It’s true that frizz doesn’t discriminate when it comes to hair type, although some of us are more susceptible than others. The trouble begins when moisture in the air penetrates the hair shaft, causing strands to swell and lose their smooth finish. And while humidity is often the driving force behind frizz, dryness and damage can make matters worse.

And while we typically associate high humidity with the summer months, autumn isn't without its challenges. Damp, drizzly days bring plenty of moisture, while blustery winds, woolly hats and the drying effects of central heating only add to the problem. The result? A perfect recipe for frizzy hair.

Thankfully, a few simple changes to your haircare routine can make all the difference. Ahead, celebrity hairstylist Sam McKnight MBE shares his three golden rules for reducing frizz. “These easy changes can improve manageability and ensure you aren't fighting your hair in the autumn/winter months,” he says.

Tip 1: Give your hair a moisture boost

While the aim is to keep excess moisture in the air from penetrating the hair shaft, maintaining moisture within the hair itself is just as important. According to McKnight, keeping hair well-conditioned is paramount if you want frizz-free strands.

“Conditioning the hair is crucial – it nourishes, adds shine, detangles and can be the key to softer, easier-to-manage hair,” he explains. His top tip? “Always squeeze out excess water before applying your best conditioner – if your hair’s dripping wet, the product won’t absorb properly.”

For an extra hit of hydration, McKnight also recommends incorporating a leave-in conditioner or repairing mist into your routine. His Stronger Love Bond Repair Spray, for instance, contains Keraguard, which he says helps defend against heat, humidity and environmental stressors that can contribute to frizz and damage.

Tip 2: Rethink your post-wash routine

How you handle your hair straight after washing can make all the difference to how smooth it looks once dry. And if you're guilty of vigorously rubbing your hair with a towel, McKnight suggests taking a gentler approach. “When styling, to prevent frizz and keep the cuticle smooth, gently squeeze/pat hair dry with a towel – no rubbing – and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle,” he advises.

Before reaching for the hairdryer, it's also worth considering your styling products. “When blow-drying always use heat protection,” says McKnight, who recommends choosing a product that addresses your particular hair concerns. “If you want a smooth blow-dry, opt for one with de-frizzing and de-fluffing capabilities.”

Tip 3: Perfect your blow-drying technique

“When blow-drying, try not to use the highest heat if you can,” he advises, explaining that the ideal temperature will depend on your hair type and desired style. “Thicker, coarser hair types might need a higher heat for control,” he says, whereas those with finer hair can generally stick to a medium heat setting, provided they're not trying to change their natural texture, such as going from curly to straight.

Temperature aside, position matters too. “Try not to hold the hairdryer right on the hair, to minimise excessive heat on each section. A few inches away makes a big difference,” says McKnight, who also recommends directing the airflow down the length of the hair to encourage a smoother finish.

And for those who frequently experience frizz, a concentrator nozzle can be a worthwhile addition. “For anyone prone to frizz, or for thicker hair, a nozzle on your hairdryer will help smooth and flatten,” he explains, although it's worth bearing in mind that this can work against you if you're hoping to add volume.

Jerry Hall - what's not to love? The iconic supermodel has served us decades of beauty and style inspiration, and is now lighting up the Celebrity Traitors castle with her charm and willingness to get wield a crowbar (Texans are 'good with tools,' drawled Hall)

While we eagerly watch Season 2 of the BBC phenomenon unfold, another aspect of Hall's inner - and outer - sparkle has caught our eye. Her hair. That trademark long, blonde 'do shimmers with health, so we've gone full 'faithful on a warpath' to investigate which of the best hair masks is responsible.

Luckily, we didn't have to dig too far. In a recent interview with Harper's Bazaar, Hall spilt the tea on her makeup, hair and skincare secrets in her 70th year, including an unexpected hair treatment that usually rings un under £10.

“I've been dying my hair since I was about 14. I just do my roots, like every six weeks or so,” Hall explained, going on to share her take on how often you should wash your hair, and air drying tips, “Don't wash it very often. I wash it every 10 days or something. I never use a blow dryer either, I just let it dry."

Then came her secret weapon, not an ultra-luxury treatment, but an everyday kitchen staple you probably already own: "Every now and then, I soak it in oil, either olive oil or rosemary oil," explained Jerry,

Applying oils to the hair is, of course, nothing new. Not only do the natural fatty acids in olive oil nourish dry hair, but they also temporarily 'seal' split ends for smoothness and help moisturise a dry, tight scalp.

And while many see scalp oil for hair growth as a recent trend thanks to various oils finding TikTok fame, this is a practice with its roots in Ayurvedic culture, where hair oiling is a traditional self-care ritual dating back centuries.

We're all for a handy food-beauty crossover, but if you'd prefer to keep your routine separate, there are plenty of hair-specific treatments incorporating olive oil you could try instead.

Wondering how to use olive oil to nourish your hair without ending up with greasy, lank locks? This all comes down to hair type, but it's always a good idea to start with damp, clean hair, so it's as porous as possible.

If you have fine to medium hair, apply oil from the mid-lengths to the ends only, then wash it out after 10-15 minutes. Thicker hair types may want to leave it in overnight (wearing a bonnet will prevent stains on your pillowcase), and those with very thick, coarse or naturally textured hair could apply a few drops after washing instead of a leave-in conditioner, then blow-dry it into the hair.

Whatever works for you, this is an adaptable, affordable and beneficial treatment that's well worth a go. If it's good enough for Jerry Hall...

Whether you're keen to give your sun-bleached strands a subtle but cosy refresh or to completely reinvent yourself this season, maple blonde is the celebrity-approved shade to consider.

In our experience, the shift from summer to autumn often brings a feeling of restlessness and a desire for change, especially when it comes to our hair. The sort that can only be solved with a trim, a spontaneous fringe or a colour refresh, as well as a bit of post-heat TLC from the best hair masks. Clearly, we're not alone in this, as we've spotted several celebs refreshing or completely transforming their hair, and while we tend to see coppers and rich brunette shades spike in demand, there's one slightly more unexpected shade they all seem to have in common.

'Maple blonde,' like that of strawberry beige, which is tipped to be a very popular autumn colour trend, leans away from the icy, platinum tones we've seen in years past. Instead, it embraces warmth and a bit of brassiness - and already, we've counted three stars sporting the look.

What is the maple blonde hair trend?

This sort of maple-y blonde hair colour combines rich golden tones with a touch of syrupy warmth, like its namesake syrup and the reddish tint of a maple tree's leaves. The shade has warm, coppery undertones, whilst still being blonde. It feels similar to this year's strawberry beige trend and like an evolution of 2024's Sunflower blonde trend.

As mentioned, it's proving to be quite a September favourite among celebs, with the likes of Julia Roberts and Jessica Chastain swapping their natural, copper strands for this rich blonde tone. Nicole Kidman has also debuted a warmer blonde colour at the Practical Magic 2 premiere, which we think again captures the shift towards creamier, strawberry blondes and away from cold, icier ones.

As we can see, it feels very soft and quite cosy for the season ahead, and offers a fresh contrast against all the camel trench coats, dark wool coats and chunky knit sweaters we'll all soon be wearing.

What to request for maple blonde hair

Luckily for those who want to embrace this soft, autumnal hue, there's plenty of celebrity reference photos to show your hairdresser. If you're already blonde, you can request a warmer, golden gloss colour, which will deposit a semi-permanent tint and a lustrous shine to your strands - ideal for a subtle and fairly low-maintenance hair update. Adding warmer highlights or lowlights is also a good option for adding depth and dimension.

If you have darker hair and want to go lighter, you can discuss the process with your hairdresser, who can advise the best course of action for achieving this rich, syrupy look.

Several A-listers have recently swapped their longer lengths for bob hairstyles. Take Eva Longoria’s shaggy bob, Halle Berry’s French bob and Helen Mirren’s soft crop, for proof. But while shorter styles can look incredibly impactful, they can be limiting when it comes to updos.

It’s something our Editor-in-Chief, Hannah Fernando, encounters with her own short bob, particularly on holidays: “When you’re away it still feels hot,” she says. “Is there anything you can do to get it off your neck, tie it up and still look good?”

The answer, according to celebrity hairstylist Michael Douglas, who has worked with the likes of Kate Moss and Claudia Schiffer, is yes – although shorter lengths do present a challenge. “The shorter the hair, the harder it is to get up,” he explains.

Fortunately, you don’t need enough length for a ponytail hairstyle to get your hair up and away from your neck. With a little texturising spray, two Kirby grips and a hair pin, Michael quickly transformed Hannah’s bob into a chic, secure style. Here, he shows us exactly how to recreate it.

Tip #1: Add texture and grip first

This step is especially important for anyone with naturally straight, soft strands, as some added grit will help the hair stay in place. “Because your hair is straight, it wants to slip away, so we need something in the hair to kind of grip it together,” Michael explains.

To give Hannah’s hair that all-important hold, Michael spritzes a texturising spray through the back, lifting sections as he goes to ensure the product is evenly distributed. “I would get a product – either this or something like this – in the hair at the back,” he says. The aim isn’t to create lots of volume or make the hair feel stiff, but simply to give those silky lengths enough grip to hold together once you start pinning.

Tip #2: Twist the hair in on itself

Once you’ve added some grip, gather as much of the hair as you can towards the nape of the neck. Rather than trying to secure the shorter lengths into a conventional ponytail, Michael simply twists them together. “Once you twist the hair, it starts to fold in on itself,” he explains, creating a loose pleat at the back of the head.

Next, it’s time to secure the twist. “The trick with Kirby grips is to take one and slide it downwards into the pleat or the roll,” says Michael. Any shorter ends that are still poking out can simply be tucked into the fold before using a hair pin to hold them in place. Despite using just two Kirby grips and one hair pin, Hannah notes that the finished updo for short hair feels “really secure”.

Tip #3: Leave a few pieces loose

Don’t worry if a few shorter pieces escape around the ears – in fact, Michael prefers it that way. “I like bits hanging down and hair loose around the ear as well,” he says. Leaving a few strands free gives the updo a softer, more relaxed finish, rather than making it look too slick and polished.

If you do prefer a neater hair up style, simply use a Kirby grip to slide any loose pieces back into place. Michael also suggests adding a decorative grip – he finishes Hannah’s style with a pearl-adorned one – which can double up as an easy way to secure any stray strands. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to hold everything in place while retaining the height through the top.

Have you ever woken up to discover your hair has taken on some major, unexpected frizz? That’s what happened to me. Over the course of 2026, I've noticed my locks changing. While I’ve always had fairly dry, weak hair that suffers from hair breakage (thanks, heated tools and bleach), I’ve never really experienced frizz. So naturally, I started to question what had changed.

Toreverse my newfound flyaways, I perused my social media feed: what new products, techniques, or trends could help? I found Abbey Yung and her now-viral 11-step method. I got to work drenching my hair in the best hair masks for recovery and styling mists. But just weeks in, I started to notice my hair wasn’t really getting better. In fact, it seemed to be looking worse.

That’s when I discovered what many critics of the Yung method point to: the routine is heavy on protein and bonding formulas, overuse of which can leave hair dry, brittle and even frizzy – the opposite of what you're after. It’s referred to as "protein overload". On a mission to work out what was really going on with my hair, I reached out to trusted trichologists and stylists to investigate.

What are protein treatments?

Before going any further, it’s important to clarify that protein treatments are not the same as bond-building treatments. While some might also be formulated with protein, others rely only on targeted active chemical compounds that work differently.

Bond builders for hair target “disrupted disulphide or ionic interactions within the hair fibre after chemical or thermal processing, rather than simply coating the hair with protein,” explains Holden. It's therefore important to check specific products and what they contain, especially if you’re concerned about protein ‘overload.’

That said, Trichologist Kate Holden explains that overusing bond builders “can make your hair feel coated or stiff,” and that reaching for one bonding product a week is “enough for most hair types.”

Protein overload explained

When used correctly, protein products can be hugely beneficial, particularly for hair that’s been compromised. They have the capacity to penetrate the hair’s cuticle to smooth, strengthen and – perhaps ironically given this subject matter – reduce frizz.

“Hair is made primarily of keratin, a structural protein. Everyday factors such as colouring, bleaching, heat styling and UV exposure can damage the hair cuticle and weaken those protein structures,” explains Caroline Hall, Trichologist and founder of R&R Aesthetics. “Protein-based products temporarily fill small areas of damage along the hair shaft, helping hair feel stronger, smoother and less prone to breakage.”

However, importantly, not all hair types need an abundance of topical protein products. It’s most beneficial for those with dryness, frailty and breakage, hence why some who adopt a protein-rich routine find it just doesn’t work for them.

“There are a lot of protein products on the market, and it’s become a bit of a trend, but actually only fragile hair needs protein,” says Christel Barron-Hough, Founder of STIL Salon. “Often hair lacks moisture, hydration and bond-building support, so while protein products are good, they need to be chosen for the right hair needs as they’re often overused.” For those without sensitised hair, “it can actually have the opposite effect and create a more brittle texture,” she adds.

Holden also notes that those with curly hair may need to be more cautious, too. “Curly hair isn't inherently 'protein-sensitive,’ [but] because it tends to be drier, more porous and more vulnerable to mechanical damage, it's often quicker to feel stiff or less flexible if protein-rich products are overused without enough moisture.”

