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."

As for Bessette's colour, James suspects she opted for a typical 90s hair trend: "Looking closely at photographs, you can see slightly deeper tones through the back sections, which suggests she alternated between full-head highlighting and softer half-head or scattered highlights over time."

"That approach was very typical of the 90s, when classic highlighting was the dominant colouring technique and root touch-ups every six to eight weeks were the norm. That frequency of colour also explains why maintaining good condition was so important to the overall look," adds James.

How Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy styled her strands

When thinking about Carolyn's hairstyles, most people's minds will automatically run to her extensive collection of minimalist hair accessories. In fact, she was photographed on numerous occasions sporting her iconic tortoiseshell headbands (reportedly from French brand Charles Wahba, which Bessette shopped at New York Apothecary C.O Bigelow), patterned scarves, and sunglasses in her hair.

Aside from her assortment of hair accessories, when Bessette didn't let her locks loose, she was typically pictured styling her hair in chic low buns and ponytails – both of which lend themselves perfectly to her timeless approach to beauty.

What was Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's hair colour?

Carolyn's hair shade had quite the impact on the beauty world, and even earned its own title – 'Bessette Blonde'. As explained by Edward: "It sits in that beautiful honey or champagne blonde space. It was not platinum, not icy, and not overly warm either. It looks seamless and expensive because the highlights are very fine and blended, giving dimension rather than stark contrast. The key to Bessette blonde is softness and gradual lift rather than aggressive lightening."

"If your natural base is fair and your hair is fine, a high-lift tint within highlights can often create that golden blonde result without needing strong bleach," James recommends.

In fact, the hairstylist recalled how "Carolyn herself appeared to get progressively blonder from the early 1990s onwards", of which he suggests: "Highlights combined with a little balayage through the ends can help build that soft, layered blonde over time."

If your hair is darker or thicker, he suggests "low-strength bleach highlights may be needed to break down deeper melanin and achieve the same honey tone." That said, James still advises: "The colour should always be finished with a champagne or soft gold toner to keep the blonde reflective and natural rather than flat."

Alternatively, for those already sporting blonde locks but wanting to alter the tone, James suggests: "The process is usually about refining the highlights and adjusting the toner. Keep in mind that highlighted hair can be slightly more porous, so toners may fade quicker at first or lighten further with sun exposure."

What was Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's haircut?

Despite what you may think, James notes that this haircut is "deceptively simple," meaning it's easy to achieve at your next appointment with your hairdresser. He says: "It is essentially long hair with soft layers and a strong baseline, lightly point-cut so the ends feel soft rather than blunt."

However, according to James, there's one thing that is worth avoiding when it comes to the cut: "The biggest mistake people make is over-layering. Carolyn’s hair still looked full and healthy because the ends were not overly thinned. The layers mainly existed to create movement around the face and through the mid-lengths."

For those with hair on the thin or finer side and wanting to recreate the cut for themselves, James advises: "If you don’t naturally have that length or density, you can recreate the look very successfully with extensions. Fine hair, especially, can struggle to grow long without looking wispy, so adding discreet tapes can give the hair the body needed for that soft 90s movement."

Your guide to at-home maintenance

While James hails the simplicity of Bessette's look, namely her "healthy, softly coloured hair with natural movement," the real key to keeping your CBK-inspired tresses in tip-top condition is with some gentle and consistent at-home maintenance.

To prioritise the condition of highlighted strands, James recommends: "A bond-repair treatment such as Aveda Botanical Repair Mask helps strengthen the hair fibre and prevent breakage between colour appointments. I also recommend sleeping on a silk pillowcase and using silk hair ties, which reduce friction and minimise snapping, especially on finer hair."

The hairstylist also states how it's worth investing in a detox shampoo to maintain the vibrancy of your strands, he says, "This particular blonde can also dull if mineral deposits build up from water, so using a detox shampoo once a week helps keep the colour bright. Ouai Detox Shampoo is a good example that removes build-up without stripping the hair."

It's beginning to look a lot like spring, but not just along the hedgerows or in the powdery-blue of the sky. Our beauty team's freshly trimmed, treated and coloured strands are also an indicator of the shift in seasons and if you, too, are keen to refresh your hair, here's a breakdown of everything we've had done.

Spring is thought of as the season of change and beginnings, and thus, updating your home, wardrobe or routine in some way (big or small) is a great way to feel as though you're starting anew. One way our team has collectively decided to do this is with their hair. Some have opted to embrace a 2026 hair trend, while others have booked in for a long-lasting treatment to keep their strands glossy and frizz-free. Of course, your own spring refresh can be as simple as investing in new and hard-working products for your hair type, like one of the best shampoos for fine hair, or just a nourishing best hair mask.

If you're keen for a trim or colour boost, though, here's what we've had done ready for the sunny months ahead - accompanied by before and after pictures (of course) and some expert advice.

The 4 hair refreshes the beauty team have had, ready for the spring season

Whether you want to try the celeb-approved side-swept hair trend or think your strands are in desperate need of a trim, there are several ways to refresh your locks ready for the new season. In fact, our beauty team have already had their appointments, with some opting for long-lasting smoothing and shine-boosting treatments, and others embracing new ways to style their hair.

Our haircare and styling favourites

Fiona’s invisible 'dusted' haircut

"As the owner of long, fine, bleach-highlighted hair who disobeys the 'trim every six-weeks' rule, I routinely have this head-scratcher to contend with: My ends are split, knackered, and in need of a good chop, and yet… I don’t actually want a good chop. I want my very long hair, just healthier," says Digital Beauty Editor, Fiona McKim. "So, I took my straggly strands and contradictory set of requirements to see Jenah at Blue Tit Salon in Brockley, and - lo! She had a solution. The invisible haircut. A set of tiny tweaks that gives the overall impression of nicely shaped hair without any tangible length change.

"Holding up about five inches of wispy ends, she explained that stylists generally chop off anything you can see through, but we could get away with losing just the last few centimetres because she was going to do something else, too, called 'dusting'. This post-cut technique involves gently aiming a hairdryer upward, letting individual frizzies and broken bits fly out and reveal themselves, and individually snipping them off. This removes the most damaged bits without sacrificing any length and, combined with that teeny blunt-edged trim, creates a solid and altogether thicker-looking finished style. Genius."

As for Fiona's verdict on this clever cut, it was a hit. "My ‘do, I hope you’ll agree, is still long, long, long - but looking so much fresher for the season ahead - proving that the tiniest little change really can make all the difference."

• Expert intel

If it's been a while since your own trim, Caspar Finch, hairstylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia, reminds us that "trims are good, especially if your hair is long, to maintain the integrity of the hair. If you don’t, then the hair almost self-cuts; it splits and eventually snaps, so you stop being able to see the growth from the roots, because the hair is practically eating itself. Taking the ends off keeps it chunkier and healthier as it grows."

As for how often you should book in for one, Finch recommends every 6–8 weeks, as this "keeps things looking intentional, especially if you have a strong shape or fringe."

Naomi's glossing treatment

"After deciding to embrace my natural hair colour of brunette last July, after years of being a blonde, I opted to do it gradually, rather than going for an all-over permanent colour right away," says Digital Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson. "So instead, for my first appointment, my hairdresser left my roots well alone (I already had a fair amount of regrowth then), but matched them with some permanent lowlights and then a toning semi-permanent gloss over the rest. This meant that over time, the gloss would fade, leaving me with a gradual fade from my roots and lighter brown hair down the lengths, so that, should I hate it, we could opt for something less intense next time.

"Luckily, I loved being my full, natural brunette again, so for my spring appointment, I requested the same semi-permanent gloss to tone the reappearing blonde back down to my natural root colour. The left picture is my hair after a good seven months, since my first return-to-brunette appointment, and the right is my hair a couple of days after another round of glossing and a quick trim. Instantly, the colour is richer, while my strands, in general, look so glossy and healthy. And a round of applause for my hairdresser, because she somehow managed to match my root colour exactly - I still can't get over it - and now my hair is fresh and beautifully shiny, ready for spring."

• Expert intel

If you're new to glossing and aren't sure what it entails or how it differs from traditional hair dye, Damian Gray, Colourist at Hershesons Belgravia, explains that, "Hair glossing is a very minimal approach to hair colouring. It’s an acidic semi-permanent colour that sits on the top of the hair shaft. It’s good to improve shine, and add tone or take away unwanted tones, like the brassiness of yellows in the hair. It’s a really soft, non-damaging way to get your hair looking silky and voluminous. A gloss can also have zero colour pigments and just be applied to improve shine and hydration.

"Glosses are very different to traditional hair dyes, as glosses sit on the very top of the hair shaft, to improve the shine and tone. Whereas a traditional hair colour changes the entire hair shaft all the way through to the cortex. Neither are bad options, but the right option needs to be tailored to your hair type, condition, and desired result."

Aleesha's Wella Smoothfiller treatment

"I have no problem admitting that I am very lazy when it comes to hair maintenance," quips Digital Beauty Shopping & eCommerce Editor Aleesha Badkar, "so my cut and colour appointments are usually no more often than twice a year. Thus, I was really looking for a spring refresh to bring some radiance back to my hair and give it a little bit of that expensive shine it had back in January when I last went in.

"The Wella Smoothfiller fit this brief perfectly, as not only did it leave my hair with the shiniest, silkiest finish I've ever experienced, but the demi-permanent treatment worked to smooth out frizz so that my usually hour-long post-hair wash styling took me just 20 minutes with no frizz to contend with. A treatment that lasts for a few months, this is just what I needed to help me stretch until my next appointment."

Sennen's side-part styling

"With spring on the approach, like many others, I feel the itch to switch up my strand," says Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett. "So, to welcome in the new season, I decided to swap my middle part for a side part. I’ve been seeing lots of talk about side partings online and the red carpets, which tempted me to trial the look for myself.

"Not only is it an easy, low-maintenance way to refresh your tresses that you can do at home yourself, but it’s also a subtle change that others are sure to notice."

What the experts suggest for spring

"For Spring, I’d always start with treatments that restore shine, strength, and movement without weighing the hair down," says Gray. "Glossing is a great place to begin - it’s not just about colour, it’s about refining tone, boosting light reflection, and giving the hair that expensive, healthy finish."

"For styling, I always recommend the Hershesons Almost Everything Cream," adds Finch, "It’s a multi-functional styling cream that can be used to tame frizz but also enhances natural shine and nourishes the hair, so great for a Spring re-fresh to hydrate coloured hair, without weighing it down. You can also use it as a weekly mask to boost hydration."

I used to go out of my way to avoid hair oils, having tried so many that left my hair looking greasy and flat. Now, I can't imagine my routine without a few drops of Aveda's Miraculous Oil High-Shine Hair Concentrate.

Before 2026, I relied solely on the best hair masks, in-shower glosses, and hybrid heat protectant sprays to condition and add shine to my hair, having sworn off oils and serums because of how they seemed to weigh down my finer strands - and speed up greasiness. I can't tell you how many times I've applied oil to my hair, hoping for shine but instead being met with piecey-looking face-framers and a slightly slimy sheen to my roots (no matter how little I used). I'd all but given up, assuming that perhaps most oils were just too heavy for my hair, until I tried Aveda's Miraculous Oil.

I don't mean to be dramatic, but this oil really lives up to its name and has completely transformed the look of my hair and, actually, my entire attitude towards my routine.

How Aveda's Miraculous Oil became an instant essential in my haircare routine

Along with my aversion to hair oils, dullness and flyaways have also been a constant struggle for me. To give a little context, I returned to my natural brunette hair at the end of 2025, after more than six years as a blonde. So, as you can imagine, there's some colour damage, dryness, and breakage going on. But with this pretty major change and ditching of bleach, I was determined to turn over a new, healthy-hair leaf.

I wanted to prioritise my haircare routine, ensuring I was being intentional and using the correct products for my needs; a soothing scalp oil, for instance, one of the best shampoos for fine hair, and of course, some sort of shine-boosting, post-wash product. Little did I know this would end up being my long-time nemesis, a hair oil.

But from the very first time I ran Aveda's Miraculous formula through my lengths, I was hooked. The spa-like, herbaceous scent immediately drew me in, as did how quickly the drops seemed to absorb, but it was the final, post-blow-dry results that really did it.

Above are two pictures of my hair taken in sunlight and in just normal, indoor daylight and let me tell you, the shine is even better in person. Since using this oil, my hair has never looked so glossy, and I just love how that fresh, green scent lingers and clings to my strands.

Even more miraculously, I've had numerous compliments on how shiny my hair has been looking and the overall richness of my colour, which I'm mostly attributing to this oil, considering my last colour glossy appointment was in February.

As for the feel of my hair, it's silky smooth to the touch, but one of my favourite things about this oil is that it doesn't make it feel flat or thin. I'm still able to add bounce and volume - be that through the use of one of the best hot brushes and curling irons, or a texture spray - without my chosen style dropping out. This formula just adds shine and hydration, with seemingly no drawbacks.

In fact, I'm yet to find one single thing I don't like about this oil - apart from the mere fact that it can be a bit messy to dispense into my palm, as the oil drips out of the pipette immediately, without me needing to press the stopper. It's a small price to pay for the shiniest hair of your life, though. It is also on the pricier side, though a little really does go a long way, and after a month of frequent use, I've barely made a dent in mine. And again, that reflective gleam makes it all worth it.

Whatever you think about the 'spring cleaning' mindset, there’s something invigorating about starting the new season afresh - be it a lifestyle shift, a wardrobe cull, or trying out some of the latest hair trends.

If you’re in a rut, now's the perfect time for a change. A fresh haircut or colour can totally change your look and mood, and also help you feel generally perkier. It’s a cliché for a reason - picking a more flattering haircut can be transformative. Personally, I got a bob hairstyle at the end of last year, and felt like a totally different person - fresher, cooler, Frencher.

While speaking to stylist to the stars Dom Seeley, who’s preened the likes of Jessica Alba and Bella Hadid, we discussed this mind-altering power of a good chop, and he shared a great tip, which might come in handy if you’re stuck in a hair rut.

