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Jennifer Paxton

Defining Men’s Hair Cuts and Styles from the 2026 Academy Awards 

From sharp fades to longer, flowing styles and detailed braided work, there was plenty of trend inspiration sported on the red carpet at the Academy Awards from some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Here’s a roundup of some of the best looks of the night. 

  1. Ryan Coogler’s Music-Inspired Braids by Tyzanna B and Jalon Webster

Director and Writer of “Sinners,” Ryan Coogler celebrated the film’s musical motifs with an intricate braided look that included a treble clef and Blue’s guitar. 

This gorgeous style was created by braider Tyzanna B. Coogler also sported a fresh cut courtesy of celebrity barber Jalon Webster.

Courtesy of Temeka Jackson (@customtnails1)
  1. Hudson Williams’ Voluminous, Wet Look by Aika Flores 

“Heated Rivalry” star Hudson Williams is one of the next break-out stars, so naturally his look for the Academy Awards needed to be larger than life. 

Celebrity groomer Aika Flores opted for an effortless wet look framed by wispy bangs. She brought the style to life using Dyson’s Supersonic r. 

Get the Look: 

  • Flores started on damp hair, using the Dyson Supersonic r with the diffuser attachment to gently dry the hair while keeping the natural movement intact. The diffuser keeps the airflow soft, which helps maintain that natural texture without blowing the style apart.
  • Then, she used her hands to bend and guide the hair into shape as it dried, setting the direction so it fell exactly where she wanted. 
Courtesy of Aika Flores (@by.aikaflores) on Instagram
  1. Connor Storrie’s Mod Cut by Candice Birns

We can’t talk about Hudson Williams without also mentioning Connor Storrie. 

To pair with his striking sheer Saint Laurent top and faux muff, hairdresser and groomer Candice Birns styled Storrie in a mod cut with curly fringe.

Courtesy of Candice Birns (@hairbycandicebirns) on Instagram
  1.  Chase Stokes’ Buzz Cut and Full Beard by Candice Birns 

“Outer Banks” star Chase Stokes looked sharp on the red carpet, wearing a velvet, burgundy tuxedo jacket. 

To pair with his lux look, Stokes sported a buzz cut and grown out beard. To create the look, Birns used products from STMNT Grooming Goods. 

Courtesy of Candice Birns (@hairbycandicebirns) on Instagram
  1. Michael B. Jordan’s Fade and Beard by Tasha Reiko Brown

Best Actor winner for “Sinners,” Michael B. Jordan wore custom Louis Vuitton to the Academy Awards. 

Complementing his tailored look, celebrity groomer Tasha Reiko Brown used Bevel Beard Oil, Beard Conditioner and Trimmer SE as well as Toppik Hair Building Fibers and Fiberhold Spray for a fuller, camera-ready finish to his grooming. 

Courtesy of Tasha Reiko Brown (@tashareikobrown) on Instagram
  1. Ethan Hawke’s Modern Day Mullet by Christine Nelli 

While wearing Prada, Ethan Hawke rocked a swept-back modern day mullet and beard styled by celebrity men’s groomer Christine Nelli. 

Courtesy of Christine Nelli (@nellichristine) on Instagram
  1. Lewis Pullman’s Lightly Wavy Cut by Christine Nelli 

Styled in Saint Laurent, Lewis Pullman presented at the Academy Awards alongside his father Bill Pullman. 

For his grooming, Nelli gave Lewis a medium-length cut that blends perfectly into his soft, natural stubble. 

Courtesy of Christine Nelli (@nellichristine) on Instagram
  1. Jacob Elordi’s Texturized Mullet by Amy Komorowski

Best Supporting Actor nominee for “Frankenstein,” Jacob Elordi wore a Bottega Veneta suit to the Academy Awards. 

The classic style complimented his wispy, texturized mullet from celebrity male groomer Amy Komorowski.

Courtesy of @wendiandnicole on Instagram
  1. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Polished Side Part by Kara Yoshimoto Bua

Nominated for Best Actor for “One Battle After Another,” Leonardo DiCaprio sported a classic Dior tuxedo and bow-tie. To pair with the look, men’s groomer Kara Yoshimoto Bua styled his hair in a swept-back side-part. He also rocked a mustache. 

