2026 hair trends
For trending hair in 2026, expect to see more shags, strong fringes, bold volume and lengths that feel intentional. Colour stays rich and wearable, with bronde, deep blondes and healthy shine leading the way across all hair types.
We asked our stylists what the go-to hair cuts and colours are for 2026. Here’s their expert take on the latest looks for all hair textures and lengths…
80s volume shag
Still loving your shag? Here’s how we’re evolving it for 2026…
Tom Warr, Academy & Creative Director at Blue Tit London, states,
“In 2026 we’re going to see much more 80s shaggy, choppy mullets with a punk rock style, lots of texture and volume on top. This is a progression from the shags and wolf cuts we’ve seen the last few years, but with more attitude.”
Tom’s styling tips for an 80s volume shag:
“The trick is that shorter layers are key, so it’s important to book in regular trims with your stylist to maintain these every 6-8 weeks. To keep up the style, blow-dry them back and up with a round brush, and use Oway Flux Potion to hold and add volume. For extra texture, you can use the Oway Volume & Texture Hair Puff so it lasts all day.”
On a curly hair health journey? These trends are for you…
Big voluminous texture
Pash Mitchell, Stylist & Afro Hair Educator says,
“2026 is the year of big, bold, and beautifully authentic hair. Think Type 3 and 4 curls, bouncy shapes, and strong Afros that celebrate individuality. Clients are leaning into their natural curl pattern more than ever, moving away from uniform styling and toward shapes that express who they are. There are lots of long, tasselled curls reflecting the season’s mood for freedom and fluidity.”
Who’s it for?
Someone on a curly-hair health journey, embracing your spiral, corkscrew, kinky or slightly coiled curls in 2026 is where it’s at. Speak to your stylist and aim for a routine and shape that suits your curl type.
Celeb influence:
@SZA has also been embracing big curls and defined afros on recent red carpets, setting the tone for textured individuality in 2026.
Sleek silk press
Pash Mitchell, Stylist & Afro Hair Educator –
“The silk press also continues to hold its place in 2026, offering versatility for those who wear their hair both straight and curly, either in the shape of strong bobs or glamorous long tasselled curls.”
Who’s it for?
Everyone who wants to switch it up with a sleeker than sleek silk press with just a hint of retro nostalgia.
Celeb influence:
@loriharvey recently showcased a soft, voluminous silk press that embodied this balance between texture and polish.
The rebel pixie
Still loving your pixie but want to update it; this is for you…
Stevie-Leah Loscombe, Stylist at Blue Tit Brixton says,
“A modern cropped cut defined by short, airy layers, piecey ends, and intentional texture. It’s sharper and more sculpted than a classic smooth pixie, but still soft – a perfectly balanced update that feels effortless rather than shaved or severe.”
Stevie goes on to explain, “This look draws inspiration from the ’90s grown-out pixie but with a 2026 upgrade. The new iteration focuses on texture, structure, and precision, reflecting a wider movement toward embracing natural hair patterns and bolder short silhouettes. I’m forecasting a strong emphasis on natural texture, feather-light detailing, and low-effort styling, making this the short cut to watch.”
Celeb influence:
@keke sparked buzz with her fresh textured pixie on Instagram.
Micro fringes
When asked, ‘What’s going to be hot in 2026?’ Stefania Mastrogiuseppe, Stylist and owner of Blue Tit Hammersmith doesn’t hesitate,
“Baby bangs (also called micro fringe, mini bangs, and pixie bangs). It’s a very short fringe that sits mid-forehead or even higher. It can be cut blunt for a more dramatic look or choppy and textured for a softer and modern look.
Micro fringes go really well with pixie cuts that are super trendy at the moment as well as with very long blunt hair. It’s reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn and that 60’s feel, but worn sharper, it taps into modern culture, with a nod to Berlin’s club scene.
Who’s it for?
Believe it or not, micro fringes are very versatile; it’s all about the style of these baby bangs that’s key: heavy, light, side swiped, or full – there’s a micro fringe to suit all face shapes.
Celeb influence:
@mileycyrus is one of the latest celebrities rocking a micro fringe at the moment, as well as @arianagrande who’s always on top of all the hair trends.
Waist-skimming length
Lee Beever, Stylist and Co-owner of Blue Tit Battersea says,
“This look is all about ultra-long lengths, waist-skimming or longer, ultra glossy extensions blended seamlessly into natural hair. Think minimal layering, mostly one length with subtle tapering at the ends, big volume, and high shine.”
Nova’s gorgeous hair was given the goldilocks treatment with a bayalage by Declan Haworth.
Lee goes on to explain, “There’s been a surge in demand for ultra-long extension looks, and 2026 is forecasted as a ‘luxury hair year’ focused on shine and quality, made possible for clients through our new extension services.”
Who’s it for?
Anyone wanting to bring some drama or added volume to their hair. Our hair extensions are easy to look after and comfortable to wear.
Celeb influence:
@camilla_cabello has recently showcased this through a waist-length mermaid-style extension look.
2026 hair colouring trends
Teddy bear blondes or bronde hair
Aileas, Colour specialist, Stylist and Manager at Blue Tit Crouch Hill says:
“From that cozy teddy bear-coloured warm golden blonde to a deeper golden, beige brunette, these wearable lived-in tones giving that ‘brondze’ feeling are so popular on all hair lengths. Mixing a light shade of brunette with a honey blonde tone feels luxurious with the perfect amount of light for the darker months.”
Who’s it for?
Those who want to feel like they’ve had a change without changing style or those who want to add some light and depth to their hair colour.
Celeb influence:
@lilyrose_depp’s bronde hair is the kind of colour that looks effortless but is actually perfectly judged. And @daisyedgarjones uses brondze to full effect when lightening her hair.
Loved these 2026 hair trends? Check out our latest looks straight from the stage at Salon International 2025 or book into your favourite salon to get your own 2026 refresh.
