Stylists have just informed me that these hair trends will decline this summer—here are 7 that will become popular.

      The great aspect of summer hair trends is their flexibility—both in style and concept. We're observing a surge in airy, textured shapes, yet the trends aren’t overly strict. As celebrity hairstylist Sky Kim points out, "Summer always brings back a sense of freedom in hair. It becomes less structured and more expressive." As we transition from winter attire to lightweight linen outfits and breezy dresses, hair takes on a more relaxed, lived-in vibe—especially in 2026, where embracing a piece-y movement is very much in style. "2025 was all about sleek, minimal, and controlled looks. In 2026, we see more expressive, textural styles that are slightly rebellious yet wearable," Kim elaborates. Consequently, polished cuts and styles are giving way to bolder (but still natural) options, all of which you can explore as you read on.

      Before diving in, a quick note: While I've categorized certain haircuts and colors as "out," I'm not suggesting they should remain so. Beauty trends have a quirky way of cycling in and out, so you may see them return come fall. However, for summer 2026, here are the seven trends on the ascent.

      Out: Blunt Bobs | In: Lived-In Layers

      If you had a chin-length bob last summer, you're not alone. It was arguably the year of the bob—ranging from voluminous "Riviera" bobs to sleek "Prada" styles and '60s-inspired "flipped" cuts. If you embraced the shorter style, you're likely in the process of growing it out. During this phase, consider soft movement and texture (like airy layers) instead of sticking to blunt bobs. Celebrity hairstylist Reece Walker concurs, saying, "Many clients with strong blunt bobs are now growing them out and really leaning into hair that feels less structured and more lived-in." This shift reflects a transition from bold, refined styles to looks with a more "undone" vibe.

      Out: Solid Cool Tones | In: Warmth and Dimension

      According to Kim, "Flat, single-tone hair color is on the decline, especially overly cool, ashy shades that lack light reflection." Instead, people are gravitating towards dimension and natural undertones. Think warm blondes, reds that highlight your natural base, and brunettes with subtle tonal variations. This color style is vibrant and alive—colors that reflect light rather than appearing one-dimensional. Walker supports this view, emphasizing the importance of depth and movement in color. A prime example is Dakota Johnson, who recently switched from her rich brunette locks to a multi-dimensional dirty blonde at this year's Time 100 gala. This marks the first time in years she has changed her signature shade, indicating a trend shift. Take this as your cue to book an appointment for balayage.

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

      Long curtain bangs are great for those not fully committed to bangs, but for summer 2026, there’s little room for compromise. Kim asserts, "Soft, overly blended curtain bangs are out." The new trend? A bold, "bratty" side bang. "It’s shorter, slightly choppier, and more intentional. It sits higher, around the cheekbone or brow, giving an edgy rather than soft look," she explains. "It focuses less on perfectly feathered framing and more on creating shape and attitude."

      Out: Subtle Tones | In: Expressive Colour

      As haircuts trend towards a more lived-in appearance, "Colour is where the excitement is," Kim notes. "We're witnessing a shift toward bold, expressive color, reminiscent of Alyssa Liu's high-energy style." While you don’t need to commit to an all-out halo color like Liu, those wanting a more striking summer look should consider high-contrast (perhaps even ombré) styles. "I believe drastic dual tones are making a comeback, akin to Billie Eilish’s green roots paired with dark ends," adds Kim.

      Out: Glassy Slick-Backs | In: Textured Updos

      Let me clarify: a slicked-back style will never truly go out of style. However, stylists are acknowledging the trend towards lived-in, pieced-updos that convey a sense of freedom. Kim shares, "2025 was very controlled and polished, characterized by glassy hair and tight finishes—almost uniform. 2026 is shifting away from that. It’s more about personality, texture, and the confidence of presenting hair as lived-in." While slicked-back styles aren't entirely "out," they are becoming less rigid. "Even polished looks are moving away from being helmet-like. It’s less about perfection and more about identity," Kim observes.

      Out: Tucked Bobs | In: Tucked Bixies

      Remember when the tucked bob (a bob secured behind one or