Try this easy trick for a hair transformation, as recommended by an A-list hairstylist

Have you sported the same easy hairstyle for years - if not decades? “Ask yourself a few questions about why you're in that rut,” suggests Seeley. “Is it easy? Is it because you don't have time? Is it a safe option?”

While you ponder those questions, Seeley shares that a change doesn’t have to be scary, or a total overhaul - sometimes the smallest tweaks make the biggest difference.

“It shouldn't be too drastic to begin with because this can lead to you hating the outcome,” he warns. “A change can be a small tweak or even just learning to style it differently. Ease in gently to change - you’ll get braver when you know what works for you.”

I can vouch for this. Adding some curtain bangs and blending in my greys has made my hairstyle feel completely different, without being intimidating. It also helped open my eyes to other looks and possibilities, leading me to try different styles (like my famous bob). Picking a hairstyle or colour you’ve always wanted to try will help you feel braver and more confident - it really is powerful.

Our favourite buys to transform your hair at home

Seeley also recommends speaking to your hairstylist or booking a consultation before making your decision, and I wholeheartedly agree. We can all be guilty of putting ourselves in certain boxes - 'I could never wear X', 'Y would be high-maintenance', 'I would never be brave enough to try Z.'

Speaking to an expert who can view you impartially can help open your eyes to options you may not have considered, and help ease any worries or preconceptions. “Prepare, get inspired, and embrace the change,” were Seeley’s parting words, and I couldn’t agree more.

We are always excited to see a celebrity hair transformation - and Margot Robbie just combined not one but two huge changes in one chic cut.

Whether you're scouring the 2026 hair trends to inspire your next big chop or simply want to live vicariously through the style updates of the A-list, it's undeniably fun to see familiar faces stepping out with a brand new look.

Especially when said new look is a dramatic departure from their usual style, and one that would flatter us mere mortals, too. Enter Margot Robbie's latest cut, which we're dubbing the 'lived-in lob.'

Why Margot Robbie's 'lived in lob' is so flattering for fine hair

Margot has been a master of method hairstyling on the promotional trail for Wuthering Heights - wearing flowing waves and braids in line with the film's gothic-romantic feel.

But now the actor and producer has cast off those 18th-century shackles and popped up at Chanel's Autumn-Winter 2026 show during Paris Fashion Week with an ultra-chic new look. One that, by our estimation, is the shortest she's ever worn.

The new look combines a sharply-cut yet tousled long bob hairstyle (aka lob), a broken-up fringe, and a flipped-over side parting - all of which combine to create a seriously thick-looking and voluminous 'do.

While the man behind Robbie's cosy bob-esque chop, Cervando Maldonado, and her hairstylist for the Chanel show, Bryce Scarlett, have not revealed their styling secrets, these would be our go-to buys to recreate this look:

Suffice to say, Robbie's new look is ticking all the boxes for us. This longer 'lob' length is extremely flattering, particularly for those who fancy trying a trendy bob hairstyle but may not want to go too short.

The combination of a very blunt edge to the cut and a lived-in and tousled texture is an absolute masterclass in making finer hair types look thick and full.

Now, shall we talk about the fact that this is not just a bob, but a banged bob? This mid-weight yet piecey texture is a clever and flattering way to try a fringe without committing to an extremely high-maintenance, full fringe.

Now that spring is in the air, we're as keen to shake off our same-old, same-old hairstyles as we are our big winter coats. And this cool yet wearable cut has gone straight to the top of our inspiration board.

Forget salt and pepper roots, trialling innovative root cover-up formulas and splurging on frequent trips to the salon, we think going grey is the most stylish thing you can do in 2026 – here's why.

Championing elegance, style, and chicness, grey hair is a look that transcends the list of 2026 hair trends. Going grey can be a divisive topic for many, as knowing when, how, and if you want to embrace the greys can be a tricky decision. However, in the same breath, it can also be an empowering way to boost confidence – not to mention, it's also cost-effective, saving you money on expensive salon appointments.

So, if you've been thinking of taking the plunge or you're simply looking for a way to stylishly switch up your strands, we're making a case for opting for silver locks this year. Fortunately, there are plenty of celebs already sporting grey hairstyles and whose strands serve as stellar inspiration for your next hair appointment – here are seven chic ways to embrace going grey.

Why we think going grey is the most stylish thing you can do in 2026

While you might feel the urge to pluck stray grey hair (but experts would advise doing otherwise) or find ways of concealing them, such as Trinny Woodall's clever root cover-up trick, there are plenty of liberating ways to embrace lightening locks. We're talking slow transitions, such as the greige lights trend, as a subtle approach to greying strands, or opting for silver hair as a low-maintenance way to style grey tresses.

Plus, there's an array of hairstyles to choose from that welcome the silver hue, from short pixie cuts to lengthy locks. So, whether you have straight fine hair or voluminous curls, we've found an assortment of A-list inspiration for you to take note of.

Equip your kit with these grey haircare essentials

When it comes to grey hair, it's all about hydration and keeping any brassiness at bay. You'll want to equip your haircare arsenal with the likes of a moisturising shampoo (that is also sulphate-free), a purple hair mask for toning, and a nourishing yet lightweight hair oil. Speaking of which, we've found some stellar buys that are worth adding to your basket...

1. Helen Mirren's banged bob

Championing chicness, Helen Mirren styles her bright and glossy silver locks with the 90s banged bob trend. This look pairs a chin-grazing cut with a piecey, bouncy full fringe – a truly winning combo, no matter the hue of your hair.

2. Andie MacDowell's lengthy locks

For those with lengthier locks, why not take inspiration from Andie MacDowell's enviably flowing curly tresses. By opting for different shades of grey throughout her strands, the actress' hair is full of body and dimension.

3. Jamie Lee Curtis' pixie cut

Alternatively, if you're a fan of short hairstyles, Jamie Lee Curtis makes a pretty convincing case for a pixie cut. The cut in question boasts an abundance of short choppy layers that add texture and dimension, bringing an element of edginess to the hairstyle.

4. Whoopi Goldberg's subtle silver transition

Not ready for a major hair transformation? Why not take notes from Whoopi Goldberg who subtly showcased her silver roots whilst stepping out on the 2021 Met Gala red carpet – a slow and graceful transition approach to going grey.

5. Jane Fonda's bouncy curls

If you prefer pairing your curly strands with short haircuts, Jane Fonda's curly bob needs to be on your radar. Oozing volume and fullness, this Old Hollywoodlook is steeped in timeless sophistication.

6. Emma Thompson's greige lights

While Emma Thompson's quiff brings endless enviable volume, our attention was grabbed by her gorgeous hair colour. The actress tapped into the greige highlights trend by blending strands of creamy blonde with vivid cool-toned greys. This is another stellar, elegant approach to subtly embracing your greys, without jumping straight into the deep end.

7. Judi Dench's pixie crop

Lastly, we can't talk grey hair without mentioning the one and only Dame Judi Dench. The actress has worn her pearlescent white-grey strands for decades, and her iconic cropped pixie cut has remained the same since before adopting the grey hue – très chic!

It’s launched today, but we’ve been testing it for weeks, so you can read this Shark SilkiPro Straight review with confidence that we’ve put the tool through its paces.

I’m always excited when the brand launches a new device - I’m a huge fan of the Shark Cryoglow LED mask and think they’ve created some of the best hair driers on the market. They have the most innovative tech without being wildly overpriced, and as a senior beauty editor (who’s, by the way, also dedicated to my Shark hoover), I’m thrilled about the expansion of their beauty range.

I have naturally curly hair, so I wanted to see how this multitasking styler would fare - will it really leave my hair looking straight and sleek? I’ve tried a few of these two-in-one stylers, and they’ve never really wowed me, but are Shark up for the job? Let’s give the Shark SilkiPro Straight a whirl.

Shark SilkiPro Straight review: Our curly-haired beauty editor puts it to the test

My first impressions of the Shark SilkiPro Straight

The tool is sleek, shiny and stylish. There’s no getting away from the fact that it looks a lot like the Dyson Airstrait, and it does feel as weighty, with the same luxe feel. It comes with two comb attachments (more on that later) and a handy pouch for storage in a matching colourway.

When you switch it on, it lights up, and you can select your styling mode, heat and speed preference - there are three for each. It’s all quite intuitive - it’s easy to click through the settings. Call me old-fashioned, but I much prefer actual buttons to digital screens and dials, so I’m pleased by how easy the Shark SilkiPro Straight is to operate.

How does it perform?

The Shark SilkiPro Straight has two settings - wet and dry styling. When you start with damp hair, you lock the plates together, and you’ll feel a whoosh of air coming through the panels. It sort of feels like a regular hairdryer, once you get to the initial weirdness of holding a straightener styler rather than the more ‘gun’ shape of a traditional hairdryer.

This is also where the combs come in - for the wet styling phase, they suggest using the wide-tooth comb to stretch out tighter curls to make the straightening step easier. It’s satisfyingly easy to click into place, and I found that it helped make my curls looser and more amenable before straightening.

After drying, unlock the plates and click into the dry styling setting. The air will turn off, and the light will flash to show that the straightener is warming up. I used the middle heat setting, which I found effective for my fine hair, although I did finish off with a few passes on the highest setting for a really smooth finish.

The straightening step was pretty easy - it glides through hair, and I only needed one pass for most sections. I attended the launch of this product, and celebrity hairstylist Jay Birmingham explained that most of us are straightening sections that are too big, which I’m definitely guilty of, rushing through to get the job done. Lesson learnt - sectioning hair into smaller areas, around 3 inches per section, will lead to a sleeker finish that lasts longer, and I definitely found this to be true.

The wide plates are both a good and a bad thing. It makes them similar to the best hair straighteners for thick hair - the bigger surface area makes straightening thick or long hair incredibly quick. However, if you have short hair, it might make the process a little trickier. I have a bob, and while it wasn’t a real struggle, when I was tonging the shorter pieces around my face, I did have to really concentrate to get the shape right.

I didn’t use the smaller comb in the dry styling stage (my fine, flyway-prone hair frizzes up if I brush it when it’s dry), but it would help with the smoothness for coils or more unruly hair types. It’s said to mimic the comb technique for hot presses.

How does it compare to other wet-to-straight stylers?

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve tried a couple of these wet-to-straight tools, including ghd Duet Style, and they’ve never really blown me away. I found that while, yes, my curls were straighter, my hair would feel frizzy and flat while somehow also being strangely big. When I used those tools, I always finished off a couple of passes of my ghd Chronos Hair Straightener to smooth things out and provide a sleeker finish.

The best thing about the Shark SilkiPro Straight is that I didn’t need to do that at all. My hair genuinely felt sleek, glossy and shiny with just this one tool. This makes this the best wet-to-straight tool I’ve ever tried. I think that’s also down to the combs, which also sets this apart from the others I’ve tried - it gave the tool better control and helped stretch out my curls before straightening.

My hair also felt sleeker for longer. Often by day three or four of wearing it straight, the frizz starts to creep in and it starts a bit lion mane-eqsue. With the Shark SilkiPro Straight, my hair looked nicely ‘done’ for well into a week. I did have to do some tidying up for some areas, but, hey, I live in the UK, the rain can’t be avoided.

Shark SilkiPro Straight: My verdict

I was thoroughly impressed with the Shark SilkiPro Straight. It’s incredibly easy to use, and it simply does what it promises incredibly well. Damp, curly hair can be transformed into sleek, straight styles with one luxurious-looking tool. The comb attachments set it apart from its competitors, which leads to a sleeker finish and makes it particularly effective for curly and coily hair.

If I’m digging for downsides, I’d say that the wide plates might make styling very short hair difficult. At 781g, it's quite heavy too - I imagine if you were straightening very long hair, your arm might get tired.

All in all, I think it works brilliantly, and I’d really recommend it - especially if you have long, curly or coily hair, and you regularly dry and straighten it.

Often overlooked within the haircare routine, leave-in conditioners boast the ability to transform dry, straw-like strands into glossy, healthy-looking tresses in just a spritz or a squeeze.

As with the best shampoos for fine hair, best conditioners for fine hair - or any product for that matter - fellow fine-haired shoppers will know the struggle of finding formulas that do what they say on the tin, without weighing down your strands. Not only are tresses on the finer side easily weighed down, but they can also be hard to style and prone to breakage, making finding the right haircare even more essential.

Fortunately, I've found a featherweight leave-in conditioner that deeply nourishes the finest of tresses, bids farewell to frizz, boosts softness, and imparts an enviable glossy shine. With all that said, those with thicker strands should fear not, as this luxe formula boasts stellar hydration and softening benefits, too.

The lightweight leave-in conditioner I swear by for my tangle-prone fine hair

Wherever Oribe's Supershine Moisturising Cream goes, hundreds of rave reviews follow – just look at the websites of any retailers it's stocked at. If that's not a sign of a quality product, we don't know what is. That said, let us add our thoughts into the mix...

Whether my hair needs some extra nourishment in the winter months or simply needs a helping hand to seamlessly fight off tangles, I'll always find myself reaching for a leave-in conditioner. However, as someone with oil-prone fine hair, I am quite picky with the formulas that I use, as I need a product that will do all of the above, without weighing down my strands and making them appear greasy quickly. That's where Oribe's Supershine Moisturising Cream comes into play.

Let me tell you why this formula stands out from the crowd. First of all, this hair treatment tackles a plethora of hair concerns – from detangling, softening and boosting shine to hydrating, banishing frizz and preventing damage. It has a silky texture to it, which then translates to the hair once applied, leaving tresses feeling comparably lightweight and bouncy to having just stepped out of the salon.

Having fine hair, I struggle with my hair easily knotting, particularly after washing it. However, after distributing a coin-sized amount of this cream throughout my lengths, my hairbrush seamlessly glides through my strands without any tugging or breakage.

Not to mention, I've also applied this leave-in cream to dry hair – something that I always steer clear of in order to avoid my strands appearing greasy – after seeing many people hailing its styling capabilities too. However, it effortlessly melts into the hair, without leaving an oily residue behind, which makes it perfect for sleek, flyaway-free updos.

