Fringes! Layers! '90s Updos! Six Autumn Hair Trends That Top Hairstylists Are Getting Ready For

      We have officially entered autumn. As a beauty editor, while summer is my favorite season, autumn undeniably tops my list for beauty trends. This time of year particularly excites me as it marks the beginning of autumn hair trends. September carries a unique back-to-school vibe that encourages us to finally book that overdue haircut or experiment with a new hair color to usher in the autumn season. Even if you're not looking for a significant hair makeover, small styling adjustments with hair tools or accessories can quickly adapt your appearance for the new season. So, what autumn hair trends are we expecting in 2026? I consulted with hairstylists and colorists from Hershesons to learn what we should be scheduling at the salon and the products that will help you flaunt your best hair this autumn.

      1. Layered Cuts

      Chop chop—autumn is an ideal time for a fresh haircut. It's not just about removing summer's dead ends; choosing a layered hairstyle adds the bounce and movement many of us desire at this time. "Layers are becoming more distinct and intentional this season. Instead of numerous wispy, disconnected layers, Autumn/Winter focuses on maintaining a stronger perimeter throughout the lengths while utilizing dynamic face-framing pieces to create movement," explains Nataliia Bumford, a hairstylist at Hershesons. "The end result is hair that feels fuller and more structured, yet retains softness and bounce. A key styling detail is creating an inward flip at the ends, giving layers a subtle '90s vibe," she adds. I’m taking inspiration from Gigi Hadid's flicky, face-framing layers right to the salon.

      Shop the Trend:

      - GHD Rise Volumising Hot Brush

      - Shark Glossi 2-In-1 Hot Brush

      2. '90s Updos

      "The classic ’90s updo has made a comeback," says Bumford. Thankfully, you don't need expert skills to pull off these styles, which she describes as simple and uncomplicated. "Ponytails, braids, French twists, and minimalist buns are all trending, focusing on polished simplicity. These styles feel refined rather than formal and pair well with a strong center or side parting and glossy finish," she notes.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Hair by Sam Mcknight Easy-Up Do Texture Spray

      3. The Bixie

      I've been tempted by Gracie Abrams's bixie cut, and Bumford anticipates this bob-pixie hybrid will gain popularity in autumn. The bixie will evolve for Autumn/Winter, becoming more structured while maintaining a softer edge. Instead of an ultra-short, harsh crop, emphasis will be placed on elongated front pieces, gentler sides, and expressive fringe shapes. Micro fringes are particularly effective, while heavier, bouncy bangs around the bridge of the nose create a more dramatic effect," she explains. "The versatility of the bixie is remarkable: it can be styled sleek and glossy for a sharper look or textured and airy for a more relaxed vibe."

      Shop the Trend:

      - ghd Hair Straightener Mini

      - Hershesons Almost Everything Cream

      4. Nude Hair Colour

      This autumn, we’re seeing a move towards natural hair color tailored to individual hair and complexion instead of a focus on specific color trends. "As a colorist, the skill is in selecting the perfect shade for each person," says Nicole Kahlani, consultant colorist at Hershesons. "For example, warm honey tones reminiscent of the ’90s and early 2000s, like those seen on icons such as Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Tyra Banks, and Ciara, are making a comeback for textured hair. Instead of opting for ultra-platinum shades, choosing honey blondes and dark caramels preserves the natural integrity and curl pattern of textured hair," she explains. "In essence, the skin-tone-matching trend—what I refer to as nude blonde—centers on minimal dimension and subtlety, embracing color placement that appears natural. A muted overall tone, paired with delicate, almost invisible highlights, creates the impression of an authentic color."

      Shop the Trend:

      - Wella Professionals Care Color Fresh Semi-Permanent Colour Mask in Chocolate Touch

      - Glaze Supergloss Toning Conditioning Hair Gloss in Pearl Blonde

      5. Gothic Waves

      I can’t stop thinking about Margot Robbie's Wuthering Heights waves from earlier this year, and Bumford expects these gothic yet romantic waves to return this autumn. "This look has a vintage, romantic feel, concentrating movement around the face rather than all over. It pairs particularly well with longer fringes and '90s-inspired cuts," she says. "The key is to keep the rest of the hair relatively soft and understated, allowing the face-framing wave to make an impact." Use a hair waver for cascading waves, or hair straighteners to achieve S-waves and soft bends in the hair.

      Shop the Trend:

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