Nothing rings the bell to a new season than new hair. And with the current runways and red carpets, it looks like hair is taking a messier mood for the season. We’re talking lived-in layers, choppy ends, and in the case of Sarah Pidgeon, grown-out roots. Hair trends right now are zoning in on comfort, ease, and low maintenance. So if you’re making an appointment for your seasonal chop, these are the styles worth exploring.
Side Swept Bangs
Although polarising, bangs in the winter are a classic cosy combination. Paired with a turtleneck and you got yourself the winter uniform. But this season is not just about having a thick fringe but sweeping it off to the side to create a wave across the forehead. Seen on Sabrina Carpenter, McKenna Grace, and Nicole Kidman, the bangs also offer an added attention to the eyes, making room for fun, playful makeup on the festive days.
Dark Chocolate Hair
When thinking about hair colours for the season, trends naturally lean towards dark and 2026 is no exception. Dark chocolate brown is the latest to pick up. It’s warm, rich, and works especially well with neutral to warm skin tones. It also matches the gourmand perfumes we tend to gravitate toward during the season and overall brings a toasty vibe.
Lived-in Shags
Channelling the rock-and-roll spirit, the lived-in shag is a lighter iteration of the iconic cut. Instead of going full Mick Jagger, this cut adds diffused layers, wispy bangs, and ample volume. This cut is especially flattering for curly and wavy hair, where texture and frizz only adds to the charm.
Pixie Shags
Ever since Zendaya appeared with a pixie, we’ve started to notice iterations of the cut. Particularly the pixie-shag, which takes the messy layers of a typical shag and shrinks it short. When paired with hoodies and scarves, the cut takes on a cosier feel. But generally, the haircare time cut in half is more than enough reason to consider the chop.
Mushroom Blonde
A colour that stands between blonde and brunette, this deeper shade brings the best of both worlds. As seen recently on Taylor Swift, the colour is muted and softens the look of a stark blonde. And as the hair grows out, the colour only complements the growth, making it an easy hairstyle for those looking to stretch their appointments.
Pastel Pink
While it is not exactly what you would think when thinking about the colder months, this colour’s popularity comes from the sudden stardom of Slovak singer Adéla. Making her pink hair into her personal brand, expect to see more versions of pastel pink popping up everywhere this season.
Side Parts
If the runways of Paris have any say in hair, it is that the era of middle parting is over. Since AW26, models have been appearing in slick side parts and the trend has trickled over to the mainstream. So for those who are looking to refresh their style without having to deal with an appointment, consider switching up the parting for a new look.
