Wearing a new hairstyle—or even trying a new hair color—is one of the most accessible changes you can make to mark a fresh start, especially at the beginning of a new year.
For 2026, celebrity hairstylist Mark Anthony Rosales said hair is becoming “more personal, more intentional, and more honest.”
“We’re seeing deep side partings, glass-like shine, and refined up-styling not for drama, but for confidence,” he told GMA News Online.
Among the hair trends on the rise for the Year of the Fire Horse is the “bixie,” which is a combination of a bob and a pixie cut.
Think Barbie Forteza's latest 'do: short, edgy, and textured.
Another rising hairstyle is the Undone Cut sported by Sofia Pablo: a classic shag cut that celebrates hair’s natural movement while embracing waves and real texture.
On Monday’s episode of "Unang Hirit," celebrity hairstylist Lourd Ramos said a classic, graduated bob is also in this year, as seen on Suzi Entrata-Abrera.
It is perfect for women on the go who can’t spare a lot of time styling their hair but still want to look fashionable, thanks to its layers and texture.
For the younger generation, midi blowout curls are also trending, creating volume and movement in the hair.
“’Yung styling na na-blower ‘yung hair, pero hindi OA yung pagka blowdry,” Lourd described.
As for men’s cuts, messy hair is back in 2026, inspired by leading men in K-dramas, along with subtle curls.
“Mas madaming guys ang nagpapakulot ngayon kaysa sa girls, so we want to achieve that messy hair, it’s kinda wavy, but it’s in place and intact,” Lourd said.
Meanwhile, for hair color, Lourd predicted a shift toward coffee brown hues, while Mark said this year will see cherry red copper with vibrant undertones trending as an ode to the Year of the Fire Horse. — LA, GMA Integrated News