The Polished Low Updo
A recurring theme on the Autumn/Winter 2026 runways was the low-slung updo, seen in various forms from sleek buns to soft chignons. This style is the epitome of Parisian chic: controlled, elegant, and minimalist. It draws attention to the neckline and bone
structure, making it a perfect companion for statement earrings or an interesting collar. At shows like Saint Laurent, the look was about clean, slicked-back purity, while others, like The Row, opted for a looser twist secured with a glossy barrette for a '90s feel. To make it yours, start with a sharp center or deep side part on smooth hair. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck. For a sleeker finish, use a light gel or smoothing cream. Twist the ponytail into a tight bun, securing it with pins, or create a looser, softer chignon. The key is keeping the placement low and the overall silhouette tidy. For a modern touch, consider adding a single, elegant accessory like a minimalist claw clip or a pearl-embellished barrette, a popular trend for 2026.
Sleek, High-Gloss Shine
Forget matte texture; this season was all about hair with a high-gloss, almost liquid finish. Seen at Tom Ford, this “glass hair” effect is architectural and refined, creating a look that’s both sharp and incredibly luxurious. The goal is to make hair so smooth that it reflects light like a mirror. This trend works beautifully on bobs and longer, straight styles, lending an expensive, polished feel to the entire look. Achieving this at home requires a focus on smoothing the hair cuticle. Start with a smoothing cream or serum on damp hair. Blow-dry using a nozzle to direct the airflow down the hair shaft, maintaining tension with a brush. Follow with a flat iron for an extra-sleek finish. The final, crucial step is a lightweight glossing spray or shine oil applied sparingly from mid-lengths to ends. The trick is to get that wet-look sheen without making the hair look heavy or greasy.
The Undone Romantic Braid
Juxtaposing the ultra-sleek styles, designers also embraced a softer, more romantic mood. At Chloé, this manifested as loose, handcrafted-feeling braids. The style gives off an effortless, almost windswept vibe, as if the braid was done in the morning and has gently loosened throughout the day. It’s a beautifully feminine look that adds texture and interest without appearing overly styled, making it ideal for formal events with a bohemian or garden-party aesthetic. To get this look, don't aim for perfection. Start with air-dried hair or add a texturizing spray to create some grip and a natural, lived-in feel. Create a loose braid—a classic three-strand, fishtail, or even a simple twist will work. Secure it loosely, letting small, wispy strands escape around the face and nape of the neck. The beauty of this style is in its imperfection, so gently pull at sections of the braid to create more volume and a softer silhouette.
Accessorized Minimalism
Accessories on the Paris runways were less about over-the-top drama and more about quiet luxury. At Chanel, sleek twists were dusted with silver glitter for a subtle, iridescent effect. Elsewhere, designers used accessories to add a single point of focus to an otherwise simple style. Think of a bold floral headpiece on slicked-back hair at Dior or a polished barrette on a simple chignon. This trend proves that one well-chosen piece can elevate an entire look. For your formal event, choose one accessory that complements your outfit. Instead of scattering many small pins, opt for a single, sculptural barrette, a velvet ribbon tied around a low ponytail, or a decorative French comb tucked into a twist. The 2026 trend leans toward heirloom-quality pieces, like crystal-embellished pins or sleek metallic clips that feel more like jewelry for your hair. The key is restraint; the accessory should enhance the hairstyle, not dominate it.
