hair

These 5 Hairstyles Are Taking Over (And You'll Want All)

From TikTok to the red carpet, these hair looks are absolutely everywhere right now. Here's why everyone's obsessed and how to get each one at home.

πŸ“ΊTrending on youtube
woman with brown hair covering her face
Photo by Lea Maruani on Unsplash
πŸ’‘

Quick Answer

Five trending hairstyles dominating 2026: lived-in bobs, curtain bang layers, and three more looks that work for multiple hair types. All are TikTok-approved and surprisingly wearable for everyday.

⚑ Key Takeaways

  • ✨Lived-in bobs hit at collarbone length with intentional texture for effortless vibes
  • πŸ’§Use texturizing spray on damp hair then air-dry or diffuse for best results
  • β˜€οΈCurtain bang layers create dimensional movement beyond basic face-framing
  • πŸ’•These styles work across different hair types and don't require daily styling

Okay, can we talk about how crazy the hair scene is right now? I swear every time I open TikTok or YouTube, there's a new hairstyle that has me completely rethinking my entire look. And honestly? I'm not mad about it.

The thing is, these aren't just your typical trend-for-a-week situations. These five hairstyles are literally taking over because they're actually wearable, gorgeous, and work for so many different hair types. I've been testing all of them (my hairstylist probably thinks I've lost it), and I'm obsessed.

So if you've been wondering what all the hype is about or how to nail these looks yourself, I've got you covered. Let's dive into the five hairstyles that are dominating 2026 – and trust me, you're going to want to try at least three of them.

The Lived-In Bob Is Having Its Main Character Moment

I'm not gonna lie, when I first saw this trend popping up everywhere, I thought it was just another messy bob situation. But the lived-in bob is so much more intentional than that. Think of it as the cooler, more effortless sister of the classic bob.

What makes it different? The cut itself has subtle layers and texture that make it look like you just woke up with perfect hair. The length usually hits right at your collarbone, and the ends have this gorgeous, slightly undone finish. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Margot Robbie have been rocking variations of this, and honestly, it's giving major 'I don't try but I look incredible' energy.

To style it at home, I've been using a texturizing spray on damp hair, then either air-drying or using a diffuser. The Ouai Wave Spray has been my go-to – it gives you that perfect undone texture without making your hair feel crunchy. The key is not overthinking it. Scrunch it, shake it out, and you're golden.

Curtain Bang Layers Are Back (And Better Than Ever)

Okay, before you roll your eyes and say 'curtain bangs again?', hear me out. The curtain bang layers trend is taking the classic curtain bang and making it way more dimensional. Instead of just face-framing pieces, you're getting layers throughout that all work together to create this incredible movement.

The TikTok girlies have been calling it 'shag curtain bangs,' and I can see why. It's giving major '70s vibes but in the most modern way possible. The layers start around your cheekbones and cascade down, so you get that face-framing effect but with so much more body and bounce.

Here's the thing about getting this cut: you need a stylist who really understands layering. This isn't a DIY situation, trust me. But once you have the cut, styling is actually pretty easy. I've been using a round brush while blow-drying, focusing on lifting the roots of those face-framing pieces. A little bit of the Moroccanoil Treatment on the ends keeps everything looking smooth and healthy.

The Modern Shag Is Taking No Prisoners

Spoiler alert: the shag is officially back, but it's not your mom's '80s version. The modern shag is more refined, more wearable, and honestly? It works on literally everyone.

What I love about this trend is how versatile it is. Whether you have fine hair that needs volume or thick hair that needs some weight taken off, the modern shag delivers. The key is in the layering – it's choppy enough to add texture and movement, but not so choppy that you look like you stuck your finger in an electrical socket.

I've seen this look trending on YouTube with creators showing how different styling techniques completely transform the same cut. Air-dried, it has this gorgeous, tousled texture. Blown out with a round brush, it becomes sleek and sophisticated. Scrunched with some mousse? Pure rock star vibes.

For styling products, I recommend starting with a volumizing mousse like the Bumble and Bumble Thickening Volume Mousse. It gives you that perfect foundation for whatever vibe you're going for that day.

