I always feel like changing something in the spring, whether it is more light in the mornings or the first warm wind feels cured of the cold air. Do you ever find yourself scrolling and scrolling and scrolling, and you get the thought, well, but what am I going to do with my hair next? or what hairstyle is going to be fresh in 2026 with long hair? The same questions have been troubling me the other day. And this year, the trends are softer, prettier, wearable even when you are going to brunch or you are getting ready to be a guest at a Wedding.
And that is why we are going to plunge into styles that not only look beautiful, but make you feel beautiful. I will give you what each one is special, what type of a vibe it creates, and how I would incorporate it into my normal life. Perhaps you will even find the one that will make you go out and have something new this season.
Soft Vintage Curls with Modern Elegance
The initial glance comprises those buttery soft, shaped curls placed in between Elegant and Formal, almost a whisper of the glamour of the 1940s but reinterpreted into something that could be worn nowadays. The curl is not so tight that it looks old fashioned, yet not so tight as to be considered a wedding guest or bridal feel. The platinum hue is bright without being icy and this makes the entire style cozy and complementary to spring light. There are times that a style is simply costly in the right way.
Whenever I have curls such as these, I always use a setting spray that is lightweight and not sticky. Volume Spray 25 by Kenra Professional has been a favorite since it has been able to maintain the shape without making everything crunchy. And when you have natural straight or heavy hair, mousse at the ends will make all the difference.
When I put on a style such as this I believe my grandmother would be proud. She would always say that shiny waves are what put the confidence on a woman, and even celebrity stylist Kristin Ess has stated that curled hairstyles have a visual lifting effect on the face. It is true, I tell you, it makes it soft-focused, like good light.
I would combine this with something understated during the day or all-out glamour in the evening. It is the type of style that compliments all occasions – a fancy dinner, date night, or even a spring gala should you feel daring.
Golden Hour Voluminous Waves
The style is fully tilted to Wavy fullness – bouncy, dimensional and glowing with those caramel ribbons that make long hair feel alive even in poorer light. Something so Cute about the manner in which each wave retains its form without appearing to be overdone. I prefer it to any person who desires a Casual yet polished appearance to go out on the weekend or during spring time when you want to appear as though you made an effort yet you did not spend an hour getting ready.
The reason I did this is to maintain a fat and fluffy wave, so to achieve this, I would apply a greasy heat protectant – the Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair would be a good one to use, even on straight hair. It prevents the depletion of everything by humidity, which is the real struggle in the season.
On a personal level, such waves bring to mind spring brunches with friends – the ones where you are sitting outside and the sun is shining in the right direction. It is a style where Matt Rez, celebrity colorist, regularly speaks of the ability of soft warm accents to give depth without stark difference, and I see the inspiration throughout this style.
It is the type of appearance I would put on those days when I want my hair to be romantic and yet Everyday enough to have a sweater on and walk. Effortless but intentional.
Loose Waves with a Braided Crown
And here we enter into a little whimsicality. The heavy, woven braid, which falls all around the head as a crown, is the immediate source of Boho festival vibe, yet the sleek waves make it also befitting a Wedding guest or spring photoshoot appearance. This style works best in long lengths since the braid gives it some structure but the waves make everything feminine and airy.
When I desire braid to be this smooth, I use a small portion of leave-in cream to prepare my hair. The Ouai Leave In Conditioner is ideal in taking the flyaways in check without softening the texture. A small thing goes a long way, particularly by the front where every piece is visible.
Whenever I put on braided crowns, people always question whether it is difficult. Pledge – it is Simple easy, really, when pre-curled. And celebrity stylist Justine Marjan frequently tells that braids work better in hair with some grip to it, thus there is nothing to fear texture spray. It is such a trifling point that really enhances the result.
This style is reminiscent of spring weddings, garden parties, or the one perfect Saturday when everything is soft and sunny. A bit whimsical, a bit an organization – the happy medium.
Classic Hollywood Side Waves
These smooth, shiny waves swept in a dramatic motion to one side refer to 1920s and 1940s silhouettes without being costume-like. They are molded, pensive, and unimaginably Formal to the point of pleading with a red lip and a low-cut dress. The wave pattern has enough space to open and fall in the characteristic S-shape that is best fitted with long hair.
To achieve this kind of shine, I prefer to apply a few drops of the Moroccanoil Treatment Light. It maintains everything shiny without making the wave heavy. And when you will that it should span the length of an evening pinch each section when curled and allowed to cool, old school method, yet to be defeated.