Even hair that responds well to protein products still only needs a certain amount, because buildup is possible. “While protein overload isn't common, repeatedly using multiple protein-heavy products can leave your hair feeling stiff, dry, rough, or more prone to snapping," says Holden. "There's no set amount that's 'too much', it depends on your hair's condition, porosity and how damaged it is."

What are the signs of protein overload

First, look at your routine. Hall says that protein overload is more likely if you’re “layering multiple protein-rich products several times a week.”

This is one of the biggest reasons I believe I may have been overdoing it. Rather than simply incorporating a weekly or fortnightly protein treatment into my regimen, I realised I’d been reaching for protein and bond-building products at pretty much every step: washing, blow-drying and styling. If a quick analysis of your collection leads you to believe you may be doing too much, chances are you very well might be.

Next, the condition of hair should also come into consideration. I noticed a clear correlation between when I started to invest more and more in constant protein or bond-building formulas, and when my hair started to become frizzier.

Am I saying this means it’s the sole cause of my flyaways? No. But was it contributing to my hair staying frizzy and dry? Quite possibly. “Hair overloaded with protein often feels dry, rough, brittle or unusually stiff," says Hall. "Instead of becoming stronger, it may actually become more prone to snapping because it's lost some of its flexibility."

How to fix it - and have a balanced haircare routine

If you suspect you may have been going too hard on the protein or bond builders, it may be time to simply take a step back for a few weeks. Give your hair a little break and see what happens.

“Pause protein-rich products for a while and switch to moisturising shampoos, conditioners and masks," Holden advises. "In most cases, the hair gradually regains softness and flexibility over the next few washes. Clarifying the hair [with gentle detoxifying shampoos] may also be useful to remove product residue."

Then, reintroduce a protein-based product or simply stick to a bond-building treatment once or twice a month. The easiest way to ensure your hair is reaping the benefits without build-up is to pick one type of product and to use it strictly as directed, rather than every day or every wash.

Struggling to choose just one to invest in? Holden says a leave-in treatment is usually the preferable choice: “Treatments have longer contact time, allowing strengthening ingredients to better work on the hair fibre. Shampoos are rinse-off, so they're less likely to deliver a noticeable strengthening effect.”

Going forward, I will be taking a two-to-three-week break from any protein-heavy products or bond-builders, then slowly reintroducing the K-18 leave-in mask every fortnight, forgoing any similar shampoos, masks or styling products. As with everything, it’s about moderation – and understanding that, sometimes, less is more.

When it comes to hair styling tools, it's always worth considering your hair type, needs, and personal preferences to ensure the best results.

Whether you want one of the quietest hair dryers for a minimally-noisy blow-dry or one of the best hot brushes for bouncy results, the best hair dryer means something different to everyone.

Thankfully, Cloud Nine's hair dryer lineup has got us covered, having developed a tool range that supports every hair type, texture and styling routine. Fortunately for us, said collection has been expanded to include three all-new hair dryers – here's how to find the right one for you...

Marking the start of a new era, Cloud Nine has more than doubled its two-tool Air collection with the launch of three new hair dryers. Between the Airshot Pro Mini, Hot Air Brush and Airshot Pro Adapt, the expansion provides a solution for every styling routine.

The new trio caters to a wider range of hair types, textures, preferences and budgets. From fine to thick and curly to straight, it's never been easier to achieve salon-quality results at home in no time at all – without compromising the health of your strands.

While the portable Airshot Pro Mini might be best suited to those always on the go or who are seeking a lightweight tool that prevents arm ache, the Airshot Pro Adapt is perfect for those who want more precise and controlled styling. Alternatively, the Hot Air Brush is ideal for those with fine, limp strands that are lacking volume and bounce.

More hair styling tools from Cloud Nine

Now you're well acquainted with the trio of newbie tools, let us introduce you to the brand's two original hair dryers – plus the clever air-powered curling wand dryer attachments.

One of the many appeals of a bob hairstyle is that its shorter length should, in theory, make styling a little easier. But whether you favour the fuller shape of an Italian bob or the slightly longer slip bob, there’s one area that can be surprisingly tricky to master: the back.

It’s something our Editor-in-Chief, Hannah, discovered after returning from holiday and noticing that, while the front of her hair looked polished in photographs, the back had a tendency to fall flat and develop kinks. So, we enlisted legendary hairstylist Michael Douglas, whose client roster includes Kate Moss and Claudia Schiffer, to show us how to restore shape and bounce.

His solution? A heated styling brush and a simple technique that takes just “three or four minutes” – and, importantly, is easy enough to do on yourself. Better still, this trick works on dry hair, making it a convenient way to revive a bob between washes or quickly bring it back into shape before heading out.

Michael's fix involves just a few minutes with one of the best hair tools – his very own MD London WAVE Heated Styling Brush. First, he clips up the top section of Hannah’s hair and mists the underneath with a dry heat protection spray. Working in small sections, he places the heated brush underneath the hair and slowly rotates it inwards as he moves through the lengths.

“The little fine bristles will pick up the hair and get it to stick to the barrel,” he explains. “As we start to turn the brush, we get this curve in the hair.” The trick is to introduce some height at the same time: “Lift it up at the roots to get a bit of height.”

There’s no need to give yourself a full blow-dry first – “you can let your hair dry naturally, brush it into shape and put a little bit of product on it if you want,” says Michael. We'd recommend a dry volumising spray, like this L'Oreal one, if flat roots are a problem.

Once dry, simply work around the back of the head section by section with the heated brush, lifting at the roots and curving the ends under. The whole process takes “literally three or four minutes”, making it an easy way to refresh your style without starting again from scratch.

The finished effect is noticeably more voluminous. “It sits like a fully styled head of hair now,” says Michael of Hannah’s finished look. “No kinks, just a shiny, bouncy bob.” And considering the back of the hair is often the area we pay the least attention to, a few extra minutes spent there could be all it takes to make your bob look polished from every angle.

Why does a bob go flat at the back?

It’s a classic case of ‘out of sight, out of mind’, and one of the most common bob mistakes. We tend to focus our styling efforts on the sections we can see, ensuring the front has shape, body and volume, while the back often gets far less attention. Add hat hair, humidity and hours spent horizontal on a sun lounger into the mix, and it’s easy to see why a bob can quickly fall flat on holiday.

In Hannah’s case, this meant a lack of volume and a few unwanted kinks. Or, as Michael rather brilliantly puts it: “You’ve got a lovely shape at the front, but it looks like you’ve been crashed into at the back.”

Come closer and speak truthfully: aren't you secretly thrilled to be moving into the cooler half of the year? Sure, summer's great and all, but if you're looking for a stylish wardrobe, a stacked TV schedule and a snap of 'back to school' productivity, you've got to hand it to autumn.

Another area in which autumn has the edge is hair. Finally, we can refocus our attention from simply batting away damage to having fun with the 2026 hair trends, via a sharp new cut or rich tone that won't get instantly warped by UV or chlorine.

If you've been mulling over trying new colour for the 'Ber months ahead, you're in luck. This season's colour palette is rich, flattering and deliciously food-inspired. Plus, according to celebrity hairdresser Melissa Timperley, these small tweaks in tone can create the most luxurious, expensive- looking results.

What Autumn hair colour ideas are trending for 2026?

The good news, says Timperley, is you don't need a total colour overhaul to try this season's trends. "I think we’re going to see richer versions of the colours people already love, with more warmth, depth and dimension," she states.

"Fashion is becoming more expressive, with richer colours and texture coming through, from velvet and suede to leather and soft knits, and I think we’ll see that translate into hair too."

Below, Timperley details her five autumn hair colour predictions, with our selection of inspiration photos to take straight to your colourist (or the box dye aisle at Boots)

1. Almond Blonde

While recent years have been dominated by high-maintenance cool, creamy blonde tones, Timperley is predicting a more naturalistic colour palette for autumn. "I think we’re going to see a return to a much more natural, slightly “dirty” blonde. I’m calling it Almond Blonde. Think soft beige, muted gold and slightly deeper natural blonde tones, like the different shades you see in an almond."

"It’s not icy, and it’s not overly golden. It sits somewhere in between and almost looks like it could be your natural colour. I think we’re moving away from blondes where you can immediately see every highlight and towards something softer, more blended and much more believable."

2. Truffle Brunette

If you're not sold on the name alone, the beauty of this hue, explains Timperley, is in its luxurious yet natural look. "Rather than taking brunette really dark and espresso, this is softer, with chocolate, walnut and neutral brown tones running through it."

"Think of cutting into a chocolate truffle," she explains. "At first it looks like one gorgeous rich chocolate shade, but when you look closer there are lots of slightly different tones within it."

"The colour work should be almost invisible. You shouldn’t see obvious highlights or know exactly how it’s been coloured. It should just look like naturally beautiful brunette hair."

3. Whisky Copper

Autumn is the perfect time to experiment with a warmer shade, as reds and russet brunettes perfectly reflect the season's palette - in fashion and in nature. For AW26, Timperley predicts a sophisticated take on burnished hues.

"Copper isn’t going anywhere, but I think it’s becoming richer and a little more grown-up for autumn. Whisky Copper moves away from the really bright orange coppers and brings in amber, cinnamon, brown and golden tones."

"Think of a glass of whisky when the light hits it," she continues. "There are so many different warm shades within it. That’s how I see this colour. It still has brightness, but it feels richer and more burnished. It also works beautifully with the browns, leathers, suedes and warmer shades we’re seeing coming through in fashion.

4. Strawberry Beige

Continuing the theme of delicious, food-inspired hair colour trends and the resurgence of warm blonde shades, Timperley predicts strawberry beige as a "really big blonde" for AW26.

"It’s a soft beige blonde with the slightest hint of strawberry, peach and gold running through it," she explains. "It’s not strawberry blonde, and it’s definitely not copper. It’s a really lovely way of taking summer blonde into autumn without automatically making it darker. You’re keeping the brightness but making it softer and warmer."

5. Damson Brunette

Finally, for those seeking an expensive-looking alternative to the cherry cola hair trend, Timperley suggests a rich damson hue. "We’ve seen lots of cherry and cherry cola shades over the last few seasons, but I think that colour is going deeper and more plum for A/W 2026," she says.

"I’m calling it Damson Brunette. It’s still very much brunette, but with deep plum, aubergine and subtle red-violet tones running through it. I love the idea that indoors you might just think someone has gorgeous glossy brunette hair, but when it moves or catches the light you see that rich damson tone coming through."

There's a moment every September when you catch sight of the back of your hair in a shop window and think: this needs to go. Mine came a few weeks ago - all sun-lightened ends, salt-crunched texture and highlights that had crept a shade too warm over a summer of holidays. It was time to dip my toe back into the 2026 hair trends for an autumn reset, and it turns out I wasn't alone in thinking so.

According to Polly Miteva, Senior Stylist at HARI's South Kensington, this is exactly the moment the hair world pivots. "The hair trend for A/W 2026 will involve achieving healthy, voluminous hairstyles, performed in different lengths and shapes to say goodbye to the beach waves of summer and welcome in the glossy blowouts of winter," she says. In short: the glam is back.

Polly's advice for getting there starts before you even sit in the styling chair. "After the long summer, the hair needs to be brought back to its best by using rejuvenating conditioning treatments, deepening the hair colour and, of course, a new hair cut." On the cut itself, she's seeing requests cluster around a few key shapes: face-framing layers, vintage-inspired fringes and the shoulder-length blunt bob. But the real headline trend, she says, is something more wearable day-to-day - "daring, bold hairstyles that are also easy to maintain at home," otherwise known as shaggy-chic.

Colour is doing just as much work this season as cut. Francesca Dixon, Senior Colourist at HARI's South Kensington, says the shift is all about warming things up without losing shine. "Summer is slowly saying goodbye, and autumn hair is bringing all the cosy vibes. Think honey blonde, golden beige, rich bronde, caramel ribbons, mocha brunette, glossy chocolate, soft auburn and muted copper - warmer, richer, shinier shades with loads of dimension rather than flat, dark colour." If you're not quite ready to let your summer blonde go, she suggests a middle ground: "honey-bronde or honey bronze is the perfect transition - still bright and glowy, but with that gorgeous autumn warmth."

My hair refresh, before and after

I booked in at HARI's South Kensington with Francesca on colour and Polly on cut and styling, and the difference is honestly the best argument I've seen for a proper seasonal reset rather than just a trim.

Before, my hair had that classic end-of-summer look - long, wavy, with high-contrast balayage that had lifted a little too bright against my natural base, especially through the mid-lengths. It looked fine loose on a beach, but under office lighting it read as slightly brassy and in need of a root melt.

Francesca's approach was to deepen and soften rather than start from scratch - melting the balayage back into my natural colour so the regrowth line disappeared and the overall effect read richer and glossier, closer to the deep brunette and soft caramel tones she'd described. Polly then took the ends in slightly and blow-dried through soft, bouncy waves rather than the looser beachy texture I'd been wearing - the kind of "lush blow-dry" she'd mentioned pairs so well with the season's earthy colour palette.

