You see that time where you look into the mirror and you think, I need something different, but I just do not have the time to visit the salon and get the transformation I need. Wow, me too. 2026 is the year of effortless hair styles – those no-you-are-so-effortless appearance that says, I woke up like that, yet spent five minutes and a bit of imagination. No matter if you have short, long, curly, or thick or somewhere in between hair, it has a new twist, pin, or braid that will make you feel current, modern and oooh, so you.
I have compiled my best stylish hairstyles of this season – they are all the rage in New York to L.A., but you can do them right in your bathroom mirror, too. Imagine glossy textures, bare minimum details and hairstyles that move along with you. Ready to scroll, screenshot and perhaps change your appearance tonight? Let’s get into it.
Golden Accents on Soft Waves
The subtle strength of short and wavy hair with a few metallic embellishments is quite powerful. It is a simple short-haired hairstyle that feels like art the type of style that does not make an obnoxious claim but makes people look when you enter the room. The golden balls that are thrown in the loose twists give the modern almost architectural touch, making the mood are playful but purposeful.
I use a lightweight styling cream such as Oribe Crème for Style to take care of this type of texture, it is non-stiffening enough to define the waves, but not to make the hair rigid. I will occasionally top with a little Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil to give it the shine that comes with being expensive hair that looks great in the daytime.
As an individual, I am a big fan of the fact that this appearance can be worn as a hair jewel. And one such expert who is absolutely correct was celebrity stylist Justine Marjan who said that metallic accents immediately add prestige to the most basic style. It is so ideal when you have a morning where your hair is not cooperating at all, take the accessories and then all of a sudden it becomes a vibe.
In case you want to change something but do not want to make a big change or color conversion, this is your deal. It is a visual aid to remember that at times, small things can have the greatest impact.
Modern Braided Crown
Braided crown never gets old, yet, this modernized one seems new as it is tighter and shinier and has a perfect structure. It is one of those braids hairstyles tricks that appears complicated at first gaze but is actually rather easy to reproduce. The gold clips are a nice royal touch, and overall finish is that touch of runway but wearable that is immense in 2026.
It is the friend of yours in case you have medium-length or thick hair. A dab of Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Cream prior to braiding will soften flyaways as well as make the hair handleable. I occasionally spray a bit of texture spray prior to braiding – the person I rely on is Ouai Wave Spray because it provides the loose type of grip that lasts throughout the day.
I have attended brunch and a wedding in this style, and there was no need of touch-ups. I always feel a bit more presentable even in my jeans when I wear the braids. Hair artist Chris Appleton has said on several occasions that braids are the quickest way to look styled without heat and that’s the philosophy behind this look.
The best part? It has accessories, gold, pearls, ribbons, you can play with them, according to your mood or your outfit. It is royal-core versus the real life.
Half-Up Sleek Lines
It is a half-up sleek and smooth type of hair style that is used on those days when you are choosing a low-maintenance yet not a basic hairstyle. It is among my favourite quick long-haired hairstyles, it is clean at the top, it flows along the bottom and it is made soft by a few frontal strands which enclose the face beautifully. The juxtaposition of the smoothness and the natural movement is very 2026, think about the quiet luxury, but add hair to it.
I have Kerastase Elixir Ultime Oil to add shine and Color Wow Dream Coat to combat humidity in order to achieve the same smooth and shiny look (which is very specific to the East Coast). I will leave out curling occasionally and just flatten the ends and have a slight bend on them, not so done, but chick-like without trying.
It is also one of the looks that change your mood at once. You look self-confident, cool and somewhat enigmatic. No wonder stylists such as Jen Atkin tend to say that the half-up style is the mood-balancer that no one can resist, but at the same time, hard and soft.
Assuming that you have a chain necklace or statement based earrings this hairstyle is practically begging to have them. It is your 5 minutes cheat to having just left a campaign shoot.
Textured Top Knot Revival
Unkempt top knots are now of age. The new one is programmed, safe and artistically unbuttoned, not sloppy, simply worn. It is the ideal casual hairstyle of medium hair or casual hairstyle of long hair when you have to hurry on and still be able to look purposeful. The strands that stick out at the back and on the sides render it romantic, as opposed to sloppy.
