Spring 2026 hair trends to know according to Princess Diana's hairstylist


British hairdressing legend, Sam McKnight, shares his predictions for the upcoming season


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Aaliyah Harry
Aaliyah HarryBeauty Writer
February 12, 2026
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Spring is the time when we all turn over a new leaf, and for beauty lovers, we usher in beautiful new hair trends. This change of season equals lighter days and warmer months, and this is definitely a time when bold hair switches are made. Tobias Bell, hairstylist and UK Amika stylist partner says spring 2026 is all about texture that feels real, less polished perfection, more lived-in movement. "I’m calling it the ‘Undone Revival’ in the salon," he reveals. "Think hair that looks like it’s had a big night out followed by a good sleep, but still somehow falls perfectly. The kind of effortless chaos everyone’s chasing. 90s Kate Moss vibe."

As for hair colours, Tobias predicts the rise of the ‘Sun-Faded Melt.' He explains: "It’s that naturally oxidised look, like you’ve spent a summer riding around with the windows down or spent a good amount of time in the sun. Muted blondes, soft coppery tones, and low-contrast blends that feel sun-kissed and easy.”

a woman with ginger hair bob© Getty Images
Ermanno Scervino SS26 show

But when it comes to hairstyles, who better to reveal the need-to-know hair trends set to take over the approaching months than esteemed British hairdresser Sam McKnight, MBE? He was Princess Diana's hairstylist for seven years and has crafted hundreds of intricate hairstyles for runway shows all over the world. 

Spring 2026 Hairstyles:

The Cool Girl Gleam

glossy black hair © Getty Images
Glass hair is on the up for 2026
Sleek hairstyles champion chic minimalism© Getty Images
Sleek hairstyles champion chic minimalism

'Glass hair' has been a keyword in the beauty world for many years, and it really just stems from the desire to have healthy, glossy hair. Hair and scalp health is more important than ever and this is slowly evolving into hairstyle trends. Sam explains: "This season’s hair story is all about elevated minimalism: beautifully groomed, effortlessly luxe lengths with barely-there movement that gleams. Hyper-healthy hair from root to tip, natural texture refined rather than restrained. The overall finish? Polished to perfection - modern, understated, and undeniably cool.” 

Retro Revival

a model with a curly updo and blue eyeshadow © Launchmetrics
Paul Costelloe
A woman with big blonde curls © Launchmetrics
Sorbier Haute Couture

We are currently living through a throwback era in the beauty world. When it comes to makeup, were reaching for the bright, bold, colour palettes of the 80s and according to the experts, hair trends are following suit. Sam says: "Big, bold, and unapologetically playful - this season is all about exaggerating and embracing voluminous, anti-gravity silhouettes. Think 90s spice bombs with a modern twist: hair that’s larger than life, full of attitude, and effortlessly textured." 

The Modern Muse

a high glam updo © Launchmetrics
House of Aama SS26
richard quinn updo © IK ALDAMA
Richard Quinn

Sam actually created the perfect modern muse updo at the Richard Quinn spring/summer 2026 show and it was breathtaking on the runway. The expert says: "An ode to glamour and elegance. Modern couture is unapologetically high glossed: sculpted into considered silhouettes. A twist or knotted chignon, with effortless decadent volume. Powerfully polished and unmistakably runway-worthy.” 

Sharp, Sleek & Oh-So Chic

Viktor e Rolf Haute Couture Show © Filippo Fortis/IMAXTREE.COM
Viktor + Rolf Haute Couture Show

We are loving the revival of intricate textures and this spring, it's all about the sleek, wet look. "From wet looks to sleek, glossy smooth styles, the spring/summer runway is all about sculpted, architectural silhouettes that feel modern and polished, the expert hairstylist says. "Strands that catch the light, reflecting, almost liquid-like. Controlled, and unapologetically bold- a perfect harmony of shine and structure. Minimal flyaways, maximum impact.”

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