Courtesy of Kara Yoshimoto Bua (@karayoshimotobua) on Instagram
  1. Kieran Culkin’s Lived-In Texturized Cut by Rachel Burney

Presenting the award for Best Supporting Actor, Kieran Culkin returned to the Academy Awards in a brown Paul Smith suit jacket with a brooch. 

For his grooming, hairstylist and groomer Rachel Burney gave him a wispy, lived-in cut using products and tools from Hanzo, Oribe, and STMNT Grooming. 

Courtesy of Penkse Media via Getty Images
  1. Pedro Pascal’s Fresh Face and Voluminous Side-Part by Coco Ullrich

Pedro Pascal turned heads in custom Chanel on the Academy Awards red carpet, but most notably he debuted a fresh face. While facial hair seemed to be a common trend for the night, Pascal’s clean look made him look debonair. 

To keep him looking classy, men’s groomer Coco Ullrich styled his hair in a voluminous, swept back slide part. 

Courtesy of Coco Ullrich (@cocoullrich) on Instagram

Mr. Barbers Opens Sawbridgeworth Location

BarberEVO chatted with Josh Porter to learn more about the process for bringing his Mr Barbers Sawbridgeworth location from a dream to a reality.

Josh Porter has worked at Mr. Barbers for about seven years. He started at the Bishop’s Stortford shop, learning the business, standards, and services the UK barbershop franchise is known for. Now, with the help of the owner Karl Foster, he’s opening his own location in his hometown of Sawbridgeworth. “I’ve lived here all my life, so opening a shop in the town means a lot to me:” Josh reflects. 

BarberEVO chatted with Josh to learn more about the process for bringing his location from a dream to a reality. 

Josh told us that he’s always wanted to open his own shop, doing so with Mr. Barbers is an added bonus. 

“It’s a brand I’ve been part of for years and really believe in,” he reflects: “Karl and the team have been really supportive throughout the whole process. From planning the shop to getting everything ready for opening, they’ve helped guide me and made the whole experience much smoother.” 

During the process for the build out, Josh made sure to make his location feel like home while still preserving the Mr. Barber’s brand identity. 

“Being involved in the process meant I could add some of my own ideas while still keeping the clean, professional look people expect from a Mr. Barbers’ shop:” he explained. 

The location had its grand opening at the beginning of the month. Josh described the shop as “modern, clean and welcoming,” adding: “The aim was to create a space where customers feel comfortable as soon as they walk through the door.” 

Now that the location is open to customers, Josh is excited to be a part of the local community: “It’s great to see familiar faces coming into the shop and meeting new customers as well.” 

Going forward, Josh is looking forward to building a strong team and continuing to grow his location.

You can learn more about Mr Barbers and its locations by visiting its website. 

Novo Cabelo announces winner of inaugural awards

Novo Cabelo has announced Steven Goldsworthy as the winner of its first ever Stylist of the Year Award, unveiled during a live online ceremony hosted by founder Rob Wood.

The award marks a significant moment for the company, celebrating not only technical excellence in hair systems, but also the compassion, consultation standards and ongoing client care that sit at the heart of the Novo Cabelo philosophy.

Steven, a trained trichologist, was recognised for his ethical approach to hair loss solutions and his commitment to supporting clients throughout every stage of their journey.

Steven said: “As a Trichologist, my role in hair loss has always been to identify the underlying cause, advise on preventative measures, and, in extreme cases, refer clients for a hair transplant. However, transplantation is not always the right solution, and I felt strongly that there was a gap in care where many clients were being left without a suitable alternative.

After months of research, I discovered Novo Cabelo, which at the time was a relatively new company. I followed their work closely, watched their social platforms, and eventually reached out to undertake their training. Once we began offering hair systems, the response was overwhelming. We were inundated with enquiries and quickly built a large, loyal client base.

Hair systems are not for everyone, and we are always completely upfront about the costs and ongoing maintenance. I often compare the decision to Botox versus a facelift: one is temporary but still a significant investment, while the other is permanent, surgical, very expensive and irreversible.

