Trust us—these are the seven summer hair trends we will all be asking for at the salon.
I tend to stick to my routine when it comes to my hair, but the approaching summer has sparked a desire in me to experiment with a new look. I attribute this change to the summer hair trends for 2026, which are surely going to appeal to those of us who prefer low-maintenance styles. I’ve been in touch with some of the top hairstylists and colorists in the industry, and they all seem to agree on one point for the upcoming season: summer hair will be much more laid-back. "This summer, we're moving away from hairstyles that are overly styled or complicated," says celebrity hairstylist Sam McKnight MBE. "It's all about luxury through simplicity—think soft, touchable texture and natural movement." There's also a clear revival of '90s minimalism, influenced by our renewed admiration for Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.
This season, the focus shifts from achieving a meticulously styled look to choosing cuts that complement your natural hair and grow out beautifully. When it comes to hair color, the approach is similarly easygoing. “High impact yet low maintenance,” says Mary Wheatley, colorist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. “Consider warm and beige mixes, blondes with natural depth, and soft tones that exude sun-kissed warmth.” So if you're prepared to adopt a new hairstyle that feels refined without requiring much effort (which is precisely what I want for my hair this summer), keep reading for the summer hair trends that experts predict will be everywhere this season.
1. **Shaggy Bob**
It's no surprise that a bob is featured in the 2026 hair trends report, but this summer, the shaggy bob is set to take the lead, marking a natural shift away from the finely cut styles of recent seasons towards something more relaxed. "I’m thrilled about the return of the shaggy bob," shares celebrity hairstylist Samantha Cusick, who is also a ghd ambassador. "Unlike the sharp, geometric bob that has been trending, this one is softer with layers and a curtain fringe, allowing for movement." What’s appealing about this hairstyle is its minimal styling requirement. It provides shape and character without needing constant attention. "It suits various hair textures and lengths, making it very wearable, and it actually seems to improve as it grows out," Cusick notes.
*Shop the Trend:*
- **GHD Duet 2-In-1 Hot Air Styler**
Cusick endorses this wet-to-dry tool for achieving a shaggy bob effortlessly, "It imparts soft volume and movement without requiring much effort."
- **Hair by Sam McKnight Perfect Mess Matt Sculpting Clay**
This styling paste adds texture without shine, perfect for a cool, matte look that offers plenty of movement.
2. **Floating Fringe**
Fringes have been experiencing a revival, thanks in part to the Margot Robbie influence. However, bangs can often be high maintenance, which is where the floating fringe comes into play this summer. "This season will highlight a soft fringe that gently floats just above the brows, subtly parting in the center," explains Antonio Hector, stylist at Hershesons Belgravia. "It's not a micro fringe but rather light and broken enough to frame the face beautifully." If you're hesitant about making a drastic cut, this fringe's delicate nature means it won’t dominate your look. Instead, it gently frames the face and grows out gradually, reducing the need for frequent trims.
*Shop the Trend:*
- **Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo – Limited Edition Velvet Amber**
An essential for styling a fringe, this dry shampoo absorbs excess oil while leaving hair with a luxurious scent.
- **BaByliss Elegance Small Radial Brush**
A small round brush is crucial for adding volume and lift while blow-drying this soft fringe.
3. **Layered Lob**
Mid-length styles are currently trending, providing a great compromise if you’re undecided about cutting or growing your hair. "Softer and more relaxed shapes will dominate this summer, particularly longer bobs and layered mid-length cuts," says Neale Rodger, style director at Stil London. "These styles combine versatility and movement while feeling light for summer, complemented by subtle face-framing layers and airy fringes, which provide structure without heaviness." The lob’s versatility is its main attraction. It "works with your hair’s natural behavior rather than against it," Rodger explains, allowing for air-drying, styling, tying up, or letting loose; it adapts to whatever summer adventures you have in store.
*Shop the Trend:*
- **Hershesons Air Dry Spray With UV Protection**
A salt-free mist that enhances natural texture while safeguarding against UV rays during peak summer.
- **GHD Chronos Curve Max Wand Hair Curler in Candy Coral**
Ideal for creating long-lasting
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Trust us—these are the seven summer hair trends we will all be asking for at the salon.
The trendiest hairstyles and shades.
