or hairstyle, we're sure to always count on her for something new and inspiring. In 2025, the "Abracadabra" revealed a new look comprised of a bold chop. Some of our other favorite celebrities like Miley Cyrus have also rocked the look. Enter: the hime haircut.

The hime cut—also referred to as the "princess cut" because "hime" translates from Japanese to princess—is a traditional Japanese hairstyle that gives a blunt shaggy bang look, defined by straight, cheek-length, sometimes chin-length sidelocks and a front fringe. It also works well on curly hair, even if its original conception is focused on straighter patterns. Although the haircut is becoming more popular in 2025, Cher rocked the hairstyle back in the '70s, and many K-pop stars have also been flaunting the look for years, including K-pop singer Momo from Twice, who had the fresh cut in 2019. 

While the look may be a little bold for some, it's an exciting style to show off personal style. Keep scrolling for a breakdown of the hime cut and its origins.

Key Aspects of the Hime Haircut

• Hime Bangs and Sidelocks: The style is characterized by straight, blunt-cut hime bangs that fall neatly across the forehead. In addition, it includes long, straight sidelocks (or “hime sode”) that frame the face, typically cut to a uniform length around the jawline. This can be done with curly hair following the same template, which leads to a more textured and voluminous look.
• Long, Sleek Hair: The remainder of the hair is usually kept long and unlayered, creating a smooth, continuous flow that contrasts with the sharply defined bangs and sidelocks.

The Hime Haircut's History

The hime cut has its historical roots in Japanese aristocratic culture, particularly during the Heian period. It was traditionally worn by noblewomen as a symbol of refinement and high social status.  Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the princess cut hairstyle carries connotations of grace, femininity, and the timeless elegance of the Japanese court. Its name, with "hime" meaning "princess," reinforces these associations.

In modern times, the hime haircut has been embraced by the anime and manga communities. Many characters sport the style, which has helped cement its status as an iconic look that bridges historical tradition with modern fashion. While the style is not commonly seen as everyday wear in modern Japan, its revival in media and among enthusiasts of Japanese culture has kept the hime cut relevant. Celebrities are also boosting the moment.

Celebrities with a Hime Cut

Since Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, and Billie Eilish have embraced the hime cut within the first months of 2025, this edgy style is poised to make an even bigger impact this year. Each celebrity's high-profile influence has redefined the look, blending traditional Japanese influences with modern flair and setting a new standard for red carpet hair. As this trend gains momentum, hairstylists can anticipate a jump in requests for the hime haircut for those bold enough to try it out themselves.