The result, side by side, is a genuinely different hair era: the same length, but noticeably shinier, warmer and more polished, with none of the high-maintenance colour admin that balayage regrowth usually demands. That's the bit I'd flag as the real win of this trend - it looks like an expensive, considered colour appointment (because it is one), but once you're out the door, it's a wash-and-go blow-dry rather than a look that needs constant reinforcing with heat tools.

What to ask for

If you're taking this to your own colourist, the brief is simple: ask for your existing balayage or highlights to be melted or glazed back towards your natural base for a softer, less contrasty grow-out, in one of the warmer autumn tones - think caramel, bronde or soft auburn rather than anything ashy.

Pair it with a slightly blunter cut or face-framing layers, and a blow-dry that leans smooth and voluminous rather than tousled, and you've got the look Polly and Francesca are both pointing towards for the season.

How to maintain the results

Both Francesca and Polly were firm on one point: there's little sense in investing in a salon-quality colour and cut if your at-home routine works against it. Their advice is to put money into a good, sulphate-free shampoo, which protects colour far better than a budget alternative and keeps hair in better condition for longer between appointments.

Polly's reasoning comes down to the hair cuticle - if it's left too open, through heat damage, dryness or split ends, it releases colour molecules, meaning your carefully deepened shade fades faster and your ends end up looking dull regardless of how good the initial result was.

Longevity is the latest buzzword in beauty. Until now, it’s been cornered by the skincare market, with ingredients that make your cells behave as if they’re younger. It’s about keeping your skin as healthy as possible for as long as possible. And now, it’s your hair’s turn to get in on the action.

K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum essentially extends the life of your hair. Trials found it cut shedding dramatically and even reduced the number of grey hairs. K18 is a brand known for its innovation, leveraging biotechnology to restore healthy hair. If you haven’t already used the hero K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask, get on that.

Where the mask has conquered repair, the new K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum is focused on preservation, building resilience, and reversing premature ageing of the hair and scalp. It’s not a reactionary fix, but more a wellness product that addresses scalp health and hair ageing before the outward signs accelerate.

But can a hair serum, even one that claims to reverse hair ageing in three months, justify a £110 price tag? I’ve been testing it to find out.

How does K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum work?

Since skincare ingredients for haircare is a huge trend and very relevant to this new launch, let’s think about skincare for a second. There are plenty of products out there that target skin concerns once the damage is done - hyperpigmentation treatments or the best eye creams for wrinkles, for example.

But prevention is always easier than cure, and the most effective way to stay looking fresh for longer is to get on the front foot with ingredients that support cellular health and a resilient skin barrier to future-proof your skin. This is exactly what K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum sets out to do for hair.

Your hair is subject to the ageing process, just like your skin, and accelerated by lifestyle stressors like sun exposure, pollution, hormonal fluctuations, heat styling and chemical processing. These cause inflammatory stress on the scalp and follicle, which results in premature ageing, which eventually manifests as shedding, hair thinning, early greying, and a compromised scalp barrier.

K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum essentially puts a support system in place for healthy hair, using peptides and antioxidants that mimic those in your body, and a root-anchoring complex. Together, they strengthen the follicle’s hold on the hair and bolster its natural defences against oxidative stress, as well as helping to restore pigment production to reduce the number of grey hairs.

The serum taps into the body’s recovery mode overnight, so it’s designed to be applied in the evening. It has a dropper system that measures out the perfect dose per section - apply one down the middle parting, one down each side part, and one at the hairline.

How does K18 FutureIQ™ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum perform?

During the clinical trials, testers retained as many as 19,000 hairs over 90 days. Given that most people shed between 100 and 150 hairs a day, this is a significant improvement. It’s a running joke in my household that I shed like a labrador. Since using the serum, particularly in the last fortnight of testing, I’ve noticed less hair coming off on my brush every morning, and down the plughole when I wash it.

The three-month trial also demonstrated that up to 70 per cent of participants showed fewer greys. Usually, my greys start peeking through within days of colouring - the bane of a brunette’s existence. By the two-week mark, there’s a visible silvery line along my parting and around my face. At three weeks, I’m forced to reach for the at-home hair dye.

But since I’ve been using K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum, I’ve noticed that this whole cycle has been drawn out. My colour looks darker for longer. I’m not seeing the grey creep back through as quickly, which has meant that I’ve been able to wait longer before colouring.

K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum: W&H verdict

I have to preface this final verdict by saying that I’ve only been using the serum for two months. K18 does say that it takes three months to start reversing hair age, and all of their clinical testing was conducted over a three-month period of nightly use.

However, they do admit that improvements can be seen in as little as one month. So where am I at after two months and two bottles? I don’t suddenly have a new head of hair, but the fall out on my brush is a good indicator that I’m not losing as much hair as I was pre-serum, and I think things look a little fuller around my hairline.

It's the grey hair reversal that has really astounded me. It's now three weeks since my last dye job, when ordinarily I'd be forced to colour it, but the regrowth is nowhere near as noticeable. My greys always made me feel tired, run-down, and unkempt, but since they're not as visible or as quick to show through, I don't feel the desperate need to re-colour my hair after three weeks now.

I’ve luckily never had any issues with my scalp, so it’s hard to say if it’s in a better state now, but if beautiful hair is a by-product of a healthy scalp, then this serum has truly made a difference. My hair has never been softer, silkier or shinier. I’m about to start my third bottle, and I hope that by the end of the 12 weeks I'll see a thicker ponytail and even fewer greys - fingers crossed!

Do you have fine hair that falls flat? Perhaps you’ve experienced some post-partum hair loss? Or maybe your hair just won’t grow past your shoulders? Whatever your gripe, the answer could be hair extensions.

Anyone who knows me knows I always have a long-term hair plan. Before my wedding, I wore my hair up for weeks knowing that it would be long and loose on the Big Day. I’ll cut a fringe in winter to grow out in time for summer.

A couple of years ago I chopped my hair off into a bob, hoping I'd have enough time to get back to Rapunzel-length in time for the big 4-0 this year. That didn’t quite work out, and come 2026, it was sitting at a very nothing-y, in-betweeny midi length. So there was one thing for it - hair extensions.

How hair extensions helped me feel 10 years younger

"Over the last year, we've seen a huge increase in the demand for hair extensions and hair pieces," says Hadley Yates, celebrity extensionist and Co-Founder Hadley Yates Salon. "The majority of women coming in are looking to address hair loss, which can be attributed to weight loss jabs, hormonal issues or stress."

If you’re considering adding extra length, volume and fullness, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about getting extensions, from the different types to essential aftercare and maintenance.

What are the benefits of hair extensions in midlife?

In my case, hair extensions were used to add instant inches, but they've also bulked up my ends, which were looking a bit straggly, giving my hair a luscious, healthy appearance.

James Silk, Senior Extensionist at Hadley Yates Salon - and the man behind my own age-rewinding locks - notes that over the years his clientele has got older, with a priority on adding fullness over length. “Many women, particularly in their 40s, 50s and beyond, are coming in to address thinning or loss of density rather than to gain inches,” he explains. “They want their hair to look like it did ten or twenty years ago - healthier, thicker and more resilient.”

Increasingly, hair extensions are being used to tweak the colour without using dye. “Extensions are an incredible way to add depth, highlights or lowlights without committing to chemical colour,” explains James.

“I often work alongside our colourists so we can do minimal colouring to the natural hair and let the extensions do the rest of the work. It’s a brilliant option for women who want brightness around the face or added dimension without over-processing their own hair.”

What happened when our beauty editor tried hair extensions?

I visited Hadley Yates Salon with a strict brief - help me look like I did on my wedding day, 13 years ago. My hair was long, thick and healthy-looking. Fast-forward to the current day, and it lacks the pizzazz it once had. I don’t know if it’s an age thing, a hormonal thing, a post-partum hair loss thing, but it’s just not as thick or lustrous as it was.

James and I had a thorough consultation before my appointment. We discussed my references, expectations, and lifestyle. He advised that keratin bond extensions would be lower maintenance for me, and would last for four months without the need for move-up appointments in between.

On the day, he played around with a few shades until he found two that blended perfectly with my own soft balayage. My hair was washed and blow-dried, then James began the process of attaching the keratin tips to my own hair. He used 120 pieces in total, which took about two hours. He then trimmed the lengths and cut into the front section to blend the layers with my own hair and create a seamless transition.

As soon as I left the salon, I felt like a different person. I’ve always seen my long hair as a bit of a comfort blanket, and I suddenly felt more confident, more put-together, more youthful. What James created was exactly like the hair I enjoyed on my wedding day, 13 years earlier. Revisiting the length, the fullness, the vitality of my twenties has made me feel fresher and younger.

As James neatly summarises, “For many women, extensions are not about transformation; they’re about restoring what time, stress or hormones may have taken away. That confidence boost can be genuinely life-changing.”

How to care for your extensions

Do hair extensions work for everyone?

“Most of the time, yes, but expectations have to be realistic,” explains James. “Many clients come in for a consultation worried their hair isn’t suitable, and often there’s more we can do than they think. The only time I would advise against extensions entirely is when hair is extremely fine and sparse to the point where the scalp is very visible, as that can make the attachments difficult to disguise."

As a beauty team, we love a wavy hairstyle, and after years of trial and error, we've really gotten our techniques down to a fine art. That said, we don't all rely on the same tool or trick for achieving a tousled look.

While there are plenty of chic updos and textured styles to try among the 2026 hair trends, we always find ourselves coming back to our trusted waves. Adding a soft bend or very loose, brushed-out curl never fails to afford an effortless feel to your look and outfit, and perhaps best of all, there's really no right or wrong way to wave. You can use heatless rods, tie your hair in plaits or, of course, turn to one of the best curling irons and wavers. There are many methods to try and products to consider, but in case you're seeking some tutelage and guidance on which waving tools to invest in, our beauty team can lend a hand.

From the best straighteners to the Dyson Airwrap, each one of us has a different way we like to add shape and texture to our strands. Four, to be exact, and we've broken down every step. So no matter what tool you have at home, you can achieve chic, versatile waves in minutes.

The 4 ways our beauty team add waves to their hair

1. Waves with an Airwrap

The Dyson Airwrap is something of a fan favourite for achieving very bouncy, blown-out looks and for Digital Beauty Editor Aleesha Badkar, it's definitely one of her go-to tools for styling her long hair - especially into chic, loose waves.

"I like my waves to look quite bouncy and blow-dried, so I opt for the Dyson Airwrap to style my hair. I don't like too much movement in the top half, so I first dry that straight (and go over it with my ghd Sculpt straighteners if it's in a particularly frizzy mood). Most people's gripe with the famous Dyson tool is how to make the Airwrap curls last, so for this style, it's all in the prep. If my hair is already dry, I'll spritz with a little water - as I find the style lasts longer if I go from wet to dry - and then smooth on a touch of blow-dry cream followed by the L'Oréal Flex Pli Thermo Modelling Spray.

"When going in with the Airwrap, I like to use a Tangle Teezer to help wrap hair around the barrel, as I find this helps it come out really smooth, and my curls tend to last longer. I hold hair onto the tool until it's fully dry and then blast it with the cool shot before removing. A mist of light hairspray and my hair is done for the week in the space of 10 mins!"

2. Waves with a curling wand

For Digital Beauty Writer Naomi Jamieson, it's an affordable curling wand that she relies on for her signature waves. "This Babyliss trio was such a great find; it comes with three different wands, but I actually only really use the wide, oval one. I wear my hair wavy about 90% of the time, and while I do love using the Airwrap too, when I want waves that will last for days and days, it's this trusty tool I turn to.

"With it, I can literally do my entire head of hair in 10 minutes (yes, I have timed it). The oval shape of the barrel gives my strands those perfect, fluid-looking curves, and as you can see above, I always wrap them out and away from my face - holding the wand in an angled, downward position. You can chop and change the direction you wrap your hair and hold the tool (this is great for a very textured, beachy kind of effect), but I find doing them all the same way gives my hair a very soft, quite romantic finish, which I personally prefer.

"I hold each strand for about 10 seconds before gently removing the wand from the newly formed wave and gently pulling the end of the strand downwards - almost like I'm stretching the curl straight out again. I find this helps to loosen it slightly without disturbing the shape. I repeat this process throughout, working in sections. Once every last piece is waved, I spritz a bit of the John Frieda Medium Hold hairspray and give my hair a good shake-out and ruffle it with my hands."

3. Waves with straighteners

Straighteners, while designed to iron your strands into silky-smooth styles, are actually quite versatile tools. With a bit of practice, you can use them to add curls, flicks and waves too, the latter of which Digital Beauty Writer Sennen Prickett is a pro at.

"Whenever I want to wave my hair in a flash, I reach for my Remington AIRvive Slim Straightener. While curling your hair with a straightener gets a bad rap, this tool makes it easier than ever. Its ceramic plates glide seamlessly through my tresses without requiring any tugging or pulling, while its airflow system cools and banishes static strands as you style.

"For my technique, I work from the back of my hair to the front, taking small sections at a time. I typically curl inwards; however, I curl a few strands outwards for a naturally non-uniform look. I constantly rotate the straightener towards my face as I pass through the hair, before releasing at the end. I then use my finger to twizzle the strand into a twist, before letting go to reveal an accentuated wavy result. Repeat this process for your entire head of hair, and voilà, you have salon-worthy, bouncy blow-dry!"