Let's talk about the elephant in the room, the price. While it is on the heftier side of haircare products, at £57 for a 150ml bottle, you are paying for the luxury formula hidden inside that delivers a salon-worthy experience and stellar results. That said, you can opt for a smaller, more travel-friendly 50ml bottle for just £23 if you want to trial the formula before investing in a full-sized bottle.

Celebrities often provide a plethora of hair inspiration to show our hairstylist, but we rarely get a sneak peek into their at-home haircare routine – until now.

Cat Deeley is no stranger to sharing a beauty product recommendation or two, whether that's her eyelash duo or her favourite self-tan that gives her an all-year-round glow. After years of eyeing up her strands, wondering exactly how she ensures her hair looks effortlessly healthy, shiny, and full of bounce, we've finally got all the intel.

While we've already been let in on the hair styling tools behind her salon-worthy curls, the This Morning presenter has now given us an insight into the haircare routine that ensures her tresses are kept in tip-top condition. From a nourishing hair mask that repairs dry, damaged locks to a clarifying shampoo for fine hair and a texture-boosting spray, we're taking notes on Deeley's regime.

A rare insight into Cat Deeley's healthy hair routine

If you've ever wondered how the daytime television presenter achieves her enviable strands, you're in luck as Deeley has lifted the lid on her all-time favourite formulas – including one of the best hair masks.

During an Instagram Live with Nadine Baggott, beauty journalist and TV presenter, Cat Deeley was quizzed on her go-to formulas that can be found in her daily routine – from the presenter's E11even Fragrance Oil to her favourite milky BIAB nails shade. But, after years of lusting after her voluminous salon-worthy strands, it was Deeley's haircare routine that piqued our interest.

When asked about her favourite shampoo and conditioner, Deeley revealed: "Sometimes I need more moisture, so therefore I go Kérastase and do a mask. Sometimes, I want deep cleansing, so I go more OUAI - their Detox Shampoo."

When asked what Kérstase hair mask she reaches for, Deeley replied: "The white one with the orange lid," which we can only infer to be the Nutritive Masquintense Riche Mask. As for why she likes it, Cat noted: "It's classic, and it's very heavy duty."

After nailing the foundations of her haircare routine with her hair washing regime, Cat also revealed her hair styling secrets: "My go-tos are always Sam McKnight, I love the smell – his dry shampoo, the Cool Girl Mist." The latter is popular amongst A-listers, including being the formula behind Sienna Miller's iconic tousled tresses, thanks to its ability to create lift, volume, and long-lasting hold.

To complete the look, the presenter also hailed Hair by Sam McKnight's The Fragrance with Benefits as the finishing touch to any hairstyle: "The new mist he's just done with the perfume. It never smells synthetic, I like it to feel [like] it's not super chemical and heavy."

Caring for curly hair can be like looking after a high-maintenance tropical plant. It was a total mystery to me at the beginning; it’s taken years of research to perfect it, and I wouldn’t trust my neighbour to look after it.

The curly girl method is a delicate ecosystem - one wrong move, and I’m stuck with a week of bad hair. It’s scary enough trying a new curl cream, let alone adding a whole new step. Occasionally, though, I bravely try something new - in this case, an exfoliating shampoo - and I’m rewarded with incredible results.

I was wowed at the difference a clarifying shampoo made to my curly hair. An extra step I’d never even considered adding ended up having the most transformative effect - it was shinier, more defined, and bouncier. When it comes to beauty, I’m usually team Do Less - I’m always looking for ways to simplify, but here’s why I think this extra step is more than worth it, whatever your curl type.

Why my curly hair routine was transformed by a clarifying shampoo

As with a lot of things I end up loving, I was dragged kicking and screaming into trying clarifying shampoo. Our testing process for the woman&home Hair Awards is rigorous, so I was forced to try an exfoliating shampoo to help find the best scalp treatments. I wasn’t looking forward to it - my hair is naturally dry, and worsened by bleach, so I was preparing myself for Sahara-levels of thirst.

Instead, as I dried and styled my hair, what I noticed was springiness. The curls were so much more defined before I even picked up my curl cream, and when I added the styling products, they felt like they worked immediately, rather than having to use any of my usual botanist tricks. It was bouncy, it was light, it was defined. I’d been conditioned (if you’ll pardon the pun) that what my dry hair needed was layers and layers of moisture, but actually, it needed a reset.

My favourite clarifying washes

Curly hair is often overloaded because it requires so many stylers - creams, mousses, gels, oils. These can build up on your scalp and on the surface of your hair, leaving it looking frizzy, lank, and flat. Clarifying shampoos or scrubs wash it all away, leaving you with a clean slate - and crucially, healthy, bouncy curls.

How I use a clarifying shampoo on curly hair

I now use a clarifying shampoo or scrub once a month - I wash my hair weekly, so that’s roughly every four or five washes. You might want to do it more or less often - that’s for you and your own beautiful tropical plant to figure out.

Something I didn't account for is how enjoyable using a scalp scrub actually is. Massaging it into your scalp feels so satisfying and relaxing, and doing this will also help boost your hair health and growth cycle. Think of it as a mini scalp facial.

If you’re in the market for another recommendation, can I suggest you use your clarifying shampoo on the same day as you use a treatment, like K18 or Olaplex? The combination of those two extra steps has led to some of the best hair days of my life over the last few months. Seriously, look!

Clearing away all the buildup means that the treatment is able to really sink into your hair and get to work. It’s a double whammy wash day win.

A shampoo is the foundation of a good haircare routine. However, it's wise to never underestimate the benefits of investing in a quality formula – this is something Trinny understands all too well.

There are so many shampoos on the market with formulas designed to suit a plethora of hair types and needs, from the best shampoos for fine hair to curly or thick hair options. However, most formulas are equipped with sulphates, thanks to them being powerful cleansing agents that lather extremely well, which might leave you wondering, 'is sulphate bad for your hair?'.

As the founder of a best-selling beauty brand, it's no secret that Trinny Woodall is full of helpful beauty tips – from Trinny's magnifying mirror for precise and easy makeup application to her silk bonnet hair trick for healthy tresses. So, when we heard her personal recommendation of a sulphate-free cleansing cream that she has been using for years, we knew we had to take notes.

The sulphate-free hair cleanser Trinny has sworn by for the last six years

Trading harsh detergents in for gentle ingredients, Hairstory's New Wash breaks the unhealthy hair washing cycle, instead working to cleanse, clarify, and nourish your tresses – without stripping hair of essential moisture. With over 18,000 rave reviews on the Hairstory website alone, it's no surprise that Trinny Woodall is a fan of this shampoo-conditioner hybrid formula.

As for how we got this insight into Trinny Woodall's haircare routine, the beauty mogul revealed her favourite shampoo in a recent interview with Harper's Bazaar. When quizzed on her holy grail beauty products, Woodall stressed: "I would say I only use Trinny London, I'm very adamant about using 100 percent of our brand."

However, one product that is the exception to this rule is Hairstory's New Wash, Trinny says: "I use a brand called Hairstory that’s developed by the guy from Bumble and Bumble. It’s a milk conditioner, but it's not cheap." The entrepreneur isn't a new fan of this product; in fact, she's sworn by this formula for many years now: "I have been using it for six years, since it came out. I would never go back to sulphate shampoo."

It's worth mentioning that the brand also offers New Wash formulas that are designed specifically with different hair types in mind, such as dry hair, oily hair, or all hair types, so you can tailor your hair washing routine to suit the needs of your tresses. Not to mention, Hairstory's Refill Pouches make it easy to restock whenever you're running low, whilst remaining friendly to the planet.

Growing up, we’ll all have heard at least one so-called old wives' tale about hair removal.

Be it that plucking one chin hair 'will send three to its funeral,' or that the summer sun makes the hair on your legs grow more quickly, there’s plenty of misinformation out there when it comes to shaving, waxing, laser hair removal, and more.

As someone who’s still navigating the world of different hair removal methods (I tend to be an ‘at-home solution’ kinda gal, but am keen to try more waxing and laser), this is an area that was fairly untapped for me. So, I was fascinated to speak to some of the country’s leading hair removal experts about what I should - and shouldn’t - listen to when making my decisions.

10 hair removal myths, debunked by the experts

Whether you’re considering hair removal from your face, for your legs, bikini line, or underarms, this myth-busting guide - complete with insights from several hair removal professionals - will undoubtedly prove useful.

1. If you pluck a chin hair, three will ‘come to its funeral’

We’re all familiar with this one: you see a dreaded chin hair, reach for the tweezers, and later live to regret it. But turns out, this is a ‘rule’ that’s best left in the past. “As much as we love the drama of this one, it’s biologically impossible,” states Monica Ella Botros, Managing Director of Strip Hair Removal Experts.

“Each hair grows from a single follicle, not a hydra with spare heads.” She concedes that after plucking a coarse hair on the chin, the area can feel a little more noticeable - but this isn’t due to the creation of new follicles. “What can happen is that repeated plucking irritates the skin and may lead to ingrown hairs or texture changes over time.” So, feel free to pluck, but do so with care.

2. Laser hair removal doesn't work on certain skin tones

The consensus (in the past) has been that laser hair removal is only for people with lighter skin tones and darker hair. However, in most cases, this no longer carries weight. “This used to be partly true when technology was limited. Today, with medical-grade lasers and trained practitioners, every skin tone, from very fair to deep, can be treated safely and effectively,” explains Brotos. Shireen Forster, founder of Laser Me Out adds that in the past, “this myth has unfortunately prevented many people with darker skin tones from accessing laser hair removal.”

But with modern laser technology, this is no longer necessarily a concern - provided you do your research to ensure you find a quality practitioner that is properly trained and uses the correct lasers. “Anyone considering laser hair removal should seek practitioners experienced in treating their specific skin tone,” Forster recommends. “Practitioners working with darker skin need proper training and appropriate equipment, but laser hair removal is absolutely viable and effective for all skin types.”

3. Shaving makes hair grow back quicker

One of the reasons so many of us may steer clear of razors is because of this common myth, which suggests shaving can be counterintuitive in that it causes hair to grow back thicker. You needn’t worry, however, according to Helen Quayle, CEO and founder of Laser HQ. “Some people are adamant that this is true, but I can assure you that it’s false," she explains.

"When we shave, we are cutting off the hair at the skin and effectively removing the sleek and pointed tip. This creates a blunt end, which appears thicker and darker, but the actual hair hasn’t increased in its measurements or structure. Hair thickness can change due to hormones and the particular growth phase of each follicle, but we can’t influence this by shaving.”

4. You can't wax while on your period

For most of us, having a wax on our period may not be the most ideal scenario, particularly given the discomfort we may already be feeling from cramps and aches. However, if this doesn’t bother you, there’s no reason why you can’t get waxed during this time. “It’s completely safe and hygienic with a tampon or menstrual cup,” says Brotos. “Hormone fluctuations can heighten skin sensitivity, making waxing feel slightly more uncomfortable, but professional therapists adapt techniques to minimise discomfort anytime.”

5. Laser hair removal is permanent

Laser hair removal is often seen to be the ultimate long-lasting hair removal solution - and yes, it has many benefits and does keep you hair-free for a time, but it’s not for life. “It’s a gradual process because hair grows in cycles. Most clients need six to eight sessions spaced four to six weeks apart to capture every follicle at its active growth phase,” says Dr Laura McCarthy, aesthetic doctor at CULTSKIN. Hair will be smoother and finer after each treatment, but you need to invest in a little maintenance once or twice a year to ensure long-term results, she says.

6. You can't enjoy the sun after waxing

For those who wax, we may be thinking staying out of the sun is best - and to an extent, that’s true… but not entirely. “Timing and protection are key,” explains Botros. “Waxing exfoliates the skin by removing the top layer of dead skin cells, which makes freshly waxed areas more sensitive to UV rays.” For this reason, it is best to stay out of direct sun for 24-48 hours post-wax, to avoid irritation or burns. However, as long as you leave a little time and slather on the SPF to waxed areas (along with everywhere else!), you should be OK.

7. Hair grows back more quickly in summer

An idea many of us may have heard from our mothers and continue to believe all our lives (guilty), it’s common to think hair grows more quickly during the summer or when you’re on holiday, because of increased sun exposure. The truth is a little more nuanced. “Hair growth rate is primarily determined by genetics, hormones, nutrition, and overall health rather than sun exposure,” notes Forster.

“What people often notice in summer is that hair appears to grow faster because they’re paying more attention to it, spending more time outdoors, and may be maintaining their appearance more frequently during the holiday season.” On the contrary, UV rays can actually damage hair, making it more likely to break - so always take suitable precautions.

8. Laser hair removal is very painful

Perhaps one of the biggest roadblocks to getting laser hair removal (along with worries about the price) is the pain factor. We’ve often heard that laser can be very uncomfortable, bordering on painful - but luckily, things have evolved. “Early lasers could feel sharp, like an elastic band snapping. But modern laser hair removal is far less painful, and burns are exceptionally rare when performed by trained professionals using appropriate equipment,” says Forster. As long as you have your sessions with a qualified practitioner at an established, recommended clinic, you shouldn’t feel too much discomfort - and definitely not any real pain.

9. You have to grow the hair out before laser

Like with waxing, we may think it’s best to ‘grow out’ hair before getting laser, but that’s actually not the truth, says Lucy Hayes, lead advanced therapist at CULTSKIN. “Laser works by targeting pigment in the follicle, not the hair above the skin.” In fact, she says, “shaving the day before treatment is ideal so the laser can reach the follicle directly.” It is, however, best to avoid waxing or plucking during your treatment course, as that removes the root of the hair.

10. Hair removal creams dissolve hair from the root

For those who prefer at-home hair removal solutions, depilatory creams may seem appealing. But it’s important to understand how they work before landing on them as the best option for you. For one, they don’t ‘dissolve’ hair from the root.

“They work through a chemical process rather than dissolution, containing alkaline chemicals that break down the protein structure of the hair shaft, allowing it to be wiped away,” explains Forster. For this reason, they only affect the hair above the skin’s surface, while the root remains intact. This means regrowth can occur pretty quickly, which is important to consider when reaching for them over other solutions.

The bob is one hairstyle that never seems to go out of fashion, and rightfully so. But, according to the 2026 Golden Globes red carpet, there's now a new way to style your short tresses for a chic and modern appearance.