I have always been a fan of the immediate changing nature of this style. One moment you have your regular clothes on, and the next moment, you have the impression that you have been in an old movie. Hairstylists such as Glenn Nutley will always discuss the magic of controlled waves highlighting the facial features, and I can attest to it working each and every time.
Starting a Bridal or gala look this year, save this style to your mood board. It is classic, ladylike and surprisingly comfortable to wear as long as you learn the trick.
Perfectly Sleek Long Layers
This appearance glorifies long, shiny layers with that clean mid-point that ever feels crisp and contemporary. It is an excellent Office or Everyday option, particularly when you are fond of a Straight texture, but you want it to be moving. The ends have layers that slightly turn indicating that the ends are soft rather than losing the smooth overall feel. It is smooth and yet relaxed enough to wear on a Casual day or on a Quick easy glow-up and move out.
The important one here is to be shiny. To have my long layers smooth and healthy, I typically apply the Redken Acidic Bonding Shampoo and Conditioner to the hair, particularly when the spring humidity attempts to come into play. The glassy appearance can be achieved by simply using a flat iron pass at low heat.
It is a personal favorite of mine, as it fits any situation – errands, work, dinner, gym to street transitions. I have one, which is that, in my opinion, celebrity stylist Chris Appleton always mentions that using glass hair is more about health than heat, and that has been in my head. The straightener work better than the other pass with the mask on weekly.
When you want a spring update without adding a new color, long feathered layers such as these are the solution, and the slightest but most noticeable change. Clean, simple, pretty.
Sleek Low Pony with Soft Glam Details
Something enduring about a sleek low pony is that when combined with some long, smooth strands that fall down the back like satin, it is the most timeless. It is that combination of Elegant, Formal and quietly powerLook that works at a Wedding guest or even at a chic spring cocktail party. The severe central section makes it all contemporary, and the length makes it a long-haired hairstyle. It is simple, bare, and unexpectedly expressive as something so Simple.
I always apply a smoothing serum to the hair before I do this style of the ponytail. One that I would highly recommend is the Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum which serves the purpose of holding strands down but does not leave the hair hard. One dart of the flat iron and then everything is sorted into its place will always maintain that perfect liquid look.
Such pony always treats me like taking me back to the spring events when I did not want to bother myself much but still wanted to feel presentable. Hairstylist Chris Appleton frequently claims that a slick pony is the quickest way to appear costly and I completely agree. At times less is more.
In case you are intending to have an appearance that changes easily during the day to the night, this is the sort of wear I would select. It is Fast, sleek, and flattering to almost anyone, which is an unusual feat in a ponytail.
Romantic Braids with Straight Lengths
This style combines lengthy, straight cuts with thin side braids, which form a childish and elegant appearance simultaneously. The braiding also gives it a touch of Cute, whereas the sleekness of the hair makes it very high-end, so it is ideal as Wedding guestwear or spring parties. The soft texture is a style I like because of its relaxed form – a braid gives it some personality, but it does not bring you into the full Boho realm unless it does.
I tend to use the OGX Keratin Oil Heat Protectant Spray when I want my hair to remain smooth throughout the day before I style my hair. It coats the hair to a level that does not cause frizz, a godsend in spring. The hair (braids towards the face) is easily fuzzy, so I will rub a little of styling cream over them at the end.
Something about this glance reminds me of spring formals and outdoor dinners. It provides that nonchalant assurance – when you love your hair and you never have to consider it again? That feeling. And the lovers of the braid will feel that the style will also make the face look good without corroding the length.
This should definitely be on your list in case you have been seeking something Simple easy and yet good. It is feminine, smooth, and can be used in so many spring events that lie ahead.
Layered Shag with Soft Wispy Texture
Here we enter into something more moody and more textured. This stranding shag gives the crown volume, movement throughout the middle and wispy ends that are not so messy to touch. It is an ideal spring rejuvenation in case you desire something cool and at the same time gentle. The face-framing layers immediately raise the features and provide that inexplicably cool girl feel that so much better on long hair. It is Fun, it is dimensional and it is never dull.
In case of a shag like this, I do not do without texturizing spray. The Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray is truly incomparable in terms of adding volume without being heavy. It provides that just unbuttoned, easy feel that is necessary to get the layers to blend, rather than bunch.
When shagging, it seems to me that I am tapping into my inner confidence in an entirely new direction, when I do it. Celebrity stylist Riawna Capri frequently discusses shags as being liberating since they promote movement and individuality in the hair and she is quite right. It is freer, more expressive, particularly in spring, when everything is new.
It is an awesome choice when you need an option that fits your makeup and highlights your features. It is casual and fits extraordinarily well on a night out or even an innovative Office day.