Winning this award is a wonderful tribute to my amazing system clients and, most importantly, gives future clients confidence that they are in safe, experienced hands, receiving both an exceptional service and a high quality solution.”

Hosted online by Novo Cabelo founder Rob Wood, the event brought together stylists from across the network to recognise excellence in a sector that has historically lacked structured education and ongoing professional support.

Rob Wood said: “This award is about far more than hair. It is about restoring confidence, identity and dignity for people who have experienced hair loss. Steven represents everything 

Novo Cabelo stands for: integrity, care, innovation and a deep understanding of the emotional journey our clients are on.

When we launched Novo Cabelo, our mission was to raise standards within the hair system industry and remove any stigma around wearing hair. That starts with education, aftercare and supporting our stylists so they can support their clients properly. Steven embodies that standard.”

Since launching its training programme, Novo Cabelo has focused on transforming the perception of hair systems within the wider hair industry. By prioritising in depth consultation processes, structured aftercare, scalp health and system safe product development, the company has built a reputation for innovation rooted in client wellbeing.

The introduction of the Stylist of the Year Award signals the brand’s ongoing commitment to recognising professionals who deliver not only outstanding transformations, but also long term care and transparency.

As Novo Cabelo continues its expansion across the UK and into Europe, the annual awards are set to become a cornerstone moment in celebrating the stylists who are reshaping the future of modern hair replacement.

HAIR IN MOTION X AVEDA: Tuesday 05 May 2026

NATURE IN MOTION

Experience an inspiring one-day education event with Hair In Motion, representing the peak of the industry in creativity, innovation, and trend expertise. Hair In Motion will demonstrate the latest trends collection as seen on stage internationally, where you will see cut, style, and colour brought to

life through expert live demonstrations. Hair In Motion represents the forefront of the industry when it comes to education, innovation, and knowledge of trends, with flawless execution

of technique. HIM aims to progress the industry forward one student at a time through unique

courses and events.

In this powerful partnership, Aveda joins forces with Hair In Motion to actively engage and inspire through a commercial yet artistic lens. Joinus to meet the HIM team up close and personal for the

ultimate look and learn education experience.

LEARN

Be inspired by the Hair In Motion team as they present the latest trends collection through digital

presentations and live models.

See cutting, styling, and colouring techniques showcased live by industry leaders.

Learn new cutting techniques for both men’s and women’s hair.

Discover innovative styling methods and techniques easily implemented into daily salon life.

Build strong short-hair foundations using a blend of

barbering and hairdressing principles.

Apply scissor, clipper, and razor techniques to create precision, texture, and personalized detailing.

Understand shape, proportion, and balance to design elevated short haircuts that suit every guest.

Develop confidence in finishing, refining, and maintaining short looks to keep guests rebooking.

  • Start time: 10.00AM
  • Finish time: 5.00PM
  • Level: Advance
  • Duration: 1 day
  • Price: £275

Men’s Spring Hair Trends for 2026

Spring is in the air and that means as well as refreshing your wardrobe, your hair deserves a seasonal upgrade too. This spring, men’s hair trends are all about blending timeless styles with bold, modern touches. From effortless texture to statement cuts, this spring is the perfect time to change up your look. 

Curtain Fringes

Curtain fringes are making a serious comeback this spring, offering the perfect mix of retro flair and modern edge. Characterised by their slightly off-centre parting, the hair flows and frames the face, working well for those with straight or slightly wavy hair. What makes curtain fringes so appealing is their versatility. They can be worn sleek and polished or tousled and textured. With the right cut and styling, a curtain fringe can add movement and dimension to your hair, making it a must-try for spring. 

Mod Cut

Defined by its sharp lines, cropped sides and slightly longer top sections, the mod cut steps back into the spotlight this spring. It’s sharp and structured silhouette demands attention without shouting for it. The beauty of the mod cut lies in its adaptability, slicking it back exudes confidence and polish, whereas a textured, tousled mod adds personality and edge. This spring is all about versatility and men’s styles that are both timeless and fresh.