I use a scrunchie which I take when in a rush, and I then twist it loosely, and pin it down. I will end up with Moroccanoil Dry Texture Spray to that just-in-the-right grip. In case you wish that you had more hold, a can of L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray will give everything a hold without that helmet look.
Funny enough, when I dress in this, somebody will always question whether I have thrown it up and I will always laugh when they do and it was not accidental. Stylist Adir Abergel frequently tells that great hair is about the controlled chaos, and this appearance proves this remark.
Freedom is in fashions like these, somewhat undress, somewhat enigmatic, a lot self-confident.
Romantic Looped Bun
This looped winding bun is all you need in evenings, dates, or simply, those times when you feel like being feminine. It is a variation of the traditional low chignon flattering to all face shapes, delicate but at the same time very romantic. It is one of these simple curly hair hairstyles (assuming that your hair is soft and curly, or straight and with some prep) but also looks fantastic with straight hair.
I prefer to wash my hair with Davines OI All-in-One Milk, so the strands remain wet and easy to handle. Once I have given the hair its loose twist, I use the invisible pins to hold it into place and tug out a few of the strands to give the hair a frame. The result? French-girl apathy The ageless season through.
Whenever I wear this kind of style, I get that you look different, I cannot tell why, comment and the best part of this is that it is a compliment. It is not very overt, but it is so graceful.
Once, hair colorist Tracey Cunningham stated that no fancy styling can be placed on a color that is already shining and I could not agree any more. This bun goes well with the sunkiss or highlighted color, the appearance of that mere glow in the evening light.
High Pony with a Polished Edge
The sleek half-up ponytail is something inexplicably strong – it is sure, sexy, and daring simultaneously. This is a simple long-hair hairstyle that has provided structure to your appearance instantly in a balance of both being soft and strong. The pulled crown produces that snatching effect everybody will adore in 2026 and the natural cascade of the hair provides a contrasting feeling to hard eyeliner or bold jewelry.
To add shine and control, and I tend to use Color Wow Extra Shine Spray or Fekkai Brilliant Gloss Multi-Tasker Perfecting Crume – both make the strands slick but not greasy. A tiny torture brush miraculously works wonders at the top to provide volumized hair that lasts all night.
I have used this look when going to a casual dinner to a night out this look never fails to bring together a look. Hairstylist Chris Appleton always mentions that a high pony is a modern day facelift and it is difficult to disagree with him.
It is smooth, it is basic and it is one of those simple hair styles that takes a dull piece of clothing and turns it into a fashion masterpiece.
Beachy Waves with a Braided Detail
The style is an informally, the love child of California cool and boho style; ideal to those seeking an easy hairstyle to keep curly hair or simply need the texture but not the extra effort. The sloppy braid on the front is impulsive, and the beachy hair reflects the sun in that soft, sunkissing way that makes you feel you have just returned to work.
I use Ouai Wave Spray or Bumble and Bumble surf spray to maintain the texture and braid one of the masses before drying. Dried Amika Glass Action Hair Oil is a touch of shine-enhancing, frizz-controlling product.
Frankly speaking, this one is reminding me of mornings by the sea, salt in the air, iced coffee in the hand, and hair that does not require any perfection to make it seem beautiful. It seems that as hairstylist Jen Atkin repeatedly mentions, it is imperfection that makes it modern.
It is among the simplest methods of making your style seem like a loosely dressed model with nothing to worry about but still at the top of their game.
’90s Layered Pony Revival
The hair revival of the 90s is not a fantasy anymore – and this one will reach every girl who still misses that famous flip when it is the moment to admit it. With the movement and the nostalgia, this half-up pony with the feathered layers comes to make easy hairstyle on medium hair that is light and yet, orderly. The strands which stick out upwards are providing the right attitude.
I do this with a round brush and a blow dryer to roll the ends down and on a touchable hold with Kenra Volume Spray 25. It is that type of style that improves even after several hours of use – a bit of touch and wear and yet polished.
In my case, it is the best day to night appearance. A little messy in the best way. According to the words of a hair artist Rita Hazan, volume is the new luxury, and she hits it on the nail without making any effort.
It’s your retro time but made now — evidence that all the style trends do not have to re-invent the wheel to feel new.