Messy Textured Updo with Soft Side Pieces
This is a beautiful up do that is arranged and yet loose at the same time with loose strands that give that free romantic feel. It is smooth enough to be used in Formal environments, but the rough surface makes it fun as well. This type of style renders the long hair very light and breathable especially during the warmer spring days. And the side ones show the face in a very nice frame, which makes the appearance a subtle, refreshing one.
My preferred styling powder and light hairspray combination would be used when doing the following updos. The Schwarzkopf Osis+ Dust It Powder is suitable to add grip to the hair without making it heavy particularly to fine-textured hair. After pinning everything, I spray it lightly using a flexible hold spray to ensure that the movement does not get lost.
I have always liked this type of updos at dinner, engagement party, or any other time I need to dress up without being stiff or overdone. Hairstylist Nikki DeRoest frequently states that hair updos now are all about text and softness; and I concur with that entirely, it is the minor imperfections that make it fascinating.
In case you desire something Fancy and at the same time, effortless energy, it is such a flattering selection. It also works well on the windy spring days when having your hair down is a dangerous thing to do.
Ultra-Voluminous Curled Blowout
This appearance is one hundred percent glamour – the type of tossed-up, bouncing curl that renders long hair to appear like it was meant to move. The volume, the warm rich tones, the raised face-framing waves all combine to make it look Cute, luxurious, spring-ready, and shine in all the settings. It is ideal in Everyday glam, as it equally fits well in Formal occasions or any time you wish your hair to be the center of attention.
To keep it this way, it is a general practice to prepare it with a volumizing mousse. The hype surrounding the Oribe Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse is justified – it does not feel crunchy when sprayed, and your curls maintain their bouncy quality throughout the day. A large round brush and powerful blow dryer can marvel miracles provided you have time.
Whenever I do this blown-out hairstyle whenever I wear it, I feel like I am walking into the best version of myself. It is audacious and light, dramatic and chic. And the professionals such as Jen Atkin would insist that big curls are one of the quickest methods to add a whole look up, which I completely agree with after years of trial and error.
It should be at the top of your list should you be in need of a confidence-enhancing change in the spring. It is female, strong, and as the main character.
Soft Chocolate Waves with Face-Framing Lift
This appearance enters that dream of dimensional chocolate waves – thick, shiny and bouncy. The front-lifting face-frame provides airy lightness that does not make the whole style too dramatic. It is the best hairstyle when you have a long hair and you like a Wavy finish that is natural and very feminine. I love the fact that this type of volume gives you that confident, I woke up glowing feel, which is very 2026.
To waves of this kind, nothing counts like hydration. Before I start curling, I always grab the Amika Hydro Rush Leave-In Conditioner because it keeps my hair hydrated such that the waves retain their shape without frizzing. When everything is cooled, a light spray of water spray with hairspray that is flexible is the final touch.
These types of styles remind me of a relaxing morning in spring when everything seems to be in order. It makes me remember the words of one of my favorite colorists Tracey Cunningham: with the help of warmer shades of brown, you can immediately get a glow, even with minimal makeup. That is some of the advice that I have been carrying all these years that rings true every spring.
Looking to satisfy a Cute craving but not wanting to seem high-maintenance, these chocolate waves are the type of style you can have on Everyday occasions, dressed-up evenings, and all the fashion in between. It is the ideal combination of softness and shininess.
Classic High Pony with Smooth Length
Long hair is always raised and shiny with a sleek, high ponytail. This variant maintains a straight and smooth length of the garment, which makes the style look sophisticated and young. It is perfect to have something Quick and clean without being too glamorous to wear to a Wedding guest of a night or to a party on the rooftop in the spring. My favorite thing is the way the pony makes the face longer and provides that slight, sculpted look.
I will always apply a smoothing spray when I form a ponytail like this and then I will have to brush everything into place. Color Wow Extra Shine Spray is ideal when it comes to that natural light sheer look. In case your hair slides, a spray of texture spray at the base will provide the pony with a firmer hold.
Such a glance will always put me back to spring evenings when I needed something to look stylish, yet without any effort. The celebrity stylist, Justine Marjan, repeats that a high pony draws attention to the eyes but it was not until I tried it myself that I realized the statement was accurate. It cheers up your entire face.
In need of a long-hair staple that can be worn with ease in the office and at night as a glam piece, this pony is the perfect dependable item. Unadulterated, classical, and unquestionably beautiful.
Soft Casual Bun with Wispy Strands
This fluffy bun is the epitome of carefree spring beauty. It unites loose, wispy strands of hair, with a bun gathered away, easily resting at the top. It is the type of dress that one can wear during a Casual day, a stroll in the sun or even a light Workout when one still wants to look adorable. The hairline is flattering with the softness that makes the whole appearance light and breezy.
