Best Spring Hair Color Trends 2026 for Short and Medium Length Hair

A shift in season has a funny way of making our hair feel outdated overnight. Lighter days, warmer air, and suddenly the color that worked all winter feels a little too heavy. So what actually defines the Best Spring Hair Color Trends 2026? This year, it’s about softness, dimension, and shades that feel wearable yet quietly transformative. From subtle blondes to modern brunettes and delicate reds, these colors are designed to refresh your look without forcing a complete reinvention.
Soft Bronde Layers with Face-Framing Light
I love how this look lives right between brunette with blonde and blonde, never fully committing to either. The color melts from a natural brunette base into creamy highlights that brighten the face without overpowering it. The length sits comfortably in that medium length sweet spot, with long layers that move easily and feel very spring-appropriate. It’s polished, but not precious.

This kind of bronde works best when the shine is healthy, so I always think maintenance matters here. I lean toward Redken Color Extend Brownlights when tones start to dull – it keeps that balance crisp without pulling too cool. What I like most is how forgiving this shade is as it grows out.
There’s something quietly luxurious about this color. It doesn’t scream trend, but it absolutely feels current. If you’re easing into lighter hair for spring without fully letting go of your Dark hair identity, this one’s a safe but stylish step.
Airy Blonde Volume with Salon-Level Finish
This is one of those Blonde moments that feels expensive but effortless. The volume is soft, the layers are rounded, and the tone stays neutral – not icy, not golden. It’s ideal for anyone craving lift and movement without going shorter, especially if your hair naturally falls into that medium length category.

I’ve noticed blondes like this really benefit from heat protection and weekly masks. I’m loyal to Olaplex No.8 when hair starts feeling thirsty. Celebrity stylist Chris Appleton has said that hydrated blonde always photographs better, and honestly, he’s right.
This is the kind of hair that makes you book brunch just to show it off. Light, bouncy, and very much in tune with spring’s fresh-start energy.
Warm Brunette Waves with Natural Dimension
There’s something timeless about a rich brunette with highlights done softly. This look leans into warmth, with subtle ribbons of lighter brown that catch the light and add depth. It’s especially flattering if you have Pale skin, since the warmth brings balance and glow without harsh contrast.

I appreciate how low-maintenance this feels. You can stretch salon visits and still look put together. I’ve heard colorist Tracey Cunningham mention that dimension matters more than brightness now, and this is exactly that philosophy in action.
If you’re a lifelong Brunette who just wants a seasonal refresh, this one feels like home, only better.
Polished Short Red with Retro Energy
This is where confidence shows up. A sleek, Short hair cut paired with a deep Red tone feels bold without being loud. The shape is clean, the volume controlled, and the color adds instant personality. It’s especially striking on a round face, where the length helps elongate features.

Red shades need commitment, but a color-depositing conditioner like Keracolor Clenditioner helps keep fading in check. I love how this look feels modern yet slightly nostalgic, like an old movie star reimagined for now.
If you’ve been flirting with going shorter or bolder, spring is your moment.

Soft Copper Waves with Natural Texture
This final look leans into warmth and movement. The red tone here is lighter, almost coppery, paired with loose curly hair that feels touchable and relaxed. It’s a beautiful option if you’re transitioning from Black hair or darker shades and want something bright but wearable.

I find that curl-friendly creams make all the difference. Curlsmith Air Dry Cream keeps definition without stiffness, which is key for this kind of softness. The color feels alive, especially in spring sunlight.
This shade has personality, but it’s gentle. A reminder that change doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful.
Soft Brunette Glow with Light Movement
This look leans into a natural brunette medium length base with gentle lightening around the face. The color feels airy and calm, perfect for spring when everything softens. The waves are loose, not styled to perfection, which makes the shade feel modern and wearable.

I love how this works for everyday life. A simple gloss treatment keeps the tone rich without locking you into heavy upkeep.
Brunette with Blonde Ribbons
Here, brunette with blonde highlights take center stage. The contrast is soft, never stripey, and the length sits comfortably in that timeless medium length zone. It’s dimensional without feeling overdone.

This is one of those colors that grows out beautifully. I always recommend a lightweight oil to keep the highlighted ends glossy and fresh.
Natural Dark Hair with Subtle Warmth
This style celebrates Dark hair with just a hint of warmth woven through the lengths. The finish is smooth, understated, and quietly elegant, especially flattering on Pale skin.

It’s proof that spring color doesn’t have to mean going lighter. Sometimes it’s about enhancing what you already have.
Soft Red with Everyday Ease
This red tone feels natural and approachable, not dramatic. The length and gentle layering keep it light, making it easy to wear day to day without feeling too styled.

I like reds like this because they reflect light beautifully in spring sun. A color-safe shampoo is usually all it takes to keep it glowing.

Bright Blonde with Soft Texture
This blonde look finishes the story on a light note. The color is creamy, balanced, and paired with relaxed waves that feel effortless. It’s fresh, modern, and very much spring.

If you’re craving a reset, this kind of blonde delivers instant brightness without harsh edges. Sometimes that’s all the change you need.
Soft Rose Gold Waves
This shade sits between blonde and red, with a dusty rose finish that feels fresh for spring. The length is medium length, styled in loose waves that keep the color airy and light rather than sweet or heavy.

I like this tone because it fades softly. A gentle color mask once a week usually keeps the pink glow balanced.
Polished Pink Toned Volume
This look pushes rose tones a little further, blending pink with warm blonde depth. The volume and layering give it a salon-fresh feel while staying wearable for everyday life.

