When you work every day with the most scrutinized women on the planet, you inevitably develop a keen eye on beauty trends. It’s been several years since
Chris Appleton shapes the hairstyles of many celebrities. Result: he has established himself as one of the most influential experts in the hair industry! On the red carpets as much as in the streets, he notices a return to more natural, free and easy-going looks.
Indeed, during an interview conducted for Color Wowa brand of which he is the artistic director, the hairdresser shared his vision of the key inspirations of 2026. Cut, color, routine or even mistakes to avoid: Chris Appleton takes a closer look at the trends and reveals the one that should be on everyone’s heads this summer. La coupe bombshell dégradée !
La coupe bombshell dégradée, star annoncée de l’été 2026
If he had to choose only one and only cut for the summer of 2026, the expert would not hesitate for long: “I would choose the gradient bombshell cut†. Inspired by Hollywood glamour, it is based on a soft and airy gradient which frames the face while bringing volume and movement to the lengths. The objective is not to create visible demarcations, but rather to obtain a fluid and natural effect as desired.
According to Chris Appleton, this cut has a major advantage:
it adapts to almost all lengths. Indeed, it can be adopted on a long bob as well as on mid-length or very long hair, which partly explains its success. “It is a hairstyle that provides a feeling of freedom and femininity. The hair moves naturally, which gives a seductive and very modern look†, continues the hairdresser.
A hair routine adapted for hair full of vitality
This quest for movement also illustrates a more global trend. According to Chris Appleton, the era of ultra-straight hair is gradually coming to an end. Hairstyles that are too rigid give way to freer, more airy hair… which requires a suitable routine. It’s there
Color Wow entre en scène !
In recent years, the brand has established itself thanks to formulas designed to provide volume, shine and lightness without weighing down the hair fiber. Among its most cult references includes the Dream Coat, which has become essential for taming hair, but also the Xtra Large Bombshell Volumizer, which appeals to those who dream of spectacular volume without a cardboard effect, or the Money Mist, an invisible multi-tasker which boosts shine without compromise. Enough to adopt the trend before everyone else!
