Mika Abdalla's bringing the shag back in 2026

There's a lot to dread about winter: the cold, the rain, the short days. But there's also a lot to get excited about, like at-home movie marathons, new nail trends and trending makeup products to try. 

Now, that we're officially feeling the bracing winter chill, there's no better time to consult a hair experts — if, like us, you're in the market for a seasonal hair refresh — which is why we reached out to Anthony Nader (founder of Surry Hills' RAW Salon).

Nader provided us with his trend forecasts for the next few months ahead in hair, as well as the products he swears by in the harsh winter weather.

"Oribe Supershine Moisturising Cream ($74.40 from SSSHair) will give thirsty hair strands the quench it needs again to perform," the hair expert spills. "It smooths split ends, tames frizz, and repairs — while also giving UV protection. I find most [of my clients] forget that Australia — even in Winter — can have the harshest UV rays so hair strands always need protection all year round."

The Parlux Alyon Hairdryer ($237 from SSSHair) is a hair industry favourite, because of its endurance and performance, so everyone can blowdry hair like a pro, Nader tells us. It harnesses ion technology, which ensures brilliantly shiny, smooth and healthy-looking hair. 

As for the hair cut and colour trends to know this winter? Keep scrolling to discover the hair expert's cool season trend predictions in 2026.

The top hair cut trends of 2026

The Messy Hair Shag

"This haircut is totally swoon worthy Beauty Crew readers — have you seen Mika Abdalla in the latest series Off Campus? This cool girl hair shag is everything and more," dishes Nader.

Soft, face framing layers paired with airy bangs creates the most perfect hair texture that looks fabulous even if it's just thrown up in a ponytail, he tells us.

For those of you that want to experiment with trying bangs this season, ask your hairstylist what will work best with your face shape and your natural hair texture. You want your morning styling routine to be effortless, not one that requires a pro-hairstylist with a hot tong in one hand and a round brush in the other, the hair expert explains.

The Modern Bob

"Yes, I'm still talking about Margot Robbie's modern take on the classic bob," spills Nader. Think: modern screen siren, understated elegance, and quietly powerful.

"The length falls just below the jawline, the ends are clean and blunt — which showcases a sophisticated silhouette too — while the overall texture is smooth and glossy, with natural movement that's rarely overly structured, nor stiff," he tells us.

The key to this haircut is minimal layering, the hair expert explains: "This haircut relies on a strong perimeter rather than heavy layering." 

The Bixie

"Let’s get this bixie haircut length understood — this hair cut will sit somewhere between a bob and a pixie," Nader distinguishes. "Think: Iris Law and our very own Natalie Imbruglia here."

"It’s a gem because it doesn’t feel weighty so [it offers] more styling options for you to play with at home and in between salon visits."

"I love this haircut as it’s a bit of a nod to the '90s," he explains. "My salon clients have been taking the plunge and loosening up their longer, heavier lengths with this fun, shorter length."

The top hair colour trends of 2026

Chocolate Drizzle Brunette

Done with bimonthly appointments to touch up your highlights? Darken things up with a chocolate drizzle brunette gloss, Nader tells us.

"The beauty about this season’s brunette is that its not going to make your mane appear flat, because the underlying warmer ribbons of lightness give dimension and an energy to the hair. Plus, it feels cosy as well," he explains. "My go-to here is Camila Morrone."

Cashmere Blonde

"Who doesn’t love the feeling of cashmere? This winter blonde is anything, but cool," says Nader. "It’s a luxurious blend of creamy beige, honey and buttery undertones, which create dimension and a silky finish that looks super expensive."

The Raw Salon founder says a multi-toned foiling technique is key to achieving that Carolyn Bessette Kennedy inspired blonde. 

Burnt Copper

This winter's warm copper trend feels less like a traditional redhead shade and more like a luxurious interpretation of the colour.

"This shade belongs in the same world as expensive brunette, old money blonde, and chocolate espresso tones," Nader explains. "Why I’m taking a shine to this shade this season is because it comes from a depth, and light reflective warmth — rather than more translucent, iridescent tones."

"If you’re wanting a complete colour change, and want to take the plunge, ask your hairdresser for their guidance and work together to make magic happen," Nader advises. "Emma Stone will be your go-to here for referencing."

Off Campus isn't just influencing our hair cuts right now, Ella Bright's blush and Allie's on-screen lip colour are topping up our makeup bags too.

Main image credit: @mika.abdalla