A dry shampoo or a texturizer before twisting the bun are some of the products that I normally use to achieve this airy texture. The Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo is good in providing additional grip without making things hard. I pull out some bits just to the face to retain that springish romantic emotion.
I always like to think of mornings when I am running and still need to feel dressed in a simple, purposeful manner with this bun. I have heard hairstylist Kristin Ess tell me that the buns that are the easiest to bring about is on a slightly dishevelled head of hair and, frankly speaking, it is a blessing because there is no need to be perfect in doing the same (this is the style of hair that people can afford to do).
This bun is a must-have in case you want a Simple easy updo and still feel feminine. It is practical, flattering and provides some sense of softness that makes long hair a magic.
Structured Top Knot with Polished Shine
Here is a sophisticated, high top knot that provides long hair with an audacious but understated advantage. The smooth look and the restrained positioning render it ideal during Formal wear, dinners or even a day in the Office when you want your hair out of the way yet still looking good. The tidiness and smooth finish also enhance the entire atmosphere with a touch of fashion-forwardness that is incredibly 2026.
To such a smooth knot, I always use gel. The Got2B Ultra Glued Styling Gel ensures that all the strands are secured in place without flake, which is equally vital when you want a smooth finish when in the light indoors. A boar bristle brush is also used to achieve that glass smooth effect at the hairline.
Top knots give me a boost of confidence, a sort of concentration. Perhaps it is the manner in which everything is drawn in or that the face becomes fully opened, but it immediately changes my mood. I even heard Chris Appleton say that sleek updos give a lift effect and I do believe it.
When you want a tidy, Simple, high-rise style that stays in place the whole day, this knot will never let you down. It is strong, well-groomed and well-sculpted.
Loose Romantic Updo with Soft Coils
This hairstyle is romantic and airy, and is ideal in spring or small-scale parties. The curled strands around the face are soft, and this makes the entire style light, romantic, with the airiness of a Bridal moment, and the mischief of a Wedding guest appearance. I adore the way the texture makes it flattering on all angles but not overdone. It is one of those female, all-purpose long hair options that can never go out of fashion.
In forming soft, curled tendrils of this kind I never loop the pieces around a medium-barrel iron, but merely loosely. I will slick a bit of MoroccanOil Curl Defining Cream on them then they will have shape but not be crispy. The trick is to leave the curls undress to appear not so sculptured.
Such appearance reminds me of warm evening of spring when all things are comfortable and relaxed. Stylist to celebrities Anh Co Tran has frequently mentioned how movement is essential in romantic hair styles, and that certainly is the case here. It is all about softness, lightness, and flow of embrace.
When you are in the mood to have something both gorgeous and delicate yet modern, this updo will fit you perfectly well. It is compliments, it is elegant, and totally untainted by time.
Soft Champagne Money-Piece Waves
The combination of flowing waves and soft champagne-colored highlights with this style provides the long hair with a lifted springiness that is so fresh. The front pieces are the most prettiest way of framing the face, and give it the effect of being three-dimensional without crowding out the other color. It is the type of long-hair hairstyle that is slightly glamorous and yet completely practical in the Everyday life. The waves are slack and light, and the look does not feel too organized – the spring light adores that texture.
To maintain highlights in this manner, I tend to use a purple toning conditioner every week or so – something like the Kristin Ess The One Purple Conditioner is mild, but it works. It keeps that undesired brass at bay and that champagne reflects. Ends Oil, Waves Wave Waves are also kept fresh through a hydrating oil.
Whenever I put on money-piece highlights I get to think about spring vacations and warm breezes. Colorist Mat Rez frequently speaks about the transformative quality of bright face-framing color, and he is right – it actually transforms the entire style of the read. It imparts that sun-warmed air at once.
You are in need of something Cute and cheering without a complete color changeover, then this is just a gorgeous choice to wear next season. It takes the light on all the correct sides.
Defined Long Spring Curls with Natural Volume
This is a complete, full and effortlessly spring-ready curl pattern. The long spirals are a good waulker and at the same time preserve that natural movement that makes curls feel alive. It is a beautiful Wavy-meets-curly style that glorifies texture without over-taming it. All of this style seems young, radiant, and harmonious, particularly the amount of volume on the top. It suits anyone who is seeking Fun spring renewal that showcases their natural beauty.
To introduce some definition to curls such as these, hydration precedes. My favorite product is the SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie – it has weightless moisture and promotes curl pattern without feeling greasy. Low-heat diffuser can be used to hold the spirals together.
