“It works on any hair length”: Kim Kardashian’s hairstylist reveals THE must-have haircut for summer 2026
This summer of 2026, one standout haircut is taking the spotlight in salons and on red carpets alike. Chris Appleton, celebrity hairstylist and creative director at Color Wow, revealed it in a recent interview. His verdict is clear, and it’s sure to shake things up when you book your next appointment at the salon.
Chris Appleton, the hair expert who sets trends
Chris Appleton has been styling the hair of numerous celebrities for several years. As a result, he has established himself as one of the most influential experts in the hair industry.
Whether on the red carpet or on the streets, he’s noticing a return to more natural, relaxed, and effortless looks. This firsthand perspective gives him a head start on upcoming trends.
In an interview for Color Wow—the brand where he serves as creative director—he shared his vision for the top trends of 2026. From cuts and colors to hair care routines and mistakes to avoid, he breaks it all down in detail.
A Return to Nature That’s Gaining Momentum
According to Chris Appleton, the era of ultra-straight hair is gradually coming to an end. Overly stiff hairstyles are giving way to more loose and airy looks.
This trend toward a lighter look is no small matter. It reflects a deep desire for simplicity and authenticity, whether on the street or at a party.
“This hairstyle gives you a sense of freedom and femininity. The hair moves naturally, which gives it a seductive and very modern look.”
The layered bombshell cut: THE must-have hairstyle for summer 2026
If he had to choose just one haircut for this summer, the expert wouldn’t hesitate: the layered bombshell cut. Inspired by Hollywood glamour, it features soft, airy layers that frame the face.
The goal is not to create visible lines. Instead, we’re aiming for a fluid, natural look, with volume and movement along the lengths.
What’s more, this cut has a practical advantage: it works with almost any hair length. It can be styled on long bob cuts, medium-length hair, or very long hair.
- A soft gradient that frames the face without any visible lines
- Volume and movement at every length
- A hairstyle that works for long bob, medium-length, and long hair
- A fluid, natural look inspired by Hollywood glamour
- A sense of freedom and femininity, according to Chris Appleton
Why the Cup is so popular in 2026
This summer’s hottest haircut is a hit thanks to its versatility. You don’t have to change your hair length to rock it, making it an option that’s accessible to everyone.
As a result, it fits perfectly with this trend toward more natural, low-maintenance looks. The hair moves, breathes, and adapts effortlessly to everyday life.
The ideal hair care routine for rocking this trend
Getting the summer’s hottest haircut isn’t enough if you don’t follow through with the right routine. Looser, more airy hairstyles require the right products—ones designed to preserve movement without weighing the hair down.
That’s where Color Wow comes in. The brand has made a name for itself with formulas designed to add volume, shine, and lightness without weighing down the hair shaft.
Among its best-known products is the Dream Coat, which has become a must-have for taming hair. There’s also the Xtra Large Bombshell Volumizer, for spectacular volume without a stiff, cardboard-like finish, and the Money Mist, an invisible all-in-one product that boosts shine without compromise.
In short, each product addresses a specific need for this summer’s must-have haircut: volume, lightness, and natural shine. So this trend isn’t limited to a trip to the salon—it can also be maintained at home with the right techniques and products.
This must-have haircut for summer 2026 embodies a modern vision of hair beauty: less restriction, more movement, and a look that speaks for itself at first glance.