Frosted Tips

Frosted tips are bringing a playful, eye-catching twist to men’s hairstyles this spring. Its lighter ends contrast with your natural hair, adding dimension and personality without needing a complete style overhaul. This style is perfect for those who want to experiment with colour, while keeping their cut simple. Frosted tips can be subtle for a modern, refined look or more pronounced for a statement-making, nostalgic vibe. This spring, frosted tips prove that even small pops of colour can make a big difference.

Coloured Buzz Cut

The coloured buzz cut is taking men’s hair to a new level this spring, combining minimalism with bold self-expression. It’s short, uniform length makes it low maintenance, but by adding a pop of colour, it is instantly transformed into a bold, statement look. This style is perfect for those looking for an effortless style that is unforgettable, offering a contrast between simplicity and creativity. With the dyed buzz cut, spring has become the season to experiment fearlessly, proving that even shorter styles can have maximum impact.

Meet the Founders and Creators Redefining the Beauty Industry

The beauty and barbering world is changing fast. The most influential professionals are no longer just stylists or barbers. They’re founders, educators, creators and brand builders with global audiences.

Fresha, the world’s leading beauty and wellness booking platform, is bringing some of those voices together through the expansion of its global Brand Ambassador programme, welcoming a new generation of industry talent helping redefine what success in beauty looks like.

From multi-location salon owners and global educators to founders of grooming brands and academies, the newest ambassadors represent a wave of professionals building businesses that extend far beyond the chair.

Collectively, the new cohort reaches more than 200 million people online each month, reflecting the growing cultural influence of beauty professionals who have become creators, entrepreneurs and industry leaders in their own right.

Meet the operators shaping the next era of beauty

Leading the expansion is Josh Lamonaca, co-founder of MENSPIRE and one of the most recognisable figures in modern barbering. A British Men’s Hairdresser of the Year and now Fresha’s Head of Hair Education, Lamonaca has helped turn barbering into a global education movement.

“We’re at a turning point,” Lamonaca said. “The next generation of leaders won’t just be known for their craft, but for how intelligently they build and scale their businesses.”

Joining him is Chloe Ferry, founder of The Beauté Lounge, who brings major cultural visibility alongside the experience of building a consumer beauty brand from the ground up.

The ambassador network also welcomes:

Thaddeus Jayaseelan, founder of barbering academy Gradient and a rising voice in education-led barbering

Andrea Amighetti, a respected multi-location salon owner and educator operating across Europe

Alexi Michael, founder of the global barber education platform Learn to Cut

Jordan Tabakman, an Australian entrepreneur operating businesses across multiple markets

Kochi Faraj, founder of Kochi Dubai and haircare brand Kochi Haircare

Yadiel Alberto Rodriguez (A-Rod), co-founder of international grooming brand L3VEL3

Across salons, academies, product brands and social platforms, these operators represent the modern blueprint for success in the industry.

“As an entrepreneur, alignment matters,” said Thaddeus Jayaseelan. “Fresha represents simplicity, structure and growth, and helps barbers unlock their business potential without costly mistakes.”

Where creativity meets infrastructure

The beauty industry has always been driven by talent. What’s changing is how that talent builds and scales businesses.

Today’s professionals are managing global audiences, launching product lines, opening multiple locations and running education platforms alongside their day-to-day work. Technology is increasingly what enables that growth.

Through Fresha’s platform, ambassadors use integrated booking, payments, reporting and marketplace tools to manage operations and understand customer behaviour as their brands expand.

“At scale, talent alone isn’t enough. Structure is everything,” said Andrea Amighetti.
“Fresha gives our business the visibility needed to grow across multiple locations without compromising quality.”

A global community of beauty leaders

The newest ambassadors join an established group of partners already helping shape the programme, including Sam Bentham (Rascals Barbershop), Mark Maciver (SliderCuts), Hester Wernert-Rijn (Mogeen), Lydia Wolfe, and Jack Mead.

Together they represent a growing global community of professionals pushing the industry forward, combining creativity, entrepreneurship and influence.

“Fresha is rapidly transforming the United States and Canada,” said Alexi Michael. “It’s becoming the system of choice across the industry because the product continues to evolve and support businesses month after month.”

With more than 140,000 partner businesses worldwide, Fresha continues to invest in the professionals shaping the next chapter of the selfcare economy.