4. Waves with a waver

For a quick and effortless option, a waver, with either two or three barrels, is definitely the way to go and is Digital Beauty Editor Fiona McKim's tool of choice for adding instant, tousled texture.

"I like my hair to look a bit imperfect - although it's a chicken-and-egg situation as I have so little getting ready time in the morning I'd have no hope of fitting in a multi-step, ultra-coiffed style, even if I did aspire to one. When I want a departure from my usual air-dried 'do, I look to my hair icon, Kate Moss, and have a stab at emulating her signature, texturised bends with the ghd Wave.

"The amazing thing about this tool’s technique is, there basically isn’t one. You quickly clamp it over large sections of hair, the more random the better, leave your roots and ends out, and in less than five minutes you’ve got a whole head of perfectly imperfect waves. It’s actually quite silly how easy and fast the whole thing is. If your hair’s fine like mine, finish with a bit of hairspray for grip, and maybe some dry texturising spray for a matte, mussed-up Moss effect."

There are plenty of good, effective hair products out there, and new ones launch all the time. But what is less common in a long-established and somewhat oversaturated market is true innovation.

But if you can count on anyone to think outside the box and create something new and exciting, but also geniunely useful, it's Michael Douglas. The esteemed hairstylist is the brains behind MD London The Numbers, a range that demystifies doing your hair at home with simple, numerical names and pick 'n mix combinations.

Numbers 1-6 launched in February 2026, and now we get the second drop, numbers 7-12. These new offerings feel exciting, smell amazing and are still only £15 a pop, like the first lot.

Of particular interest are the dry-heat protection spray, a sea salt mousse, and a humidity shield that, according to the man himself, gave Davina McCall a blow-dry that lasted seven days.

After meeting with Michael on launch day and having my hair styled and air-dried into effortless beachy waves with the Salt Mousse (The 12), I was so impressed I had to snaffle the rest of the range and try every single one in the days that followed.

If you had told me 10 years ago that at 50 my hair would be longer, fuller, and healthier than it was in my thirties, I would have thought you were lying. Back then, I genuinely believed I would never be able to get my hair's old condition back. Like for so many women, it has always been my comfort blanket, and while it wasn’t as thick as my mum’s or sister’s, it had always been long and full. So when it began to change, it hit my confidence hard.

I first noticed my hair thinning the year I turned 40. At the time, I was working as beauty director of Boots Health & Beauty magazine, and my kids were 11 and five, so I was well past the post-partum hair loss stage. I remember noticing my scalp far more at the front – it would also be visible when looking in the rearview mirror of my car. And once I noticed it, I couldn't unsee it.

Then I started noticing other signs. I was wrapping my hairband around an extra loop when I put my hair into a ponytail. The sides had lost all their volume and no matter what I did, it refused to grow. It kept breaking and was really dry. Frustrated, I chopped it into a shoulder-length bob – it hadn’t been that short for years!

Not long after I cut it, I had to have my pictures taken for a magazine photoshoot, and the makeup artist picked up on my paranoia about my hair. She said, "Look, I know that you're so paranoid about your hair today, so let's put a bold red lipstick on you to draw the attention away from it."

Now, 10 years later, I know that one of the main reasons why my hair was thinning was because I was entering perimenopause. Unbelievably, especially considering I now write about it all the time, perimenopause wasn’t a word I’d even heard of back then and, despite working in the beauty industry, I had no idea that I was entering this hormonal phase.

I now know, thanks to my own research and from interviewing experts like consultant dermatologist Dr Nicole Chiang, midlife hair thinning is inevitable for most women, thanks to all of those fluctuating hormones. “During perimenopause, our hair’s natural growth phase shrinks, meaning individual strands drop out sooner before they can reach their usual length,” she explains.

“At the same time, as our oestrogen levels drop faster than our testosterone levels, that hormonal shift allows the androgens – the hormones that can shrink the hair follicles – to take control.”

On top of all these hormonal shifts, midlife stress also plays a role, and personally, my forties were a huge decade of uncertainty and change. I moved with my husband and two sons to America, supported my mum and dad through health problems, "survived" Covid and struggled through financial issues. All of these life issues, Dr Chiang confirms, would have almost certainly impacted the health of my hair.

"Our hair follicles have cortisol receptors, which can push the hair more into the shedding phase,” Dr Chiang continues. “Plus, stress can cause a lot of inflammation; when we have scalp inflammation, our hair is going to fall out quicker, and it’s not going to grow as well."

While hair extensions provided a quick fix, the expense and maintenance led me to remove them after a couple of years. I then decided to shift my focus to the products I used and how my overall lifestyle impacted the health of my hair. Here's what I did...

1. Upgraded my shampoo and conditioner

In my mid-40s, I started treating my hair routine the same way I treated my skincare routine – I began to take notice of ingredients and quality. I stopped using shampoos with drying ingredients like sulphates and silicones, and picked more premium options from brands like Chãmpo, Living Proof and Kérastase that suited my scalp type as well as my hair.

"Always think why are you shampooing,” says Dr Chiang. “You want to cleanse your scalp, not just your hair, and to have healthy hair you need to have a healthy scalp. So definitely target your shampoo to your scalp skin, and then you choose conditioner for your hair.”

I also started advocating for myself by having honest conversations with my hairdresser. And when I voiced my concerns about breakage and thinning, he recommended the K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask, which completely transformed my hair! It has a superior formula made from peptides that made it softer and stronger and I swear it helped me grow it to the length it is now – something that I’ve not been able to do since my early twenties.

2. Looked at my diet and lifestyle

Nearly two years ago, I made the decision to stop drinking alcohol. This completely reshaped my relationship with my health, which in turn, improved the quality of my hair. It also improved my sleep, motivated me to work out and led me to focus far more on my diet.

So I also began to eat more protein and, as Dr Chiang explained to me, a healthy, balanced diet is essential if you want to improve your hair health, because your body prioritises vital organs long before it sends nutrients to hair.

3. Added LED therapy to my haircare routine

I’d always been sceptical about red light therapy for hair, but after speaking to Dr Chiang, I decided to give it a try. "If you look at the evidence, red light therapy is usually mentioned as one of the treatments that has been shown to have some evidence to work for hair growth," she notes.

It’s hard to measure the benefits of LED therapy on your hair, especially when you are trying other things simultaneously to improve its quality. However, after wearing Beauty Pie’s H Wave LED Hair & Scalp Treatment every night for a few weeks (I find the caps far easier to use than bulky helmets), my hair is growing really quickly and feels more manageable.

Now, when I think back to that photoshoot over 10 years ago, I realise that you really can get your hair back into shape with the right routine and products. So if you’re currently in that space, take a deep breath, put a plan in place and give your hair time to respond. It will pay off – I’m proof of that!

We talk a lot about "holiday hair" - usually in the context of beachy texture, sun-kissed lengths or our best hair products for humidity. What we don't talk about nearly enough is what summer might be doing to our scalp.

Because between UV exposure, sweaty workouts, sea swims, chlorinated pools and extra wash days, the warmer months can create a very different environment for the skin beneath our hair. For some of us, that shift comes with an unexpected side effect: noticing more strands in the shower, on the hairbrush or tangled in the drain.

The good news is that shedding isn't something to fear, and there are ways to give your scalp the same seasonal attention you'd give the rest of your skin.

Pantene's Grow Abundant Anti-Hair Loss Scalp Serum is formulated as a daily dose of scalp-nourishing ingredients, built around a 3,000mg Pro-Vitamin Complex with antioxidants - including Pro-Vitamin B5, niacinamide and piroctone olamine - designed to help combat oxidative stress and support a healthier scalp environment.

The formula is lightweight and non-greasy, so it won't weigh hair down even if you're layering it under SPF or styling products, and it's clinically proven to help reduce hair loss by anchoring hair at the roots. In an 8-week clinical study, 80% of users saw improved hair density, with an average of 6,000 more hairs retained at the root - and 9 out of 10 users reported their hair felt healthier overall.

Why summer is tougher on your scalp than you think

Seasonal shedding tends to get talked about in the context of autumn, but summer brings its own set of scalp stressors - and they're easy to underestimate. A recent Pantene study of 2,000 Brits found that over a third of us (36%) find dry or irritated scalp highly frustrating during the summer months.

That's not surprising when you consider everything the scalp is dealing with. Sea water can dehydrate the scalp and compromise its natural barrier, leaving it more prone to dryness and sensitivity. UV exposure causes oxidative stress and direct cellular damage, weakening the scalp's resilience. Chlorinated pool water strips away protective oils and can act as an irritant, contributing to dryness and flaking. And sweat that sits on the scalp for long periods - after a workout, say, or a day in the heat - can encourage irritation and microbial imbalance, potentially worsening conditions like dandruff.

Even the habits we adopt to cope with summer can add to the problem. Washing more frequently is often necessary, but overdoing it (or using harsh cleansers) can strip too much sebum and disrupt the scalp barrier. And tight styles - buns, plaits, ponytails to keep hair off the neck in the heat - place mechanical stress on the scalp and follicles, which over time can contribute to inflammation and even traction-related hair loss.

"Many people associate seasonal shedding with autumn, but the scalp experiences a unique set of challenges throughout summer," says Dr Cedric Callens, Scientific Communications Lead at Pantene. "Increased perspiration, stronger UV exposure, chlorinated water and repeated washing can all influence the scalp environment and how consumers perceive changes in hair fall."

Before you panic, it's worth remembering that losing hair is not, in itself, a red flag. "It's important to remember that some degree of shedding is a natural part of the hair cycle," Dr Callens explains - on average, we lose somewhere between 50 and 100 hairs a day. "The goal isn't to eliminate shedding entirely, but to support the scalp conditions that help hair feel stronger, healthier-looking and better cared for at the root."

That's a helpful reframe. Because hair fibres can't simply be "glued" back once they've shed or broken, the more useful question isn't how do I stop losing hair? but how do I protect my scalp so hair grows back stronger from here? A healthy scalp environment is, essentially, the foundation everything else is built on.

"The scalp is skin, yet it's often excluded from conversations around seasonal care," adds Dr Callens. "Supporting the scalp barrier and caring for hair at the root can help support healthier-looking hair and better retention over time. Small, consistent habits incorporated into daily routines can make a meaningful difference."

None of this means you need to obsess over every strand that falls out, or avoid the pool, the sea or a good workout for the sake of your scalp. It just means treating the skin under your hair with the same seasonal care you'd give the rest of your skin - so you're supporting stronger, healthier-looking hair from the root up, and can get on with actually enjoying the summer.

Short crops, like the French bob, have reigned supreme for some time. But now there's a new style in town: an elegant, collarbone-grazing iteration dubbed the 'Slip Bob' by London hair salon Hershesons. Taking its cue from the ‘90s, the trending cut is inspired by the era's most iconic sartorial staple – the satin slip dress.

“We’re seeing a real return to ‘90s minimalism across fashion and beauty, and hair is following suit,” says Dale Herne, expert stylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. “People still want their hair to look healthy and polished, but without it looking like they’ve spent hours styling it. The Slip Bob has that effortless quality. It’s sleek, but not severe, and the subtle movement stops it from feeling too perfect.”

It's that effortless movement that ties the trend back to its satin slip dress inspiration. “Where the Italian Bob is fuller and more voluminous, with that blown-out shape, the Slip Bob sits closer to the head with less lift and a more fluid silhouette. It feels a bit more understated, which is what makes it look so expensive,” explains Herne.

What is the 'Slip Bob'?

A defining bob hairstyle of the '90s, it was worn by everyone from Christy Turlington and Naomi Campbell to Gwyneth Paltrow. More than three decades later, Margot Robbie has been spotted with the cut, giving the look a modern revival.

“The Slip Bob is a bob that just kisses the shoulders, with some invisible layers – there's no heavy line, so it feels very soft but with some precision,” says Herne. “It gives it that slightly sexy feel but still looks luxurious and elegant, thanks to the flick through the ends.”

Who does the Slip Bob suit?

Unlike shorter, sharper bobs (like the box bob), the Slip Bob leaves more room for flexibility. “It can be tailored to suit different face shapes and hair types,” says Herne. “The length also makes it super versatile because it's a little bit longer than a traditional bob – you can style it in different ways and even wear it up if you want to.”

That extra length also makes it a good option if you've been curious about a bob but don't want to commit to a dramatic chop. “For women over 40, it's a great option because it gives the hair shape and structure without feeling too harsh,” says Herne. “It's also low risk – you don't need to take too much off the hair for it to have a big impact and look really modern and fresh. You can also decide to grow it out really easily.”

What to ask for in the salon

“I’d ask for a one-length bob with a strong, clean outline and very soft internal layering if it’s needed,” advises Herne. “You don’t want lots of texture or heavy layers because that takes away from the simplicity of the shape. Take a few reference images with you. The styling is just as important as the haircut when it comes to getting this look right.”

How to style the Slip Bob

The beauty of the Slip Bob lies in its ease. While the finish is polished, it should still retain a sense of softness and movement. Herne flags that the biggest mistake is trying to make it too perfect. "Smooth the hair first, then use something like the Hershesons Great Iron to add a really subtle bend through the mid-lengths or just flick the ends under or out slightly.”