Contrary to popular belief, there are many different iterations of a bob, depending on your personal preferences, from effortless styles such as the cosy bob to dramatic cuts like the laser cut bob. But one thing's for certain, the short hairdo never seems to drop off the list of annual hair trends – take the 2026 hair trends for example.

So, it might not come as a surprise that the bob trend made the statement at this year's Golden Globes that its here to stay for the foreseeable. That said, the timeless cut took a fresh and contemporary twist with one easy styling trick – here's everything you need to know about the look.

The chic and easy bob trend that was everywhere at the Golden Globes

While there's nothing outwardly revolutionary about the bob, the latest iteration of the style, the tucked bob, undoubtedly stole the show at the 2026 Golden Globes. In fact, the hairstyle earned A-list approval as it was adorned by a plethora of well-known Hollywood names that took to Sunday night's red carpet.

Suitably tailored to different bob lengths, the look saw chin-grazing strands to shoulder-length tresses seamlessly styled with a tuck of the hair behind one ear. Most celebs paired the simple hairstyle with a subtle wave throughout their locks – almost acting as an ode to the Old Hollywood look that is often a popular choice on the red carpet. The look might sound minimal, but it's a fresh and modern take on a classic bob.

How to style your tucked bob

If you're already sporting a bob (or already have the knowledge of what to know before getting a bob), there's just a few more essentials you need to equip your hair styling arsenal with for glossy, salon-worthy strands – just like the A-listers.

6 celebrities adorning the bob trend on the 2026 Golden Globes red carpet

If you're wondering who was pictured wearing the bob trend in question on this year's Golden Globes red carpet, or perhaps you're seeking some visual inspiration of the hairstyle, look no further than the following six household names...

1. Robin Wright

Robin Wright not only turned heads thanks to her glamorous black cut-out gown, but also with her side-part tucked bob. The cut, which barely grazed the actress' chin, was styled with a low maintenance tuck and flicked out ends.

2. Jessie Buckley

Hamnet actress, Jessie Buckley took to the red carpet with her short golden strands delicately tucked behind both ears. The truly elegant styling had a timeless feel to it and allowed her strapless gown to take centre stage.

3. Amy Poehler

Amy Poehler followed suit with a subtle tuck of her shoulder-length locks behind one ear. Poehler paired the look with a tousled beachy wave that added texture and dimension to the style.

4. Zoey Deutch

Speaking of wavy strands, Zoey Deutch opted for a barely-there wave, we we can imagine was most likely achieved with a large barrelled hair wand, before recreating the one-sided tuck with her brunette tresses.

5. Rhea Seehorn

Rhea Seehorn stunned in a structured gold strapless gown, but we couldn't stop staring at her hair. The actress and director was pictured sporting a laser-cut bob, side-swept fringe and a chic tuck behind one ear – a winning combination that oozed modern chic.

6. Hannah Einbinder

Hannah Einbinder evoked Old Hollywood glamour from head-to-toe. Her Great Gatsby-esque auburn bob adorned a dramatic side parting and mermaid wave that felt equal parts classic as it did fresh. Not to mention, we couldn't take our eyes off her hair's glossy, high-shine finish.

The abundance of merry socialising and festive parties that the Christmas period brings can have a real effect on your hair - we're talking dull, damaged and straw-like strands.

After a month of back-to-back events for party season and continuous hair styling (we're looking directly at our best hair straighteners and strong-hold hairspray), you might be wondering how to get healthier hair for the new year. Well, you're in luck as I've come in clutch with a product recommendation that will get your strands back in tip-top condition – and it's one of the best hair masks on the market.

I'm talking about Amika's The Kure Hair Mask, a nourishing, bond-repairing formula that works to strengthen damaged tresses and prevent damage. Here's why I'm going to be reaching for it all January long in order to reclaim the strength, smoothness and glossiness of my hair...

The hair mask I'm reaching for to repair my strands after party season

No matter the retailer you're shopping at, you'll notice that this hair mask is always accompanied by a plethora of rave reviews from shoppers – which makes a boots on the ground case for how impressive this formula is. Speaking of which, customers particularly hail the hair mask for being kind on colour-treated tresses, accentuating curls and its ability to smooth and soften strands.

The Amika hair mask in question boasts a rich, nourishing and intensely hydrating formula. It's thicker than other hair masks on the market, a texture that is similar to one of the best face moisturisers but with a silky, velvety feel. This also helps easily and thoroughly coats each strand of hair, without requiring you to use too much of the product – meaning you get more bang for your buck out of a tub.

My hair can already get quite knotty and straw-like when wet, resulting in some damage, however this helps to effortlessly detangle my tresses and allow my hairbrush to glide through – no tugging required. If you, too, struggle with knottiness, I'd recommend using the UKHair Wide Tooth Comb to evenly disperse the product throughout your lengths.

Working its magic in just 5-10 minutes, the results of this hair mask leave my tresses both looking and feeling noticeably more hydrated. Not to mention, it also does a quality job at smoothing my strands and leaving me with a salon-worthy healthy softness and shine.

It also gets extra points for its gorgeously uplifting scent of pink grapefruit, apricot and vanilla, that Amika is known and loved for, which lingers in your hair long after rinsing the mask.

Nothing beats freshly washed hair, but this dry shampoo, with its oil-banishing powers and chic, wintry scent, comes pretty close, and it's swiftly become an essential in my routine.

When January hits, it's easy to get very caught up in that 'new year, new me' mentality. Don't get me wrong, I like the idea of a fresh start and setting good intentions, like going to bed earlier and booking in for a fresh, neutral manicure, but there are some aspects of my life where I'm not forcing a big change. One area, in particular, being my hair wash routine. On the whole, I tend to be pretty consistent and like to wash my hair every two days, but with it being winter and the length now so long (both of which make it feel like quite an arduous task), if I can push it, you best believe I will.

Thankfully, though, you wouldn't know it if I had, as I've found something of a workaround; a way to give the impression of being diligent with my haircare routine, whilst actually getting to be a little lazy with it. Meet my most reliable beauty pal and one of the best dry shampoos on the market, Living Proof's Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo, specifically in the new, limited-edition Velvet Amber scent.

Why Living Proof's Velvet Amber dry shampoo is my 30-second hair saviour

When it comes to your hair washing schedule, it's each to their own. Some may prefer more frequent washes to boost volume or ward off greasiness, while others might find that less is more. It can also change from week to week, depending on your plans, the season, your hair length and so on. Of course, it's important to keep your scalp and strands clean and cared for, but when it comes to pushing the whole washing and drying saga by a day or two (or three), I'm not one to judge.

This is where a handy, oil-wicking dry shampoo comes in, offering a quick and refreshing boost to tide you over until a more convinient time to wash your hair. Personally, until last year, dry shampoos weren't really my thing. Their results never wowed me, so I always resigned myself to just washing my hair when I needed to - no shortcuts. That is, until I tried Living Proof's Velvet Amber spray, with its almost magical zhushing powers and seriously sophisticated scent, the likes of which could rival a hair perfume.

Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett, has been a fan of Living Proof's dry shampoo for a while now, swearing by it for an almost clean-hair feel with just a few sprays. And so, naturally, when the brand launched its limited-edition, winter-ready Velvet Amber iteration in 2025, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it.

As far as my hair wash schedule is concerned, as mentioned, I've found that every two days, sometimes three, works best for me. And if I'm not going anywhere or want to give my hair some TLC with a leave-in hair mask, I might extend this to four. That said, this best Living Proof buy now tempts me to do so more and more. After all, who wouldn't be tempted by a 30-second refresh over a 30-minute+ wash and blow-dry?

Why I love the Living Proof Velvet Amber dry shampoo

Personally, I hate having greasy hair. My face-framing pieces are always the first to succumb to oil and buildup, likely because they're brushing against my makeup all day, and I am partial to creamy products. Plus, they are the strands I touch and re-style the most. And as someone who prefers to wear her hair down most of the time, that's not exactly ideal if I have plans to venture out into society but am stuck with day-three hair. Thankfully, just a couple of sprays of this dry shampoo to my roots, and those traitorous face framers, is enough to mask the oily, piecey look - whilst also imparting a bouncy texture, soft shine and a dreamy blend of bergamot, grapefruit, pear blossom and velvety vanilla.

Then day four rolls around, and I think, "Well, it worked wonders yesterday, so why not rely on the dry shampoo again," and lo and behold, a few more sprays and I'm good to go. Its formula boasts fast-absorbing powders that soak up excess oil, as well as conditioning agents, to enhance shine and the softness of your hair and odour neutralisers that seek to balance the scalp's sebum levels, all working in tandem to deliver a cleaner look and feel.

White, powdery residue is often a concern with dry shampoos, but not with this one, as with just a quick ruffle with your fingers or a brush through, it vanishes. I've also found that it doesn't disrupt my choice of hairstyle; my chosen waves, for instance, stay perfectly tousled. The same goes for when I wear my hair natural and straight; this dry shampoo just adds shine and a fresh bounce.

What sets this variation apart from Living Proof's original best-seller is its velvety fragrance, which is also my favourite thing about it. I've had so many people compliment my scent, not just the smell of my hair, but me in general (even when this dry shampoo is the only scented product I'm wearing), such is its reach and softly lingering aroma. In fact, I've found that this actually rivals the staying power and projection of some of my favourite hair mists.

The key drawback for me is its limited-edition status. I will sorely miss this scented hair-pick-me-up and definitely plan on stocking up. It is also slightly pricey for a dry shampoo, but I've been using it weekly for months now and still have what feels like half the bottle left. This, to me, makes it feel like a very good investment, not to mention its visibly impressive results.

I will note, though, that while I've found it does a great job of absorbing and masking the look of excess oil from my scalp and strands, they can still feel a bit greasy to the touch. But this is really something only you would notice.

How I use Living Proof's Velvet Amber dry shampoo

When I need a quick refresh, either before the gym or if it's just a day after my usual scheduled hair wash, I tend to concentrate this dry shampoo just around the strands that frame my face and over my parting. But on days when it looks very flat and a bit greasy, I'll spritz it throughout, lifting up my strands in sections to direct the sprays at my roots and a little over the lengths, too.

Then I just wait 30 seconds as the instructions recommend, letting the powdery formula sit on my hair, before either shaking it out with my fingers or giving it a quick brush through. And voilà, suddenly I'm having a good hair day.

For years I've been on a mission to find a haircare routine that banishes my greasy strands and requires less hair washing each week, however all that changed when I was introduced to a certain scalp exfoliator.

As someone with greasy-prone hair, I've tried an abundance of clarifying scalp scrubs, the best shampoos for fine hair and the best dry shampoos for oily hair on the market in hopes of keeping excess oil at bay – and extending the time in-between wash days. So when this liquid scalp exfoliator from Remi landed on my desk this summer, I knew I had to try it out for myself.

Spoiler, this simple pre-wash treatment has quickly become an essential within my hair washing routine thanks to its ability to do all of the above, whilst encouraging the lightweight, bouncy feel that you get from a trip to the salon. Here's why this formula is now one that I now wouldn't be able to go without...

The mess-free scalp exfoliator for refreshed post-festive season strands

The formula in question works to clear blocked follicles for better product absorption, reduces flaking, oiliness and itching, all whilst hydrating, soothing and strengthening at the root. It seems as though I'm not the only fan of this buy, the exfoliator unsurprisingly has amassed a 4.6 average star rating and a plethora of rave reviews from Amazon shoppers, too.

It might not be the most sexy of products, but this scalp exfoliator has earned a non-negotiable place within my haircare routine - in fact, it even made my list of haircare gifts for a salon-worthy blow dry for the festive season. Inside this turquoise blue bottle is a true gem of a formula.

Unlike a scalp scrub, this product arrives in liquid form with a nozzle dispenser, which allows for an easy, mess-free application directly onto the scalp. Despite being an exfoliator, this formula remains gentle on the scalp, without causing any irritation when massaged in. Not to mention, it doesn't leave behind any visible residue when you wash it out - a huge tick in my books.

While I could talk all day about how much I love the easy application of this scalp exfoliator, the real impressiveness is in its results. For context, I have typically oily-prone hair that requires washing every other day to keep greasiness at bay. However, when I use this pre-wash treatment, it helps to banish any sign of grease, product build up, flakiness and itchiness.

Most importantly, it also works to extend the time between my hair wash days, which is priceless as someone who usually has to wash my hair so frequently for it to remain in salon-worthy condition. I also notice a huge difference when I haven't reached for this exfoliator in a while, my strands get greasy quicker, I experience more itchiness due to product build up and flakiness also increases. Essentially, this formula is the key for balancing my scalp for healthy-looking hair.

How I use the Remi Scalp Exfoliator

As previously stated, this scalp exfoliator is designed to be used as a pre-wash treatment, meaning you apply it onto dry hair prior to shampooing and conditioning. Simply separate sections of your hair and apply the exfoliator directly onto the scalp, making sure to thoroughly massage the product throughout your entire head - plus, giving you a spa-like treatment in the process. Once fully applied, leave the formula to work its magic for 2-10 minutes, before rinsing and continuing your typical hair wash routine.

Whether you're debating a dramatic cut to kickstart the new year or are keen to embrace a new, expensive-looking tone, the first wave of 2026 hair trend predictions are in, and there's no shortage of chic inspiration - from tailored chops and volume-boosting styles to subtle enhancements.

It's safe to say that a lot can change in 12 months, especially when it comes to our hair. I, for one, was blonde this time last year, but now, I type to you as a brunette, having returned to my natural colour, as similarly muted and smoky tones took over the 2025 hair trends. But where ghost waves, tailored pixie cuts, soft coppers and natural-colour techniques garnered requests in the seasons past, 2026 is promising a ton of new blunt bobs, effortless and dramatic layers and an all-encompassing theme of minimalism going forward. Of course, as mentioned, we did also see a drive towards more natural shades last year, but expect to see a whole lot more as spring approaches.

How do I know? Well, professional hairstylists, including Sam McKnight and Edward James, told me so, having detailed 12 cuts, styles and hair colours we'll be seeing everywhere in the coming months. So, if you're keen to make a change or want a way to elevate your natural tresses, these are the 2026 hair trends to request.

