Earlier this week, hairstylist and trend forecaster Tom Smith declared 'cloud curls' as one of autumn/winter 2024's top beauty trends. And proving that his credentials (and predictions) never fail, Maya Jama just debuted a stretched interpretation of the style, along with a fresh bob haircut. Warning: Maya is hot to go!
Taking to her Instagram Story yesterday afternoon [September 2, 2024], Maya shared a selfie featuring said new look. Per Tom's description of the style, Maya's 'do is the perfect example of cloud curls thanks to its elongated strands; they're not quite waves nor are they tight tendrils, instead, they retain length and natural movement but of course, with bounce.
"Use your natural texture (if you have it), or create a similar style by braiding your hair after a fresh wash. Leave it to set and loosen with your fingers. For a more polished look, use a small curling iron with small sections and alternate the direction you twist the hair," Tom recommends. "Finish with a styling powder or texturising spray and shake upside down for the airy fluffy finish."
Now, as in love with the style as we are, arguably, what makes the look a head-turner is the shorter length. In comparison to Maya's signature waist-length locks, the shoulder-skimming bob is a dramatic transformation.
For reference and comparison, see the below IG post (shared in late August), featuring the Love Island host's long trademark curls.
Clearly, Maya knows what's up; as the old adage saying goes, new season, new hair!
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