It’s playful without being loud. I see this as a spring reset for anyone bored with neutral shades.
Classic Copper with Natural Shine
Here we get a timeless red that leans copper. The waves are smooth and controlled, giving the color depth and movement without distraction.

This kind of red always looks best when the hair is glossy. A shine spray does more than extra styling ever could.
Soft Copper Bob for Short Hair
This Short hair cut pairs beautifully with a muted copper tone. The length sits just right, making it flattering and modern, especially for anyone considering brunette short hair but wanting warmth.

I love how effortless this feels. It’s proof that short cuts can still feel soft and feminine.
Deep Red Waves with Bold Energy
This final look goes richer, with a deep Red tone that feels confident and strong. The waves add softness, keeping the color from feeling too dramatic.

If spring is about stepping into yourself, this shade gets the message. Sometimes the best trend is the one that makes you feel seen.
Soft Copper Bob With Clean Edges
I keep coming back to this polished bob because it captures spring in a very grown-up way. The red tone sits somewhere between copper and ginger, glowing without screaming for attention. It’s a true Short hair moment, sharp at the ends but softened by movement, and it works beautifully against Pale skin, especially when makeup stays minimal. This shade feels intentional, like you planned it months ago.

Copper shades fade faster than most, so I’d baby this color with a sulfate-free cleanser. I’ve had good luck with Redken Color Extend Magnetics when going warm. The payoff is worth it – copper in spring just hits differently.
There’s something empowering about this look. I’ve noticed that once hair gets shorter and brighter, posture changes too. Celebrity colorist Tracey Cunningham has said warm reds reflect light better in natural sun, and spring is exactly when that matters.
Airy Strawberry Red With Natural Movement
This softer red feels almost effortless, like it grew that way. The length sits right at that sweet spot where medium length still feels light, and the tone leans strawberry instead of fire-engine. It’s forgiving, fresh, and ideal if you want warmth without committing to high maintenance drama.

I like this color because it doesn’t punish you for skipping a gloss appointment. A simple shine spray and weekly mask usually keep it looking intentional. Spring hair should feel easy, right?
Personally, this is the shade I recommend to friends who want to flirt with red but feel nervous. It feels friendly. Approachable. And very now.
Cool Brunette Pixie With Confidence
This cut proves Short hair doesn’t have to mean harsh. The cool-toned brunette short hair paired with a cropped silhouette feels modern and editorial, especially on a round face where structure matters. It’s sleek, grounded, and quietly powerful.

Dark shades like this thrive on shine, so I’d keep a lightweight oil in rotation. I’ve seen Oribe Gold Lust do wonders here without weighing hair down. Less styling, more polish.
There’s something about going shorter in spring that feels symbolic. Like shedding layers you don’t need anymore. I’ve always admired how Dark hair in clean cuts reads confident, not severe.
Warm Brunette With Blonde Dimension
This look is spring softness at its best. A brunette with blonde ribbons woven through a medium length cut adds light without losing depth. It’s the kind of color that moves beautifully, especially when hair catches sunlight.

This is where maintenance matters. Purple shampoo once a week keeps the lighter pieces clean, not brassy. Celebrity stylist Chris Appleton often talks about blending highlights softly for longevity, and this is exactly that philosophy.
I love recommending this to anyone who wants change without shock. It’s safe, yes, but it’s also flattering in a way that feels very spring 2026.
Soft Bronde Waves With Natural Texture
Ending on bronde, because it never really leaves. This blend of blonde and Brunette works especially well with curly hair, where dimension brings curls to life. It’s relaxed, airy, and ideal for warmer days ahead.

I’d focus more on moisture than color upkeep here. Curl creams and leave-ins matter more than toners. Spring humidity will do the rest.
Muted Lilac Short Waves
This soft lilac shade feels like spring air after rain – cool, calm, and modern. The Short hair length keeps it wearable, while the muted tone works beautifully on Pale skin without washing it out. It’s playful, but not loud, which is why I see it everywhere right now.

Pastels like this need gentle care. I’d stick to a color-depositing mask once a week and avoid heat when possible. This is one of those shades that feels like a quiet reset.
Warm Blonde Pixie With Soft Contrast
This Short hair pixie leans Blonde, but with warmth that makes it feel expensive rather than edgy. The cropped sides balance beautifully, especially if you’ve ever worried short cuts feel too severe.

I love how low-effort this looks day to day. A light pomade and you’re done. It’s proof that spring hair doesn’t have to be complicated to feel fresh.
Rose Tinted Medium Length Waves
This medium length style blends rose and soft copper tones into something incredibly wearable. It’s not quite red, not quite blonde, and that’s exactly why it works. The waves add softness and movement without feeling styled.

This color loves shine. I’d focus on gloss treatments rather than frequent recoloring. It’s the kind of hair that looks better the more relaxed you are with it.
Lavender Brunette With Soft Layers
Here’s a brunette base lifted with a sheer lavender veil. The color keeps its depth while still feeling light enough for spring. On medium length hair, it reads modern without crossing into fantasy territory.

This is ideal if you want something different but office-friendly. I’ve noticed shades like this fade beautifully, which makes maintenance less stressful.
Soft Pink Short Cut With Texture
Ending on a bold but gentle note. This textured Short hair cut paired with a dusty pink tone feels creative without trying too hard. It flatters Pale skin and brings attention straight to the face.

I see this as a confidence color. Not a trend you hide behind, but one you step into. Spring 2026 is clearly about softness with intention.