The 2026 hair trends we'll see everywhere, according to industry experts

While we will very much miss chic cuts like the Riviera Bob and the Dolce Vita crop, 2026 will not be without its own luxe-looking styles and trims. In fact, it looks as though we might be spoilt for choice with the sophisticated array of blunt bobs, effortless layers and red carpet updos heading our way. And don't get us started on the colours. If you thought this autumn's hair colour trends were good, steel yourself for an array of new, sun-warmed, creamy and glossy tones coming our way in 2026.

As Georgina Hamilton-Hopkins, senior colourist at Hadley Yates, explains, "2026 will build on this movement towards effortless luxury - soft, natural-looking colour paired with haircuts that move beautifully and feel wearable. Expect to see more undone texture and volume, with layers that give natural bounce and flow. Colour-wise, earthy tones will dominate - think soft brunettes, diffused coppers and creamy blondes that feel believable rather than bold."

So without further ado, let's dive into the 12 trends we'll soon be requesting over the course of the year...

Our 2026 haircare and styling essentials

First things first, let's talk haircare and styling. We want volume, shine and bounce, so naturally, we've rounded up three beauty team-approved hair buys that will deliver just that.

1. Elevated minimalism

According to Sam McKnight MBE, celebrity hair stylist and founder of Hair By Sam McKnight, 2026's trends will revolve around shine, or as he's dubbed it, "The Cool Girl Gleam," along with an overarching theme of elevated minimalism.

"This season’s hair story is all about elevated minimalism: beautifully groomed, effortlessly luxe lengths with barely-there movement that gleams. Hyper-healthy hair from root to tip, natural texture refined rather than restrained. The overall finish? Polished to perfection -modern, understated, and undeniably cool."

For achieving such a glossy finish, McKnight recommends the following hair heroes: the Dressed to Kill creme and Happy Endings balm, for instant defrizzing and defluffing.

2. Natural, refined and earthy tones

Edward James, hairstylist and founder of Edward James Salons, predicts that natural and refined tones will dominate.

"Soft mochas, creamy blondes and deep espresso shades feel the most current. Coppers and reds will still have a place, but they will be softer and more wearable. These tones work especially well on clients with warm undertones because they enhance natural radiance without looking overly bright," he explains.

Hamilton-Hopkins also predicts that we'll move more towards soft, 'earthy tones' as opposed to very bold and statement colours - with subtle coppers replacing the fiery tones we've seen in previous years. "Think soft brunettes, diffused coppers and creamy blondes that feel believable rather than bold.

"Natural will continue to lead, but that doesn’t mean boring. We’ll still see copper and red, but in softer, more naturalistic versions. Less 'fiery' and more sun-warmed, with multi-dimensional tones that flatter the complexion. It’s about bringing those statement shades back to nature."

3. Colour contouring and glossing

Hamilton-Hopkins says, "Colour contouring and glossing will dominate," adding that, "clients want tailored, low-maintenance colour that enhances their features rather than constant upkeep. Think hyper-personalised tones, more 'micro' colour placements, and healthy-looking hair achieved through layering glosses and toners rather than heavy bleaching." So say goodbye to chunky highlights and high-maintenance root touch-ups.

James also notes that, "Colour will move toward rich glossy tones that look healthy and light reflective."

4. Strong form cuts

Contrasting 2025's textured bobs and soft tousles, James thinks 2026 will be all about blunt and confident cuts.

"Strong form cuts will lead the year. Blunt bobs, sharp outlines and confident fringes will feel modern again because clients want shape and intention."

5. Retro Revivals

Dubbing this years spring/summer trends as the 'Retro Revival,' McKnight says we'll see, "Big, bold, and unapologetically playful—this season is all about exaggerating and embracing voluminous, anti-gravity silhouettes. Think 90s spice bombs with a modern twist: hair that’s larger than life, full of attitude, and effortlessly textured."

6. 'The Modern Muse' updo

Speaking of retro, McKnight also predicts a modern reimagining of glamorous, vintage-feeling updos.

"An ode to glamour and elegance. Modern couture is unapologetically high glossed: sculpted into considered silhouettes," says McKnight, "A twist or knotted chignon, with effortless decadent volume. Powerfully polished and unmistakably runway-worthy,"

To achieve this kind of glossy glamour, McKnight recommends the Superlift root spray for extra lift, the Easy Up Do spray to give hair texture for easy twists and the Modern Hairspray to lock it all in place.

7. 'Sharp Sleek & oh so chic'

"From wet looks to sleek, glossy smooth styles, the Spring/Summer runway is all about sculpted, architectural silhouettes that feel modern and polished," says McKnight.

"Strands that catch the light, reflecting, almost liquid-like. Controlled, and unapologetically bold - a perfect harmony of shine and structure. Minimal flyaways, maximum impact."

8. Authentic and voluminous texture

Following 2025's halo and crown curl hair trends, this year will continue with a similar theme of voluminous, bouncy texture and embracing one's natural curls and coils. As part of Blue Tit London's 2026 trend predictions, Pash Mitchell, Stylist & Afro Hair Educator, says, "2026 is the year of big, bold, and beautifully authentic hair. Think Type 3 and 4 curls, bouncy shapes, and strong Afros that celebrate individuality."

Mitchell explains that clients are leaning into their natural curl patterns even more, and we'll see plenty of 'tasselled' and bouncy hairstyles in the coming months.

9. Micro lighting and colour melting

Continuing the theme of subtle and elevated hair colours, James says that "Micro lighting and colour melting will be two of the biggest techniques.

"Microlights create an incredibly fine natural highlight that brightens the hair without obvious streaks. Colour melting keeps everything seamless and diffused from the root through to the ends. The combination gives a very polished and expensive-looking finish."

Similarly, Hamilton-Hopkins says that "Overly contrasted balayage and artificial tones will start to feel dated," as we head into 2026, as will "Harsh, platinum blondes or extreme tonal shifts." Instead, we'll see softer, more lived-in finishes.

10. Bounce-boosting layers

While James says that "the heavily layered shag and stronger wolf cuts will start to lose relevance," Hamilton-Hopkins thinks soft and lived-in layers will take their place: "Expect to see more undone texture and volume, with layers that give natural bounce and flow."

11. Bobs, bobs and more bobs

Thought you'd seen the last of the bob? Well, buckle up, because the short trim isn't going anywhere. In fact, it will continue to be one of the most requested shapes, thanks to its flattering versatility. As James explains, "they can be tailored to suit almost every face shape. Someone with a round face often looks their best with a slightly longer line because it creates structure and length while still keeping the cut modern."

12. 'The Rebel Pixie'

Stevie-Leah Loscombe, Stylist at Blue Tit Brixton, predicts that we'll see a rebellious reimagining of the pixie cut this year. In 2025, the short crop was already making something of a return, with The Power Pixie taking centre stage, but 2026 will focus more on texture.

"A modern cropped cut defined by short, airy layers, piecey ends and intentional texture. It’s sharper and more sculpted than a classic smooth pixie, but still soft - a perfectly balanced update that feels effortless rather than shaved or severe."

As a beauty editor, I've tried so many different hair tools out there, but I always come back to Dyson. So to be slightly less of that annoying person who recommends must-haves that are so out of your price range, I've found some of the best Dyson deals of the year - and they're on this week.

Whether you're looking for a tool to make your hair styling routine quicker and easier, want to delve into home blow-dries with the Dyson Airwrap, or just want one of the best hair dryers on the market, the high-tech, forward-thinking brand has plenty of tools for you to choose from.

These are the ones I think are actually worth buying, plus the rare and significant discounts they've got on this week.

Dyson deals quick links

Dyson hair tools are available at a whole host of retailers, but these are the ones I think are best to buy from - for good prices and an easy, convenient shopping experience.

• Amazon: Easy delivery and up to £100 off top products
• Boots: Rare offers throughout the year
• Dyson: With a best-price guarantee, the most reliable place for up-to-date deals and products
• QVC: Some of the best discounts around on the luxury brand

The very best Dyson deals worth snapping up right now

I love so many of the brands products, but these are the very best deals on this week.

From friends and colleagues to family members and even comments from my mutual followers on Instagram, I'm often quizzed on my haircare routine - whether that be my shampoo of choice or how I achieve my blow-dried locks.

All these questions have left me thinking, what's better than gifting my all-time favourite haircare and styling buys to my nearest and dearest this festive season? Well, I'm here to let the (no so secret) secret out of the bag, I'm talking one of the best shampoos for fine hair, a frizz-shielding mist and one of the best hair straighteners on the market.

The outcome? A glossy, bouncy faux blow-dry that will leave others pondering whether you've spent the morning in a salon chair. So, if you're brainstorming a gift for a beauty lover or perhaps someone that is difficult to buy for, these buys are set to impress anyone who unwraps them on Christmas morning.

The 6 haircare essentials I'm gifting my friends for glossy strands this Christmas

In my opinion, you're either someone who loves giving gifts or finds yourself scrambling at the last-minute trying to think of a present idea. Although I would place myself in the former category, it doesn't mean that I'm immune from struggling to think of Christmas gifts for friends. So, this year I've decided to gift my loved ones my all-time favourite haircare buys, because, as a Beauty Writer, it's my bread and butter.

After years of not styling my naturally pin-straight strands, I feel like I've finally cracked the code to making my locks appear as though I have just stepped out of the salon. My faux blow dry has garnered me so many compliments this year thanks to its bouncy, voluminous and dimensional nature. In fact, you'd never know that I have naturally very straight, limp and flat strands.

As someone with oily-prone hair, the key is all in the prep. Firstly, I apply the Remi scalp exfoliator to help extend the time between my hair wash days. Then, I reach for the Living Proof Full Shampoo and Conditioner to gently cleanse my strands, whilst bolstering volume and lift at my roots. Roughly once a week, I replace the conditioner with Gisou's Honey Gloss Hair Mask to give my tresses extra hydration, nourishment and shine.

While my hair is still damp, I liberally spritz the cult classic Color Wow Dream Coat spray throughout my locks, helping to keep frizz at bay and offer heat protection prior to going in with my hair straighteners.

For those wondering why I keep labelling it as a 'faux blow dry', well, once my hair is fully dry, I glide the Remington straighteners through my strands before turning them inwards 90 degrees at the ends of my hair. This gives the blow dry effect, without getting into a tangle with a round brush and one of the best hair dryers. Finally, I finish my routine by locking my hairstyle in place with the John Frieda Extra Strong Signature Hairspray.

For those wanting to go the extra mile, I have an honourable hair fragrance to mention. Leaving a trail of fragrance behind you as you swoosh your strands about, Fenty Hair's The Mista Hair & Body Fragrance Mist is guaranteed to offer a long-lasting scent that always gets me compliments - it quite literally sticks around in my locks for days.

There are a handful of beauty products that are so famous, any mention of them to someone in the beauty industry elicits a knowing nod. Philip Kingsley Elasticizer is one such product, a hair mask known for its transformative effects – which I can attest to. I’ve tried so many hair masks during my beauty journalism career, but I always come back to Elasticizer.

A bit of beauty trivia that I frequently roll out is that Elasticizer was first created by Philip Kingsley himself for Audrey Hepburn, to counter the effects of frequent hairstyling while filming.

In the ‘70s the star visited trichologist Kingsley for help with her hair, which was very dry and suffering from breakage. She’d found that many nourishing treatments were leaving too much residue on her hair and weighing it down – and so, Philip Kingsley went off to the lab to create the best hair mask to moisturise without any heaviness. Elasticizer was born, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Though the formula has evolved somewhat over the years (it used to have to be mixed with water at home), it’s still widely regarded as one of the best hair treatments around. But that phrase is thrown around a lot in the industry, and so you may be sceptical about whether it’s that good. Here’s my full beauty editor thesis on why Philip Kingsley Elasticizer is truly worth its fanfare. And in arguably even better news, given that it usually costs a pretty penny, it’s currently discounted in the Black Friday sales.

Best Philip Kingsley Elasticizer deals

Why Philip Kingsley's Elasticizer is such a go-to in my haircare routine

As somebody with naturally dry hair, masks and deep conditioners are one of the core pillars of my wider haircare routine. I’m fortunate that I work from home and can leave it on for an hour or two to marinate while I write, meaning it’s easy to stick to a weekly treatment whenever I have it in my haircare stash.

The formula is rich in olive and castor oils to really nourish hair. But because it’s applied pre-shampooing, any product that hasn't been absorbed is washed away rather than sitting on the surface of strands – so for finer hair types that struggle with being weighed down, as Audrey had experienced with other products, that potential issue is nipped in the bud.

For me, the thing that sets it apart is the level of bounce it gives my hair. Despite being designed to deeply moisturise strands (and doing so well), it never leaves mine weighed down – giving my naturally dry hair a new lease of life every time I use it.

There’s also an “Extreme” edition that packs in even deeper nourishment, designed for extra porous, coarse, or coily hair types.

The one potential downside to the mask, depending on your haircare preferences, is that it has zero fragrance. But while you can get around this with hair perfume or other scented products, Philip Kingsley also releases limited edition scented versions, with Nectar Honey & Peach, Sicilian Lemon & Bergamot, and Bluebell Woods all being recent editions.

There's a lot of confusion around curling tongs vs curling wands. Not least because many people don't realise they are different tools.

Whether you regularly style with your best hair curler, or you're keen to start using one but don't know where to start, a little bit of knowledge goes a long way in picking between these two devices.

I should know. As a beauty editor who tries countless hair tools (and who puts a wave in my hair for pretty much every night out), I've picked up on several small but crucial distinctions between a wand and a tong that can make all the difference when styling.

Curling tong and wand deals

Curling tong vs curling wand: an expert stylist breaks it down

Weighing up curling tongs vs curling wands is, like anything hair tool-related, a technical business that can get confusing. So I've tried, tested, and photographed the styles a curling tong, conical, and cylindrical wand can create, as well as asking Ronnie Berg, Stylist at Nicola Clarke Salon, to help explain the key differences between these tools.

What is a curling wand?

