Let’s be honest: your hair is usually the first thing people notice—so why keep settling for the same old hairstyle? From effortless “I woke up like this” layers to bold statement shades, this year’s hair trends are all about personality, movement, and low‑maintenance glam. Think glossy, healthy texture over heavy styling, cuts that grow out beautifully, and colors that catch the light in all the right ways. In this guide, we’re breaking down 10 Hair Trends About to Dominate 2026 so you know exactly what to ask for at the salon. Screenshot your favorites, send them to your stylist, and get ready to walk into the new year with seriously upgraded hair.
ESPRESSO BRUNETTE
Deep, coffee‑inspired browns with soft dimension instead of flat, all‑over color. Espresso brunette has remained on the A-list of popular hair colors since last year. This hue adds richness and vibrancy to naturally mousy brown hair. And it’s a deeper brown shade that still adds a bit of brightness without making a massive change to your hair color. It’s low‑maintenance, shiny, and looks great on most skin tones.
ROOTY BLONDE
Darker, smudged roots blending into softer blonde lengths. Easier to maintain and much more modern than harsh, all‑over bleach. This look also gives your hair a healthier appearance by reducing damage from frequent lightning at the roots.
AMBER GLOW
Soft touches of color will continue to have a big moment in 2026. The shade is a softer, more low-maintenance variation of cherry cola, offering a gentler blend of rich red and brown tones that fades more gracefully and requires fewer salon touch-ups over time.
PEEKABOO POPS OF COLOR
THE ITALIAN BOB
The Italian bob is a sharp, chin‑to‑collarbone cut with clean lines that still feels relaxed and easy to wear. It appears polished enough for the office but pairs just as well with jeans and a T‑shirt on the weekend. Ask your stylist for soft, blunt ends with minimal layers so it keeps that sleek, expensive vibe without requiring a ton of daily styling.
FACE-FRAMING LAYERS
HIGH-SHINE HAIR
High‑shine hair in 2026 isn’t about expensive treatments—it’s about keeping your hair genuinely healthy. Regular trims, a gentle sulfate‑free shampoo, and a light oil or serum on the ends can help your hair catch the light without feeling heavy. Staying hydrated and eating nutrition-rich foods in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins also supports stronger, shinier strands, so your hair looks glossy and “expensive” without a high‑maintenance routine.
Product Suggestions:
• Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo
Adds moisture and shine without feeling too heavy.
- OUAI Hair Oil
Lightweight, good for reducing frizz and adding a glossy finish.
CLOUD MIDI
The Cloud Midi haircut is a soft, shoulder-grazing cut that focuses on airy movement and fullness. Gentle, rounded layers create a light, “cloud-like” shape that flatters wavy, curly, and even straight hair. By softening the ends rather than keeping them heavy and blunt, the hair moves away from the face and doesn’t look bulky.
CURTAIN BANGS
Curtain bangs are one of the easiest fringe styles for softening your features and drawing attention to your eyes. Because they part in the middle and fall to each side, they feel less risky and way more versatile than a classic blunt bang. And the best part: as they grow out, they naturally blend into face-framing layers instead of going through an awkward phase.
FUN HAIR ACCESSORIES
Playful accessories are an easy way to switch up your look without changing your cut or color. Think soft scrunchies, chunky headbands, bow clips, and fun barrettes that can dress your hair up or down in seconds. They’re perfect for bad‑hair days, adding a pop of color or texture while still keeping things practical. Mix and match pieces to suit your mood—minimal and sleek for work, brighter and bolder for weekends, festivals, or nights out.
