The hair trends of 2026 have shifted toward specific moods: polished, with a genteel twist, and personalized. “Hair that is sleeker, healthy-looking and glossy will be big this year,” says celebrity hairstylist George Northwood. “Not hair that’s overly done or stiff, but styles that feel put together—with a natural, fluid feel.”
“There’s less emphasis on hair looking overly ‘done’ and more focus on movement, natural texture and small details that make a style feel individual,” adds celebrity hairstylist and Dyson Beauty global ambassador Irinel De León.
Think early noughties and ’90s elegance: crimped hair, crown braids, chignons, bouncy blow-dries, and rich brunette shades. These are looks that demand healthy hair and a more intentional approach to styling. While there are no hard rules when it comes to cut, color, or finish, the overarching mood marks a clear departure from recent years—which is precisely what makes it feel so fresh.
Below, Vogue speaks to the experts about the key hair trends that define 2026.
- The best hair trends of 2026 are about being polished, with a genteel twist, and something personalized.
- Expect to see styles like side parts, enhanced natural texture, and modern crimping as some of the biggest hair trends this year.
Side Parts
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An ode to the classic early aughts style, De León says that side parts are back. “They can instantly change the shape and attitude of a hairstyle,” she says. “They can feel polished and glamorous, but also really cool and effortless depending on how you style the rest of the hair.”
She recommends using a detangling comb or a tail comb (we like the La Bonne Brosse Large Detangling Comb) for precision when parting hair. “A good rule of thumb is to use the arch of your eyebrow as a guide for where to place your part,” she says. “Then create a clean line from there.”
