New Year, New You. Hello 2026.

January always arrives with mixed feelings. Another year ticked off, the festive build-up done and dusted, and after weeks of celebrations, indulgent food, a few too many drinks, busy diaries, family time, present wrapping and the compulsory toy testing, it’s no surprise we’re all feeling a little tired and slightly flat.

Which is exactly why January is the perfect time for a reset.

There’s no better way to draw a line under the past year and welcome a new one than with a fresh hairstyle. Whether you’re after a subtle update or something a bit braver, changing your hair is a great way to kick-start the year feeling like yourself again.

We’re sharing the cuts, colours and styles set to shape 2026. From softly textured bobs to big, bouncy blow-dries and glossy, natural colour, there’s plenty of inspiration to help you step into the new year feeling confident.

The 90s Influence Isn’t Going Anywhere

If you’ve been shopping lately, especially for teenagers, you’ll have noticed it straight away. The 90s are still very much alive. Styles that look like they were packed away decades ago have been dusted off and sent straight back onto the rails.

I’ve officially reached the point of saying, “I wore that when I was younger,” which is both terrifying and oddly satisfying.

The 90s were my era. It’s when I grew up, found my feet and started my career in the hair industry. I’ll always have a soft spot for that decade, and some of my all-time favourite hairstyles come from it.

Over the years we’ve constantly revisited those looks, from The Rachel to The Lulu and The Christina, adapting them to suit changing trends. For 2026, that influence is still strong but with a softer, more wearable finish.

Think fluffy layers, movement and texture rather than heavy, overworked cuts. 90s-inspired layered styles are staying put this year, especially when paired with face-framing pieces and wispy fringes. The key is lightness. Ask your stylist for soft, feathered layers rather than chunky ones, as the cutting technique makes all the difference.

The Bob, But Better

Bobs continue to dominate in 2026, but they’re evolving. Jaw-length cuts, collarbone-skimming lobs and sleek ‘it-girl’ bobs are all having a moment.

Centre partings are still popular, as are blunt bobs softened with texture rather than loads of layers. Texture is the secret weapon here. It refreshes a classic bob without losing its shape and works beautifully whether you wear your hair straight, wavy or slightly tousled. For those who want something chic but low effort, a softly layered lob with face-framing pieces is one of the most requested styles this year.

Big, Bouncy Blow-Dries Are Back

One trend that’s making a confident return in 2026 is the bouncy blow-dry. Volume is back and it’s unapologetic. It’s not always the easiest look to recreate at home, but a few simple steps can help. After washing and conditioning, rough dry the hair using a brush, ideally with your head upside down to build lift at the roots. A good volumising product will help support the style.

While the hair is still warm, use a curling tong, wand or heated rollers to set the shape. Pin the curls and let them cool fully. Once released, shake the hair out, work through with your fingers and finish with a light mist of hairspray for movement and hold. The result should feel soft, full and effortless rather than stiff.

Colour for 2026: Glossy, Warm and Expensive-Looking

After years of embracing natural textures and lower-maintenance colour, 2026 continues that theme but with a more polished finish.

Subtle highlights, seamless blends and glossy, healthy-looking hair are key. One of the biggest colour trends is still what many call “expensive blonde” or “expensive brunette”. This technique uses finely woven lighter sections to add softness and contrast, rather than a full head of highlights. It grows out beautifully and looks understated but luxurious.

Warmer tones are also firmly back. Think honey and almond blondes, rich chocolates, deep brunettes and even cherry cola or copper shades for those wanting a bit more depth. These colours add dimension, warmth and shine, while flattering the complexion.

We’re genuinely excited about what 2026 has in store. New trends, fresh ideas and helping our clients feel confident in their hair never gets old for us.

Here’s to a happy, healthy and stylish New Year. And if 2026 is already calling, now’s the perfect time to get ahead - CLICK HERE and book in to get your hair ready for 2026.