From the Cinderella fairytale at the heart of Bridgerton Series 4, featuring actress Yerin Ha, to the global acclaim of Huntrix singers Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami… we’re in no doubt as the the influence of East Asia on pop culture including fashion, hair and beauty.
Interesting to have a view from hairdresser Charlie Illi at Brooks & Brooks in London, who says this influence translates as ‘Asian Tranqulity’. It is, says Charlie, a hair trend that aligns self-expression with refinement.
Individuality with Intention
You can’t fail to appreciate the emphasis on personalisation in creating hairstyles, colours and cuts for a client. No more cut and paste! No more the cloned look for all models in a designer show, no more pop bands with their signature aesthetic. 2026 is about finding just the right shape, texture and tone to suit your client alone.
But, says Charlie Illi, creative doesn’t mean extreme, it means bespoke. “This trend is about rethinking the map of the haircut,” says Charlie. “Where should the weight sit? Where should the eye be drawn? It’s about designing hair for the individual.”
Sculpted and Bespoke
Let’s go further. Charlie directs us for Spring/Summer 2026 by talking about re-mapped shapes and controlled disconnection. “Razor work and sculpting techniques are key, allowing movement and softness without losing structure. Hair should enhance features rather than overwhelm them.”
Calm Meets Contrast
Don’t see it as a clash to blend a calmness with contrast. Yes the overall mood to create is one of tranquility, but colour can still be dynamic. Charlie suggests thinking of “controlled colour pops placed within clean, architectural cuts. Panels are personalised – anything from soft tonal to bolder injections of contrast, but with balance.”
Consultation with Confidence
Obviously, going for individuality means paying attention to the individual. You need to really take time for a consultation. Yes, clients want to be led, taking time for an in-depth chat including discussing lifestyle, maintenance, styling habits and personality. It’s about building confidence and trust in your vision. Charlie sums it up: “When you lead the appointment with clarity and creativity, clients feel taken care of and that builds loyalty and respect.”
Over to you
Tips for getting the look:
1 Re-map the haircut Sketch or mentally redesign the cut before you start. Consider weight placement, movement and how the shape enhances facial features.
2.Embrace razor and sculpting techniques Use razor work to soften edges and create controlled texture. Precision with softness is key.
3 Personalise colour placement Whether subtle tonal shifts or statement panels, ensure every placement is deliberate and balanced within the shape.
4 Think in contrasts but refine them Bold doesn’t mean loud. Balance stronger elements with calm, clean lines.
5 Elevate the consultation Spend longer understanding the client’s identity and daily routine. Lead with confidence and present a clear creative direction.
Find out more about Brooks & Brooks: visit www.brooksandbrooks.co.uk Instagram: @brookshair
For more on an Asian perspective, see this story HERE from Kiku in Scotland:
____________________________
Here online you may browse our Creative section to find inspiration from the greatest hair artists… read our Home page to discover the top events and what we like about them, then visit our Magazine section to read the latest edition (and archive editions) of Tribu-te publications. If you’d like to enjoy your very own edition of Tribu-te delivered direct to your home – vist the Shop to order a subscription to arrive bi-annually. And of course, once a year, you can visit Hair Pieces: The Big One – it’s an awesome presentation of the leading hairdressers on the best stage possible in central London each November! Contact us if you have any questions or would like to submit photography and ideas for any of our editions in Europe – we’re particulary keen to see your salons for our Design section both in print and online