Movement is key to stop the style from looking stiff. “You still want movement, so it doesn't sit flat,” he says. “Finish with a lightweight cream, like Almost Everything Cream, through the ends for shine and separation, rather than loading the hair up with lots of product. It should look effortless, like you've got naturally great hair.”

We can't always have everything we want. I have a list of specific expectations of what I want a shampoo to do, but I often realise that I have to sacrifice one or more of my wants – that was until I tried this Medicube buy.

For context, my strands are fine, which means my scalp is prone to getting oily very quickly. So, my dream hair wash routine would include one of the best shampoos for fine hair that works to both bolster the volume of my hair and keep greasiness at bay.

Over the years, I've tried less than a handful of shampoos that tick all my boxes, so I was still sceptical when this K-beauty formula landed on my desk. However, I'll always admit where I'm wrong and give credit where credit's due, and this shampoo is certainly worthy of that, as it did all I wanted it to – and more.

I have to start my review by saying I've never felt anything quite like it. I know it says cooling on the bottle, but I didn't expect the feeling that was to come. My two pumps lathered up incredibly easily with just a little water, creating a foamy texture that thoroughly covered my entire scalp. It's also worth noting how easy the pump dispenser makes the shampoo application.

As for the cooling sensation, it was intense but in a good way. It was so soothing on my oily-prone scalp that I decided to leave it on for a couple of minutes before rinsing it out. It left my hair feeling sparkling clean, without being completely stripped of its moisture.

In terms of results, my hair both looked and felt more voluminous, with body and bounce – which is a pretty good achievement for someone with naturally fine, flat and limp hair. My strands felt cleaner for longer and any signs of flaking were noticeably reduced too. All of which has caused me to reach for this shampoo during every hair wash.

After my positive experiences using this shampoo, I can't say I was shocked to read the standout reviews on Amazon from other shoppers. One in particular caught my eye; the customer wrote: "I’m 52 and post-menopausal, and my hair has definitely changed over time. It’s fine, a little more fragile than it used to be, and easily weighed down by heavy products."

Washing, blow-drying and using one of the best hair straighteners on her strands every day, the reviewer noted how they were seeking "a shampoo that cleans thoroughly while still keeping my hair soft and manageable".

The customer then shared her experience using the formula: "What really impressed me is how well it works for fine hair. My hair feels clean, soft, and light, with good movement and volume after styling. Another thing I like is the cooling, refreshing feeling on the scalp."

Enhance your haircare routine

If you want to take your haircare routine to the next level, I've put together a list of my other tried and tested haircare essentials – including one of the best hair masks and a 10-in-1 leave-in conditioning spray.

Summer's all fun and games until your preferred (and possibly quite expensive) hair colour starts to turn a fetching shade of yellow.

From UV rays to swimming or simply shampooing more often because you're feeling sticky, warm weather can have unfortunate repercussions for blonde or grey hair. And while permanent toning for blonde hair is an option, salon appointments add up, and DIY highlights are far from a simple - or foolproof - process.

Luckily, according to celebrity session stylist and colourist Kris Barnes, there are some simple steps you can take to protect your hair colour and maintain cool and creamy tones at home - some of which cost absolutely nothing, and can actually save you time.

5 easy tips to stop blonde or grey hair going brassy

Barnes, a colour expert whose client list includes Amanda Holden and Kate Lawler, wants to demystify toning hair, so we can help preserve the colour we love for longer. "It can feel complicated, but toning is actually very easy to get right,” he says, and has detailed his top five habits that anyone can adopt to maintain cool and creamy tones and stretch out salon visits.

1. Hydrate the hair

"The biggest favour you can do for clean and bright colour is to keep your hair hydrated. Well‑moisturised hair reflects light better, feels softer, and holds onto tone for longer," advises Barnes.

2. Protect from everyday stresses

"If you’re nervous about toning, start by protecting your blonde from the things that cause brassiness in the first place," he explains. "Hard water, heat styling, and sun exposure all push hair tone warmer. A shower filter, one of the best heat protection sprays, and a hat on holiday make a huge difference and will keep your hair cooler for longer."

3. Stretch the time between washes

Wondering how often to wash your hair if colour maintenance is a priority? According to Barnes, "Washing less often is a small change that makes a big difference. Every wash lifts a little colour, so spacing them out, even by a day, helps your tone stay fresher between appointments." He also advises using colour-safe shampoo when wash day rolls around, to prevent unnecessary fading.

4. Be gentle

Dullness can also contribute to grey or blonde hair looking a bit sad, and a softly-softly approach can help keep everything smooth and shiny. "Anything rough, for example, brushing too hard and using tight hairbands or hot tools on high, can make it look dull or frizzy," explains Barnes. "Treat it like delicate fabric: slow, soft, and low heat to keep the fibre smooth and the colour luminous."

5. Try gradual toning

"Toning is essential for keeping both natural silver and blended highlights crisp rather than yellow," explains Barnes. Lots of us have experimented with violet toning products to cool down brassy hair, but the best purple shampoo isn't always the most highly pigmented, according to Barnes. "When pigment is controlled and buildable, toning becomes incredibly easy. Gradual toning lets you stay in charge of your colour, keeping blondes bright without the risk of over‑doing it."

Explaining the benefits of gradual toning, Barnes concludes, "Think of it like the difference between fake tan and gradual tan. Low‑level violet pigments that build slowly, neutralising yellow and brassy tones a little more with every wash. It means you stay in control of your colour, and you get cleaner, brighter results without dryness or the risk of over‑toning.”

From ponytails to messy buns, you would rarely see me wearing any updo outside of the four walls of my house.

As someone with fine strands, my hair routine is geared entirely around trying to bolster the density of my tresses – whether that's one of the best shampoos for fine hair or best hair thickening products. My hairline is on the sparse side, so I rarely opt to wear my hair up unless I'm working from home or getting ready to hit the hay.

Fortunately, Laura Geller's all-new root cover-up stick landed on my desk this month and, let me tell you, it's one of the best new beauty launches July had to offer. This nifty, versatile stick delivers fuller, thicker-looking hair in a swipe, while remaining utterly natural to the eye – and it's boosted my confidence tenfold.

As I said, I hardly ever wear my hair up out of the house. I reserve updos for my work-from-home days when my strands are looking a bit greasy. My fine hair and uneven, sparse hairline require a lot of time and gel to manoeuvre the strands to make it appear fuller. That's why you'll always find me with a slick hair brush and Oribe's Supershine Wax Stick in tow. But that all changed when I trialled this 2-in-1 root cover-up stick from Laura Geller.

With a cream on one end and powder on the other, you can either wear the formulas on their own or layer the two together for ultimate long-lasting coverage. I opted for the latter and was shocked at how natural the finished result appeared; it looked like hair rather than something that had been painted on.

As for the wear test, I found that it didn't budge (even in 30-degree heat) and effortlessly washed away with a simple shampoo lather. But the real gem of this nifty little stick was the unmatched confidence it gave me when wearing my hair up.

Not only for naturally fine hair like mine, this clever stick would also be a stellar investment for anyone experiencing thinning hair from menopause, allowing you to fill in any sparse areas for a fuller and denser appearance. Not to mention, it's also great for instantly touching up your roots and greys in between hair appointments. Plus, you can even apply it throughout your brows too.

There's a reason the chic chignon returns every summer. As temperatures rise, even the bounciest blow-dries can fall victim to heat, humidity and the inevitable frizz that follows.

A polished hair up style, on the other hand, looks just as chic from the first glass of champagne to the last dance, making it the hairstyle we'll be relying on for weddings, balmy holiday evenings and every event in between.

"A polished chignon is similar to what a red lipstick does," says legendary hairstylist Sam McKnight MBE. "You instantly look pulled together, ready to take on whatever comes your way." Incredibly versatile, it can be worn slicked back for a glossy, modern finish or softly undone with loose face-framing pieces – much like Sienna Miller’s tousled up do – for a more relaxed feel. "Whether you go sleek and perfected or for a wet look finish, it's a strong and powerful move," adds McKnight.

How to recreate the chic chignon at home

"There are so many ways to wear a chignon," says McKnight. "Go high for a more classic, old Hollywood feel, or straight back, mid height for that effortless vibe, whereas low into the nape has an air of romance to it. Switch up your parting, from straight back to middle for a modern finish."

Once you've settled on your preferred placement, McKnight says the secret is not to overcomplicate it. "I love the mid height chignon, slicked back with hairspray for control and shine and then the chignon itself a simple twist with a pin or two. Not overly complicated, feels fresh, perfect for this time of year."

For a polished finish that lasts, product is key. "My go-to products are always my Modern Hairspray misted through the roots and mid lengths and then brushed back smooth, and a slathering of nourishing balm through the ponytail before twisting and pinning to secure. The balm will hydrate, define and defrizz, sealing split ends."

How to adapt a chic chignon for short hair

Part of the chignon's enduring appeal is that it suits almost every hair length and texture. For shorter hair, keep your chignon low at the nape of the neck, securing it with a thin hair tie before twisting the ends around themselves and pinning into place. If the ends of your hair are too short to get into a full chignon, a half-up, half-down hairstyle is perfect and creates a softer, face-framing finish.

If your hair is on the longer side, try gathering it into a ponytail first, then on the final twist only pull the hair halfway through to create a looped bun. Wrap the remaining lengths around the base to conceal the hair tie before securing with bobby pins.

Now get inspired by our favourite celebrity chignon styles below...

Jessica Biel's sleek centre-parted chignon

Jessica Biel's sleek chignon is one to bookmark for your next black-tie event.

The Princess of Wales' romantic twisted chignon

If Ascot is on your calendar, take your cue from The Princess of Wales' romantic, twisted chignon.

Gabrielle Union's sleek sculptural chignon

A strong side part and a sculptural chignon are a match made in hair heaven – just look to Gabrielle Union for proof.

Olivia Palermo's glossy knotted chignon

A great hairstyle for fine hair, take inspiration from Olivia Palermo and go for a tightly knotted, ultra-sleek chignon.

Thandiwe Newton's curly chignon

Natural texture gives Thandiwe Newton's chignon a softer finish that's perfect for summer occasions.

One of beauty journalism's longest-standing debates - surpassing whether Botox is inherently unfeminist or if French pedicures are chic or freaky - is the spelling of zhush. Or should that be zhoosh, or jeuje?

Hershesons, when naming one of the best hair thickening products around, have gone with zhoosh, which, according to Merriam-Webster is an acceptable variation - no matter how strongly my eyes disagree (come on, surely it's zhush.)

But let's not get stuck in the dictionary for too long. Either way, this natty little verb perfectly evokes the act of magicking things up a bit, beauty-wise. An ideal title then, for an easy-peasy foam that's given my 'do a decent helping of va-va-voom volume.

Why Hershesons Zhoosh Foam is my beauty buy of the week

If you're aware of Hershesons hair products, I suspect that might be because of Almost Everything Cream - a much-feted, multi-award-winning styler beloved by Victoria Beckham, Kiera Knightley and Naomi Campbell, no less.

But this affordable, modern mousse deserves its fanfare too. If, like me, you have fine, flat hair and struggle to make any volume you create stick around, its airy feel and bulking powers will be right up your street.

This product isn't new, but I was prompted to revisit it after a fairly comprehensive hair zhush last weekend (shout out to India at Stil Salon for the creamiest, classiest colour and introducing me to the concept of 'Alice band hair' - a far lovelier term for the bold blonde face-framing streaks I'd previously dubbed grey spotlighting.)

Whenever I'm in a salon, stylists invariably put mousse in my hair before drying it - because the pros know it's the very best thing for volume - and yet I don't see many mousses launching to industry fanfare, or hear fellow journos or friends talking about them much.

I guess like it's old mucker hairspray, mousse is more of an unsung workhorse of the hair styling world. But we'd miss it if it were gone, and it's fun to see brands sexing things up with modern formulas and cute, appealing product names, however they choose to spell them. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

Depending on who you ask, we're either having the summer we've always dreamed of or this run of heatwaves has been the stuff of nightmares. Either way, we can probably all agree that sticky temperatures, at home or on holiday, make heat styling your hair an unappealing prospect.

Even the best hair dryer, on the coolest setting, can feel uncomfortable on a hot day, so it's tempting to avoid blow drying altogether - but is it bad to air dry your hair? And can you do it without frizz or flat, limp roots?

As ever, it pays to ask the experts - so we've taken our most pressing air drying questions straight to Neale Rodger, Style Director at STIL Salon, who has advised us whether forgoing hot tools is good or bad, how to banish flyaways, and which products make heat-free styling a breeze, for every hair type.

Is it bad to air dry your hair?

Most hair experts agree that a blow dry break never goes amiss - with a few caveats. "I personally think a balance is best," agrees Neale. "Giving your hair regular breaks from excessive heat styling can certainly help maintain its condition over time - but that said, air drying isn’t automatically healthier for everyone. If someone has very thick hair, leaving it damp for long periods isn’t always ideal."

With that in mind, what is the optimum ratio of air drying versus heat styling? "I usually tell clients to work with their lifestyle and hair type," explains Neale. "If you can air dry a few times a week and reduce your reliance on hot tools, that’s a great habit to get into."

