The Hair Color Trends That Should Be On Your Radar For 2026

When the ball drops at midnight on December 31, it's the signal for change and new beginnings. With that comes a fresh look, and since 2026 is all about hair trends you won't be able to avoid, that includes switching up your color. While previous years saw intense fads like cherry cola hair and platinum blonds take the forefront, you'll be seeing softer versions now. Celebrity hairstylist and salon owner, Jennifer Korab, exclusively tells Women, "Hair color trends over the last one to two years have evolved toward softer, more nuanced dimensions, moving away from stark contrast and overly bold statements. The focus has shifted to color that enhances natural features, complements skin tone, and wears beautifully over time."

Those who are into haircuts for a quiet luxury look will be happy to know that color trends this year fall into that same category. "Looking to 2026, hair color will continue to be influenced by high fashion, refined beauty aesthetics, and personalization. Expect elevated, lived-in tones with subtle warmth, thoughtful placement, and a luxurious, low-maintenance feel," Korab shares. So, if you're looking for a new 'do, remember that easy and breezy looks are the move for 2026.

Celebs have rocked the chic money piece hair trend for years, but now, styles are shifting to a more seamless look. According to hair expert Jennifer Korab, rather than streaks of highlights framing the face, we'll be seeing gradual multi-dimensional color. "Soft sculpted blends focus on seamless dimension and natural movement, with color placed to enhance the face and flow of the hair. It's ideal for anyone who wants a polished, lived-in result that grows out effortlessly and feels low maintenance," she exclusively advises Women.

Let's face it — platinum blond is cool, but stripping your hair of all color can wreak havoc on your strands. The good news for blond folks is that a warmer, less icy shade is trending this year, per Jennifer Korab. Golden champagne blond will be everywhere, with the stylist exclusively describing to us, "A warm, luminous blond that sits between beige and honey, offering brightness without harsh contrast. This shade works best for warm or neutral skin tones and for anyone wanting a softer, more flattering take on blond."

Red hair will never go out of style, but folks can expect this gorgeous hue to take on a more subtle look in 2026. "Red tones shift toward refined, smoky warmth with shades like cinnamon, auburn, and soft copper. These colors feel rich and elevated rather than bold, making them a great option for brunettes wanting to add warmth or clients with warmer undertones," Jennifer Korab exclusively shares with Women. So, if you're ready for a color change, avoid anything in the purple range that was popular in recent years, and lean more toward earthy palettes for an updated take on red hair.

Can't decide between blond and brunette hair? A combo of both is the best way to step into 2026, especially when you go for a mix that shimmers in the light. "A modern blend of blond and brunette with cool, pearly undertones that feel clean and chic. This shade is perfect for clients who prefer cooler tones but want something softer and more wearable than traditional ash," hairstylist Jennifer Korab exclusively tells Women. This gorgeous take on brond changes according to the lighting, making it one color trend you'll never get bored with.

One-note brunette hair can look a bit lifeless, which is why you should add a bit of depth with some rich colors. This year, we'll be seeing some cooler hues, with Jennifer Korab exclusively noting to Women, "Brunettes take on a deeper, smoky finish with mocha and neutral undertones, creating rich shine and natural-looking dimension. This look is ideal for anyone wanting depth and gloss without going overly dark or flat." And, a bonus with smoky brunette shades is that there is less need for touch-ups, especially if you have grays that blend in seamlessly with the rest of your hair.