FATBOY’S HONEY PUTTY BRINGS SCALP CARE INTO YOUR HAIR STYLING ROUTINE THIS SPRING

Spring is reset season, and your scalp is first in line. Months of heavier winter haircare products can leave buildup behind, while rising humidity and unpredictable weather can throw everything off balance, leading to flakiness, itchiness and irritation. Fatboy, a leader in short hair care and high-performance styling, created its award-winning Honey Putty to tackle scalp concerns head-on. Designed as a dual-purpose styling putty and leave-in scalp treatment, Honey Putty calms irritation while delivering flexible hold, natural matte definition and touchable texture. It’s the one product you will want within arm’s reach all season long.

Honey Putty (2.6oz. / $21) was born from founder Tyson Kennedy’s vision to combine styling and scalp care into a single step. No layering. No complicated routines. Just high-performance styling with real scalp benefits. Lightweight and non-greasy, the formula is built for short to medium styles and safe for color-treated hair, delivering a sexy matte finish, natural texture, and soft, workable hold while helping address dryness, itchiness, and flaking and supporting healthier-looking hair over time.

Made with clean, key scalp care ingredients, Honey Putty draws inspiration from Tyson Kennedy’s New Zealand roots, featuring powerful natural extracts sourced from the region. Manuka Honey works as a natural humectant with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help calm irritation, reduce buildup and support a balanced scalp. Kiwi Extract delivers vitamin C to support collagen production and elasticity, while its naturally occurring iron, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids help soothe flakes and defend against environmental stress. Paw Paw (papaya) adds vitamins A, C and E to soften strands, smooth frizz and protect against heat damage. Together, these ingredients not only bring the scalp back into balance but keep it there.

To use Honey Putty, warm a pea-size amount between your palms, work through dry or damp hair to shape and style, then massage the remainder into the scalp and leave it in. One simple step that simplifies your routine while nourishing the hair and scalp with each use. Consider this your spring reset. Hair stays sharp. Scalp stays balanced all season long.

To learn more about Fatboy and to purchase Honey Putty, visit www.fatboyhair.com/

Power That Performs, All Day: Recon™ Clipper and Recon™ Trimmer 

When your tools work as hard as you do, upgrading isn’t about chasing the newest release — it’s about choosing equipment that keeps pace with your craft. The Recon™ Clipper and Recon™ Trimmer have quickly proven themselves behind the chair, earning a place in daily rotations thanks to their balance of power, control, and customization.

If your current setup is starting to feel limiting, Recon™ delivers the performance upgrade your station has been waiting for.

Power That Performs, All Day

At the core of both tools is vector motor technology, designed to maintain speed and torque even under heavy load.

  • Recon™ Clipper: A 9,000 SPM motor delivers smooth bulk removal, confident fades, and seamless blending — even through dense hair.
  • Recon™ Trimmer: An 8,500 SPM motor offers sharp detailing, clean lineups, and precise bald work without drag or hesitation.

The result is consistent cutting performance from your first client to your last.

Precision You Can Feel

Control matters — especially during fades, tapers, and finishing work.

  • Adjustable Phaze blade on the clipper: Choose click or no-click lever control for personalized cutting.
  • DLC-coated T-blade on the trimmer: Reduces friction for smooth, snag-free lines and is zero-gap capable for crisp detailing.

Both tools feature compact metal housings that reduce vibration and hand fatigue, helping you stay steady during long sessions.

Built to Match Your Style and Workflow

Recon™ doesn’t just perform — it fits your station.

  • Interchangeable housings: Customize the look of both tools with black chrome, gold, or matte black covers.
  • Premium charging stands: Quick-release stands keep your tools powered, accessible, and your station clutter-free.
  • USB-C charging: Fast, convenient recharging that works with modern setups.

With long cordless runtimes — up to 4 hours on the clipper and 2 hours on the trimmer — interruptions stay off your schedule.

A Smart Upgrade for Serious Professionals

Whether you’re refining fades, sharpening lineups, or powering through packed days, the Recon™ Clipper and Trimmer elevate both performance and presentation. They’re not about hype — they’re about reliability, control, and confidence behind the chair.

