With New Year’s Day behind us, Hollywood’s red carpet calendar is officially underway. The 2026 awards season kicks off with the Critics Choice Awards, followed closely by the Golden Globes on January 11. As anticipation builds around nominees like Timothée Chalamet, Emma Stone, and rising star Chase Infiniti, top hair and makeup artists are already forecasting the beauty trends set to define the season. According to industry insiders, 2026 will be about polish, intention, and elevated glamour—without losing the modern ease celebrities and fans have come to love.
Old Hollywood Returns—with a Sharper Edge
Old Hollywood glamour is once again setting the tone, but with a more structured update. Celebrity hairstylist Igor Rosales Jackson says the days of overly undone, messy styles are fading.
“I’m definitely seeing a shift toward sleek, structured updos,” Jackson told WWD. Clean silhouettes, strong shapes, and intentional styling are making a comeback, signaling a move away from the soft, “undone” aesthetic popular in recent years.
Stars like Zoë Kravitz and Nicole Kidman have already embraced refined red carpet looks that reflect this evolution.
Vintage Runways Inspire Modern Hair
Jackson notes that fashion history is playing a major role in shaping 2026 hair trends. Inspiration is being pulled from early 2000s Dior under John Galliano, classic Chanel and Givenchy runway moments, and late ’90s minimalism. Recent examples include Kylie Jenner’s John Galliano–inspired holiday hairstyle and Kim Kardashian’s homage to Mugler and supermodel Iman. Kardashian’s look, created by hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos, offered a modern, muted interpretation of Iman’s iconic 1986 runway hair. The takeaway for awards season: precision, creativity, and thoughtfully styled hair that feels elevated rather than effortless.
Skin-First Makeup Remains King
While hair trends are evolving, makeup philosophy remains consistent. Makeup artist and brand founder Alexa Persico says glowing skin will continue to dominate the red carpet.
“Skin first is here to stay,” Persico explained. Dewy, hydrated complexions that look radiant under harsh lighting and high-definition cameras will remain a priority. Heavy contouring is taking a back seat to fresh, natural finishes that enhance rather than conceal.
Warm Tones and Subtle Shine
For color, warm bronzes and softly flushed cheeks are expected to cut through winter’s chill. Persico also predicts a touch of holiday glamour will spill into awards season, particularly through metallic eye makeup. Think subtle golds, bronzes, and champagne hues that catch the light without overwhelming the look. These “tinsel” tones offer just enough drama while maintaining elegance.
A Polished, Confident Awards Season
Overall, the 2026 awards season is shaping up to be a celebration of refined glamour. With structured hair, luminous skin, and thoughtful nods to fashion history, red carpets are poised to feel timeless yet modern—an aesthetic designed to shine both in person and on screen.
