✨ 2026 Hair Trend Forecast: What We Expect to See Everywhere This Year

The hair world is constantly evolving — and 2026 is shaping up to be a year of healthy hair, effortless styling, and elevated natural beauty. From colours to cuts to textures, here are the trends we believe will define the year ahead.

1. Luxe Minimalism: “Quiet Luxury” Hair Is Taking Over

Think smooth, expensive-looking hair with soft movement and zero harsh lines.
This trend leans into:

  • natural shine

  • subtle dimension

  • polished but not overly styled finishes

Clients want hair that looks healthy, luxurious, and timeless — not high-maintenance.

2. The Rise of “Custom Cuts”

2026 is all about personalization. Instead of copying a single haircut photo, people are booking custom, hybrid cuts created specifically for their:

  • face shape

  • density

  • curl pattern

  • lifestyle

Expect blended techniques like micro-layering, internal weight removal, and soft perimeter shaping to create movement without sacrificing length.

3. Deep, Lived-In Blondes

High-contrast blonding is taking a back seat. This year’s blondes are:

  • buttery

  • champagne-toned

  • beige-neutral

  • low contrast

Paired with soft root melts and gentle face-framing, these blondes grow out beautifully and feel naturally sunlit.

4. Copper 2.0 — The “Ginger Glow”

Copper isn’t going anywhere, but it is getting softer in 2026.
Expect:

  • muted coppers

  • burnt apricot tones

  • strawberry-golden blends

These shades are warm, flattering, and have more longevity than bright orange-based coppers.

5. Shiny Hair is the New Flex

2025 made healthy hair popular — 2026 makes it essential. Glossy, reflective hair is the biggest flex of the year.

The trend includes:

  • high-shine glossing

  • bond-building treatments

  • moisture layering

  • frizz-controlled finishes

People aren’t asking for “colour” as much as they’re asking for “shine.”

6. Air-Dried Texture & Natural Movement

The heatless era continues. Clients want hair that looks great with:

  • minimal blow-drying

  • air-dry styling creams

  • curl-defining mists

  • lived-in waves

Cuts and products will focus on enhancing the texture they already have.

7. The Return of Polished Updos

Red carpets are influencing everyday style again.
Expect a wave of:

  • sleek buns

  • soft, face-framing updos

  • braided details

  • “model off-duty” knots

Great for events, holiday parties, and bridal seasons.

8. Brown Is the Power Colour of 2026

Brown gets a luxury upgrade:

  • espresso

  • cool brunette

  • glossy mocha

  • dark chocolate

These shades feel expensive, dimensional, and incredibly flattering on most skin tones.

Why These Trends Matter

2026 is the year of elevated simplicity — hair that fits real life while still looking polished. Clients want:

  • less maintenance

  • healthier routines

  • softer colour palettes

  • cuts that grow out beautifully

It’s hair that feels effortless, wearable, and quietly glamorous.

jessica Salema