"A wand typically has no clamp, so it is easier for at-home use," explains Ronnie. "You can wrap the hair with no fiddly clip to deal with in the process - perfect if you want a loose beachy curl or wave without fuss, and for beginners."

She breaks down the types of wands:

• Cylinder: "This standard shape of a wand is great if you want to keep the wave the same shape throughout."
• Cone: "Good if you want less of a wave at the top, smoother volume, and a more defined wave at the bottom."

What is a curling tong?

"These usually have a clamp, allowing for more diverse looks," explains Ronnie, "but require some practice to get used to, if you have never used them before." The looks you can create include:

• Faux bouncy blow-dry: "By wrapping the ends in and curling up and holding."
• Loose beach waves: "By just wrapping."
• Mermaid textured waves: "Using the clamp to twist the hair down into more waves."

Versatility is one of the main pros of using a curling tong vs a curling wand; however, this tool is not without downsides.

"If used incorrectly, it can leave undesired dents in the hair," explains Ronnie, who adds that "there is more direct heat than wrapping hair around a wand."

Which suits my hair type?

Ronnie recommends using a wand if your hair "easily creates waves and curls with a heated tool or is easily mouldable. Fine hair that just needs a quick kink to the hair: you can just wrap and go."

Tongs, on the other hand, are recommended for "hair that requires a bit more effort. Textured or frizzier hair can benefit from the clamp, as it can smooth and wave by twisting down through the clamp into a wave."

Should you use each tool differently?

Although both work in similar ways, Ronnie explains that there are some key differences in how to curl your hair with a wand versus a tong:

• Wands: "You can be more freehand with the hair you pick up to wave - it doesn’t have to be sectioned off, you can grab a section and be more random."
• Tongs: "With a tong, you probably want to work with the hair in sections if you decide to use the clamp, because it can get tangly and messy really quickly. So I’d definitely say you want to have more control when using a tong."

Whichever one you use, one golden rule is always worth bearing in mind for your hair's health. "I would definitely adjust the temperature to a lower setting at home because it will take longer than when a professional does your hair," advises Ronnie, "you want to give yourself leeway to get the effect with the least amount of damage."

I never used to prioritise styling my hair, but thanks to the multi-tasking Babyliss Curl and Wave trio, I can achieve glamorous volume or beachy, tousled texture in a matter of minutes - and best of all, it's currently 40% off in the Black Friday sales.

While I can definitely see the merits of having an array of hair tools at your disposal, from the best straighteners to techy air stylers, I've always been fairly low-maintenance when it comes to zhushing up my hair. I have naturally quite straight strands, which makes a lazy approach very easy, but recently, I've actually been giving a very different impression to the people in my life. I've been turning up to brunches with voluminous, defined curls and office days with loose, blown-out-looking waves, but little do they know that achieving said looks has scarcely added 15 minutes to my morning routine. The secret, I hear you ask? Babyliss' Curl and Wave Trio.

As the name suggests, it comes with three interchangeable barrels, which allow you to tightly curl or softly tousle your hair without limiting space in your dresser or leaving you to detangle a mass of cables. It's just one tool, with three heads that deliver professional-looking results that last - and in my case, for days. Oh, and it's currently £45 in the Black Friday Beauty deals.

Why the Babyliss Curl and Wave trio is my go-to for easy but chic hairstyling

When it comes to investing in one of the best curling irons, a key thing you need to consider is what kind of curl or wave you're looking to achieve. A very thin barrel will deliver very tight curls, while a wider one will leave you with large and loose curls or waves. A tapered curler is a good way to go if you want a bit of both, but when it comes to versatility, I've hit the motherload.

Babyliss' Curl and Wave trio is the multi-tasking tool that has elevated my styling routine to no end, allowing me to easily flit between a whole head of bouncy curls to soft, 'undone' texture, without buying or storing multiple devices. It's essentially a multi-styler, but for those who want an array of different curling options and desire traditional heated barrels over air curlers.

My favourite of the barrels is the oval one, as it just creates these chic, very fluid sort of bends in my hair that look so effortless and dare I say, French. Whenever I curl my hair with this attachment, I'm left with the same voluminous effect of having used wide rollers, but in a fraction of the time.

I also really like the conical, tapered barrel as it delivers very uniform, tight curls that feel so bouncy and genuinely last for days. In fact, longevity isn't reserved for just this wand, but all of them. I've found both the waves and curls stay so well - though I do of course also use some styling product to help with this. Namely, the Hershesons Almost Everything Cream and the John Frieda Hairspray. Also, like when using any kind of heat on your hair, be sure to invest in one of the best heat protection sprays. I never use this tool without having first spritzed the length of my hair with one of these.

Honestly, I could write a full-blown essay on why I like and reach for this trio tool so often, but as the saying goes, a picture paints a thousand words. Above, you can see my hair after using all three of the barrels; left, the conical, middle, the oval and right, the twisted wand.

Even with my long hair, the barrels make quick work of shaping and bending each section, and it even comes equipped with a heat-resistant glove for added ease and control. The heat-up time is another thing that impressed me. It takes just 15 seconds, which streamlines my morning beauty routine even more.

How to used the Babyliss Curl and Wave trio

The barrels can be changed by simply twisting the black lock at the top of the device itself, turning it to the 'unlock' position and then pulling the wand off. You can then swap it with the one you want to use, before securing it back into place again with the twist-lock. Ensure you only change the wand heads when the tool is unplugged and cool.

When curling, I recommend sectioning your hair into manageable chunks before curling out and away from your face. For a very effortless, 'undone' look, you can swap the direction in which you're curling as you go. To lock your curls or waves in place and to smooth any flyaways, I recommend using a styling cream, like Hershesons. For added bounce or a tousled look, opt for a texturising spray like the Hair By Sam McKnight Cool Girl Barely There texture mist.

As a beauty team, we collectively boast years of experience covering the Black Friday sales, which means we have the shopping expertise of knowing how to spot an unmissable discounts.

This year's Black Friday beauty deals are well and truly in full swing and it's quite literally our job to be on the ball with spotting the ultimate savings for you to make the most of. In fact, the annual sale event is undoubtedly one of the best times to bag a bargain on high-ticket items, such as the best hair straighteners or the best red light therapy devices.

So, you can imagine our surprise when we spotted one of the best straighteners for thick hair in Amazon's Black Friday sale, reduced by a huge 67% for a limited-time only. We're talking professional hair stylist, Michael Douglas' hair tool brand, mdlondon's Strait Hair Straightener - here's why we think it's worth snapping up fast.

Upgrade your hair straighteners with this stellar Black Friday deal

Boasting a lightweight design and extra-long, ultra-thin ceramic plates, mdlondon's Strait Hair Straightener makes the hair styling process a breeze - no matter whether you're creating sleek straight strands or effortless waves.

So, if you're in the market to upgrade your trusty hair straighteners, make it this tool, which is currently reduced by an impressive 67% - that's £108.99 down to just £36. Not to mention, this occasion marks the lowest price tag we've ever seen on the tool...

While this specific discount is on the original Strait tool, it's worth noting that the brand has since launched the Strait V2 (which also currently has a notable 34% off). The main difference with the V2 is that it is a new generation of the original styler, with a rounded shape for better control and ionic technology to reduce frizz.

However, as per our Beauty Editor, Lucy Abbersteen's advice, it's sometimes wiser to not opt for the newest model of a tool: "You're also more likely to bag a bigger discount if you don't feel you need the latest model of any given too, as brands are more likely to want to shift that stock," she says. So, what are you waiting for? This discount certainly won't be sticking around for much longer...

As summer gives way to autumn and autumn to winter, the hair colour trends tend to shift quite dramatically. This, along with the other noticeable changes, from the weather and scenery to our wardrobes, often tempt us, more than ever, into dying our strands. So, if you're indeed keen to enter a new hair era, these are the shades to request...

So far this year, the 2025 hair trends have delivered a very chic blend of both bold cuts, like the Power Pixie, and hyper-natural hair colours and techniques. This is set to continue into the autumn/winter months, with luxe, grey-enhancing highlights, for instance, as well as a focus on enhancing blonde and brunette with 'gilded' golden tones and rich smokiness. Indeed, there's set to be a real shift towards embracing and elevating natural shades, as well as a continued demand for autumn's favourite copper tones.

All in all, it's a very exciting time to be considering a hair change, as the array of trending hues are both expensive-looking and refreshingly low-maintenance. Gone are the bold colours or icy blondes that require constant root touch-ups, replaced by these eight in-demand colours...

The 8 chic autumn/winter hair colour trends to request

Whether you're keen to elevate your natural colour, embrace a richer tone for the transitional autumn months or go darker this winter with a luxe mahogany-toned brunette, you're in luck. There's truly something to suit all of the above amongst this year's autumn/winter trends.

As for what is in store for us over the next few months, Georgina Hamilton-Hopkins, senior colourist at Hadley Yates, predicts that natural and richer tones will lead, with a focus on shine and polish. We'll also see popular autumn shades endure, but they'll evolve, with added depth and intensity.

She explains that, "Most autumnal trends carry pretty effortlessly into winter, but we often see them evolve in tone and finish. As the temperature drops and the light changes, we see customers leaning towards deeper, shinier and more polished colour, with richer tones replacing anything overly sun-kissed or transitional.

"Smokey rich browns shift into more luxurious 'gilded' brunettes with soft golden or caramel undertones," and we'll see autumn’s dark brunette trends deepen even further, with rich mahogany-like warmth and glosses.

Our winter hair care must-haves

If you're planning to embrace a new, wintery hair colour or want to enhance and protect the shade you already have, we've rounded a few must-haves - to keep your strands nourished and glossy.

1. Smoky brunettes

Cool smoky browns have been very popular this autumn (and even this time last year, we saw 'monobrown' hair and taupe shades garner requests), and this is only set to continue.

"We’re seeing a shift towards richer, more uniform tones this season," says Hamilton-Hopkins, "think depth, shine and a sense of polish. Smoky, rich browns are having a real moment."

She adds that, "Last year was all about lighter, more dimensional balayage tones and contrast; this year, everything’s more blended and refined. The colours are richer, smokier and a bit moodier — we’ve moved away from overly warm or ashy extremes into something more natural and tonal. Think espresso brunettes instead of chestnut, or vanilla blondes rather than icy platinum."

2. Heritage gold

As mentioned, brunettes and blondes are becoming more 'gilded' as we head into the colder months. 'Heritage gold' is one such luxe example of an autumn trend we'll see evolve even further into the winter months.

Smith describes the look as, "A honeyed but muted blonde that feels retro and nostalgic but still fresh. More neutral tones than the sunflower and lemon summer shades."

He adds that through autumn and winter, we'll be, "exploring the most neutral and earthed versions of the warm tones that have been so popular for the last year."

This golden heritage shade is perfect for natural blondes or for "brunettes wanting to add warmth in a mature and elegant way that retains depth and medium contrast for most."

3. Mahogany velvet brunette

Like last year's burgundy brown trend, we're seeing plenty of warm and reddish, glossy colours emerge as the weather turns chilly, 'Mahogany Velvet' being one of them.

The colour is incredibly rich, with hints of red or burgundy running through, and boasts an intense shine. You can either opt for an all-over mahogany sort of colour, or weave the warmth through your brunette hair with face-framing highlights or lowlights - something like Kerry Washington's hair above.

As we head into winter, Hamilton-Hopkins says we'll see this hue, "deepen into even richer shades that still feel natural rather than artificial."

4. High-reflection glossing

"Glossing is huge right now — super shiny, reflective hair is the new marker of luxury," notes Hamilton-Hopkins. "A gloss or glaze appointment can completely transform existing colour, adding depth and tone while keeping the hair healthy and luminous. Balayage and face-framing highlights will still be around, but used in a more subtle, sophisticated way — less contrast, more harmony."

5. Copper and dark auburns

"Dark auburns and coppers remain popular but take on a more refined warmth that suits winter light," says Hamilton-Hopkins: "Blonding also moves towards creamy vanilla and beige tones with deeper lowlights to create contrast, winter's version of the expensive blonde trend."

6. 'Naturalising' techniques and tones

'Naturalising' is a key theme this autumn/winter season. "People want to enhance what they already have rather than overhaul it," says Hamilton-Hopkins. Thus, clients with brunette hair, especially, are requesting richer and smokier tones or opting to swap their faux blonde strands for an elevated take on their natural hair colour, for example. This is actually exactly what I've done this year, too, in my pursuit of a more low-maintenance look.

It's all about building upon what you already have, rather than opting for something very drastic and high-maintenance. "For example, blondes are keeping a little lightness through the front, just a touch of frosting so it doesn’t feel too dark or heavy, similar to Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s effortless tone," Hamilton-Hopkins explains. "It’s about softness, depth and hair that looks expensive and healthy."

7. Griege lights

Greige lights were cited amongst trend forecaster, Global Ambassador for Olaplex, and Founder of AEVUM Salon, Tom Smith's autumnal hair trend predications, but we don't see this technique losing momentum anytime soon. Especially with the amount of celebs currently embracing their natural greys.

Smith described the trend as a 'woven' blend of blonde highlights that incorporate and honour "natural silver while brightening and warming the complexion."

He adds that it reframes grey hair as aspirational, "a valuable starting point on which to build, rather than fully conceal." It's elegant, subtle and intentional. As well as being a lovely, low-maintenance option for those who are beginning to grey and want a way to balance their changing strands.

8. Gothic brunettes

As discussed, smoky brunettes are very in for winter, and one such iteration we'll be seeing is a very moody, almost gothic brunette. Smith describes it as, "An ultra-dark, almost inky brunette with intense depth and sheen," adding that it "captures the season’s mood for drama and romantic intensity."

This goes hand-in-hand with the rise in glosses and shine-boosting treatments that we'll also be embracing into the winter season.

It is so easy to damage your hair - annoyingly easy. Heat styling, sun damage, bleaching, and tight hairstyles can wreak havoc on your strands, so it’s essential to have a couple of healers in your hair routine to keep your locks smooth and silky.

