Summer is all about effortless beauty, healthy shine, and hair color that looks naturally luxurious. This season, the biggest trends are moving away from dramatic contrast and toward soft dimension, rich tones, and colors that grow out beautifully between salon visits.
Our team at Douglas J Salon asked Master Four Designer Jason Nash from our Okemos location what clients are requesting most this summer. Here’s what you’ll be seeing everywhere.
Buttercream Blonde
One of the biggest color trends this season is Buttercream Blonde, which offers a soft, creamy finish that’s bright without looking overly platinum or icy. The result is a healthy-looking blonde with natural warmth and beautiful shine.
Perfect for guests who want a polished blonde that’s easy to wear year-round.
Old Money Blonde
Luxury-inspired color continues to dominate social media, and Old Money Blonde is leading the way.
Rather than bold highlights, this look focuses on:
- Soft, seamless dimension
- A lived-in root for easier maintenance
- High-shine finishes
- Natural movement and depth
The result is an elegant blonde that looks expensive without appearing overdone.
Champagne Blonde
Champagne Blonde combines beige and soft golden tones for a sophisticated finish that’s flattering on many skin tones.
This color is perfect for anyone wanting brightness with subtle warmth and dimensional shine.
Apricot Blonde
Looking for something playful? Apricot Blonde is one of the season’s most fun trends.
This warm blonde features delicate peach undertones that feel fresh, modern, and softer than traditional strawberry blonde.
Expensive Brunette
Brunettes are having a major moment.
Expensive Brunette focuses on rich chocolate and chestnut tones enhanced with soft caramel dimension. Instead of bold highlights or obvious stripes, this trend creates depth through subtle placement and incredible shine.
The goal is healthy, luxurious-looking hair with effortless sophistication.
Teddy Bear Brunette
Warm, cozy, and incredibly wearable, Teddy Bear Brunette blends soft medium browns with caramel and honey undertones.
The finish feels natural and sun-kissed without becoming overly warm or orange.
It’s a perfect choice for anyone wanting low-maintenance color with plenty of richness.
Hazelnut Brunette
Hazelnut Brunette offers deeper brown tones with reflective warmth that catches the light beautifully.
The color creates natural depth while maintaining softness, making it an ideal transition into late summer and fall.
Suede Brunette
Inspired by luxurious fabrics, Suede Brunette combines cocoa and espresso tones with a velvety finish.
The result is rich, multidimensional color that feels polished while remaining soft and approachable.
Biscoff Bronde
One of this year’s newest trends, Biscoff Bronde sits perfectly between blonde and brunette.
Inspired by warm caramel cookie tones, this color offers:
- Soft golden warmth
- Natural dimension
- Easy grow-out
- Lower maintenance between appointments
It’s ideal for guests wanting brightness without fully committing to blonde.
The Cuts & Styles Defining Summer 2026
Color may be leading the conversation this summer, but the right cut and styling technique are what truly bring a look together. This season is all about movement, softness, and styles that feel effortless while still looking polished.
Curtain Bangs Continue Their Reign
Curtain bangs remain one of the most requested salon services, and it’s easy to see why. Their soft, face-framing shape complements a variety of face shapes and grows out beautifully, making them a versatile option for anyone looking for a subtle change without committing to a full fringe.
Soft Layers Add Natural Movement
Heavy, blunt cuts are taking a back seat to soft, blended layers that create texture and movement. Whether your hair is long or shoulder-length, layers can add volume while maintaining a lightweight, effortless feel that’s perfect for summer.
Big, Soft Blowouts
The polished blowout is back, but with a more relaxed finish. Instead of stiff volume, today’s blowout features bouncy movement, healthy shine, and touchable softness. This timeless style pairs beautifully with both blonde and brunette color trends.
The Return of the Side Part
While center parts have dominated recent years, side parts are making a stylish comeback. A subtle side part instantly creates volume and adds a fresh perspective to both long hairstyles and shorter cuts.
Classic Bobs Stay on Trend
The bob continues to evolve as one of the most timeless haircuts. Whether worn sleek and polished or with soft texture, today’s bobs are customized to each guest’s face shape and lifestyle, offering an elegant look that’s easy to maintain.
Silk Head Wraps: Fashion Meets Hair Care
Accessories are playing a bigger role this summer, and silk head wraps are both stylish and practical. They help reduce friction, protect hair from humidity, and preserve blowouts while adding a sophisticated finishing touch to any outfit.
Healthy Hair Is Always in Style
No matter which trend you choose, healthy hair is what makes every color look its best.
Professional color services, customized toning, and salon-quality products help maintain shine, vibrancy, and the seamless dimension that defines this season’s biggest trends.
Our Douglas J Salon professionals customize every color service to complement your complexion, lifestyle, and maintenance preferences, so you leave with a look that’s uniquely yours.
Ready for Your Summer Refresh?
No matter the color or style you’re drawn to, be it the richness of an Expensive Brunette, the brightness of Buttercream Blonde, a fresh bob, or soft face-framing layers, our Douglas J Salon professionals can create a customized look that fits your style and maintenance preferences.
Schedule your consultation at your nearest Douglas J Salon and let our experienced designers help you find your signature summer look.
