I don't need a crystal ball - pro hairstylists have already given me a list of the chic hair trends coming our way in 2026

A collage of 2026 hair trends, as seen on celebrities: on the left, is a picture of Pamela Anderson, seen with soft copper hair and wearing a floral dress inside Pamela Anderson's "Sonsie Garden" with Shopify on October 24, 2025 in New York City. In the middle, is a picture of Amal Clooney, seen with glossy and voluminous long hair at the "Jay Kelly" Headline Gala at the 69th BFI London Film Festival at The Royal Festival Hall on October 10, 2025 in London, England. And on the right, is a picture of Viola Davis, seen with voluminous curls in an afro-style and wearing a blue dress with a fluffy trim at the Academy Museum 5th Annual Gala in Partnership with Rolex at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on October 18, 2025 in Los Angeles, California/ all featured in a grey and white gradient template .

Whether you're debating a dramatic cut to kickstart the new year or are keen to embrace a new, expensive-looking tone, the first wave of 2026 hair trend predictions are in, and there's no shortage of chic inspiration - from tailored chops and volume-boosting styles to subtle enhancements.

It's safe to say that a lot can change in 12 months, especially when it comes to our hair. I, for one, was blonde this time last year, but now, I type to you as a brunette, having returned to my natural colour, as similarly muted and smoky tones took over the 2025 hair trends. But where ghost waves, tailored pixie cuts, soft coppers and natural-colour techniques garnered requests in the seasons past, 2026 is promising a ton of new blunt bobs, effortless and dramatic layers and an all-encompassing theme of minimalism going forward. Of course, as mentioned, we did also see a drive towards more natural shades last year, but expect to see a whole lot more as spring approaches.