Even the best hair masks usually only provide hair with an extra hit of hydration or a richer form of nourishment, but Color Wow Dreaming Treatment promises to actually repair hair breakage. By resurfacing each strand and sealing cuticles, it leaves hair with a smoother, shinier look, and prevents humidity from getting into the follicles, which is what leads to the puffy, fluffy look.

So, how did it measure up when four members of our beauty team, all with different hair types, put it to the test? And how did it measure up to other repairers, like K18 and Olaplex? Let's dive into this Color Wow Dreaming Treatment review.

Color Wow Dreaming Hair Treatment - tested on four hair types

First impressions

Color Wow Dreaming Hair Treatment is housed in a very on-brand shiny silver tub. Once opened, the first thing you'll notice is the scent - it's fresh, clean and luxurious - like a posh washing powder.

The treatment looks and feels different from many hair masks we've tried. It's quite a thick cream; it's borderline a solid. The texture it most resembles is good French butter - firm, but it will soften on contact.

How does it perform?

Rhiannon Derbyshire, Senior Beauty Editor

Hair type: Naturally dry 3A curls, damaged by bleach

The telltale sign I like something is when I start to hoard it - I’ve been using this mask for a couple of months now, and I’m ashamed to say that I’ve squirrelled away four tubs. To cut to the chase, this is the best hair mask I’ve ever used - and I’ve used a lot of them.

I wasn’t initially very excited to try this - I’m quite apprehensive of using products that aren’t specifically designed for curly hair, but I was amazed at the results. I use masks for almost every hair wash, and this is unlike any other I’ve tried - the rich texture melts into hair, and within seconds, it feels softened and silky.

I can tell in the shower whether it’s going to be a good hair day - and every time I used this, I could tell it was going to be a great one. My curls were always springy, defined, and shiny after using it.

One of the best parts I noticed was how long my hair stayed moisturised and soft - I only wash my hair once a week, and usually by day four it starts to look a bit parched and undefined (note the 'before' picture). With this, I was silky well into days five and six.

Sarah Cooper-White, Beauty Director

Hair type: Fine, bleached blonde

This is silicone-free, which I was a bit worried about - controversially, my hair always looks better using formulas containing silicone. The first impressions were great - it left my hair looking really silky. I was in the south of France while testing this, and it really works to prevent puffy, fluffy hair from humidity - it stayed looking sleek for much longer than it normally would have.

On the second day, it did look a bit lank - I think the texture might be a bit heavy for my fine hair, and I wonder if the lack of silicone is a factor. I've been told that it can take a while for hair to adjust to silicone-free formulas, which I think might have contributed to the flatness.

Personally, I prefer to use a good conditioner rather than masks, so I’m not sure Color Wow Dreaming Treatment is quite right for my routine - but I could see it really working for someone with thicker, more unruly hair.

Stephanie Maylor, Beauty editor

Hair type: Coarse, frizz-prone

I am a huge fan of Color Wow - they can do no wrong in my eyes. I love their original Money mask, so I had high hopes for this formula, especially as I’ve started lightening my hair with bleach, so it’s in need of some extra TLC.

It did make a noticeable difference to my hair - it felt smoother and much less frizzy - and I love the scent. With its richer texture, this works better than the Money mask as a longer-lasting solution. I like to use this as a whole-day treatment - I loaded it on, then let it sit in a bun all day - the improvement was more obvious the longer it sat in my hair.

Having weighed it up, I think for my hair type, it’s not quite as effective as the Money mask - I need more hydration, whereas this focuses more on repairing, but I was impressed by its frizz-banishing capabilities.

Aleesha Badkar, Beauty eCommerce editor

Hair type: Dry, frizz-prone, oily scalp

I was so impressed by how smooth my hair looked after using this - especially my ends, which usually look frazzled thanks to damage from colouring. It made blow-drying a lot easier, and the finished look was so sleek and glossy - my colour looked more vivid too.

I really enjoyed using it, and I’m looking forward to carrying on - it works through hair nicely, washes out easily, and smells lovely. I’m a huge fan!

How does it compare?

Having tried a lot of the best ways to repair damaged hair, how does this treatment compare? Well, we'd say it's easier to incorporate than the cult Olaplex No3 treatment - nobody loves an extra step. It's also simpler to navigate than the K18 mask. With the Color Wow Dreaming Hair Treatment, you use it in place of your conditioner. You can leave it in for as long as you like, but the brand recommends at least 2-3 minutes.

As it's a repairing treatment rather than a hair mask, you may not find it as hydrating as other hair masks, so if your hair is naturally dehydrated, it might not be nourishing enough. However, if it's fragile or damaged, you'll notice an improvement from the first wash.

Color Wow Dreaming Hair Treatment: the W&H verdict

This Color Wow Dreaming Hair Treatment review verdict really comes down to your hair type. Our testers with the most fragile, damaged hair were impressed. They noticed an improvement immediately, and their hair stayed smoother and softer for longer.

All testers said that the difference to frizzy hair was the most noticeable - it's one of the best hair products for humidity we've tried for a long time.

If your hair is fine (that being, thinner and also generally well-behaved and not damaged), you might prefer the brands' Money mask - another cult favourite - for its hydrating, nourishing benefits. If your hair is coarse or damaged, you'll love the Dreaming formula.

If you've been tapped into the world of beauty in recent months, you'd know that beauty boxes have been launching left, right and centre – and they're not slowing down any time soon.

Equipped with one of the best Kérastase shampoos and the iconic Elixir Ultime hair oil, the Boots X Kérastase Beauty Icons Gift Set marks the tenth drop of the highly talked about Boots beauty boxes. With new curated edits hitting the market each week in the lead up to the festive season, popular launches so far have included the Make More Room For Beauty Box and the Boots Korean Beauty Box.

However, this latest iteration places focus on the health of your locks, hosting four of the French haircare brand's essential formulas that are designed to nourish, hydrate and strengthen tresses. So, whether you're already a Kérastase devotee or you've been wanting to trial a lineup of their products, this is the perfect opportunity to bag their formulas for less – with a 60% saving, to be precise.

Everything you need to know about the Boots X Kérastase Beauty Icons Gift Set

We pride ourselves on being able to scout out a beauty bargain, and this gift set is nothing short of just that. With its contents boasting an impressive value of nearly £90, you can nab this gift set for just £35 - what's not to love? Not only is it a great chance to discover more products from Kérastase, but it also makes a top Christmas gift for friends too.

What's inside the Boots X Kérastase Beauty Icons Gift Set?

Want a rundown of everything you can expect to find nestled inside this gift set? Well, you've come to the right place as we've created a list of its contents, including a breakage-preventing shampoo and conditioner duo, a hydration-boosting hair oil and more...

• Boots Transparent Makeup Bag – Light Pink
• Kérastase Elixir Ultime L'Huile Originale Hair Oil 30ml
• Kérastase Genesis Anti-Chute Serum 30ml
• Kérastase Genesis Bain Hydra-Fortifiant Shampoo 80ml
• Kérastase Genesis Fondant Reinforcateur Conditioner 75ml

Where to buy the Boots X Kérastase Beauty Icons Gift Set

The Boots X Kérastase Beauty Icons Gift Set is exclusively available to shop online, unfortunately meaning you won't be able to snap it up whilst browsing your local store. That said, you can still enjoy the free click and collect service to your nearest Boots store, so it will be waiting for you the next time you pop in. For those wanting the set delivered to their door, you'll be pleased to know that you'll also qualify for free standard delivery. Alternatively, you can get your hands on the set the very next day for an extra £5.95.

How long is the Boots X Kérastase Beauty Icons Gift Set available to shop?

While there hasn't been a specific end date advertised for this gift set, it's noted that this is a limited edition launch that will only be sticking around while stocks last - meaning once it's gone, it's gone. It's also worth mentioning that the weekly launches of the Boots beauty boxes have been garnering a fair bit of attention online, so we can imagine it won't be long before it sells out.

I was really hoping to find the solution to my hair tool woes in this BaByliss Style Secret Air review. Even equipped with the best curling iron and years of practice, I rarely get the results I want. So, when I was asked to test a brand new styling tool that does all the hard work for you, I jumped at the chance.

As someone who's always on the lookout for the best curling irons for fine hair, I was intrigued to see how the BaByliss Style Secret Air performed. I'm not particularly keen on fancy hair tools; I've still not mastered how to use the Dyson Airwrap properly, so the promise of this simple curling tool was very appealing to me.

The 2-in-1 hairdryer and styler promises to control and wrap the hair around the barrel for quick and easy results - but is it too good to be true? As a self-confessed hair tool novice, I tried the BaByliss Style Secret Air for myself.

Our beauty writer's full BaByliss Style Secret Air review

Our first impressions of the BaByliss Style Secret Air

I'll be honest - when I first pulled the BaByliss Style Secret Air out of its box, I was intimidated. On first impressions, it looks more like a handheld food blender than a styling tool.

What became clear from the instructions was that the BaByliss Style Secret Air was a safe and easy way to create wavy hairstyles, making it ideal for those who struggle to produce curly hairstyles with a traditional tong or have never mastered how to curl hair with straighteners.

The clever tool automatically wraps hair around the whizzing heated barrel, producing fast and tangle-free ringlets. It also allows you to choose from four heat and airflow settings, four timer settings and three rotation directions, meaning you can create a variety of hair looks from Hollywood curls to beachy waves.

How the BaByliss Style Secret Air performed

Equipped with my best hair styling products, I sectioned my hair into four sections and selected the highest temperature setting (200 degrees) and the longest heating time in the hopes of achieving something that resembled bouncy blow-dry. I also selected the correct curl direction for each side of my hair, curling away from my face on either side. It all sounds a bit complex, but the instructions make this easy, and it's intuitive as you're doing it.

I took small sections of hair and pulled them through the slot in the styler, making sure that the ends of my hair were slanting down the side furthest away from my head. This was the hardest bit to get to grips with at first, but after I figured this out, it was a breeze. I then pressed the 'go' button, and the clever heating chamber sucked all my hair up and whizzed it around for a few seconds before releasing after four beeps.

After removing my hair from the chamber, the most gorgeous bouncy ringlets were produced - I was seriously impressed. Full of shine, a lack of frizz and tight curls, the results the BaByliss Style Secret Air produced were enough to rival my beloved Cloud Nine Curling Wand.

What impressed me the most about the BaByliss Style Secret Air is that it's so quick and efficient. While my hair is thin and doesn't take long to dry or style normally, I managed to curl my entire head of hair in about 20 minutes. It also gave me incredibly shiny hair, normally only achieved by adding copious amounts of hair oil post-styling. The above photos are my hair immediately after styling and brushing through with a wide-tooth comb and a generous misting of hairspray.

Because my hair is fine, my curls tend to drop out no matter what I do. While the above ringlets looked amazing, they unfortunately didn't last all day. While they did lose some shape, some relaxed waves remained and impressively survived a battering from Storm Benjamin. If that isn't a true testament to the longevity of the curls produced by the BaByliss Style Secret Air, then I don't know what is.

How does the BaByliss Style Secret Air compare?

For those who have tried the BaByliss Wave Secret Air before, you might spot some similarities with the BaByliss Style Secret Air - and I'm not just talking about their near-identical names.

The main differences are that the previous iteration features a larger ceramic curl chamber that automatically draws in and wraps the hair to create loose, voluminous waves. It includes a cool air system that helps set the style immediately after heating. It's particularly well-suited for longer hair and those looking for soft, flowing waves.

In contrast, the BaByliss Style Secret Air uses a 25mm ceramic barrel with a rotating mechanism to create different looks, either more defined curls, beach waves, or a blow-dry effect. It combines heat and airflow for styling and offers more versatility with four heat/airflow combinations, including an air-only mode for gentler styling and minimal heat damage to your hair. The transparent barrel (not seen in the Wave Secret Air) offers full visibility and has technology that essentially spits your hair back out should you use too large a section, to protect hair from tangling.

While they're very similar tools, they're not exactly the same - BaByliss Style Secret Air, for me, has the edge. It's a smarter device that offers both versatility and a simpler styling process.

BaByliss Style Secret Air: our verdict

Despite being initially terrified of the BaByliss Style Secret Air, I have come to love her. She turned out to be one of the best hair tools I've ever tried.

The results it produces completely rival tools that are three times its price tag, and while it might take a couple of practice sessions before you feel confident, once you understand how this whizzy styler works, you'll be able to do it with your eyes closed.

For a humble £120, the BaByliss Style Secret Air is a bargain that blew me away - it's the best tool I've tried all year, and it's even more impressive that it's the cheapest.

If you're someone who struggles to curl with a classic tong or straighteners but wants something that produces salon-worthy results, then add this genius styler to your Christmas list. You totally deserve it.

Hey beauty friends, and happy Friday afternoon. It feels like the busiest season is well and truly here, with festive events already ramping up, autumn hangouts filling the diary and workdays spanning most of the daylight hours.

And during busy seasons like this, I try and do anything I can to make my naturally high-maintenance hair as low-maintenance as possible. For me, that usually means cracking out my best straighteners on hair wash day, and then picking up some curls, kinks and waves through the week's sleeps and updos for a bit of movement.

But when the new Dyson Airwrap came along that boasts double the air pressure and refreshed attachments, it finally gave me an easy way to do a wavy at-home blow-dry that would look healthy and glossy and last all week - even on my frizzy hair type.

The extra-powerful Dyson Airwrap tool I'm using on repeat this month

The new Dyson Airwrap has made my high-maintenance hair routine so much smoother, and it's done the same for my hair...

Dyson Airwrap Co-Anda 2x™ Multi-Styler and Dryer

Until next month, beauties...

Combined drying-and-styling tools are all the rage in 2025. Though these designs have been around for a while, it wasn’t really until the launch of the Dyson Airwrap in 2018 that they became a more mainstream premium hairstyling option. Fast forward to today and the market features several higher-end wet-to-dry stylers. Which brings us to this guide, comparing two newer releases: The Shark FlexFusion Straight vs Dyson Airstrait.

Having already launched the Shark FlexStyle as its own answer to the coveted Airwrap, the brand levelled up its multi-styler with the Shark FlexFusion Straight just over a year ago, improving the curling barrels and adding a straightening attachment alongside this, the diffuser and best hot brush attachment. After launching in the US in 2023, the Dyson Airstrait launched in the UK at the start of 2024, billed as a way of straightening hair from wet-to-dry without risk of excessive heat damage – and with no heated plates involved.