How to air dry without frizz

If air drying is a no-brainer for summer comfort and hair health, it's a slightly trickier sell from a styling perspective. Without the power and cuticle-smoothing effects of heat, fine hair can often go flat and flyaway while thick, textured hair gets an attack of the frizzies. However, there are things you can do to help smooth things over.

"Fine hair tends to dry quite quickly, but it can easily fall flat if left completely untouched", explains Neale. "So I’d recommend applying a lightweight volumising spray or mousse to damp roots, then gently lifting sections away from the scalp as it dries. If you’re prone to flyaways, a small amount of lightweight cream through the mid-lengths and ends can help smooth things out without sacrificing volume."

As for thick or textured hair, "The key is product and technique," according to Neale. "Frizz often appears when the hair is disrupted while drying, so once you’ve applied your styling products, try not to touch it too much. A leave-in conditioner, curl cream or lightweight oil are great to help lock in moisture and keep the cuticle smooth. For textured and curly hair especially, I would say hydration is everything."

What's the easiest heatless styling method?

If you're used to whacking out your best hair curler or straighteners and love the styling control they give you, the idea of letting your hair do its own thing can feel a bit scary. And while we won't pretend that air and products alone can create as polished a look as plug-in devices, there are ways of achieving shape and texture without resorting to heat.

Neale advises that "braids are probably the easiest option. Putting the hair into one or two loose braids while damp can create a natural bend and movement once it dries," adding that, "You can also twist sections away from the face to give a soft wave."

As a devotee of the Kate Moss twist trick, I can concur that a little wrap and pin can make all the difference to otherwise shapeless hair.

If you have a bit more time on your hands, there are also plenty of heatless curl methods, either for a groomed-looking bouncy curl or simply to add root lift. "For volume, you could use Velcro rollers around the fringe and crown - they still work brilliantly and don’t require any heat at all," advises Neale.

Choose large rollers for bounce and volume, and smaller ones if you want to add in a curl or wave. Once your hair is totally dry, a mist of good old-fashioned hairspray will always help set any style you create - heated or not - and smooth down frizzies.

Victoria Beckham has taken her blonde era to its brightest point yet. Spotted in Paris on 2 July, Beckham's ends appeared noticeably brighter than they had just a couple of weeks earlier, with the rich caramel tones seen in mid-June softly elevated into something altogether warmer.

The result is a look being dubbed "Hot Honey Blonde" - a step up from the caramel balayage she'd been wearing, and a shift towards the summer season's most popular tone. She's moved on from toasted caramel territory into a softer, sunnier finish, marking a stylish hair refresh for summer 2026.

It's the latest chapter in a gradual transformation that's been building since spring, when Beckham first swapped her signature glossy brunette for a buttery blonde balayage. That look was built on a brown base, with a controlled balayage technique and deliberately soft, subtle roots that kept the impression of her natural colour intact - but with each appearance since, the ends have crept steadily lighter and warmer.

The trend is also being driven by a broader shift towards healthier-looking hair, with clients moving away from overly cool platinum shades in favour of softer, sunlit tones that complement a wider range of skin tones.

"The blend from Victoria's naturally rich brown roots into the buttery cream ends is the defining feature of this new colour," explains hair colourist Josh Wood, from Josh Wood London. "The transition is seamless, with subtle baby balayage around the face to softly blend the rich brown into the buttery cream blonde"

"Hot Honey Blonde is the perfect balance between brightness and warmth," adds Spectrum One founder Katy Grimshaw. "Clients want colour that feels wearable, healthy, and premium - and this trend delivers exactly that. It works beautifully across extensions because the multidimensional tones create incredible movement and blend seamlessly with natural hair.

"Warm blondes photograph beautifully and look more natural in different lighting," Katy adds. "We're seeing clients embrace richer tones that feel glossy, glamorous, and easier to maintain between salon appointments."

The latest ingredient attracting attention for its beauty benefits may already be sitting in your kitchen cupboard. Black sesame seeds are quickly becoming a wellness staple, finding their way into everything from matcha lattes and smoothie bowls to rich, nutty pastes eaten straight from the spoon. The appeal? Advocates claim a daily serving could help keep grey hairs at bay.

While the trend may feel new to our social media feeds, black sesame has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, where it's traditionally believed to nourish the kidneys and liver – two organs thought to play an important role in hair health and vitality.

Rich in nutrients including copper, iron, zinc and vitamin E, the tiny seeds have long been valued as part of an inside-out approach to wellbeing. But can they really influence when we go grey? We asked a consultant dermatologist to settle the debate.

Can black sesame seeds reverse grey hair?

Black sesame has earned a reputation as a hair-friendly food thanks to its nutritional profile. Naturally rich in copper, antioxidants and polyunsaturated fats, it's packed with nutrients that support overall health. And because copper plays a role in melanin production – the pigment that gives hair its colour – some have suggested black sesame could help delay the appearance of grey hair.

While it sounds plausible, the evidence isn't there yet. "The idea of black sesame paste helping to maintain youthful hair colour is thought to have originated in Traditional Chinese Medicine," says consultant dermatologist Dr Magnus Lynch. "It certainly contains healthy minerals, nutrients and antioxidants, but there is no scientific evidence to support the suggestion that it stops hair turning grey."

Hair turns grey as pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes, gradually become less active within the hair follicle as we age. While certain nutrient deficiencies have been linked to premature greying, genetics and the natural ageing process remain the biggest influences on when our hair loses its natural pigment.

"It is true that certain deficiencies in copper, iron, vitamin B12 and folate have been linked to premature greying in some studies, but eating additional amounts of these vitamins and nutrients will not reverse the effects," says Dr Lynch. "Smoking is currently thought to have a stronger impact on earlier greying."

Are black sesame seeds good for your hair?

Black sesame may not hold the secret to keeping grey hairs at bay, but it's still a worthwhile addition to your shopping list. Naturally rich in unsaturated fats, antioxidants and minerals, the seeds can support overall wellbeing as part of a balanced diet.

"Black sesame seeds can support overall skin health and hair production if included within a healthy diet. However, they will not boost growth or shine on their own," says Dr Lynch. Ultimately, healthy hair is shaped by far more than any one ingredient. Scalp care and lifestyle make a difference, too.

Does anything help keep hair pigmented for longer?

"If you are worried about turning grey prematurely, it is worth having a discussion with your GP about your general health in case of any underlying medical cause such as a thyroid disorder," says Dr Lynch. "I'd advise eating a balanced diet including sufficient protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D, Omega-3 and vitamin B12, particularly if you are vegetarian or vegan. Be aware that smoking is thought to be a major factor. Protect your scalp from the sun and seek support if you suffer from chronic stress."

Helen Mirren is a constant source of hair inspiration, thanks to her willingness to experiment and express herself via her cut, colour and style.

This is an absolute gift for anyone on the lookout for a new style, or who fancies trying a 2026 hair trend but isn't sure how it'll translate to the real world. Who better to demonstrate than Mirren, whose follicular fearlessness has presented itself via tumbling mermaid blue curls, a sharp 1920s-inspired silver bob and everything in between.

So when the actor - and recently named Companion of Honour in the King's birthday honours list - stepped out at the 2026 Taormina Film Festival with a brand new cut, we weren't at all surprised. But we were definitely inspired to give the soft and breezy summer style a try.

Perfectly embodying her sun-soaked location in Taormina, Sicily, woman&home's July cover star appeared on the red carpet showing off what we've dubbed the 'soft crop'. This style is considerably shorter than her previous haircut, a sharp jaw-length bob with a fringe, and is perfectly suited to the season ahead.

This effortless bixie haircut - between a bob and a pixie - has a few clever elements that make it feel fresh and effortless. It is cropped closely at the back, keeping her hair off her neck during the hotter summer months, but then graduates towards the front, falling to her cheekbones.

This longer, softer front section gives the style a relaxed and flattering overall impression, and enhances Mirren's killer bone structure.

Not only does this soft crop help you feel easy-breezy in the heat, but it looks great with a bit of natural tousle and texture, so it is lower-maintenance than blunt-edged cuts. This makes it perfect for summer days when you'd rather be out enjoying yourself than sweating over a pair of straighteners.

To keep a graduated crop looking great, use a tail comb to create a sharp side parting - line it up with the arch of your eyebrow for a flattering effect - rough dry using a hairdryer with a slim nozzle attached, then tease with your fingers and finish with a mist of shine spray if you fancy (we love Color Wow Extra Mist-Ical.)

Since I started having my hair professionally coloured at the age of 18, I have always collated photo references on Pinterest to show my hairdresser. And I'm not alone. Industry estimates suggest that more than 70% of clients do the same, on the premise that it can help clear up any miscommunication.

Whether you want a classic look or to try a 2026 hair trend, the main goal with photo references is to eliminate some of the guesswork and make sure you and your hairdresser are aligned on the vision. It never occurred to me that some stylists may prefer not to see references, but having snooped on social media, there's a common TikTok tale: "This is what I showed my hairdresser, and this is what I ended up with." While some are positive success stories, others claim there was a drastic mismatch between expectation and reality.

According to legendary hairstylist Michael Douglas, whose client roster includes Kate Moss and Claudia Schiffer, visual references can be incredibly helpful – but it's all about managing expectations. Ahead, he shares his tips - including the surprising number of photos he recommends bringing to your next appointment.

Should you bring a reference photo to your hairdresser?

In short, yes. While some stylists aren't fans of clients arriving armed with celebrity hair inspiration, Douglas says he actively encourages it. “For me personally, I would love to see your idea of what you would like,” he explains. “Pictures are brilliant.”

In fact, Douglas believes reference images are one of the most effective communication tools you can bring to a salon appointment. Not only do they help clarify what you're hoping to achieve, but they also allow your stylist to explain what is and isn't realistic based on your hair type, curl type, texture and current colour.

“The more information that you're armed with when you sit in the chair, the way more likely you're going to get what you want – or get close to what you want," he tells us.

Tip #1: Bring two or three photos rather than just one

If you've been meticulously saving a single inspiration image for months, you might want to expand your collection before your next appointment. Rather than relying on one photo, Douglas recommends bringing two or three references, ideally featuring different people. This gives your stylist a clearer understanding of which elements you're drawn to and allows them to build a more personalised result.

"I want to encourage people to feel more confident going to the hairdressers with two or three pictures – ideally of two or three different women," he says. For example, you might love the fringe on one person, the colour on another and the texture or styling on someone else. Together, these references can help your stylist identify common themes and create a look that works with your own hair.

Tip #2: Don’t worry if your inspiration photos don’t match perfectly

Another common mistake? Assuming every reference image needs to look exactly like your desired end result. According to Douglas, clients shouldn't hesitate to bring separate photos for colour and cut – even if they're completely different. “If you found a picture of a fringe on a girl with black hair, but you want to be blonde, then take those pictures in," he explains. "A hairdresser can kind of merge those ideas together.”

In other words, don't dismiss an image just because the colour, length or styling isn't exactly right. Your stylist is trained to interpret different aspects of a look and combine them into something achievable for you. Most importantly, Douglas wants clients to feel confident sharing their inspiration rather than worrying about getting it wrong. As he puts it: “don't be afraid to bring in some pictures.”

Beauty editors and hairstylists have been obsessed with it for years, but TV presenter Amanda Lamb has recently discovered Living Proof's cult volumising hair spray – and after trying it for herself, she’s officially converted.

Known for its ability to add instant lift and body without leaving hair stiff or sticky, this particular product has long held cult status among those with fine, flat hair - so we're not surprised Lamb is a fan.

Chatting to beauty journalist Nadine Baggott in a recent Instagram video, Lamb demonstrated her new find, while her co-presenter Baggott tipped us off to a similarly effective high street alternative at less than half the price.

Why this dry texture spray is perfect for adding volume to flat hair

Chatting to beauty journalist Nadine Baggott in a recent Instagram video, Lamb praised Living Proof’s Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray, calling the product “brilliant” for boosting volume at the roots. “I don’t know where I’ve been,” she admitted, explaining that she sprays the product directly into freshly washed roots before massaging it through with her fingertips to create lift.

Undoubtedly one of the best hair thickening products out there, Baggot was equally enthusiastic about the spray, describing it as “the best on the market bar none.” However, she also revealed that she believes there’s now a convincing high street alternative: L'Oréal Paris Elvive Big Hair Day Volume Spray, which costs just £13.

Designed to create grip and movement within the hair, texture sprays have become a go-to for achieving airy volume without any stiffness. Rather than leaving hair sleek or overly polished, they’re intended to give that slightly matte, undone texture that’s often associated with second-day styling and beachy hair. If your hair is fine and struggles to hold shape, they’re a great choice.

Like the best dry shampoos, both the Living Proof and L'Oréal Paris sprays use solvent-based formulas containing alcohol, which helps the product dry quickly once applied to the roots. Both products also contain starches to absorb excess oil while boosting lift and texture through the hair. However, one notable difference is that the Living Proof spray also offers heat protection up to 210°C – making it particularly useful for those who regularly use heated hair tools.

During the video, Lamb demonstrated her preferred application technique: lifting sections of freshly washed hair, then spraying directly into the roots and massaging the product in with her fingertips. Baggott then applied the L'Oréal Paris spray to the opposite side of Lamb’s hair for comparison, with Lamb immediately commenting on how good the product smelled. Both sprays appeared to add noticeable lift and volume through the roots.

