As annual trend forecasts surface alongside New Year’s resolutions and curated “in and out” lists, they quietly offer insight into the cultural direction of the year ahead. While fleeting fashion trends can impact both personal style and the environment, they remain a valuable lens into evolving tastes.
From Pinterest’s rising “poetcore” aesthetic to a shift in fragrance preferences—moving from vanilla to deeper, expressive scents—style forecasts reflect deeper shifts. So, what’s next for hair in 2026? To find out, four leading stylists shared the cutting-edge looks poised to take over salons this year.
The Bold Revival of the Fringe
Tara-Lee Mitchell, founder of Melbourne’s Mitch Studio, believes that 2026 will be all about bold bangs. “We’ve seen fringe variations recently, but the modern take is shorter, stronger, and more daring,” she shares. She references Dakota Johnson’s long blunt fringe in *Materialists* and Odessa A’zion’s curly bang look as standout examples.
“A fringe is a simple way to transform your style,” Tara says. “It adds structure while your hair grows out—just ensure it’s tailored to your natural texture.”
The Comeback of the Grown-In Side Fringe
Remi Jeffers, cutting educator at Edwards and Co, anticipates a resurgence of the grown-in side fringe. Characterized by softly blended bangs that fall between the jawline and cheekbones, it offers face-framing softness without long-term styling commitment.
“Ask for extended side bangs that naturally blend into layers,” Remi recommends. “It’s low-effort, flattering, and fits well with the more relaxed beauty vibe we’re seeing in 2026.”
Scandi Bangs Still Lead the Pack
Jaye Edwards, founder of Edwards and Co, agrees with the bang trend and emphasizes the lasting popularity of Scandi bangs. “They’re light, feathery, and offer a quick style refresh,” he notes.
These airy, eye-framing bangs are cut slightly shorter in the center and soften outward toward the cheekbones. “They’re easy to wear—whether you prefer a clean middle part for that Scandinavian elegance or something tousled and French-inspired,” Jaye explains.
Long Hair and Feminine Aesthetics Make a Comeback
Becc Snow, founder of Alchemy salon in Melbourne, predicts a return to longer, more feminine hairstyles in 2026. “Many women and femme-presenting people embraced masculine cuts to reclaim control,” she says, “but now there’s a shift back to embracing softness and length.”
She sees a rise in whimsical long hair with bangs, and even expects a boom in the popularity of hair extensions as femininity reclaims the spotlight.
Pixies, Bixies, and Shorter Cuts Rise
Despite the return of length, Becc also forecasts a big moment for short haircuts—especially the feminine pixie crop. “It’s all about opening up the face and not hiding behind layers,” she notes.
Remi adds that the bixie—a blend between a pixie and bob—is set to become a favorite. Falling between the jawline and collarbone, it combines structure with soft movement. “It’s sharper than a bob, gentler than a pixie,” she explains.
For the perfect bixie, Remi suggests requesting a clean bob length with internal layering and a soft, textured perimeter. “What makes it special is how effortlessly cool it feels.”
