The Boldest 2026 Hair Trends That Will Completely Switch Up Your Look

Sure, there are plenty of lovely hair trends going around, including chic bob styles that are trending for summer 2026. But let's say you're in the mood for a big change, something that will have everyone from your neighbor to your barista commenting on your updated hairstyle. Because, let's be honest, it can be a little disappointing when you sit in a salon chair for hours, and no one notices that you did anything.

We don't want to just consider bold changes for the sake of something new. We're after the cuts and styles that are also on trend this year — the ones that are worthy of their own hashtag in '26 because they feel fresh, noteworthy, and, most importantly, are flattering. Choppy, layered cuts are still trending, with one in particular getting the most coverage right now. There are hair colors currently making the most waves when it comes to dye, and certain hair accessories — recommended by our expert, Stephanie Angelone, Master Celebrity Stylist at RPZL in NYC — are becoming synonymous with bold hair statements. In short, there's plenty to consider for your next statement hair look.

If you've been rocking a mullet or a wolf cut for the past few seasons, then a butterfly cut isn't going to seem very bold. But if you're a stranger to layers, then this choppy bob will completely switch up your look. The butterfly bob is one of the most Googled haircuts in 2026, and for good reason. It's super bouncy and voluminous. This complements the maximalism that we're seeing in fashion right now. The butterfly bob is also incredibly flattering, with face-framing layers that a stylist can adjust to best highlight your face shape, features, and bone structure.

This choppy look can be worn with or without bangs, though we suggest that if you've been fringe-free and want to go bold, then go all-in as well. If you have particularly thin or limp hair, consider using texturizing and volumizing products to get the most out of this look, which is meant to be noticed.

That maximalism in fashion that we mentioned above is also translating to statement-making hair colors right now. Ever since figure skater Alysa Liu boasted her bold, bleached-out stripes at the winter Olympics, people have been feeling more emboldened with their hair color choices. Singer Rosalia is also sporting a bleached-out halo that strengthens the call for bold strips set against darker hair shades.

Still, it's not just about bleached bits; colors aplenty are on-trend for 2026. Playful shades of pink are back this summer like they haven't been in years. And anything goes, from soft cotton candy to punchy fuchsia. Pops of blue have been spotted on street stylers at fashion week, as well as concert goers and even celebs, including actor Megan Fox. Trendy shades of copper are still going strong for summer '26. Who knows? Maybe moody, elegant scarlet and burgundy hues might be the bold shade that takes you into fall and winter.

Maybe something bold is calling your mane, but scissors and dye are not it. You can still switch up your look by way of accessories. Master Celebrity Stylist Stephanie Angelone suggests a crochet cap like the RPZL Dear Richie Crochet Head Piece, which is the summertime equivalent of the winter beanie. "Lightweight, trendy, and a great way to amp up any fun festival look, or even your everyday errand run to stay looking chic," she tells us exclusively. She also recommends headscarves, especially lace ones. "Headscarves made a huge comeback this season," she explains. "They're a great way to keep your hair out of your face in the heat but still [wear] it down." Angelone adds that a scarf is great for slightly greasy second- or third-day hair, "as it can always disguise your roots." She recommends the RPZL Essex Lace Headscarf to get the look this summer.

Scarves are one of the hairstyles from the '70s that you can make work in 2026, as are super-long, waist-grazing lengths. If you have medium-length hair and want to switch up your look with something dramatic and on-trend, consider extensions to take you there instantly. If this sounds good to you, there are some things to know before getting hair extensions.

Parting your hair somewhere new doesn't seem like it would make much of a statement, but trust us, it's a super simple way to switch up your look this year and make it count. With a bouncy Hollywood bob, a deep side part gives it that retro-glam vibe that's far from subtle. After all, bold doesn't necessarily need to have a shock factor involved. A super-deep part worn slick and pulled into an updo is another edgy-meets-elegant take on the trend that gives off Y2K energy.

Bratty little side bangs are the 2026 version of a side-swept bang. Wearing them with a choppy fringe that hits just below the brow bone is another way to add an extra element of edge to a deep side part. A fringe is one of the fastest ways to completely switch up your look if you want a noticeable transformation. The side part and bratty little side bangs combo works on long or short hair, and with most textures. Curly girls can add some attitude to their look with some coils descending on one side of the forehead.

If you're looking for an easy-to-achieve statement, consider going against the grain of what might be expected in a certain space. For example, Master Celebrity Stylist Stephanie Angelone recommends beach-inspired hair clips, like these ones, for non-beach events. Adding seashells to your hair while out and about in the city adds an unexpected level of boldness. She also suggests seashell hair combs: "You can add these to your updos for summer weddings or even for your bridal look," she tells us.

Another easy idea is to add a statement hair clip, like an oversized barrette, that will instantly embolden your look, and works particularly well to encapsulate the current maximalism trend. An oversized clip works with any hair length, but it looks especially great in women with pixie cuts, adding a noticeable element or simply switching up a part and securing hair in a direction that it normally doesn't sit.