Alongside their volumising spray recommendations, the pair also shared several other beauty recommendations in their “Five Faves” video. Lamb praised Aveda’s Miraculous Hair Oil for smoothing and softening the ends of her hair. Baggott also suggested applying hair oil to dry ends before shampooing, noting that the scalp typically needs cleansing more than the lengths themselves.

The duo also highlighted Medik8’s C-Tetra Luxe serum, which Lamb described as “super easy to use” thanks to its lightweight, oil-serum texture, alongside Beauty Pie’s One Powder Wonder setting powder. The latter earned particular praise for mattifying shine without settling into fine lines or leaving skin looking flat or overly matte.

Permanent eyebrow makeup has been around for decades in various forms, and the treatment has come a long way from the obviously tattooed-on looks some of us may remember from its earliest iteration.

With subtle approaches like powder brows and microblading surging in popularity, many high-profile faces are opting for long-term eyebrow definition. This list includes rumoured royal fan, Queen Camilla, woman&home's beauty director Sarah Cooper-White (whose microblading review dubbed it "one of the best tweakments I’ve tried") and now, Ruth Langsford.

For those who are interested in eyebrow tattooing, but concerned about how natural - or not - it will look, Langsford has shared a post-treatment update to social media that could be all the motivation you need to book in.

Ruth Langsford's amazing, natural-looking eyebrow transformation

Taking to Instagram exactly one week after posting a video of her having the eyebrow tattoo treatment, Langsford posted a video titled EYEBROW TATTOO UPDATE!! - showing off the defined, natural-looking effect of the treatment.

"I just wanted to show you my tattoo eyebrows with no makeup on," Ruth begins, "because when I posted the video, when they're being done, they look very dark, and they're not."

Leaning into the camera, Ruth then displays the soft, subtle tones of her brows to full effect, saying, "They're this really soft, taupey brown. So if you were looking at the tattoo video and thinking, it's a bit dark for me, you can choose your colour - I go for this soft taupe brown."

As a beauty editor who had my eyebrows microbladed (a form of eyebrow tattooing where the strokes are painted on individually by hand) many years ago, I wholeheartedly agree with Ruth. Much like any tattoo, of which I also have many, the initial colour during and directly after treatment will always be far darker and more saturated than the finished result.

This is because the pigment initially sits in the very top layer of skin, oxidising and looking very intense, before being absorbed into the deeper layers. When your skin's healing and natural cell renewal processes kick in, you will shed those top layers of skin, after which the softer-looking pigment that has been driven deeper into the dermis remains. This then slowly fades with time, too, after which you can choose to have it topped up (usually every six months or so) or allow it to fade away back to your natural brows.

As with so many longer-lasting treatments, from Botox to a Brazilian blow dry, having your eyebrows microbladed is all about trusting the process - and your practitioner. If you are interested in eyebrow tattooing, always pick a reputable artist whose work you have seen many examples of, before and after the healing stage.

A lengthy consultation is a must to find the exact finished shape and tone you will be happy with, and keep in mind that they will almost certainly look darker than expected at first, so there is no need to panic. Just like Ruth's tattoo brows, they will settle into a subtle and beautiful brow in a matter of days.

There’s a lot to learn from journalist and TV presenter Nadine Baggott. Having spent the last 35 years testing every product, treatment and gadget imaginable, her beauty know-how is second-to-none.

Known for her refreshingly straight-talking approach, she regularly shares the products, tips and beauty habits she genuinely swears by on social media.

Most recently, Baggott turned her attention to a common beauty dilemma: how to colour grey roots at the back of your hair without the help of a professional. “If, like me, your grey roots need retouching every two weeks, then this will save you time and money,” she wrote in the caption, before revealing the low-maintenance technique she’s been using “for years, even before lockdown”.

Nadine Baggott’s ‘three gold secrets’ for colouring roots at the back of your hair

Admitting she’d recently realised she’d “been doing a pretty bad job” at colouring the back of her hair, Baggott walked followers through the exact method she uses to touch up roots at home using a bowl, brush and section clip.

According to Baggott, success comes down to preparation and sectioning. “You need a brush and bowl for proper application,” she explains, alongside a tail comb brush that allows you to create neat sections through the hair (as well as your choice of at-home hair colour).

Her second tip is to secure hair into a loose section clip, which keeps the lengths out of the way while making it easier to work methodically through the back of the head.

“You section it off just an inch at a time,” she says in the video. “I feel with my fingers where the section is, and then I paint on the colour.” Rather than aiming for perfection, Baggott says the trick is simply ensuring enough coverage to soften the appearance of regrowth between salon visits. She also recommends choosing a colour close to your natural base shade, as this makes any overlap less noticeable and creates a softer, more blended finish overall.

“It’s not perfect, but it’s not bad,” she tells the camera after revealing the finished result, joking: “Professional hair colourists look away now.” Still, for anyone struggling to stay on top of fast-growing greys, her technique offers a realistic, affordable solution that feels far more achievable than a full at-home colour transformation.

K18 is a brand that never does things by halves, and absolutely never launches 'that'll do' products to fill a gap in a marketing calendar. Wouldn't dream of it.

So after the original Molecular Repair Mask - a genuine "game changer" as my K18 Review breathlessly attests - and a dry shampoo that works unlike any other (spoiler: it's wet) as of this week, we get TripleBright Oxidation Defence, the brand's stab at making the best purple shampoo on the market.

Predictably, it's pretty different from the competition, and that goes for the formula, the feel, and the results it can achieve.

What you need to know about K18's high-tech purple shampoo

If you have grey, blonde or lightened-in-some-way hair, you've probably tried purple shampoo. These formulas are bright violet and do a great job of toning down yellow tones in hair, simply because purple is opposite yellow on the colour wheel, so they cancel each other out.

So far, so useful if your colour gets a bit brassy. The downside? They don't do much else besides knocking yellow down, can be drying and make an unholy mess of your hands, shower tiles, and anywhere else the splatters reach, which for me always seems to be the top of my ears.

So, here comes one of the most innovative haircare brands around, with a new approach:

After testing the product myself, I found that not only did all of my blonde take on a nice, creamy tone, but my (recently grey spotlighted) silver strands at the front were sparkling with shine, which is so tricky to achieve on greys. My whole head of hair felt soft, fresh, and clarified - not easy given the harder-than-Vinnie-Jones water of South-East London.

A few caveats: despite this being the most mess-free purple shampoo I've tried, TripleBright still contains pigment, so don't let it sit on your hands for ages and rinse away any drops from your shoulders to save your towels. You need to leave it in for a few minutes for it to work, so it's a longer process than most shampoos, and at just shy of £40, it's not cheap by any means.

With that said, you only need to use this once every couple of weeks for excellent, tangible changes to your hair colour - and it really does last for weeks, through other shampoos. So overall, as with everything K18 does, the trickier elements are more than offset by the benefits, and as someone who uses shower time to hide from a toddler, the slightly longer application time is no biggie.

A trip down the haircare aisle can be an overwhelming experience. From scalp care and styling to treatments and colour, there are so many products to choose from that it’s almost impossible to know where to begin.

That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. Our beauty team and panel of trusted haircare experts, from trichologists to celebrity hairdressers, have spent weeks washing, spritzing and styling their hair to bring you the definitive list of the 60 very best products out there. No more wasting your money on a conditioner that weighs down your hair, or achy arms from a hairdryer that doesn’t actually deliver.

So, whether you’re searching for the best shampoo and conditioner or want to learn a little more about the best hairdryers before you add one to your wishlist, you can shop this list knowing that every single product has the woman&home seal of approval.

The 2026 woman&home hair award winners

Haircare

Treatments

Tools

Hair health

Colour

Styling

Special recognition

The woman&home Hair Awards are back for 2026, and this year, we welcomed another incredible lineup of judges to help us test hundreds of products.

We rely on a panel of trusted, talented industry experts to help us narrow down our winners. We really put these products through their paces, testing everything from the best shampoo for fine hair, to the best hair straighteners and best hot brushes – all with the goal of bringing you the most effective haircare for every hair type and budget. Plus, all the best products to repair damaged hair.

After weeks of rigorous testing and debating, we finally named 60 products as our woman&home Hair Award winners. We couldn't have done it without the generous help of our 19 industry expert judges, so we thought you might like to get to know them a little better.

MEET OUR JUDGES FOR THE 2026 HAIR AWARDS

OUR EDITORIAL BEAUTY TEAM

If I can boldly claim to have a bit of youth on my side, I've gone a bit grey, a bit too young. It's genetic. I clearly recall my mother's once espresso-dark hair turning blonder and blonder, a result of her colourist cramming in more highlights with every visit to stem the inevitable tide.

She stopped all that faff over a decade ago and now has a lovely, swingy silver bob. I'll happily go in that direction too at some point, but so far, my approach to going grey has been to blend it away with balayage.

Yet, just like my forefathers (i.e. mum), what started as a smattering of silver has evolved into a big, almost 100% grey zone right at the front of my hair and, strangely, on one side only. Subtle lights and all the Colour Wow in the world can't do much for that, so a change of tack was required.

Why grey spotlighting is the most compliment-garnering colour I've had in years

Thinking back to mother and her hairdresser's two-decade battle and eventual defeat (shout out Jacqui, you tried!) I wondered what might happen if, instead of fighting to hide my greys, I put them in the spotlight instead?

Enter: the hair colour trend of lightened 'money piece' streaks, which probably peaked amongst people who care deeply about having trendy hair a few years ago. But I've always thought there was something cool and punk rock rebellious about this look, so off I went to Nicola Clarke Salon to visit senior colourist Caroline, and put my transformation in her expert hands.

Happily, considering I'd pulled the name grey spotlighting out of thin air, after a good old chat, Caroline 100% nailed the vision. She suggested packing foils incredibly closely all around the hairline and front to create a 'pop' of bleach that would make a nice feature of my grey streak and add a symetrical face framer at the other side. Behind that, my roots were left as my natural dark blonde base for noticeable contrast.

This resulted in so many good things. A colour that works with, instead of against, what my hair actually wants to do. A flattering grey-blonde brightness around my face with easy, low-maintenance regrowth behind it. And a mercifully efficient appointment time - I'm talking sub two hours. Any blonde who's gone beyond the four-hour, cramping bum cheek point in the salon chair will know what a treat that is

To reveal my superficial, validation-seeking side, I have received more positive comments on this colour than any other in recent memory. It's been nice. This statement shade also feels more fun and youthful than my former subtle herringbone highlights. Maybe because I associate it with fun people like Caitlin Moran and my favourite at-the-time Spice Girl, Geri. Had to add the caveat as I'm more of a Mel C girl these days.

Anyway, I realise this specific look works with my base colour, the location of my silver strands and about a dozen other variables, so you and your colourist would need to consult and adjust as necessary. Everyone is on their own hair journey, whether that's embracing grey, highlighting it into oblivion or spotlighting it like me. But it's always nice to find a new hair colour option on the table, at any age. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

The bob haircut, and all its iterations (Italian bob, French bob, boyfriend bob, to name just a few), is the hair trend that’s here to stay. You can spot versions of the bob on celebrities including Carey Mulligan, Cate Blanchett and Kerrie Washington, who have long championed shorter styles, while recent converts include Margot Robbie and Emma Stone.

The beauty of a bob, according to expert stylists, is that there’s an iteration to suit every hair type and texture. It’s a common misconception that hairstyles for fine hair need to be long, when in fact you can create the illusion of thickness and volume with a well-cut (and styled) bob.

Legendary hairstylist, Michael Douglas, whose client roster includes Kate Moss and Claudia Schiffer, exclusively shared with us his top three styling tips that can make a noticeable difference, particularly when it comes to lift at the roots and crown.

3 ways to add volume to a fine bob, by Michael Douglas

Tip #1: Blow dry hair upwards

Fine hair is easily weighed down, which is why traditional blow-drying (aka directing heat downwards to smooth the cuticle) can sometimes leave it looking flatter than you’d like. Instead, Douglas recommends flipping your technique. Rather than setting your parting straight away, hold your best hair dryer underneath the section and direct the airflow upwards and outwards. “All of a sudden, you have this volume here [at the roots] that you didn’t have before,” he explains. It’s a small switch, but one that creates instant lift through the root.

Tip #2: Try parting the hair in a diagonal

There’s arguably nothing cooler than a side parted bob – just look to singer Raye for proof. But on finer hair types, a side parting often creates an imbalance with one side appearing noticeably fuller, the other flatter. Douglas’s solution is a diagonal parting. Starting at one side, gradually angle your part towards the centre as you move back towards the crown. “What you’ll end up with is way more even volume distribution and a lift at the crown,” he says.

The result is subtle but effective: height where you want it, without losing that soft, face-framing shape at the front. It’s also particularly flattering on mature hair, where lift through the crown can help offset any natural thinning around the temples.

Tip #3: Recruit the help of a volume spray

When it comes to the best hair thickening products, placement matters just as much as the formula itself. For fine or thinning hair, the goal is lift without heaviness – and that often means working underneath the hair rather than over it. Douglas recommends using a lightweight texturising spray, almost like “scaffolding” for the style. His go-to is The 5 Voluminous Texture -which he applies sparingly to create structure and hold without the crunch of traditional hairspray. “I’ll just put a tiny bit of backcombing in to add height at the back,” he adds.

