Last Updated on February 24, 2026
Walk into any busy salon in Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane right now and you’ll notice a common theme: clients want hair that feels effortless, modern and tailored to their lifestyle. The days of rigid trends are gone. Instead, Australians are embracing haircuts that balance polish with personality — styles that grow out well, suit natural texture and work just as easily at the beach as they do in the boardroom.
Whether you’re booking a full transformation or simply refreshing your look with a professional hair cut and colour in Hawthorn, understanding the most requested haircuts can help you choose a style that feels current without being fleeting. Here’s what’s dominating salon chairs across the country right now.
The Modern Textured Bob
The bob never truly goes out of style, but this year’s version is softer, more relaxed and highly customised. Think subtle layering, internal texture and movement rather than blunt, heavy lines. Why Australians love it:
- It works beautifully in warmer climates.
- It’s low-maintenance but still polished.
- It flatters a wide range of face shapes.
From chin-length French-inspired cuts to collarbone-grazing “lob” variations, the textured bob offers versatility. It can be worn sleek and tucked behind the ears or tousled with a salt spray for a coastal finish.
The Long Layered Cut with Face Framing
For clients not ready to lose length, long layers remain one of the most requested options in Australian salons. The key difference now is the addition of soft face-framing pieces that add shape without compromising fullness. This style:
- Enhances natural movement
- Lightens thick hair
- Adds dimension to finer hair when paired with subtle colour
Curtain-inspired front sections are especially popular, blending seamlessly into longer lengths and creating softness around the face.
The Italian-Inspired Soft Shag
The shag has evolved from its rock-and-roll origins into something far more wearable. Today’s version is less choppy and more refined — think soft, blended layers with airy volume at the crown. Why it’s trending:
- It suits natural waves and curls
- It offers effortless texture
- It grows out gracefully
Australian clients are increasingly asking for styles that embrace their natural hair pattern rather than fighting it, and the modern shag delivers exactly that.
The Blunt Collarbone Cut
For those who want something sharp but not overly short, the blunt collarbone cut is having a major moment. Sitting just at or slightly below the collarbone, it’s a strong, clean look that still allows for ponytails and styling versatility. It pairs beautifully with:
- Glossy, rich brunettes
- Clean, creamy blondes
- Subtle balayage for dimension
This cut feels powerful and contemporary — ideal for professionals wanting a refined but fashion-forward finish.
The Soft Pixie Revival
Short hair is making a confident comeback. However, the modern pixie is softer, longer on top and far more adaptable than the ultra-cropped versions of the past. Popular variations include:
- Textured tops with tapered sides
- Side-swept fringes
- Slightly grown-out pixies with movement
This style suits confident personalities and highlights facial features beautifully, making it a popular choice for those ready to embrace change.
The Return of the Fringe
Fringes are one of the biggest requests across Australian salons right now. From full, bold bangs to wispy curtain styles, clients are embracing the power of a fringe to instantly refresh their look. Why fringes are trending:
- They add interest without removing length
- They soften facial features
- They create a statement with minimal commitment
Curtain fringes in particular remain dominant because they blend effortlessly into layers and are easier to grow out.
Cuts That Work with Colour
Another noticeable shift in salons is the move towards haircuts that complement colour placement. Rather than treating cut and colour as separate services, stylists are designing shapes that enhance balayage, lived-in blondes and dimensional brunettes. Strategic layering can:
- Showcase highlights
- Add movement to darker tones
- Prevent blocky colour lines
The result is hair that looks cohesive and intentionally styled, even weeks after the appointment.
Effortless, Low-Maintenance Shapes
Perhaps the biggest trend of all isn’t a specific cut — it’s a mindset. Australian clients are prioritising practicality. They want styles that grow out well, require minimal daily styling, and suit their natural texture. This shift reflects busy lifestyles and a preference for authenticity over perfection – the most requested haircuts right now are adaptable, wearable and uniquely tailored to each individual.
Choosing the Right Cut for You
While trends provide inspiration, the best haircut is one that suits your face shape, hair density, lifestyle and personal style. A skilled stylist will consider all of these factors, ensuring your cut not only looks fantastic when you leave the salon but continues to perform weeks later.
If you’re considering a change, start with a consultation. Bring inspiration images, discuss maintenance expectations and be open to professional advice. The most requested haircuts in Australian salons right now share one common trait: they’re customised. And that’s what truly makes a style timeless.
