Stylists have informed me that these hair trends will decline this summer—7 that will gain popularity.

      The great thing about summer hair trends is their flexibility—both literally and figuratively. We’re seeing a rise in airy, textured styles, yet the trends themselves aren't overly strict. Celebrity hairstylist Sky Kim explains, "Summer always allows hair to feel free. It’s less structured, and more expressive." As we transition from winter layers to light linen outfits and flowing dresses, hair tends to be looser and more natural—particularly in 2026, where embracing piece-y movement is in style. "2025 was all about sleek, minimal, and controlled looks. In 2026, we see more expression, texture, and a hint of rebelliousness that is still wearable," Kim adds. Therefore, we are witnessing polished haircuts and styles making way for bolder (yet still natural-looking) variations, which you can discover by reading on.

      Just a heads-up before we start: While I’ve categorized some haircuts and colors below as "out," I’m not suggesting they should disappear. Beauty trends have a tendency to cycle back into popularity, so you may see them return come fall. For summer 2026, however, here are the seven rising swaps.

      Out: Blunt Bobs | In: Lived-In Layers

      If you rocked a chin-length bob last summer, you’re not alone. It was arguably the year of the bob—from voluminous "Riviera" styles to sleek "Prada" bobs and '60s-inspired flipped versions. If you also opted for the shorter style, you’re likely now in the lob phase. As you go through the grow-out period, embrace soft movement and texture (like airy layers) instead of blunt bobs. Celebrity hairstylist Reece Walker concurs: "Many clients with strong blunt bobs are now growing them out and opting for hair that feels less structured and more lived-in," he shares. Consider it a transition from bold, sophisticated cuts to styles that embody a more "undone" essence.

      Out: Solid Cool Tones | In: Warmth and Dimension

      "Flat, one-dimensional hair color is fading, especially overly cool, ashy shades that don’t catch the light," says Kim. "Instead, people are opting for dimension and natural undertones. Think warm blondes, reds that enhance your natural color, and brunettes with subtle tonal variations. It’s vibrant, alive—color that shifts with the light instead of lying flat." Walker reinforces this sentiment, noting that color dimension is becoming increasingly significant. "Less flat, solid hues and more depth and movement," he states. Dakota Johnson exemplifies this trend, having recently switched from her deep brunette locks to a dimensional dirty blonde at this year's Time 100 gala. It’s her first color change in years, signaling the strength of this trend. Consider this your cue to schedule some balayage.

      Out: Blended Curtain Bangs | In: "Bratty" Bangs

      Long curtain bangs are ideal for those cautious about committing to bangs, but in summer 2026, there’s no middle ground. "Soft, overly blended curtain bangs are out," Kim emphasizes. Instead, the bold, "bratty" side bang takes the lead. "It’s shorter, slightly choppier, and more deliberate. It sits higher, around the cheekbone or brow, and has an undone quality that exudes attitude rather than softness," she explains. "It’s less about perfectly feathered face framing and more about crafting shape and edge."

      Out: Subtle Tones | In: Expressive Colour

      As haircuts lean into a more lived-in style, "Colour is where it gets exciting," notes Kim. "We’re witnessing a shift towards dimensional, expressive colors, akin to that bold energy of Alyssa Liu, where it feels vibrant and wild." You don't necessarily need to go for a halo hair color like Liu, but if you’re looking to make a summer statement, consider this your reminder to embrace high-contrast (perhaps ombré?) styles. "I believe drastic dual tones are returning, like Billie Eilish’s green roots and dark tips," Kim adds.

      Out: Glassy Slick-Backs | In: Textured Updos

      To clarify, a slick-back will never truly go out of style. However, stylists are noticing a surge of lived-in, piece-y updos that feel unrestricted. Kim states, "2025 had a very controlled, sleek, polished aesthetic, characterized by glass-like hair and tight finishes. 2026 is about breaking that norm with increased personality, more texture, and confidence in letting hair feel lived-in." While slick-backs won’t ever be completely "out," they are evolving to be less helmet-like. "Even when the look is polished, it’s not rigid. It leans less towards perfection and more towards identity," Kim adds.

      Out: Tucked Bobs | In: Tucked Bixies

      Remember