As the new year draws closer, the age-old dilemma of what to do with our hair resurfaces. The quest for a fresh cut or colour is fraught with the risk of salon regret or the fear of choosing a shade already deemed passé. To navigate this, we consulted the expert behind the iconic looks of Gigi Hadid, Lindsay Lohan, and Vera Wang: Oray Oz, founder of OREL Hair & Beauty. Having analysed runway shows, red carpet appearances, and celebrity transformations, Oz has pinpointed the five key hair trends poised to define 2026.
The Colours: Jewel Tones and Muted Metallics
While deep burgundy has been the shade of the moment, Oz predicts a shift towards rich cherry hues with warm pink undertones for 2026. These dimensional colours promise an elegant, luminous finish that enhances the hair's natural shine and texture.
For those seeking a more subtle change, muted metallics will be the go-to. Think soft bronzes, refined ashy blondes, and cool understated browns, moving away from stark platinum. This sophisticated palette, seen on stars like Ariana Grande and Jennifer Lawrence, offers a wearable, non-committal elegance that looks naturally polished.
The Cuts: Baby Bangs and Vintage Layers
Fringes are set to make an even bigger statement next year, with baby bangs leading the charge. A standout on the SS26 runways of designers like Dries Van Noten and Thom Browne, these short, wispy or blunt fringes demand careful tailoring to an individual's face shape and lifestyle. Oz emphasises the importance of a bespoke approach from a skilled stylist.
In a similar sophisticated vein, vintage-inspired layers will continue to be major. Channeling 1960s glamour, as popularised by Sabrina Carpenter, these cuts feature long, face-framing pieces and an architectural structure that holds its shape beautifully. The result is a timeless, camera-ready look that appears styled with minimal effort.
The Styles: Bombshell Blowdrys and the 'Slow Hair' Philosophy
The quiet-luxury aesthetic evolves in 2026 into what Oz terms the 'bombshell blowdry'. This look is a polished nod to 90s supermodel glamour, focusing on high-shine, healthy volume reminiscent of the Victoria's Secret runway. It's a statement look that appears effortlessly expensive, relying on sleek, shiny waves rather than heavy styling products.
Finally, Oz identifies a significant shift in mindset with the rise of 'slow hair'. This philosophy prioritises long-term hair health and vitality over quick fixes. The new luxury, he explains, is hair that radiates wellness from within, signalling a move towards sustainable care routines and genuine hair integrity as the ultimate beauty goal for the coming year.