Like many women in their 40s, I've spent a small fortune trying to give my hair lift with products all promising ‘bounce, ‘body, and ‘va-va-voom.’ Yet, at 47, my hair seemed to look drier, duller and, frustratingly, thinner than before.

The irony? I hadn’t actually lost much hair at all. I eventually realised that my hair didn’t need more products, but rather better care.

If this sounds familiar to you, it's first important to understand that "flat" hair in mid-life isn’t always about thinning hair. In fact, it’s often about losing movement. So, with this in mind and the help of the experts, I've been on a journey to restore some life to my midlife locks.

Why care, not volume, was the answer to my midlife hair challenge

The first step was ascertaining the true cause of my lack of lift. “Very often, hair described as ‘thin’ or ‘flat’ isn’t about density at all – it’s about condition and routine,” Jordanna Cobella, Creative Director at Cobella salon and Wella Professionals UK & Ireland Colour & Trends Ambassador, explains. Build-up, dehydration and products that are simply too heavy can cause hair to collapse at the root, even when there’s plenty of it there.

As with skincare, it’s about the quality, not quantity, of products and sticking with a more edited hair care routine. Hormonal changes (yep, them again) can also alter how hair behaves. As oestrogen declines, hair fibres often become drier, coarser and more porous, which affects shine and swing. “Hair doesn’t move or reflect light in the same way,” Jordanna notes.

Akta Bavalia, Trichologist at Journey Clinic, also told me that “No routine can turn 47-year-old hair back into 27-year-old hair. But it can make hair behave better, look healthier and feel more like itself.” On that note, here’s what I did to achieve exactly that...

1. Stopped rushing my hair wash

I’m not an "everything shower" person – I’m firmly in-and-out in under five minutes. But that rushed approach wasn’t doing my hair any favours: under-cleansing is one of the biggest causes of limp midlife hair, according to the experts. “If the scalp isn’t thoroughly cleansed, residue from sebum, styling products and dry shampoo remains at the root,” says Akta. “That weight alone can make hair collapse.”

Jordanna recommends double cleansing: a clarifying or purifying shampoo first to properly remove build-up, followed by a second, more hydrating cleanse. “Rushing the rinse, not emulsifying shampoo properly and even going to bed with wet hair can all contribute to flatness.” Previously, I didn’t treat washing my hair as any kind of restorative phase of my hair routine – it was just a necessity, like wearing deodorant. Spending more time similarly cleansing my hair and scalp with the best shampoo for fine hair, just as I did my face, left it feeling and looking lighter and sprightlier.

2. Realising conditioner wasn't the 'bad guy'

For years, I treated conditioner like a necessary evil – something to be kept firmly away from my roots at all costs. But skipping it altogether can make hair look thinner and duller over time.“Without conditioner, the cuticle stays rough and dehydrated,” says Jordanna, “which reduces shine and makes hair appear finer.”

The trick is formulation and placement. Conditioner belongs through the mid-lengths and ends, not plastered onto the scalp, and lighter formulas are far more midlife-friendly. Akta explains that modern conditioners can actually help hair look fuller by improving slip, strength and light reflection – as long as they’re not too rich or overused. Products like UKHAIR by UKLASH Conditioner, £15, are formulated with this balance in mind, helping to smooth the cuticle, enhance shine and maintain movement rather than weighing hair down. Within a few washes, my hair looked softer, brighter and, unexpectedly, more buoyant.

3. Re-thought my styling products

“Styling should shift from control to enhancement,” says Akta, and recommends lightweight, flexible formulations, such as mists or foams, that support shape and lift without stiffening the hair or weighing it down. When hold is needed, Living Proof Flex Hairspray offers structure without the rigidity of heavier creams or waxes. Heat styling also benefits from a rethink, as hair is often more fragile in midlife. “Lower heat settings, heat protection and restraint are key,” recommends Akta.

The new ghd Speed Ionic Hair Dryer, £299, dries hair faster than most, with a cool outer stream designed to keep heat damage in check. Or rather than blow-dries or repeated passes with hot tools, Akta suggests a softer approach: “allow hair to air dry to around 60–70%, then briefly blow-dry to remove excess moisture.” Old-school velcro rollers are also worth revisiting, and I’ve become obsessed with Nioxin’s Density Defend Volumising Dry Shampoo, which is some kind of magic in a can, lifting my hair with an almost non-existent presence.

4. Started reading the label

“Certain ingredients are especially helpful for ageing or fragile hair,” Akta explains, pointing first to citric acid, which is commonly used in conditioners to support pH balance. This, she says, “helps the cuticle lie flatter and improves softness and manageability,” making hair feel lighter and smoother rather than coated. Strengthening ingredients can also help, as they “reinforce the hair shaft and improve the appearance of strength and fullness without heaviness.”

Akta adds that scalp health plays a crucial role, too, advising that I look for pH-balanced formulas, fragrance-free options and ingredients like piroctone olamine, which help maintain oil balance at the root, which is “essential for preventing flatness.” She’s also keen to reframe the conversation around silicones, which often get a bad rep, when actually water-soluble or water-dispersible forms can be particularly useful for fine, easily weighed-down hair. 75% of the ingredients in my previous hair products were not beneficial. Now there are just three bottles in my shower, each earning its place tenfold.

5. Stopped drying my hair (as much)

I realised the pursuit of ‘fresh’ colour was costing my hair softness, shine and movement. Instead, I started to use hair extensions to reintroduce warmth and dimension in a far gentler way. As Victoria Lynch, founder of Remi Cachet, explains, using extensions to add tone allows you to brighten and enhance colour “without putting additional chemical stress on the natural hair, something that becomes increasingly important as hair gets finer with age. The focus shifts to subtle blending and working with how colour naturally evolves – rather than repeatedly lifting already-fragile lengths with dye.” The result, for me, has been hair that looks highlighted, but is more vibrant and glossy, with noticeably better bounce.

The one reset I’d recommend

If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone in their 40s convinced their hair has ‘lost itself’, it would be this: stop throwing more at it. Strip it back. Start with the scalp. Cleanse properly. Condition wisely. Be considered with styling. As Jordanna puts it, “hair often hasn’t failed – it’s just being weighed down by habits that no longer suit it.”

If you know a thing or two about the woman&home beauty team, you may have noticed that we pride ourselves on our ability to unearth the hair, skin and makeup formulas loved by the great and good – and we've got a particularly exciting discovery to add to our list.

If how to get shiny hair and a volume boost along with it are some of your top hair desires, we're right there with you. But, with thousands of products promising gloss and bounce available, from serums and oils to hair masks and leave-in treatments, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin.

So, putting our beauty sleuthing skills to the test, we've looked to someone whose hair always appears elegantly glossy with beautiful bounce - Zara Tindall. And, thanks to her longtime hairdresser, we've uncovered the exact hair styling buys behind Zara's healthy-looking locks. Spoiler: one of the best hair thickening products and a shine-boosting spray are the formulas behind it all.

The exact styling buys behind Zara Tindall's sleek and glossy hair

While it's rare for us to get a glimpse into Zara Tindall's beauty routine, we've uncovered two of the exact buys her hairstylist relies on to achieve Tindall's shiny, salon-worthy strands. Fortunately, we're not ones to gatekeep information, so we're here to share it with you too.

As for how we got this information, Zara's hairdresser & makeup artist, Alisia Ristevski, posted one of the equestrian royal's looks to Instagram back in November 2025. Helpfully, the caption detailed the exact trio of hair products that Ristevski used to achieve Zara's timeless updo.

In that list, the hairstylist noted using Eleven Australia's Dry Finish Texture Spray. This flexible, weightless spray, which explains why Tindall's elegant updo was so full of body. This formula is particularly ideal for those with fine or limp strands, perhaps as a result of hormonal changes, who are looking to give their hair some oomph.

Additionally, the list included the brand's Make Me Shine Spray Gloss, which boasts an ultra-fine mist that controls flyaways and boosts shine. Although suitable for every hair type, it's most notably suited to those with coarse-textured tresses, as well as highlighted or grey colours who may struggle to achieve shine and are seeking a glossy, healthy-looking finish.

The hairstylist also notes that, having used Eleven Australia's Give Me Hold Flexible Hairspray, it seems we are still unable to get our hands on this formula in the UK. That said, you can lock any hair styling in place with your go-to hairspray – we recommend the iconic L'Oreal Elnett Hairspray.

Earlier today, I was minding my own business, scrolling through Instagram on a bus, when a headline stopped me in my tracks.

The 'granny bob' is the cool-girl haircut trend to wear this spring, it proclaimed. I had to resist the urge to start muttering out loud.

I turn 50 this year. I’ve been a lifestyle journalist for decades. And I’ve had quite enough of the word 'granny' being used as lazy shorthand for anything associated with older women. It's just a bob, for the love of Ada.

It's time to retire the 'granny chic' narrative

Here we are in 2026, and an industry that prides itself on inclusivity is still casually repackaging female maturity, slapping a patronising label on it, and serving it back to us as a trend.

The 'granny bob' is just the latest offender. We’ve already endured 'granny sandals' and 'granny shorts' – apparently, the looks we’re all meant to be embracing this summer. I, for one, am over it.

We’re told the so-called granny bob is chic, timeless, flattering – a short cut that works across hair types and taps neatly into the current nostalgia wave. Fine. So why not call it exactly that? Why attach 'granny' to it at all?

Is it because it’s short? Are we still clinging to the tired idea that women of a certain age should cut their hair? Is it shorthand for 'low maintenance' – and, by extension, a suggestion that older women don’t bother with their appearance? Or is it simply a clumsy nod to the fact that this style has been around for decades?

In one article I read, the cut was recommended for those struggling with thinning hair – a thinly (excuse the pun) veiled reference to ageing. Is that it? Is 'granny' code for old, fading, less?

When we tack 'granny' onto a look, we’re not describing the style – we’re categorising the women who wear it. It’s reductive and outdated. But it’s also lazy and harmful, because language shapes perception. Calling something a 'granny bob' reinforces the tired narrative that women become less relevant, less stylish, and less worthy of attention as they age.

For the record, I have a version of this haircut. I’m 49. I’m not a grandmother. I didn’t choose it to disguise thinning hair or soften the blow of ageing. I first had it when I turned 19, after a brilliant hairdresser convinced me to chop my long blonde locks into a 'Mia Farrow' – the famous pixie cut she gave herself at 21, before her 1966 Vogue debut. There was nothing 'granny' about it then, and there isn’t now.

There’s also an implicit assumption baked into this nonsense: that age makes women less adventurous, less fashion-forward, more 'safe.' Ask most women over 40, and they’ll tell you they’ve never felt more confident in their choices. Not because they’re retreating into frumpiness, but because they finally know what they like – and they wear it unapologetically.

It's interesting, too, that when younger women adopt a classic look, we call it timeless. Iconic. Cool-girl. Yet when a style associated with older women comes back into fashion, we reach straight for the 'granny' label. That’s not playful. It’s ageism – shorthand for a value system that still celebrates and venerates youth while dismissing and mocking age.

By all means, celebrate flattering, versatile, low-effort fashion and beauty. But stop attaching a label that diminishes the very women who’ve been wearing those styles for years.

Women of all ages deserve better than that.

When it comes to searching for hair inspiration, it's only natural that we turn to the timeless icon everyone's talking about - one whose hairstyle transcends the decades by making a resurgence 30 years later.

While we began the year with freshly coined terms dominating the list of 2026 hair trends, such as elevated minimalism and the slicked back bun, this year is taking a different turn. It seems one of the biggest trends so far is taking inspiration from the 90s, all thanks to the style legacy of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.

With the hit drama series 'Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette' streaming on Disney+ in the UK, it's unsurprising that The Kennedys' names are on everyone's lips at the moment. More specifically, we've heard a lot of talk about Carolyn's hair, from that recognisable hair flip to creamy blonde hue and timeless styling. If you've been inspired, we've got expert intel on how to recreate every part of this look.

How to recreate Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's hair, as per a hair expert

If you're anything like us, you might've spent the last few weeks longing for the next episode of 'Love Story' to drop. However, it seems like we're not the only ones consumed by the dramatic retelling of CBK and JFK Jr's beautiful and tragically cut short romance.

In turn, the popularity of the limited series has caused the internet to be flooded with throwback images of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy herself, which has only led to more questions about Carolyn's pared-back hairstyles. With that in mind, we quizzed Edward James, expert hairstylist and founder of Edward James Salons, as to how we can achieve every step of this sought-after look...

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's hair explained

As the poster girl of quiet luxury and 90s minimalism, it's no surprise that Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's hair has been the talk of the town recently. As expert hairstylist Edward James describes the look: "Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s hair perfectly captured the understated elegance of the 1990s. Her look was never over-styled or overly processed."

Championing a natural movement and softness, James adds, "The cut was soft, classic long layers with a strong baseline, gently point-cut so it moved naturally. From time to time, she wore longer face-framing layers, which became more noticeable when her hair was pulled back into a ponytail with loose pieces around the face."