6 Hair Trends Set to Take Over in 2026, From Bixie Cuts to Bouncy Blowouts

The Top 6 Hair Trends of 2026

1. Long Boho Layers

“My clients have been growing out their bobs and shags from 2024, and really liking the change back to long, soft, textured hair with movement,” says Bender. The result? A layered hairstyle that keeps the boho vibes but looks a little more polished. The look’s long layers will maximize volume without sacrificing length, and keep your hair moving naturally instead of sitting heavy on your shoulders. For some added texture, work in a volumizing product like the VERB Volume Dry Texture Spray Mini into your roots.

2. Bixies

No, that’s not a typo—the bixie is the combination of a bob and a pixie. It’s got enough length to frame the face, while still being short enough to hug your head. We’ve seen it everywhere this year, from Tyla to Emma Stone, but this trend actually goes back to the ‘90s. Think Halle Berry, or Bend It Like Beckham-era Keira Knightley. The bixie is super customizable, and can be worn tousled and beachy or sleek and polished. Because it’s a softer cut with rounded edges, it works really well with more angular and square face shapes.

3. Deep Side Parts

We’re still loving parting our hair right down the middle, but next year, it seems the deeper the side part, the better. It’s a simple styling trick that softens jawlines and broad foreheads, and fits pretty much any face shape. The great part about this trend is that anyone can embrace it, regardless of hair length or color. Sweeping your hair dramatically to the side can balance out thick hair by redistributing the mass of your mane, but it can also be great for thin hair as it adds volume to the top of your head. 

Here, make sure to have a pintail comb on hand to get a clean part. Styling is totally up to you, but Bender says you can keep your ‘do healthy by having a quality shampoo and conditioner on hand, or a cleansing conditioner, as well as a leave-in conditioner. The lightweight FOXYBAE HAIR California Dreamin' Leave-In Conditioner is great for restoring thin hair, while the KARMA BEAUTY Repairing Caffeine Leave-In Conditioner softens and strengthens hair from root to rip. 

4. Bombshell Blowouts

A blowout will always look and feel amazing, and 2026 is all about turning up the volume. We’re moving on from sleek and straight styles to ones that feel straight off the Victoria’s Secret runway. Before you turn on your hair dryer though, make sure to ask for a bouncy cut with light layers, or a lob if you have finer hair. This will help you spend less time and effort on your blowout. 

Anyone looking to jump onto the bombshell blowout trend should reach for a smoothing cream like the NAK HAIR Luxe Finishing Crème, which will tame frizz and runaway strands. The right hair tools make all the difference too: “First and foremost, always have a mix bristle flat brush and wide tooth comb. These are great for detangling and distributing products,” says Bender. “The mix bristle brush can also help prolong how often you shampoo,” meaning that work you put into your blowout will last even longer. 

5. Color Melting

“We’re going to be seeing lots of highlights to help add texture and dimension, especially for longer hair,” says Bender. Instead of harsh lines or contrasting money pieces, however, we’ll be seeing a more ombré type of highlight called color melting. Like its name implies, the hairstyle transitions between two tones seamlessly, getting lighter as hair makes its way down from your roots. Color melting isn’t as high contrast as balayage, and its subtle gradient creates the illusion of a more natural look (even if you’re a bottle-blonde). 

6. Sleek Micro Bobs

If you’re wondering how short a bob can get before it enters the bixie territory, let us introduce you to the micro bob. This one’s for those who love sharp and precise hairstyles, and the jaw-skimming cut can be both playful and powerful depending on how you style it. The edges are typically blunt with minimal layering, resulting in a sculpted editorial silhouette. Keep your style sleek with a good hairspray like the FOXYBAE HAIR Strong Hold Hairspray.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re ready to add some layers to your existing cut or go for a fresh new look altogether, there’s plenty of exciting looks to try in 2026. Maybe you’re brave enough to chop your hair into a sleek bob, or maybe you’re planning to perfect your bombshell blowout. Whatever your choice, a good hair regime and quality products will give you a beautiful base to start from. “Don’t forget to always shampoo twice in the shower, and never bring the conditioner up to your roots,” Bender reminds us. Find the best products for your hair type and a curated guide of styling products on the IPSY Shop.