Biggest Summer Hair Trends of 2026 at Shape Hair Design, Richmond Upon Thames
Key Takeaways
Sun-kissed balayage, creamy blondes, rich brunettes and glossy copper tones are some of the biggest hair trends for summer 2026.
Clients are choosing softer, more personalised colour that feels effortless and easy to maintain.
Healthy, shiny hair remains at the centre of every major trend this year.
Glossing treatments and toners help keep colour looking fresh, vibrant and salon-perfect between appointments.
Bond repair treatments support stronger, healthier hair while improving shine and softness.
Whether you're looking for a subtle refresh or a complete transformation, summer is the perfect time to update your look.
Thinking about refreshing your hair for summer?
We offer a free hair colour consultation where we can discuss the look you want to achieve, as well as evaluate the techniques, colour options and price. Book today by calling 0208 977 0262 or book online.
Please note: A quick allergy alert test is required at least 48 hours before colour appointments.
Summer Hair Feels Softer & More Natural
This year's summer hair trends feel far more wearable and personalised. Clients arrive with inspiration saved from Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok, but they still want colour that suits their lifestyle and feels easy to maintain.
Instead of solid block colour, we're seeing softer blends, dimensional tones and glossy finishes that move naturally in the light. Hair should look beautiful both in the salon and weeks later when you're styling it yourself at home.
At Shape Hair Design, we focus on creating colour that complements your natural features while fitting into your maintenance routine. That means your hair continues to look fresh and healthy long after your appointment.
Sun-Kissed Balayage Continues To Trend
Balayage remains one of the most requested services every summer and honestly, it never goes out of style. However, this year's balayage feels softer and more blended than ever before.
Warm honey blondes, caramel ribbons and creamy face-framing pieces create brightness while still keeping the overall look natural and effortless. Better still, softer balayage grows out beautifully and allows for lower-maintenance appointments throughout summer.
Clients love balayage because it offers flexibility. Whether you want a subtle refresh or a complete transformation, balayage creates dimension and movement without harsh regrowth lines.
Glossy Brunettes Look Expensive
Brunettes are having a huge moment this year. Rich chocolate tones, espresso brunettes and glossy mocha colours create hair that looks healthy, reflective and luxurious.
More clients are moving away from bright blonde and embracing darker shades because they love the shine and depth these colours create. Glossing appointments help maintain richness while preventing colour from looking dull during the warmer months.
Healthy shine always makes dark hair look more expensive.
Copper Tones Continue To Grow In Popularity
Warm copper shades continue to dominate both salon requests and social media trends. Soft cinnamon tones, peachy coppers and rich auburn shades create warmth and vibrancy while still feeling wearable for everyday life.
Modern copper colours feel much softer now. Instead of bright orange tones, clients ask for glossy rich warmth that complements their skin tone naturally and grows out beautifully between appointments.
Healthy Hair Is The Biggest Trend Of All
The biggest trend we've seen in 2026 is the shift towards healthier hair overall. Clients now prioritise shine, condition and softness just as much as the actual colour itself.
That is why glossing treatments, bond repair services and personalised aftercare routines make such a huge difference. Healthy hair reflects light better, styles more easily and keeps colour looking fresher for longer.
Beautiful colour always starts with healthy hair.
Whether you want balayage, glossy brunette tones, creamy blondes or a full summer transformation, our team at Shape Hair Design would love to help.
Book your consultation today and let's create healthy, beautiful summer hair you truly love.