Low Braided Knot with Modern Pins
This is among the casual hairstyles of thick hair that appear much more sophisticated than they actually are. A low, gently twisted knot, bordered by sculptural gold pins – it is artistic and at the same time weable, structured and soft. Ideal work party, date night or simply days when you wish to appear as though you have made some attempts (though you have not).
I tend to spray my hair with Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime Spray before styling them it keeps all the frizzes under control and gives the hair a smooth look and does not pull it down. Once braided, I then twist the end into a small bun and fasten it with invisible pins and finally attach metallic clips as a finishing touch to create drama.
Something empowering in this look. It is literary and imaginative–a kind of editorial, a kind of daily. Once Hairstylist Danilo Dixon told us that hair accessories are the period marks of an appearance and, in this case, they truly are.
It is not simply a braid it is a statement piece.
Minimalist Low Bun with Cross Pins
It is about nightly sophistication in this low bun with cross jointed pins. It is among my favorite quick hairstyles with short hair or even when my medium length hair has done nothing right. It has a balance here, messy ends and precision, geometric pins that give an immediate modernisation of the whole silhouette.
To have that easy end, I put a little Davines OI Oil through the lengths and then tie them at the back. A side section is classy and the crossed pins are jewelry of modest kind.
I adore the fact that it has the same feeling as the adult version of the wild messy bun in that it is controlled, classy, and free, at the same time. The hairstylist Mara Roszak frequently declares, that polished does not mean perfect, it means intentional; that is precisely the vibe that this style brings.
Now it is subtle, powerful and perfectly simple How nice it is to finish any glance, in the morning coffee or evening plans.
Half-Twist with Pastel Pins
It is a playful half-up style that borders on nostalgia and pastel hair clips. It is among my favorite long hair easy hairstyles since it is very fast but appears so well put in style. The volume is added with the twist at the crown, whereas soft waves make it casual and feminine. The light blue pins (this time pastel) are the hair accessory of the future that we had no idea we needed in 2026.
I enjoy to condition my hair using Amika Wizard Detangling Primer to flatten and protect it in preparation of styling process and then add smooth texture using a curling iron with a large barrel. Finalize it with the use of bobby pins to create a geometrical feel.
It is the type of detail which attracts the light and makes praise without making much effort. According to celebrity stylist Mara Roszak, accessories can be considered a part of your style identity when they feel personal, and this appearance testifies to it.
Light, casual and somewhat fanciful – ideal brunching, errands or even the first date.
Subtle Side Clip Elegance
The styles that are the simplest are sometimes the most classy. This is an understated asset, side-pinned style of hairstyle a minimalist dream and a perfect match to simple hairstyles of medium hair or those who are growing out a cut. The possible extra element is one golden clip that provides an organization to the hair and leaves it to shine naturally.
I use Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil to achieve that mirror finish gloss, as it makes everything smooth but does not feel heavy. An inch and a half of hairspray such as L’Oréal Elnett Satin hold the clip and hairs smooth.
I like the self-confidence of this one. No ripples, no curls — but simplicity, which is more vocal than stratifications. It is subtly strong, the type of style that would be ideal with a blazer or a tank top.
It is an indication that effortless does not imply unintended. In some cases, one little touch can change the entire atmosphere.
Classic Waves with Metallic Touches
This is why we are still seeing this appearance on red carpets and even in the streets of cities, it is timeless. The combination of soft, vintage-driven waves and several metallic pins that are used makes one of those hairstyles that are easy to do and appear to be both slick and casual.
I use the one inch curling wand, curling away the face, and then brushing it all out to create the soft coherent ripple. I wear Gisou Propolis Infused Texturizing Spray to maintain the shape, but it does not make me feel stiff.
It makes me look a little like an old-Hollywood star that enjoys being in the TikTok age whenever I wear this. Stylist Tracey Cunningham frequently mentions that shine and softness are the best luxury and she is correct to do so because this hairstyle is a shinier than silk.
It is romantic yet wearable and is good when it is evening time and light and laughter last long even after the sun sets.
Retro Ribbon Charm
Ribbon revival is in official operation and I am on board. This half-up cut with a tight bow is new but retro at the same time – something right off the screen siren in the 1960s but reinterpreted to fit the contemporary woman. It is one of those simple and thick-haired hairstyles that immediately put a shiney gloss and volume in without being teased or lamed.
