Shorter Cuts Are Dominating the 2026 Natural Hair Trends

When it comes to versatile styling, natural hair is unmatched. It can be twisted, braided, stretched and straightened into a vast assortment of looks. Or you can let the curls flow freely to embrace your unique texture. There’s no shortage of inspiration to choose from. However, certain styles tend to emerge as front-runners for the year. Just two months in, the 2026 natural hair trends are already delivering lots of exciting looks. From cropped cuts to modern takes on classic styles, there’s something for everyone to love. Below, we spoke with two natural hairstylists to find the top hairstyles for 2026.

Featured Experts

• Suzette Boozer is a celebrity hairstylist and Dippity-Do curly hair expert
• Naomi Dove is a hairstylist and the Aveda North America artistic director, texture

What’s Driving Natural Hair Trends

Bigger, bolder and overall more-is-more attitude has driven the beauty trends thus far. But the natural hairstyles of 2026 are taking a different approach. “This year, natural hair is in its soft era,” says hairstylist and Aveda North America artistic director of texture, Naomi Dove. Instead of choppy layers and over-the-top styling, the vibe is much more demure. Classic styles, like the pixie cut, have returned and already been spotted on celebrities like Keke Palmer and Teyana Taylor. Mid-length cuts are also a top trend to watch. According to celebrity hairstylist and Dippity-Do curly hair expert Suzette Boozer, they’re versatile enough to work for any curl pattern, whether you have loose waves or tight coils.

Natural Hairstyles to Try

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’90s Pixie

Shortcuts, more specifically the pixie, have made a major comeback this year. “Short hair offers ease and versatility for natural hair,” says Boozer. While there are a few pixie styles to consider, the ’90s style is one of the most alluring.

 

 

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Beachy Curls

“We’re seeing textures of all types take charge in 2026, thanks to an expansion in product choices,” says Boozer. To recreate this soft look, she recommends starting with a detangling spray, then using nourishing curl cream, like Dippity-Do De-Frizz Leave-In, to enhance the curls.

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Defined Curls

When it comes to natural curls, definition is everything. It’s all about embracing your texture and making it the focal point of your look. “Think precisely defined styles with a salon-finish,” says Dove.

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Mullet

The return of the mullet has been brewing for a while now, but 2026 is poised to be the year it makes its mark. For natural hair, the cut merges two trends, short cuts and shags, to create a unique style.

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Artsy Cornrows

A braided hairstyle can be a fun way to change up your look. This cornrow style features tiny braids that cover the crown and lead to a fluffy afro. It’s not just a celebration of texture, but also “delivers a quiet luxury aesthetic with minimal day-to-day effort,” says Dove.

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Bouncy Blowouts

As silk press season turns into spring, you can bet the volume will be amplified. “Blowouts are a top trend for natural hair this year—they have a luxurious look with a sleek and polished finish that feels timeless,” says Dove. She recommends using a handful of lightweight products, such as Aveda’s Miraculous Oil to maintain shine and a weightless look.

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Faux Hawk

While some styles feel edgy or soft, this faux hawk embraces both. According to Boozer, it’s one of the shorter styles we’ll be seeing more of this year due to its versatility.

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Soft Pixie

This pixie screams Hollywood glamour and old money. It’s no wonder celebrities and A-listers are sporting it on many red carpets. But the style works just as well for everyday wear. With the right products, Boozer says, you can easily create a custom soft style that fits your lifestyle and looks effortless.