This spring is all about romance—whether it’s the lingering mood of Wuthering Heights or a natural shift from our Marie Antoinette-inspired blush phase. This year’s hair trends are playful, bold, and celebrate natural texture.

Experts point to tousled curls, whimsical pixies, and creative updos as some of the most romantic and exciting styles right now. Even wigs are evolving, thanks to better technology, becoming a bigger part of everyday routines and offering more ways to experiment with color and texture.

And while we can’t all wear dramatic, windswept looks every day, there are plenty of ways to add a touch of romance. Here are 10 ideas to try.

Bouncy Curls
Volume is everything with curls. Celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway recommends big, bouncy curls for 2026. “It’s a voluminous style that’s playful and chic,” she says. “It works on both short and long hair and looks great with a side part, swept to one side, or parted down the middle.”

Architectural Updo
Updos in 2026 will be bold and imaginative—think the double French twists seen at the FW26 Diotima show. Celebrity hairstylist Kellon Deryck suggests playing with geometric shapes, sculpted loops, and origami-inspired structure. The more defined the shape, the better.

Ghost Waves
Think of ghost waves as the laid-back cousin of beach waves, says celebrity hairstylist Mara Roszak. They’re super loose and effortlessly soft. “Nothing is contrived,” Roszak notes. “It’s very gentle and natural.”

Sleek Shine
Sleek hair isn’t just for pin-straight styles anymore. Redway says sleekness in 2026 will apply to everything—from hair pulled off the face to sleek curls, braids, and any length.

Wet Satin
After years of wet-look hair dominating red carpets and social feeds, Deryck predicts a shift toward “wet satin”—a wearable, silk-like shine that’s polished but not drenched. He recommends using a lightweight serum to achieve the look.

Slicked-Back Buns
Pulled-back buns are here to stay, but Redway expects a focus on healthier versions to avoid tension and damage. “You don’t have to give up a style you love—just learn how to care for it,” she says. Minimizing tension and using the right products, like a repairing serum mask, can help keep hair strong.

Whimsical Pixie
Short hair continues to reign in 2026, especially the playful “whimsy pixie.” “It’s confident and beautifully effortless,” says Roszak. “The slightly grown-out shape with soft texture feels fresh and works on many face shapes.” She recommends using a styling cream to define the cut and control flyaways.

Embrace the grow-out phase, too. “Softer, longer pieces around the face give a subtle ‘90s vibe that’s really flattering,” she adds.

Renaissance Curls
In keeping with 2026’s theme of renewal and fresh starts, Deryck says curls will take on a “renaissance” feel—full of life, volume, and a sense of rebirth.Renaissance curls are making a comeback, with volume at the roots and long, romantic tendrils for a painterly, classical feel.

Long layers will also be big in 2026, according to celebrity stylist Marc Ballance, who recommends this clean, classic look to frame the face.

Wigs are evolving too, with 2026 set to bring even more realistic options. Expect hairlines that mimic natural density and growth direction, thanks to ultra-thin lace and new bonding innovations for seamless blending and longer wear. Textured and coily lace wigs will better match natural curl patterns—especially tight curls and coils. Customization through color will offer limitless possibilities. As stylist Deryck notes, “Wigs are no longer just a protective option. In 2026, they will be a fashion asset that allows for personal expression.” He recommends products like GHOSTBOND Classic for a strong hold and hints at something new he’s working on for next year.

Have a beauty or wellness trend you’re curious about? Let us know! Email Vogue’s senior beauty and wellness editor at beauty@vogue.com.

Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about A Guide to Romantic Hair for Spring 2026

Basics Definition
Q What exactly is Romantic Hair
A Its a soft effortless and slightly undone hairstyle trend Think loose waves faceframing pieces braids and accessories that create a dreamy feminine and natural looklike you just stepped out of a garden

Q Is this style only for people with long hair
A Not at all While long hair offers more options the romantic aesthetic can be adapted to medium and even shorter lengths with textured bobs soft curls and delicate accessories like clips or headbands

Q Do I need a professional haircut to achieve this look
A It helps Ask your stylist for long blended layers curtain bangs or a shaggy cut with soft ends These cuts create natural movement which is the foundation of romantic hair

Styling HowTo
Q My hair is pinstraight and wont hold a wave How can I get that romantic texture
A Focus on creating bend not curl Use a largebarrel curling wand and wrap large sections away from your face Dont curl the ends tightly Brush them out immediately and finish with a texturizing spray for grip

Q Whats the secret to making curls look soft and undone not stiff
A The key is to break up the curls After curling run your fingers through your hair or gently brush it with a widetooth comb Finish with a lighthold hairspray from a distance to set the style without making it crunchy

Q What are the musthave products for romantic hair in 2026
A
A texturizing spray or sea salt spray For that livedin effortless volume
A lightweight hair oil or serum To tame frizz and add shine without weighing hair down
A flexiblehold hairspray To lock in the style while keeping it touchable
Hair accessories Think pearl clips silk scarves or dainty chain headbands

Common Problems Solutions