Top hair colour trends for 2026

Colour is the quickest way to refresh your look — and this year is all about shades that grow out gracefully and suit real life.

Expensive brunette

Rich, glossy browns with subtle caramel and chocolate tones. Ask your colourist for low-contrast babylights so regrowth is soft.

Soft, lived-in blonde

Rather than icy platinum, think buttery and beige blondes with a gently rooted finish. Ideal if you want fewer salon visits.

Copper and strawberry tones

Warm reds remain popular. They fade faster than other shades, so book a gloss or toner between appointments.

Before you book

• Look at a salon's recent work on their Near2 profile.
• Ask for a patch test at least 48 hours before any colour service.
• Bring photos of colours you like and ones you don't.

A good colourist will be honest about what's achievable in one visit, especially if you're going lighter.