Face-Framing Money Pieces Are the Ultimate Glow-Up

Real talk: if you're not ready for a full hair transformation but want something that'll completely change your look, money pieces are where it's at. These chunky, face-framing highlights have been absolutely everywhere, and for good reason.

The name comes from the fact that these pieces literally frame your face like money – they're that valuable to your overall look. Usually, they're two to three shades lighter than your base color and placed strategically around your face to highlight your best features.

What makes this trend so genius is how customizable it is. Blonde money pieces on brunette hair? Classic and stunning. Caramel pieces on black hair? Absolutely gorgeous. Even subtle honey highlights on dirty blonde hair can make such a difference.

The maintenance on these is pretty manageable too, which is why I think they're sticking around. You'll need touch-ups every 8-10 weeks depending on how your hair grows, but because they're just around your face, it's not a huge commitment like full highlights.

The Wolf Cut Continues Its World Domination

I know, I know – the wolf cut has been huge for a while now, but it's evolved so much that it deserves a spot on this list. The wolf cut of 2026 is more polished, more versatile, and way more wearable than the original viral version.

For those who might be new to this trend, the wolf cut is basically a mullet-shag hybrid that creates incredible texture and movement. The modern version tones down some of the more dramatic elements while keeping all the benefits – volume, texture, and that effortlessly cool vibe.

What I'm seeing now are 'soft wolf cuts' that work for people who want the texture and movement but maybe aren't ready to fully commit to the more dramatic original. These versions have more subtle layering and are easier to style for everyday wear.

Styling-wise, the wolf cut is pretty low-maintenance, which is probably part of why it's remained so popular. A good texturizing cream like the Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother helps define the layers without weighing them down. You can scrunch it for more texture or smooth it out for a sleeker look.

The best part about all these trends? They're not going anywhere anytime soon. Each one offers something different, whether you want low-maintenance styling, face-framing drama, or a complete hair transformation. And honestly, in a world where we're all looking for ways to feel fresh and confident, a great haircut might just be the perfect place to start.

πŸ’Ž Expert Tips

Master the Lived-In Bob Texture

Apply texturizing spray to damp hair, then scrunch while air-drying or use a diffuser on low heat. The Ouai Wave Spray gives perfect undone texture without crunchiness.

πŸ’« Pro tip: Don't overthink it - the beauty is in the imperfection

Nail Curtain Bang Layers

This isn't just face-framing pieces anymore. The layers should cascade from cheekbones down, creating '70s shag vibes with modern movement and body.

πŸ‘

These Are Actually Worth The Hype

I've literally tried every hair trend that's crossed my feed, and these five are different. They're not high-maintenance, they work with your natural texture instead of against it, and honestly? You'll feel like the main character every single day.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a lived-in bob typically last between cuts?+
Since the style is meant to look undone, you can go 8-10 weeks between trims. The grow-out actually enhances the lived-in texture.
Do curtain bang layers work for thin hair?+
Absolutely! The layering actually creates the illusion of more volume and movement, making thin hair appear fuller and more textured.
Can I style these looks without heat tools?+
Yes! Both styles are designed to look amazing air-dried. Use texturizing products and embrace the natural movement of your hair.

πŸ“š References & Sources

This article is supported by research from the following sources:

  1. Bob Haircuts: Everything You Need to Know β€” Byrdie

    Supports claims about bob hairstyles being versatile and trending, including maintenance information.

    Quick AnswerThe Lived-In Bob Is Having Its Main Character Moment
  2. Curtain Bangs: The Complete Guide β€” Allure

    Supports information about curtain bang layers and their suitability for different hair types.

    Quick AnswerFAQ QUESTIONS
  3. How to Style Hair Without Heat Tools β€” Byrdie

    Supports claims about styling trending hairstyles without heat damage.

    FAQ QUESTIONS

Sources are selected for authority and relevance. External links open in new tabs.

πŸ›οΈ Shop Kyndall’s Favorites

Want product picks that match this topic? Browse Kyndall’s curated favorites.