Hair trends 2026: a famous hairstylist reveals the cuts, hairstyles and colors that make a difference

In 2026, the beauty conversation is over shoulders: hairstyles designed for real life, without hours of blow-drying. According to hairstylist Étienne Sekola, the balance is between movement, shine and ease of hold from morning to night. As a result, each length gains in naturalness, but retains a precise, visible intention.

2026: soft volumes and clean lines

The watchword is breathable structure, legible without being rigid. What’s more, the volumes are placed around the face to open it up, then gently blend into the nape of the neck. In short, the cut serves the texture, not the other way around, to preserve the material.

Sekola describes a return to clear shapes, supported by measured, controlled gradation. The bob can be worn straight or micro, slightly rounded at the tips to catch the light. On the other hand, overly pronounced separations give way to supple, sleek movements.

For a modern look, the material remains light and controlled, without excess products. A low-heat blow-dry is often all that’s needed to set the direction of the strands. Hairstyles gain hold without losing their native suppleness.

“The right gesture in the right place makes all the difference.

Short cuts revisited

Longer pixie, bixie or mixie, the short is smart and practical. The nape of the neck stays neat, while the top lengths stretch to modulate volume. These options create agile hairstyles that are easy to recomb between appointments.

However, there’s nothing ultra-fixed about it: a sideways movement adds character without hardening the features. Also, a tapered fringe can soften the look without weighing down the overall line. As a result, the silhouette retains relief and allure throughout the day.

• Soft volumes and clean lines for a clear, lively style.
• Measured gradations to support texture without flattening it.
• Adjustable bangs for cheekbones or eyebrows.
• Natural finish with gentle drying and controlled movement.
• Fast maintenance to keep a realistic daily pace.

Fluid lengths, bangs and airy gradations

Mid-length hair takes on a modernized, luminous ’70s vibe. The curtain fringe is set at cheekbone level to balance volume. In addition, a light gradient frames the eyes without deepening the lengths or ends.

From now on, shaping will focus on the original texture with short strokes. On the other hand, a slight twist with an iron or waveur is all that’s needed to amplify the natural spring. As a result, movement appears spontaneous and luminous, and remains mobile throughout the day.

When it comes to maintenance, the rule remains simple: little product, well placed and well distributed. A dab of styling cream helps smooth baby hairs and secure ends. Hairstyles on long lengths are best treated with a light, targeted load of product.

I cannot extract a list of product references from the article provided, as the content consulted does not include any precise commercial references (brands, models, prices).
The text focuses exclusively on hair trends described by Étienne Sekola, with generic mentions of unbranded products.

Colors: measured warmth and careful highlights

Sekola relies on easy-to-live-with tones designed to last. Cocoa brown and smoky chestnut intensify shine without weighing down the base. In addition, strategic amber highlights awaken the complexion and blur shadowy areas.

For blonds, the vanilla spirit is nuanced, without turning to cold platinum. On the other hand, a few luminous veils around the face are enough to brighten up the cut. As a result, the overall look remains chic and progressive, even with visible, well-assumed regrowth.

When it comes to copper, softness takes precedence over saturation to avoid a mask effect. Peach or cinnamon shades soften fair skin tones and warm up neutral complexions. In short, color supports the cut, never crushing or hardening it.

Daily routines and styling

Styling follows three simple steps: preparation, drying and finishing, without rushing. A texturizing spray is applied to the lengths, then dried in a controlled motion. In addition, two fingers of cream can be used to discipline the hair without making the roots hard or greasy.

For curls, it’s best to diffuse at low temperature to limit frizz. Also, crumple the ends with your palm to activate natural elasticity. These cues help express hairstyles stay tidy longer, even in humid weather.

Finally, the parting can be moved according to the mood of the day and the location. On the other hand, we avoid straightening the whole style, to preserve its springiness and movement. In this way, hairstyles gain in personality, without superfluous effort or visible artifice.

• hairstyles