I tend to spray Volume Lift Spray by John Frieda on the roots and upside-down blow-dry hair to add lift and then tie the ribbon. The balance between the coarse strings and the kittenish bow makes it so flattering.
It is just strange how a ribbon can change your mood, it is as though you have a lighter day. Nothing was better said by Hairstylist Jennifer Yepez: Hair accessories are mood accessories.
Put on when running to the coffee shops, attending gallery exhibitions or just when you need a bit of sweetness.
Side Braid Glow
This would be the hairstyle of sunshine. The undress waves and soft single strand braid are so easy to wear and easy to have the summer spirit that we all desire. It is among the simplest and the most complimentary easy hairstyles braids options in 2026, light and playful and full of motion.
To style it, I put on Ouai Leave-In Conditioner and blow-dry it, and then braid one side and leave the rest in its wavy and free form. Redken Shine Flash is a sprinkle of the golden glow.
Whenever I wear this style I feel as though I am strolling through late afternoon brightness – as though I were certain, as though I were confident, as though I had a little of that carefree feeling. Gregory Patterson, celebrity hairstylist, has once remarked, that moving hair is always contemporary, and this hair abides by that principle.
It is the ultimate combination of undress and unforgettable – and perhaps the image that is your next season.
Side Braid with Subtle Sparkle
It is easy like side braid but with delicately placed accents, which is pure elegance. It is a simple hairstyle in the form of braids that seems to be ancient and modern at the same time, boho and elegant. The plait is a loose one, falling softly on the shoulder, glancing on every twist of it, and the slight twinkle inserted in the plait is the little touch of magic.
To prepare, I apply Ouai Leave-In Conditioner and a little Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame to make the hair smooth. The secret is because the braid should be loose in the beginning to make the feel so soft, not too finished. I will give them a gentle pull at the fringes as it is secured in place to give that romantic airy ending.
Whenever I change into it, I feel like I have been dressed within hours in front of the mirror, despite the fact that it has only been five minutes. Stylist to celebrities Jen Atkin tends to say, The best braids are the ones that are not perfect and this braids is a great illustration of this fact.
It is also among my favorite simple long hair hairstyles when I want something that is so soft and yet strong like on lazy Sundays or even evening plans.
Playful Mini Pony Rows
It is sometimes not about re-inventing the wheel – it is just about offering it more space. This appearance with small ponytails along the part brings the immediate personality to the medium length hair. It is new and sporty and perfectly fitted to the fun minimalism trend of the 2026. Reconsider it as one of the most hipster simple hairstyles you could have on your medium hair, going to the gym and to dinner, and not missing a step.
To achieve the texture, I apply the Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray to ensure that the hair is dry and then hold it in place with mini elastics. The trick lies in maintaining tension even in order to retain the pattern clean.
It is flirtatious yet professional enough, particularly the coordinated makeup or vivid accents. I have heard such stylists as Justine Marjan refer to them as micro moments of creativity and that is what it feels like: little details, great influence.
It is ideal when you want to appear like you tried to dress up, at least not too hard.
Soft Space Buns
The trend of the double bun is not going anywhere — and to be honest, why not? It is adorable, self-assured and serves the purpose of being one of the easiest effort-free hairstyles with curly hair or wavy fields. The trick is to have balance: fluffy on the bottom, compact knots on the top.
I use Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream to prepare my curls, and then twist two parts of it to the top of both sides. I have them loosely tied on to make them appear inhabited, and not tight. Flyaways? They’re part of the charm.
I always think of festival days, carefree nights, and that sort of self-expression that does not seek the permission when I look at this hairstyle. One of the hairstylist Adir Abergel once mentioned that the playful styles tie us to happiness and I think that every time I put it on.
When you are in need of something entertaining and easy to maintain, then this one is a winner.
Twisted Low Ponytail
I feel the sense of this wristed-pony tail all the time which makes me feel that it is a kind of soft sophistication. It is such an easy hairstyle on long hair that can be used on working days and on weekends. The twist further makes it more detailed, whereas the loose waves make it all romantic and comfortable.
