Brian Leo McCallum of ROAR Hair & Beauty identifies specific aesthetic shifts for the AW26 season. These trends focus on high-warmth tones and textured cuts, moving away from last year’s heavy, blunt structures. For salon owners, identifying these shifts early allows for targeted inventory management and staff training before the seasonal rush begins.
The Colour Shift: Spice and Depth
Red hair remains a staple for autumn, but the focus shifts toward warmer, brown-based shades. McCallum highlights “Sriracha red” as the primary trend, which uses brown undertones to soften the intensity. This is a strategic opportunity for colourists; the versatility of the tone allows it to be used in panels or as an all-over gloss, catering to both low-maintenance clients and those seeking high-impact changes.
Alongside the fiery reds, deep plum and violet-based brunettes are gaining momentum. These shades offer a practical alternative for clients hesitant about bleach-heavy processes. Because these tones maintain a natural base while adding richness, they require less aggressive lifting, potentially reducing chair time and chemical costs.
The Cut: Movement Over Precision
The AW26 bob avoids the rigid, heavy lines of previous years. Instead, the focus moves toward “airy” silhouettes created through invisible layering and choppy, lived-in ends. Clients are moving away from sharp precision towards styles that offer volume without the weight. This change in cutting technique requires stylists to master weight removal rather than just length adjustment.
Micro fringes are also set to feature heavily this season. By positioning the fringe high above the eyebrow, stylists can offer a look that adapts to client needs, ranging from sharp, graphic styles to softer, wispy iterations. While this style necessitates more frequent maintenance, it creates a recurring revenue stream for salons, as clients require regular, shorter appointments for fringe management.
Business Implications
These predictions indicate a season defined by texture and tonal richness. Salons should evaluate their current colour lines to ensure they hold the necessary warm-red and violet pigments to meet these specific requests. Furthermore, the push toward lived-in, textured bobs suggests that staff education should prioritise advanced layering techniques rather than traditional blunt cutting methods. Aligning your marketing and social media content with these specific stylistic trends now will capture the interest of clients looking for a seasonal update, converting trend awareness into booked appointments.
