The 2026 Golden Globes saw a shift in hair trends, with celebrities embracing softer, more refined styles, according to observations from the red carpet and subsequent analysis by stylists. A move away from stark, high-contrast colors and sharply structured cuts is underway, favoring instead nuanced shades and relaxed silhouettes.
One prominent trend is “cashmere blonde,” inspired by the hair transformation of actress Sarah Pidgeon for the television series American Love Story. A reported $10,000 was spent on Pidgeon’s hair to achieve the look after initial wigs were deemed unsatisfactory by fans of Carolyn Bassett Kennedy, whom Pidgeon portrayed. Colorist Kari Hill employed a “cashmere foil” technique to create a seamlessly blended, neutral blonde. Jay Edwards, founder of Edwards & Co, notes that this softer blonde is gaining popularity as clients seek a more “effortless and low-maintenance” look, characterized by “buttery, blended tones” that grow out gracefully.
Alongside lighter shades, “milky brunette” is also emerging as a favored color. Hailey Bieber showcased a version of this trend at the premiere of Wuthering Heights, a blend of beige, caramel, and walnut tones that Edwards describes as an “expensive brunette.” He explains that the key to this look is subtle, glossy color woven through the hair, enhancing rather than dramatically altering the natural brunette shade.
Beyond color, cuts are also evolving. The French bob, a softer and more relaxed alternative to the sharply structured bobs of recent years, is experiencing a resurgence. This bob sits between the chin and jawline with a natural bend, requiring less styling than its predecessors. Edwards emphasizes that the French bob “grows out beautifully,” allowing for easy transitions to longer bobs or soft layers.
Another emerging style is “broken bangs,” an edgier take on the curtain fringe. Inspired by Mia Goth and reminiscent of Sienna Miller’s fringe in Alfie, this style features choppier, piecey ends. Sydney colourist Kirby Lago recommends requesting a fringe cut with disconnected ends for an undone, rather than blunt, look.
The color burnt copper is also gaining traction, offering a warmer alternative to bolder reds, and auburns. Leighton Meester and Winnie Harlow have both adopted the shade, which Edwards describes as a “sophisticated” blend of copper and auburn with smoky undertones. It’s also easier to maintain than brighter copper shades, requiring less frequent root touch-ups.
A broader trend towards embracing natural texture is also influencing hair styling. Edwards notes that clients are increasingly seeking cuts that work *with* their natural hair, whether wavy, curly, or straight, rather than fighting against it. This shift prioritizes enhancing existing texture through layering and shape, simplifying the styling process.
Finally, the side fringe is making a comeback, with Dua Lipa frequently sporting the style. Edwards notes that the modern iteration is softer and more blended into the overall haircut than the dramatic side bangs of the early 2000s.
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