I put some Kérastase Elixir Ultime Oil into the lengths, twist two sections at the front and bring them together in the shape of a low pony to do so. Light pull here and there gives volume at the crown – the slight lift that gives it the effect of being costly.
It is subtle, feminine, and completely suits all hair types. Maras stylist Mara Roszak has a quote that is also so true, the secret to good hair is not fighting with your hair, and this style fits that maxim well.
It is the ultimate one to refer to when you just need your hair to tell you quietly that you are together in life.
Effortless Low Twist Pony
The stylized low ponytail that has undergone a windswept touch never goes out of fashion, yet the slightly twisted one seems particularly up to date in 2026. It is a no-frills, but smart, kind of hairstyle that is soft and structural at the same time. The twist gives the movement, and the casual and chic texture is made loose.
I begin with Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo to thicken the hair, and then loosely twist the chunks and bring them down to the back. It is softened with a few strands around the face– particularly at windy seasons.
The best thing I love about this one is that it appears great in all angles. It is the painless, big reward – and that, really, is the 2026 beauty business model.
It is your white shirt of hair: classical, one dimensional, but stylish.
Half-Up Braided Crown
It is a half-up braided crown made out of a soft blend of structure and even spontaneity–one of my favorite easy hairstyles on medium waves or short hair. The top is put up in a manner that the braid provides slight elevation but leaves the rest of the hair loose and free, which is more defining and full of volume.
I would use Davines This Is A Texturizing Dust at the top to create lift, braid two small strands of groupings and hold it with a few hidden pins at the top. The ends should be sprayed with a touch of Ouai Hair Oil and make it shine naturally but not heavy.
I adore it most because it will be elegant enough to get married in it and comfortable enough to grab a cup of coffee on a weekend. Once Hairstylist Chris Appleton stated that half-up fringe is the easiest way to combine grace and comfort, and this one has been perfectly fitting this description.
It is a light, airy braid affair which can carry you wherever you wish.
Double Braided Mini Bun
Two parallel braids combined in one bun – this fashion is about being certain and symmetrical. It is a fashionable version of the standard top knot, and, frankly speaking, one of the trendiest easy hairstyles braids I have recently tried. It is young, entertaining and surprisingly quick to perform.
I apply Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast as far as texture is concerned – it provides that airy feel that is ideal in braiding. After the sections are braided in my hair I will then twist into a small bunch at the back and hold it together with a few pins. Done.
I adore the way it appears with minimum make-up and two bright spectacles. It is delivering vacation and street style. One day Justine Marjan said that small braids are the least commitment way of adding edge to an outfit, and I could not agree more.
A dress which works as much as you do – smart casual, but on film.
Edgy Double Cornrow Waves
This one’s for the bold. Crown twin braids are brought to the crown, and cascade down into undress and undress waves – the ideal mix of smooth and messy. It is a simple hairstyle on medium hair that allows playing with contrast and personality.
In order to remove it, I apply Pattern Edge Controlto outline the braids and Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray to those wavy ends. It is all about balance here; tidy on the top, crazy on the bottom.
This style is not afraid of anything and can be worn anywhere, at the concert, on the city days, or at any other place you want to feel like a main character. Once celebrity hairstylist Vernon François stated that braids are empowerment in action and, you feel it the second you complete the final knot.
It is audacious, assertive and unashamedly cool.
Bubble Ponytail Revival
Elastic, young and ow-so-2026 -the bubble ponytail is officially back. This long hair hairstyle is as playful as it appears: huge bubbles that are floating down the back in a bunch of soft clouds. It is the type of fashion that will make you feel good right away.
To do it, I put my hair in a ponytail, followed by an addition of mini elastics after every few inches giving each one of them a gentle tug in order to create bubbles. I put a wrap on it with Kérastase Elixir Ultime Oil to give it that sleek look.
The best part is that it is so flexible, it can be sleek and high at night, and loose and low at day e.g. This is a look that definitely confirms that Hairstylist Jen Atkin claims that minimal hair is given movement by playful structure.
You can not help smiling when you wear it – it is pure serotonin in the hair.
