From expensive-looking blondes to polished up-dos and high-shine styling, Tracey Ann Smith, Creative Director at MOOD, shares the key hair trends she expects to dominate salons this autumn/winter.
Inspired by Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s effortless 90s style, Bessette Blonde is set to be one of the season’s most requested blonde looks.
The trend combines buttery golden tones with brighter face-framing highlights and a softly grown-in root for a finish that feels both polished and lived-in. Chunkier highlights or hand-painted colour placement create dimension, while a glossing service adds exceptional shine and a seamless blend.
Rich brunette shades remain a salon staple, but AW26 is all about enhancing them with depth, gloss and subtle dimension.
Tracey predicts clients will continue to favour low-maintenance brunettes that look healthy and luxurious. Glossing treatments are ideal for refreshing colour between appointments, while delicate caramel ribbons can be woven through the hair to create the “chocolate drizzle” effect without dramatically altering the base shade.
As occasion styling returns for weddings, parties and festive events, sculpted buns are replacing the “Pammy bun” as the updo of choice.
Expect to see everything from sleek, lacquered finishes to softer buns featuring braiding and face-framing details. The result is a look that’s elegant, modern and wearable for a variety of occasions.
“When creating this style, volume is key. I like to prep the hair with MOOD Body Builder Densifying Filler to create body and fullness before styling. It helps the finished bun keep its shape and prevents it from dropping throughout the day.”
Fresh from the AW26 catwalks, wet-look hair is moving into the salon with a softer, more wearable finish.
Rather than looking saturated from root to tip, this season’s interpretation features smoother roots with a high-shine, drenched effect through the mid-lengths and ends. The look works particularly well on bobs and lobs, paired with minimal makeup for a clean, fashion-led finish.
For longevity, Tracey recommends layering products rather than overloading the hair.
“I use MOOD Hairstyling Bodyguard Wonder Coat through the lengths and ends for mirror-like shine, then finish with MOOD Hairstyling Bodyguard Protect and Glow Serum to define the style. Less is more. Build the look gradually for the most natural wet finish.”
For more AW26 trends read our article: LFW SS26 Conner Ives X Bumble And Bumble.
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