From natural movement to sculpted afros, Chris Grimley shares four hair trends for textured hair to consider this autumn/winter.
Autumn/winter 2026 is putting the focus on texture, movement and hair health. Instead of highly polished finishes, the season’s hair trends for textured hair are embracing natural curl patterns, low-tension styling and cuts that work with the hair rather than against it.
According to Chris Grimley, Textured Hair Specialist and Owner of Fusion Hair Co & Texture Curl Academy, four key directions stand out for textured hair this A/W: natural movement, textured pixies, creative braids and sculpted afros.
1. Natural Movement Takes Centre Stage
One of the key hair trends for textured hair this season is a move away from perfectly defined curls towards enhancing natural movement.
Low-tension styling is central to this approach, with styles such as mini twists, wash-and-go curls and protective styling helping reduce scalp stress and breakage.
Maintenance also becomes more realistic. Rather than maintaining rigidly polished curls, the focus is on working with the hair’s natural pattern.
Moisture remains important. Grimley recommends a sulphate-free cleanser and silicone-free conditioner to help maintain the hair barrier, while shea butter and natural oils can help lock in moisture and support hydrated curls.
The result is texture that looks lived-in while keeping hair health part of the styling conversation.
2. Textured Pixie
The pixie is taking a more textured direction for A/W.
Unlike a sleek traditional pixie, the textured pixie works with natural coils and curl patterns to create movement and volume while maintaining a defined shape.
It also fits the season’s emphasis on lower-maintenance styling. The cut can simplify the daily routine while allowing natural texture to remain visible.
Shape, however, needs to be maintained. Trims every four to six weeks can help preserve the intended silhouette.
For finishing, cleanly laid edges can add definition, while a lightweight conditioner can help address dryness within the routine.
3. Creative Braids
With the winter party season approaching, braids offer another way to make textured hair more individual.
Creative braids range from detailed stitch patterns to colourful knotless braids, allowing the style to be adapted to personal preference and occasion.
Accessories can take the look further. Beads, cuffs and touches of colour can introduce another element without changing the fundamental braid structure.
The appeal of this hair trend is its versatility. A detailed braid design can work as an occasion style while also offering an option for everyday wear.
4. Sculpted Afros
Short, sculpted afros are another defining direction in the A/W hair trends for textured hair.
The focus is on creating a deliberate silhouette that enhances natural volume and movement. Rather than allowing the hair to grow without defined shaping, the cut uses intentional structure to frame facial features and highlight the natural character of textured hair.
The trend also reflects the wider move towards hair health and low-tension styling.
There is a cultural dimension to the look as well. Sculpted afros bring together structure and heritage, celebrating Afro-textured hair while giving its natural volume a defined visual form.
What Defines the A/W Hair Trends for Textured Hair?
Across these four looks, the direction is consistent: work with natural texture rather than trying to control it completely.
From wash-and-go curls and mini twists to textured pixies, creative braids and sculpted afros, the season places movement and individuality alongside practical maintenance.
For textured hair, the A/W 2026 conversation is therefore not simply about choosing a new look. It is about understanding the hair’s natural pattern, reducing unnecessary tension and choosing cuts and styles that allow texture to remain part of the finished result.