Long curls always have a way of making me think of the evenings I spend outside with soft and warm air. Curl experts such as Nai’vasha have long been saying that moisture is what keeps the curls going and since I heard that and understood that, everything has worked out for me. With the proper care, curls are so much more colorful.
And when you desire an uneasy appearance that highlights your natural form, this is one of the most complimentary ones. It is daring and gentle, and springlike.
Ultra-Defined Natural Ringlets
The appearance of this look consists of a perfectly cut set of ringlets that cascades down the length of the hair, giving it a romantic and full of personality texture. The curls are arranged but a bit gentle and this is a gorgeous Casual or Everyday Spring style. I like it best in the natural density and figure – it possesses the easy beauty which only curls can bestow.
To have this much definition in curls I will always use a curl cream and finish it all up with a lightweight gel. The Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Gel is terrific in a non-crunchy hold. Folding it into a microfiber towel will also increase its form and eliminate frizz.
Whenever a curl pattern this is described I recall a stylist who once said to me, Healthy curls are happy curls. I have remembered it particularly in spring, when the humidity changes so rapidly. When the moisture is present, these curls thrive perfectly well.
In need of a style that glorifies natural form and provides that springy feel, this ringlet style is ideal. It is vibrant, rough and personality filled.
Braided Mini-Strands with a Textured Bun
In this style, a whimsical textured bun is mixed with the light braided strands on the parting that provides the whole appearance a soft possible bohemian appearance. The bun is available to add height and shape, and the mini-braids are used to add details without overcrowding the face. It is a new, Bohemian style, which is perfect to wear Fun outdoor agendas or even as a special Wedding guest outfit. The braids make the entire updo soft and stylish, without losing such a loose spring quality.
To add lift to the bun, I tend to apply a texturizing powder at the base. The SexyHair Powder Play is a miracle when it comes to instant volume. In the case of the small braids, a small styling wax is used to make them smooth and distinguishable to sit well on the face.
This style reminds me of warm weekend markets and early spring festivals. It possesses that playful free-spirit and yet provides enough structure to appear deliberate. This is such an unrecognized detail, and I believe that it is often included in the red-carpet outfits of celebrity stylist Justine Marjan, who always has mini braids.
And this updo is so beautiful in case you want to combine braids and texture but still have the freedom not to commit to a complete braided style. One catches the eye and is soft simultaneously.
Soft Rose-Toned Braids with Flowing Ends
It is a very artistic version of braided hair; long, smooth strands at the top are mixed with short, flowing rose colored strands at the ends. It is such a distinctive blend, ideal to a person who would like to have a Cute yet sophisticated spring appearance. The difference between the arranged strands of braids and the loose, fluttering length makes it artistic and contemporary. And there is certainly a Fun touch here, most particularly with the soft color change.
When attending to braids mixed with waves, I prefer to oil the head using a light oil. The Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp Oil is effective in the sense that it is not dense and is also nourishing. In the wavy ends, a curl cream or light mousse is used to keep everything in check and soft.
This appearance provides me with a spring garden-party vitality with its blend of detail and gentleness. A stylist once told me that contrast in texture is what makes a hairstyle unforgettable, and this style makes that a reality. Even more personality is added by the color.
This combination of a braid and a wavy is so beautiful, in case you want something creative in the season. It is unique in the most desirable manner.
Romantic Braided Bridal Updo with Soft Florals
This last style is a gorgeous woven updo with gentle floral accents that would be ideal on a Bridal moment, or a memorable Wedding guest entrance. The detailed braiding design flows into the curls and forms a sculpted shape that is soft. The whole thing concerning this style is delicate and timeless, particularly with the soft tendrils surrounding the face. It is an extraordinarily Beautiful option with long hair.
With this much moisture-sensitive detail a humidity-resistant spray is always applied and then everything is pinned in place. Kenra Anti-Humidity Spray is a cult product that has its rationale. It maintains flyaways down to the ground and prevents the curls and braids to swell.
Whenever I encounter a hairstyle such as this, I am brought back to the memory of how emotive hair can be when we are making major milestones. According to bridal stylists, soft texture photographs best, and, comparing the way the curls intermingle with the florals in this image, I see why. The view is spectacular in all angles.
Should you be fantasizing about a spring wedding or just obsessed with a complex updo, this is the type of style that you will remember. It is feminine, soft, and quite memorable.
After I had collected all these styles I felt like I must immediately try at least five of them. That is how long hair is, even a little alteration can change your entire mood. You can wear them to work or to an event like Wedding, you can wear them when you are living your Everyday life, these 2026 trends are the Cute, fresh, and easy-to-wear. And honestly? I want this season to be just like that.
