New year, new hair energy.
As we step into 2026, the biggest hair trends are all about effortless luxury – think natural texture, glossy finishes, and colours that feel lived-in yet refined. At Epic Hair Designs, we have rounded up what’s making waves this year (and what we’re finally leaving behind).
What’s In:
1. Expensive-Looking Colour
“Rich hair” isn’t going anywhere. Warm brunettes, soft golden blondes, and dimensional balayage are dominating the year. The goal? Hair that looks effortlessly luxurious and healthy – like you’ve just stepped out of a salon, even on your day off.
Try it with: multi-tonal highlights, subtle face-framing pieces, and glossing treatments to add depth and shine.
2. The Gloss Era
Healthy, shiny hair is the new status symbol. This year’s clients are chasing glass-like smoothness with in-salon gloss services, bond-building treatments, and ultra-nourishing oils.
Our go-tos: Kérastase Fusio-Dose for instant radiance, Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore for luxury hydration, and K18 to repair from within.
3. Effortless Texture & Natural Movement
Perfectly undone is the new perfectly styled. Natural waves, soft layers, and air-dried finishes are trending big for 2026. It’s all about working with your hair’s natural pattern — not against it.
Stylist tip: Use a lightweight styling cream or texturising spray to enhance your natural shape without stiffness.
4. The Luxe Blowout Revival
The ‘90s and early 2000s blowout is back, but it’s softer and bouncier this time around. Clients are embracing big volume, rounded ends, and that timeless “salon-fresh” feel.
Get the look: Ask for layered cuts that frame the face, then maintain the bounce with a round brush and a heat protectant like Color Wow Dream Coat or Goldwell StyleSign sprays.
What’s Staying for 2026?
- Lived-in colour: Natural, low-maintenance shades continue to dominate.
- Soft face-framing layers: Perfect for adding shape and movement.
- Bond repair treatments: K18, Olaplex, and Fusio-Dose remain must-haves for maintaining strength and shine.
- Healthy-hair focus: Clients are prioritising condition and longevity over temporary trends — and we love to see it.
What’s Out for 2026?
1. Over-Processed Platinum
Harsh, icy blondes are fading out. In their place? Warmer, creamier tones that feel soft and wearable.
2. Heavy Contouring Highlights
Chunky streaks and high-contrast foils are making way for blended, seamless tones that grow out beautifully.
3. Stick-Straight, Stiff Styles
2026 is about movement. Ultra-flat hair is being replaced by touchable, bouncy texture that feels alive.
4. Neglecting Haircare
Gone are the days of skipping treatments and hoping for the best. Clients now understand that the right shampoo, mask, and oil are as essential as the colour itself.
Step Into 2026 with Epic Hair Designs!
Whether you’re ready to refresh your colour, add new layers, or revive your shine, our stylists are here to bring your 2026 hair goals to life.
