Autumn 2026 Hair Trends: Our Stylists’ Top Picks
As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to give your hair a little refresh. Cooler days, darker evenings and autumn wardrobes often inspire us to rethink our hair too — whether that means a subtle change to your colour, a fresh new cut or simply getting your ends looking their best again.
So, what are the stylists at Gavin Ashley hair salon predicting will be big for autumn 2026?
From rich, dimensional colour and beautiful blonde tones to timeless bobs and softer approaches to grey, we’ve asked the team to share the looks they think will be everywhere this season.
As an award-winning hair salon in Bury St Edmunds, our team combines years of experience, technical knowledge and creativity across both cutting and colouring. And because there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all hairstyle, we’re big believers in the importance of an in-depth consultation before making a change.
Thinking about an autumn hair refresh? Book a consultation and let’s find the right cut, colour and style for you. Book your appointment today by calling 01284 754066 or book online.
A skin test is required before your appointment. You’ll need to visit the salon at least 48 hours before your colour or tinting service for a quick and free Allergy Alert Test (AAT). The minimum age for colouring hair at Gavin Ashley Hairdressing is 18.
What New Hair Colours Are There For Brunettes?
This season, we’re expecting to see plenty of rich, dimensional colour that looks glossy and expensive without appearing overly done. Think deeper brunettes, warm chocolate tones, soft copper, caramel and beautifully blended shades that create movement and depth.
For some clients, that could mean adding a few carefully placed lighter pieces. For others, it might be about introducing richer tones throughout the hair or changing the tone of an existing colour. The key is choosing a shade that works with your complexion, natural colouring, lifestyle and the condition of your hair, which is where a professional colour consultation really comes into its own.
At Gavin Ashley, our colour experts can assess your existing colour and talk through what you want to achieve before recommending the most suitable approach.
Blonde Isn't Just For Summer
Why is blonde so often thought of as a summer colour?
We think beautiful blonde hair looks just as gorgeous during the cooler months. In fact, autumn and winter can be the perfect time to play with the tone of your blonde and make it feel a little richer and more seasonal.
Our stylist picks include buttery blondes, creamy champagne, honey blonde and soft beige blonde. Rather than moving dramatically darker, you can change the feel of your colour simply by adjusting the tone and adding beautiful dimension.
Take a look at this recent blonde hair makeover by Salon Manager Naomi. It’s a great example of how the right blonde can look fresh, glossy and incredibly wearable as we head into autumn.
Don't Forget Your Toner...
If your blonde is starting to look a little brassy or warmer than you'd like, a toner could be the answer.
Toners are often used after a lightening service to refine the final colour and can be a great way to neutralise unwanted brassy tones or introduce a different tone into your blonde. They can also help refresh an existing colour between bigger appointments.
The Classic Bob Haircut
If you're unsure which toner or blonde shade is right for you, speak to one of our colour experts. We'll assess your hair and recommend the best option rather than simply choosing a shade from a chart.
Some haircuts come and go, but the bob has definitely earned its place as a classic.
Hair Designer Becca recently carried out this huge transformation, taking her client from long, waist-length hair to a short and chic bob — and we absolutely love the result.
We expect classic bob hairstyles to remain just as popular throughout autumn and winter 2026 because the bob is so versatile! Keep it clean and sharp for a timeless look, add a micro fringe for something more fashion-forward or introduce a few subtle layers to create movement. You can also change the way you style it depending on your mood. A sleek, polished bob gives a completely different finish to one worn with soft waves and a little texture.
The right length and shape will depend on your hair type, face shape and how much styling you're realistically prepared to do at home — another reason why an expert consultation is so important.
Grey Blending
Are you looking for ways to gracefully transition between coloured hair and your natural salt-and-pepper or silver tones? If you're growing out your natural grey, you don't necessarily have to choose between covering every grey hair or simply letting everything grow out. Grey blending offers a more gradual approach.
Everyone's transition is different. Some clients prefer to take things slowly, gradually introducing more natural tones, while others are ready for a bigger change. During your consultation, we'll consider your existing colour, natural shade, hair condition and the result you'd like to achieve before creating a personalised plan.
Depending on your hair and the look you're after, we may use a combination of highlights, lowlights and glossing treatments to create a beautifully blended result. The aim isn't necessarily to hide every silver or white hair. It's about creating a softer transition between your existing colour and your natural tones, helping everything work together as your hair grows.
Want to know more about making the transition? Read our guide to transitional grey hair.
Sometimes, All You Need Is A Really Good Trim!
Not everyone wants a dramatic change — and you don't have to make one to see a noticeable difference. If your hair has started to look a little tired, dry or straggly through the ends, a simple trim can make an incredible difference. Removing those wispy, damaged-looking ends and creating a clean, defined shape can instantly make longer hair look healthier, thicker and more polished.
Take a look at our before and after example. The length hasn't been dramatically changed, but removing the straggly ends and creating a sharp, blunt finish gives the hair a much fuller, healthier-looking appearance.
So, if you're happy with your current style but feel like your hair needs a little pick-me-up, don't underestimate the power of a good haircut.
Ready For Your Autumn Refresh?
Call us on 01284 754066, or book online.
You can also find out more about our consultations or meet our experienced and talented team before your visit.