It has been quite a year already! Espresso martinis have made their comeback, and we’ve all spent hours trying to decide if that video we saw on TikTok was AI or not. As 2026 begins, you might be looking for a new refresh for the new year.
At Blonde Faith Salon in Austin, we’re all about the transformation energy this winter. Whether you’re plotting a revenge hairstyle that turns heads at your ex’s favorite bar, or you want a color that matches the moment at your favorite holiday party, winter is the perfect time to experiment and give yourself a little extra TLC. So grab a cup of hot chocolate and settle in to find out what’s in, what’s out, and what will give your hair that main character energy you’ve been looking for.
Styles That Make the Cut for Winter
Soft Layered Bobs
The winter haircut of the moment is all about soft movement and quiet confidence. Think chin-skimming bobs with airy layers that make your hair feel light, bouncy, and perfectly undone every day. These bobs can be styled sleek and polished for dinner downtown, or worn tousled and tasteful for a quiet Saturday morning coffee run. It flatters most face shapes and plays nicely with your favorite scarves and popped collars.
90s Revival Shags
The 90s are making a comeback this year, and while we can’t relive the glory days of Britney Spears or NSYNC, we can bring back the 90s shag. This hairstyle is cool without trying too hard, with feathered layers, a wispy fringe, and an effortless shape that’s perfect for air drying. Pair it with a soft balayage or warm tones to give it depth and dimension.
Grown-Out Pixies
One of the best things about the pixie is that, when cut well, it keeps getting better. There’s something chic and devil-may-care about a pixie that is just starting to grow out. It is edgy, feminine, and perfect for winter layering. As you let your pixie grow out, ask your stylist to shape the hair around the nape of the neck and keep a little extra length on the top to give you volume and styling flexibility.
Invisible Layers on Long Hair
Everyone is looking for a hairstyle for winter that doesn’t take a lot of work. If you want a long hairstyle, try invisible layers. This style will give your hair body and flow without losing your long, luxurious length. Plus, your hairstyle will do all of the work for you, so you can go to work or parties and look great without the fuss. Invisible layers transition perfectly from a holiday party to a cozy night in with your sweetie in minutes.
What’s Out
Polished, High-Maintenance Cuts
If your haircut still requires a full blowout and an hour of tinkering just to look presentable, it’s time to move on. Low-maintenance is all the rage, which means that overly polished curls or layers that need constant maintenance are out. A lot of people are also choosing to embrace their natural waves and curls so they don’t have to constantly fight their natural hair texture.
Wolf Cuts
Wolf cuts had a big moment, but they might be taking a back seat this winter. The heavy and disjointed layers are being traded in for softer and more blended shapes. People are still enjoying their shag cuts, but they are whispering, not shouting. If you loved the volume and movement of your wolf cut but want something a little different, your stylist can evolve it into something sleeker and more low-maintenance.
Asymmetrical Bobs
The asymmetrical bob was edgy and bold, but this style is taking a break. Drastic angles are playing second fiddle to rounded and soft shapes with subtle layers. If you have been rocking a sharp look, winter could be the perfect time to change it up.
Winter Hair Color Trends
- Cinnamon Brunette and Caramel Balayage: Warm and spicy tones are replacing ashy colors in winter hair trends. Cinnamon brunette and caramel ribbons are a perfect pair that bring sun-kissed warmth to winter days without feeling too summery.
- Cherry Cola Reds: This is a nostalgic red-brown combo that adds shine and depth and pairs beautifully with your favorite holiday dress.
- Color Melting: Color melting blends colors so seamlessly that it is difficult to tell where one shade ends and the next begins. You get a smooth, dimensional color that reflects light and looks like it was made just for you.
Extension and Styling Trends
Extensions and styling aren’t immune to the current obsession with low-maintenance hairstyles. Options like Halo Couture extensions are becoming the rage because of how easy they are to put in (and take out). More and more people are embracing low-heat or no-heat tools and products that keep their hair glossy by making it healthy from the inside out.
Try Something New to Start Your Winter Off Right!
If you’re ready to try something new with your hair, winter is your time to play! From cozy shags to effortless waves, this season’s trends are all about feeling confident, fresh, and a little bit sassy. At Blonde Faith Salon, we are in Austin, TX, and can help you find the cut, color, and finish that fit your style and your mood.
Grab your inspo pics and get ready for your best hair yet! Call us at (512) 467-4717 to book your appointment, or fill out an online form.
