Experts Predict That These 7 Haircut Trends Will Be Popular in 2026.
This year has been remarkable for hair trends, with long, shiny locks, luxurious colors, and natural textures taking the spotlight. As we approach the new year, I'm eager to discover what 2026 will bring for haircuts. To gain insights, I consulted a selection of industry experts who shared their forecasts for the upcoming trends that will thrive in the next year.
Adam Reed, a hair stylist and founder of ARKIVE Headcare, suggests that “elevated ease” will be the main theme for 2026, representing a progression from this year’s focus on effortless hair. He notes, “Texture will be paramount, shine will stem from genuine hair health, and every cut will be crafted to appear as though it styles itself because you’ve achieved a good mental space. Envision shapes that seem naturally lived-in but are subtly designed with precision.”
This sense of purpose is woven throughout every haircut trend our experts anticipate for the coming year. Neale Rodger, style director at Stil, adds, “In 2026, we will observe trends evolving towards a look that feels polished and understatedly confident. Cuts will have softer lines yet sharper overall shapes, aiming for simplicity without being excessive—just well-structured, beautifully designed styles that move flawlessly.”
And certainly, the bob is making a strong comeback. “After a lengthy period dominated by long, soft waves, we’re witnessing a revival of haircuts—specifically, blunt bobs that hit around chin length and make a bold statement,” remarks Phillpp Haug, hair stylist and co-founder of Haug London Haus. However, this isn’t a universal approach to the bob; short styles will be highly popular in 2026, offering a variety of soft and adaptable options.
Ready to schedule your next salon appointment? Continue reading for the haircut trends that are set to take over in 2026.
**The Best Haircut Trends to Try in 2026**
1. **Disciplined Bob**
Focused more on the precision of the cut than specific length, 2026 will see the rise of the “disciplined bob.” Mark Hayes, senior international creative director at Vidal Sassoon, explains, “This cut embodies a shape marked by clarity and precision, resulting in a bob that feels clean, modern, and self-styling.” He identifies “micro bobs that sit at mid-cheek and sharp A-line bobs that appear to float at the jaw” as some of the trend's most contemporary examples.
**Get the look:**
- **Ghd Mini Hair Straighteners:** Perfect for short styles, these mini straighteners make it effortless to achieve a sleek power bob quickly.
- **Hair by Sam Mcknight Modern Hairspray:** Keep flyaways in check with this versatile hairspray that will ensure your disciplined bob stays in place all day.
2. **Cloud Midi**
For those who shortened their hair last year, the cloud midi bob might be the next step for 2026. Samantha Cusick, hair stylist and founder of Samantha Cusick London, states, “It’s a natural development of a short bob evolving into something softer, longer, and a bit more luxurious.” This style grazes the collarbone with smooth, rounded edges that frame the face like a cloud, offering a soft, fluffy, and mobile look.
**Get the look:**
- A volumizing spray at the roots will enhance this soft, bouncy style.
- **Beauty Pie Super Healthy Hair Pro-Dry Barrel Brush:** This soft-bristled round brush adds volume while blow-drying and enhances shine.
3. **Side Swept**
Changing your part is the easiest way to refresh your look without committing to a full haircut, and in 2026, side parts are making a comeback. Adam Lukacs, celebrity hair stylist and Maria Nila ambassador, describes, “The revival of the side part coincides with long, ultra-healthy lengths that display the glossy sheen everyone craves.”
**Get the look:**
- **Ghd The Sectioner Tail Hair Comb:** Essential for achieving that sharp and defined side part.
- A glass-finish spray for damp hair before heat-styling will lock in that luxurious look.
4. **Scandi Layers**
Grown-out yet impactful, Scandi layers draw inspiration from hairstyles seen on the streets of Copenhagen this year. Rodger explains, “This new wave of cuts balances structure with softness, framing the face with precision while always feeling natural.” It’s a way to showcase your hair with subtle layers and rounded shapes.
**Get the look:**
- **Arkive The Scene Setter Hybrid Pomade:** Enhance natural texture and add lift to your roots with this versatile hair product.
- **Oribe Dry Texturising Spray:** This cult-favorite spray is perfect for achieving a messy yet polished
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