If the previous year was filled with simple hairstyles, 2026 signals a clear shift. Hair trends for the new year are going to be more of bolder choices, more structure, and styles that are meant to be noticed. Brunettes, copper shades, and one-tone colors will dominate.

Celebrity stylist Chris McMillan, who has styled the likes of Mariska Hargitay, Jennifer Aniston, and Leslie Bibb spoke with People over the holidays, during the celebration of his hairline at Sephora. He predicted that  “expensive hair” will be one of the biggest hair trends in 2026. According to him, it doesn’t mean spending excessively at the salon, but choosing styles that look voluminous and healthy, hair that feels like a natural extension of simple but expensive.

Hailey Bieber’s long bob: Instagram

He explained that people are gravitating toward hair that looks thick and glossy, using Hailey Bieber’s new look (long bob), which was cut by Justine Marjan to sit at her collarbone, as a perfect example.

Influences from the ’90s and early 2000s are making their way back, with modern refinement and styles like bouncy blow-dries, vintage-inspired volume, and updated bobs that sit at the jawline or collarbone. At the same time, ultra-short cuts and slicked-back updos seen on recent runways prove that structured styles are here to stay.

Here’s a closer look at some hairstyles and colors that are expected to be popular in 2026.

Ultra-Short Bobs

Ultra-short bob @ Selena Gomez: Instagram

While the classic bob often falls between the chin and the collarbone, the ultra-short bob sits right at the jaw, according to Chris Hill, a stylist at Flore Salon. The sharp length makes the jawline appear more defined, giving the face a more prominent shape.

One advantage of the ultra-short bob is its versatility. It can be worn straight with a flat iron or styled into soft waves using a curling iron. To keep the cut looking clean and cropped, Hill notes that it requires regular trims every four to six weeks.

’90s Blowout

’90s Blowout @Sabrina Carpenter: Instagram

The ’90s blowout is all about soft, bouncy volume and those signature flipped ends. It works for almost any face shape or hair type. The look feels full, bouncy, and it gives a clean, high-volume finish, perfect for anyone who wants hair that looks styled without being stiff.

Scattered/ Disconnected Fringe

Scattered/ Disconnected Fringe @ Ayodebiri: Instagram

The ideal cut for fringes is meant to be smooth, straight and blended easily with the remaining part of the hair, but this disconnected fringe as the name implies, follows the exact opposite. This type of fringe is shorter, separated from the rest of the cut. It compliments your face without covering it completely, so you can still show off your forehead, makeup, or other features.

Midi Blowout

Midi Blowout @ Sophie Turner: Instagram

This style adds volume at the roots while keeping the mid-lengths smooth and plump, without the curls or bounce of a traditional blowout. The result is airy and suited for anyone looking for a refined look that isn’t stiff or overstyled.

Luxe Brunette

Luxe Brunette @Mia Goth: Instagram

Glossy brunette shades are a key hair color trend this year, and they’re not just for winter. Shades like coffee mocha and deep espresso tones adds dimension to the hair, giving it a clean look that feels luxurious.

Side Parts

Side Parts: Instagram

After years of center parts, the side part is making a comeback. It looks classic and editorial. Hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos, who works with clients like George Clooney, Demi Moore, and Kim Kardashian, says it’s especially flattering for round or heart-shaped faces. A side part can be trained by parting the hair while wet and blow-drying it in place. For extra volume, blow-dry the hair in the opposite direction first, then flip it back. This creates lift and body at the roots.

From sharper cuts and stronger shapes to richer colors, the focus is no longer on “undone” hair, but on looks that feel intentional and well-put-together.