The runway hair looks already influencing 2026 trends.
Clothes may dominate the spotlight at New York Fashion Week, yet the hair trends often point to what we’ll want next season. These five runway looks are worth bookmarking for inspiration later.
Complex updos are back, and they’re not shy, with tiny braids, twists, and locs woven into unexpected shapes. It’s the kind of styling that turns hair into its own accessory.
At Elena Velez, fine braids and locs formed serpentine patterns, creating a juxtaposition of textures where loose strands met tightly woven sections. If you love experimenting with detail, this is your playground.
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LAPOINTE created top knots and Mohawk-inspired buns with multi-sized braids. There was a beautiful contrast between the precise base styling and the playful ends peeking out for texture. With monochrome hair tones, this will bring out the detail, and highlighted strands will add more depth to the hair.
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Meanwhile, the Who Decides War sent models out with rolled updos, at times incorporating lace for contrast. You can scale this idea down by adding one or two face-framing rolls and leaving the rest of your hair loose.
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There’s an instant promise of confidence when hair is pulled back. Designers gave plenty of variations, from casual to ultra-precise.
TOTEME went for a “still-damp” effect but not the slicked-back finish you’d imagine. The hair looked brushed back at the last minute, as if it were still air-drying. It’s a quick option if you want to add a little gloss and keep it real.
@toteme
Khaite created volume rather than pressing down everything. Some stray hairs floated freely, giving it an approachable feel. If you have been avoiding hairspray, this one is yours.
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The PatBO reimagined the classic slicked-back bun, adding a side part. It’s a small detail, but it changes how the entire face reads.
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Speaking of partings, the center part is still there, but it is no longer considered the only stylish option. Side parts have made a strong comeback, and they are easy to style.
Tory Burch paired side-swept hair with loose wisps falling across the forehead. This soft and romantic touch paired well with flowy dresses and loose-fitting items.
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Models at Sandy Liang sported medium-length hair parted to the side, often clipped with a decorative pin. The styles breathed ease and individuality.
@sandyliang
Sometimes the best hair is the hair you already have. Increasingly, designers opt for natural textures with minimal styling.
Michael Kors celebrated waves, coils, and straight strands exactly as they are. A touch of gloss kept everything healthy-looking.
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Calvin Klein kept hair casual, often just tucked behind the ears. Nothing complicated, just easy and wearable.
@calvinklein
Jason Wu sent down models with the kind of hair you could wear any day: shiny, natural, and free.
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If you’re not in the mood to style, let accessories do the job.
Clean and simple outfits called for matching bandanas at Calvin Klein. Grab one in a solid color and tie it at the back of the neck.
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Ralph Lauren made a big statement with oversized hats with dynamic brim-front flip-outs. Ideal when you want to shield your strands on a sunny day.
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Elena Velez brought back bonnets ranging from plain white to ruffled styles.
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Crochet bucket hats, striped or adorned with 3D motifs, added character at AKNVAS. A practical and fun finish to any outfit!
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Which of these runway hairstyles tempts you most? Head to our virtual styler and see how side-parted, swept-back, or undone hair looks can work for you.