So, two wet-do-dry styling tools with options to straighten hair – one a multi-styler and one an all-in-one tool. Weighing up the pros and cons of both but can’t decide which one is right for you? Here, our contributing beauty editor walks you through both options, based on her rigorous firsthand testing of each tool.

Head-to-head

How we tested the Shark FlexFusion Straight vs Dyson Airstrait

To compare both tools' design and performance, both the Dyson Airstrait and Shark FlexFusion Straight were used to dry and style our contributing beauty editor's freshly washed, wet hair on separate occasions. The tools were used more than once and, in the case of the FlexFusion Straight, all of the attachments were tested to get a proper sense of its capabilities. As well as the design and user experience of both tools, the results were also compared, both initially after styling and through the day.

Design

First, the first impressions of these two tools' designs. My biggest criticism of the Dyson Airstrait is its cable length. At just under two metres in length, it’s shorter than any other Dyson hair tool – and noticeably so – so I often feel a bit restricted in terms of where I sit when I use it. The plug is also incredibly bulky, which strikes you as an odd design choice initially but makes the tool itself lighter due to, the brand tells me, some tech being in the plug rather than the Airstrait itself. There’s also no accompanying case, which feels like it should be a given with a tool that retails for £450. But aside from these few downsides, the overall design is pleasingly sleek, as is the signature Dyson aesthetic. The tool has curved edges and is remarkably lightweight to hold, which gives it the edge over the two.

The Shark, on the other hand, has a very long cable that is unlikely to feel restrictive to many, if any, users. There’s a sectioned case, which is both practical and satisfying, thanks to the compartments for each attachment. This means it can be tidied away nicely and stored without fear of gathering dust as soon as you bring it home; no need to purchase an additional case. However, when compared to the Dyson, this lightweight tool and its attachments do feel a bit flimsier and less premium than its competitor – though it is priced at almost £100 less, too.

Performance

Verdict

If I was only comparing the Dyson Airstrait with the FlexFusion Straight’s straightener attachment, the Airstrait would be the clear winner. It’s lighter, more ergonomic and can style a larger section of hair, drying mine more quickly and with a smoother and sleeker finish.

If a sleek or stretched blowout is the only thing you’re focused on, the Airstrait would be enough – but it is a one-look tool. Aside from the continuous drying functionality when you close the tool, which is useful for drying off the roots or if you tend to roughly dry your hair (this generates a ton of excess frizz in my hair, so isn’t something I tend to do), the only look you can create is a sleek, straight and smooth one or stretched blow dry.

Which brings me to who the FlexFusion Straight would be a better fit for: the straightening attachment aside, if you want something that gives you a few different tools in one, including hot brush, curling barrels and dryer with a diffuser, the FlexFusion is the more versatile pick and better value for money. It really comes down to what you want from your new tool and the styling results you need day-to-day.

Nailing my haircare regime has been nothing short of an uphill battle, finding shampoo and conditioners that target my specific hair concerns - namely, banishing greasiness and giving my tresses body and bounce.

When it comes to my hair washing routine, not only do I tend to reach for one of the best shampoos for fine hair in order to boost the volume of my flat, limp strands, but I also seek out a formula that effectively cleanses my oil-prone scalp too. That's where Living Proof's Full Shampoo and Conditioner comes into the mix.

After being left incredibly impressed by the results of Living Proof's Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo, I can't say I was surprised when another of the brand's formulas earned pride of place within my haircare regime. Delivering volume, extending the time between my wash days, and imparting a salon-worthy shine, all without weighing my strands down, this is why I reach for this shampoo and conditioner on every hair wash day.

The volume-boosting shampoo and conditioner duo I rely on

Having gained hundreds of reviews on Amazon, both the shampoo and conditioner boast an average 4.5 and 4.6 star rating, respectively, with one shopper hailing the shampoo as "one of the best I've ever used, my hair feels cleaner, lighter, and not heavy." Another customer noted the conditioner's stellar results: "My hair always feels clean with noticeably less frizz."

For some context on my hair type, I have fine, straight strands that are particularly flat, limp, and prone to getting oily fast. This means I have to wash my tresses every other day in order to combat any greasiness. I often scout out formulas that promise to boost volume, whilst prolonging the time between my wash days.

With all that said, I'm often quite sceptical of trying new shampoos, especially those that promise to boost shine, as certain formulas have the tendency to weigh my hair down, encouraging it to look oily even quicker. But that's where this shampoo and conditioner duo defied all the odds.

A little goes a long way, I've found that I only need a penny-sized amount of this shampoo to lather across my entire scalp and lengths, which is much appreciated when you're parting ways with slightly more pennies for a bottle of shampoo.

Using other shampoos, my strands sometimes looked so flat that they appeared as if they were glued down to my scalp; however, this shampoo delivers noticeably more lift at my roots.

I can also attest to it helping extend the time between hair wash days, which I declare an undeniable sign of a quality formula.

As for the conditioner, it works to effortlessly detangle my knotty locks, whilst imparting a subtle, healthy shine that mirrors having just stepped out of a salon chair. Plus, this pair is frequently marked down, meaning you can often bag a notable discount too.

I've been shedding a lot of hair. It's filling up my brush and plug hole and collecting in the armpits of my cardigans. I've just picked several strands off my laptop keyboard to type this.

I approach falling hairs a bit like spiders in my garden; a 'normal' amount is invisible, but when I instinctively sense things ramping up I can't see anything else. I'm not rushing to the trichologist just yet - I've been here before, and it usually self-corrects. Plus, to be honest, the list of what causes thinning hair sounds a lot like life lately.

Hormones, stress, lingering lurgy. Trying the wrong haircare, or the right hairbrush, but at the wrong time. Did I mention I've had bleached highlights for 25 years? It's multi-factorial and nigh-impossible to get to the root of (ironically enough). So, while I hope for the strand-strewn storm to pass, I've outsourced this week's Sunday Service advice to a higher power.

Why this shampoo for delicate hair is my beauty buy of the week

Confession: As a beauty editor, my usefulness in follicular matters is capped. I can tell you what the best shampoo for fine hair is or how to curl your hair with straighteners, but for technical growth-related stuff, I always defer to the professionals. In this case, Jackson Acton, expert hairstylist and owner of the excellent, and excellently named, Crab Salad Salon.

"First up, you’re not alone, and you’re not doing something wrong," he reassures. "Hair sheds for loads of reasons: stress, hormones, the moon, Mercury in retrograde - and yes, actual medical stuff too."

So we agree, it's complicated and (hopefully) nothing to worry about. But I'm a woman who likes to take action. What can I do?

"Be nice to your scalp, that’s where it all begins. Massage it like you love it. Use gentle scalp scrubs, not scary ones. Prioritise nourishment: omega-3s, iron, sleep, water - the stuff we all forget about. Choose products that support the scalp and hair without weighing it down. Light mists, serums, root-lifting sprays."

Now that's some actionable feedback - all noted. Is there anything else, Jackson?

There is. "We loooove the Davines Dede range."

I've also been diligently kneading my stressed scalp with this Champo Shampoo Brush, which feels not unlike a salon head massage, i.e., delicious. When you've got an unnerving beauty issue, there's much to be said for prioritising kindness and self-care like this.

This is especially true because - excess shedding or not - my hair type is and always has been fine. Aggressively battling against that would be as futile as trying to be 5ft10 or have elegant piano-playing hands.

"We're not about chasing thick hair like it’s the be-all, "Jackson agrees, "we’re here for great hair, whatever that looks like for you." Sounds good? Great! let's chat next Sunday

Carrie Coon has unveiled one of the season’s most striking transformations, trading her signature chin-length bob for a close-cropped pixie haircut.

Debuting the look on the Emmy Awards red carpet, the actress paired her daring cut with a strapless pastel gown and a smokey eye – a combination that placed her new hairstyle firmly centre stage.

The cut feels like the perfect reset for autumn. Its clean lines and sculpted finish offer a welcome antidote to the undone wavy hairstyles and mid-length layers that have dominated in recent years. Feeling inspired? Here's everything you need to know about how to make this cut work for you.

Why Carrie Coon's pixie cut could be the hair transformation of the season

Coon’s choice channels polish and precision – qualities hairstylist Zoe Irwin predicts will define the season ahead. “The polished pixie is one of 2025’s biggest hair trends,” Irwin notes, adding that Coon’s monotone cool-blonde hue “gives the look both strength and chicness.”

According to John Frieda’s creative stylist, Andreas Wilde, anyone can try it. “You can play around with it to suit your face shape – for example, by creating softer lines around the hairline, or leaving more hair around the ears.”

Embracing a pixie cut is also a good reason to get a fringe as the two complement each other, and you can alter the fringe length to create balance. “A longer fringe can soften a longer face, while a choppier fringe works well on shorter face shapes.”

It is this ability to enhance rather than overwhelm that makes the cut so enduring. “The pixie takes attention away from the hair and accentuates your facial features,” adds Wilde.

Mitchell Ladbrook, senior stylist at Nicola Clarke Salon, agrees: “I love it – the texture and overall shape are soft and beautiful. A pixie cut is a great style for autumn and winter. Why not? It’s a statement haircut to show off and enhance facial features.”

Both stylists emphasise that while the pixie may be easy to style at home, it does require commitment. “It’s not a low-maintenance haircut as you have to book regular shape-ups,” says Ladbrook, “but with the right product, day-to-day styling is simple.”

How to style the polished pixie

To keep the look modern, Wilde advises styling with a light touch. “Think of sculpting the hair rather than controlling it. The aim is to maintain texture and volume whilst keeping its bold pixie shape,” he explains. That might mean blow drying without a set parting and encouraging lift at the roots before smoothing into place, or using a brush to create subtle structure.

The key, he notes, is restraint - in other words, use your best hair styling products sparingly. “A touch of mousse or cream is often all that’s needed to enhance definition and shine, allowing the cut itself to take the lead.”

Ladbrook suggests adding texturising products for versatility. “The fun thing about this cut is that it can be adapted into a casual or formal style. I’d recommend a sea salt spray or texturising spray for movement, and a light clay to add shape.”

As with all short hairstyles, precision is everything. Regular trims, ideally every six to eight weeks, are essential for keeping the silhouette sharp, while nourishing treatments between appointments help strands stay healthy and glossy.

With its balance of polish and ease, the pixie offers a sharp yet wearable update for autumn – no wonder it’s set to be one of the season’s defining cuts.

Forget traditional highlights, 'Greige Lights' is the new, elegant technique for enhancing silver and greying strands - and it's celebrity-approved.

While we adore a range of rich and warm hair trends, like fiery copper and coffee-toned shades, this year is also set to usher in several new and subtle hair colours and cuts. The Power Pixie, for one, delivers drama and versatility; there are also cosy bob cuts that embrace 'undone' texture and, what brings us here today, a low-maintenance, grey-loving colour technique dubbed Greige Lights. In a similar vein to how the Crystal Clear hair trend embraced natural silver strands, this look is all about enhancing, not concealing.

It works to add warmth and brightness to cooler, steely greys, either to subtly refresh your look for the new season, or to help blend your natural blonde or light brown strands into any emerging greys - for a soft transition. So, if you're keen to try the trendy colour, we've quizzed industry pros on the ins and outs - from requesting to maintaining it at home.

What are Greige Lights? The emerging hair colour trend, explained

As mentioned, this latest colour technique seeks to brighten your greys by adding complementary beige and blonde tones to blend and elevate them.

Having coined the term, Tom Smith, trend forecaster, Global Ambassador for Olaplex (along with evo, CurrentBody, and Calecim Professional) and Founder of AEVUM Salon, describes it as a blend of beige and grey, "woven into blonde highlights, honouring natural silver while brightening and warming the complexion."

The beauty of this look, and why it's becoming so popular, lies in how it "reframes grey hair as aspirational," remarks Smith, adding that it's: "a valuable starting point on which to build, rather than fully conceal. It’s elegant and considered rather than bold and shouty."

How to request greige lights

If you're keen to embrace this look but are unsure of what to ask your hairdresser for, Smith says to: "Request customised colour in a combination of tinting, highlighting, smudging and blending for a subtle multi-tonal grey-beige-blonde-blend that is unique to your natural grey placement."

Who will Greige Lights work best for?

As mentioned, this twist on classic highlights is ideal for those looking to embrace and incorporate their natural greys, rather than dying over them. As Smith further elaborates, the look is, "for those interested in embracing their natural hair but wanting dimension and warmth - to lift the complexion."

How to maintain the colour

As for how often this look will have you traipsing back to the salon, Smith notes that greige lights are actually more low-maintenance compared to classic highlights. "They blend with natural silver or white hair, so you only need appointments every ten to twelve weeks with glossing or glazing in between to refresh tone and shine."

To care and extend your greige strands at home, Smith says, "periodic use of a violet-toned shampoo will neutralise yellow," but recommends balancing this with a "hydrating conditioner and a colour-protecting mask every fortnight. A light hair oil or nourishing serum will keep the blend luminous, hydrated and soft, as natural grey hair tends to dry out faster."

Your Greige Light inspo

The trend is best for those with greying hair, as the whole purpose is to use and build upon those tones by adding warmth with blonde and beige, thus giving it the name of 'greige.'

This subtle but elevated hue, while perhaps more niche than some of the hair colour trends this season is set to bring, is already proving popular among celebs. In fact, Smith cites Pamela Anderson, Sharon Stone, Meryl Streep, Charlize Theron and Sarah Jessica Parker (to name just a few), as sporting either the perfect beige-blonde colour to use as a reference for blending with your greys, or with very chic iterations of this woven technique itself.

For example, there are hints of both creamy beige and silver in Sharon Stone and Sarah Jessica Parker's roots and through their strands (pictured above), but each colour blends subtly into the next. There is no harsh or obvious contrast, but still, their hair looks fresh and luminous. It's also great to see this trend on a variety of hair lengths and styles, further proving its subtlety, low maintenance, and versatility.