Hollywood-Inspired Wavy Pony
This is a wavy cascading pony tail that has become the symbol of contemporary glamour. It is a simple thick-haired hairstyle that appears to be red-carpet-level but is really easy to make. The crown that has been heightened and the shaping of waves that run down the crown forms the ideal combination of elegance and comfort.
I use Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray to achieve that shine, and I am brushing the waves to be a bit soft. A strand of hair around the tie to secure the base gives the final touch of perfection and a perfect finish.
I always find this appearance to be giving me a sense of gracefulness without trying hard, and at least it does not seem to cling to me. Healthy shine is the new statement according to celebrity stylist Tracey Cunningham, and this nail style hits the nail.
It is classic, it is self-assured and it is designed to get attention whether you are at a party or you are simply going about your day like it is yours.
Glossy Half-Up Glam
It is a sleek half-up style that imparts that traditional red carpet without the stylist vibe. The hair is sleek and shiny, and pulled away in a way that presents statement earrings – one of those easy long hairstyles that instantly make you feel glamorous. The tiniy twist in the crown contributes to the height and finishing that the crown is perfect in evening out or guest wedding attire.
To keep my hair dry in the humid weather, I spray my strands with Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray, and then I brush it all over using a flat brush before attaching the top half. It is everything about tension and shine – two concepts that transform ordinary hair into couture.
This appearance makes me remember that sometimes, one can be more secure in the simplicity. This is true, as hairstylist Mara Roszak claims that healthy, reflective hair is the best accessory and frankly this has been the case.
Waves are soft, bright and in the process, not much effort is required, it is grace in motion.
Classic Power Ponytail
The final power move is a sleek ponytail. This simple casual hairstyle on thick hair is an ideal match with sharp shoulders, confidence, and full agenda. The high connotation lengthens the neck, and the base wrap gives that little touch that makes the difference between pony of everyday and pony of glamour.
To get that impeccable finish, I apply Fekkai Brilliant Gloss Perfecting Crme prior to blow-drying followed by the sealing of it all with L’Oréal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold. Finished off by a spray of shine, the spray captures all the light.
This is the style on the days you want to feel like you cannot be stopped, interviews, date night or even a Monday that is in need of additional vigor. It is a confidence hairstyle as described by hair artist Chris Appleton, who is absolutely right.
It stands the test of time, it is daring, it does not disappoint.
Double Lifted Pony
Here is another tricky idea to appear lifted instantly: two strands of ponytails one on top of the other. It is an optical illusion giving it volume, drama, one of those handy quick and simple hairstyles that fill out your hair in seconds.
I divide the hair in two parts, one part at the crown and the other just below the crown and part ways and then combine the two. One can apply an Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray in a squeezy spray to achieve the appropriate level of airy grip.
It is ideal on the photo days or when you need that extra something on your hair. It is what hairstylist Justine Marjan refers to as the no-extensions hack and I like how the process is painlessly easy.
It is not necessarily about more but smarter styling.
Twisted Sleek Ponytail
This is how minimalism never has looked. It is a twisted low pony with a diagonal sweep on the back which is among my favorite hairstyles that require very little effort and I look like I have just stepped out of a runway dressing when I have it on.
To realize it, I use Kerastase Discipline Fluidissime Spray to smooth my hair, twist it at the back and fasten it by a hidden tie. It is carved, delicate and quite 2026.
I love the way it is a perfect adaption of office to evening, sweater to cocktail hour. Guido Palau, a hairstylist once said that precision is poetic and this hairstyle is indeed nothing short of that, smooth lines and gentle movement.
It is unobtrusive opulence — the silent confidence type.
Conclusion
Provided that 2025 was a year of maximum, 2026 is a year of modern comfort. All of these simple hair styling tips are evidence that beauty does not require any sophistication and complexity; all it needs is the appropriate level of creativity and attention. With short hair hairstyles that are easy to do, to hairstyles in braids that are easy to do, the trend is obvious: natural texture, soft volume, and hairstyles that add value as opposed to conceal.
Hair 2026 is concerning the feel of it, light, strong, intimate. It is the whisper of a curl, the shininess of a clip, the draw of a ponytail that tells you that you are in the place you are supposed to be.
Then take it, don’t forget–get that brush, tie that twist, and keep in mind: your hair is your trade mark. Make it shine.