If your current tools are holding you back, upgrading to Recon™ isn’t just a refresh — it’s an investment in your craft.

Upgrade your lineup. Cut with confidence. Recon™ is ready when you are.

Shop Now USA // Shop Now UK & Ireland

Premiere Anaheim Draws Thousands for 2026 Show

Premiere Anaheim 2026 concluded with resounding success at the Anaheim Convention Center, attracting over 11,500 visits from beauty professionals across 44 states and 22 countries. The show continues to solidify its role as a powerful hub for education, commerce, creativity, and community across the professional beauty sector.

Education and purchasing power took center stage at this year’s event, with an impressive 78% of attendees participating in at least one class. Guests praised the quality and accessibility of the programming, noting it as a key driver for attendance. Premiere’s proven “learn and shop” model drove significant booth traffic, with exhibitors reporting increased engagement and sales following education sessions. “We do a lot of shows throughout the year, but we get a higher quality and return customer rate from Premiere because we include education classes,” says Joe Miller, Founder, Beard Octane. “People come back directly from the classes to the booth, and the platform Premiere provides is second to none.”

Premiere Anaheim also demonstrated remarkable purchasing power, with 94% of attendees reporting making purchases from brands at the show. The event featured more than 160 exhibiting brands, including Circadia by Dr. Pugliese, EarthLite, Oli G, LeChat Nail Care Products, L3VEL3, Panasonic/Brosh/Mizutani, Saian Skincare, SUNLIGHTS, T3 Micro and Booksyamong others. Beauty professionals filled the aisles and packed education sessions, creating an atmosphere defined by excitement, energy, and meaningful engagement.

This year’s show introduced several new features that were met with enthusiasm across the show floor. Highlights included a Main Stage presentation and book signing with Anastasia Soare, CEO and Founder of Anastasia Beverly Hills, where attendees had the opportunity to hear firsthand insights from one of the industry’s most influential founders. The show also marked the debut of TheValue Center for Pros offering exclusive deals and curated resources tailored to working beauty professionals. Engaging activations from Ulta Beauty created dynamic, interactive moments throughout the weekend. 

These additions complemented a star-studded lineup of educators, brand founders, and experts including Larisa Love™ – hair artist, salon owner and educator, Presley Poe – hairstylist, salon owner and global educator, and Kirsty Meakin – viral nail artist, elevating the attendee experience even further. 

The industry was celebrated through competitions that spotlighted exceptional artistry, championing the creativity and technical skill of beauty professionals across categories. Between the Barber Battles and the globally recognized Nailympia competition bringing together top nail artists, talent from the best in the business was on full display.

Premiere Anaheim’s momentum continues, with many exhibitors already committing to future Premiere events, showcasing the unmatched value and impact Premiere delivers in creating meaningful, in-person industry experiences.

Upcoming 2026 shows include: 

●      Premiere Orlando: May 30 – June 1, 2026 
Register at: www.premiereorlandoshow.com

●      Premiere San Antonio: August 30 – 31, 2026

●      Premiere Columbus: October 11 – 12, 2026

Premiere Anaheim returns to the Anaheim Convention Center on February 7 – 8, 2027.

Define, Hydrate, and Control with Dark Stag’s Pro Curl Cream

Dark Stag proudly unveils the all-new Pro Curl Cream, available March 2026. Designed for Professional Barbers to enhance, and define all types of curls and waves. Deliver hydration, control, and flexibility without weight. Perfect to finish curls or waves with definition, or for a softer matte finish, break up hair with fingers after use.

Infused with a soothing blend of Sage, Violet Leaf, and Patchouli, and enriched with high-quality essential oils, Pro Curl Cream brings professional-grade performance and refinement to curls and waves – whatever the style.

Key Features:

  • Enhances and controls curls and waves
  • Hydrates and defines without weight
  • Achieve a defined or softer matte finish, using different styling techniques
  • Soothing Sage, Violet Leaf, and Patchouli fragrance
  • Contains essential oils 
  • Water soluble for effortless washout
  • 125ml 

Available March 2026

RRP:
£14.99
€20.80