From Lobs To Creamy Highlights, These Are the Best Hair Cut and Color Trends of 2026
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· CosmopolitanIf you’re ready for a 2026 hair update, now is the perfect time to plan your next look. Whether you want a dramatic cut or just a subtle refresh, these hair trend predictions will give you plenty of inspiration for your next salon visit.
To find the best hair trends for 2026, I spoke with celebrity hairstylists Marc Ballance and Priscilla Valles, who work on the strands of your favorite stars every day and know exactly what’s shaping up to be the most wearable and stylish looks of the new year. From bob haircuts to styling tips, their insights cover everything you need to know to elevate your hair game.
Ahead, the best hair trends of 2026 to add to your mood board for the coming year.
Soft Blowouts
@lacyredway
IG @kaiagerber
According to Valles, the soft hair era is in. Bouncy waves that exude Old Hollywood glamour will be everywhere in 2026. “Soft, romantic styles are leading the way,” says Valles. “Expect lots of blowouts finished with rollers, brushed out for volume and movement."
The Longer Lob
@haileybieber
In 2026, “it’s all about a slightly longer, more versatile bob," says Valles. "Longer bobs will be everywhere." The lob continues to reign as a go-to haircut, especially after Hailey Bieber’s recent chop put the style back in the spotlight. It’s chic and short enough to be low-maintenance, yet long enough to pull into a ponytail or dress up with accessories.
The Blunt Bob
Everyone was cutting their long hair into chin-length bobs this past year, and the trend isn't slowing down for the new year. “I love the classic one-length bob with no internal layering,” says Ballance. Sleek, structured, and clean, this haircut makes a bold statement and is super timeless.
Creamy Hair Colors
@ninapark
@chrisappleton1
When it comes to hair color trends, creamy, “your-hair-but-better” shades are leading the way. “I’m loving rich chocolate browns and sun-kissed, natural-looking highlights,” says Valles, and Ballance is also in favor of “leaning into natural hair colors like glossy brunettes and bringing blondes back to rooted, seamless looks.”
“Overall, it’s the healthy hair era—healthy ends, healthy color, and less over-processed hair,” adds Valles. “The focus is on color that looks natural, but elevated.”
Long Layers
@bretmanrock
@iamhairbyhe
Long and voluminous layers are always a smart choice when you want a hairstyle that’s manageable and versatile. They add movement and dimension, giving hair an “expensive, lifted, and full” finish, says Ballance.
Lengthy Bangs
@gregoryrussellhair
Brow- and eye-skimming bangs are making a major statement in 2026. They can be swept to the sides for a curtain bang effect or fall naturally for a soft face-framing moment. Perfect for adding subtle movement, these longer bangs elevate any haircut and grow out gracefully without looking awkward.
The Classic Slick
Instagram @umajammeh
IG @kimkardashian
“I think we’ll see a return to more classic styling in general,” says Ballance. “Slicked-back updos will be a hit with shiny and sculpted hair.” A high pony or bun adds instant lift and a polished finish, keeping hair sleek and controlled while letting your face take center stage, in classic Kim K style.
Meet the Experts:
- Marc Ballance is a New York City-based hair stylist at IGK Salon. His celeb clients include Nick Jonas, Bad Bunny, and more.
- Priscilla Valles is a celebrity hairstylist and extension expert whose clients include Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, and more.
Jasmine Hyman is the assistant beauty editor at Cosmo who covers all things hair. She tracks hair cut and color trends all year long and consulted the industry's most coveted hair stylists for their insight into 2026 hair trends.
Jasmine Hyman is the Assistant Beauty Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she writes about the latest beauty trends and must-have products. Her most prized beauty possessions are a meticulous skincare routine and salon blowouts. You’ll also likely find her in bed reading a good book or endlessly scrolling TikTok (spoiler: it’s usually the latter) while listening to Harry Styles’ entire discography on repeat. Follow her on Insta to be inundated with pictures of her meals.