Instantly recognisable by its zigzag waves, crimping inspired a multitude of emotions. Excitement that a style popularised by Hilary Duff, Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Christina Aguilera, Tyra Banks and Shakira in the Noughties is finally back and trepidation that you might look like your awkward tween-self again. The former is true, the latter depends on how you wear it.
This Autumn, crimping goes high fashion. Front and centre at Chloé’s autumn/winter 2026 show, models wore brushed out crimped waves, fluffy and full in volume. In the celebrity world, Olivia Dean, Charli XCX, Margot Robbie and Grace Van Patten have all adopted the boho texture, appearing on red carpets, fashion week front rows and television interviews.
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In 2026, the technology has moved on too. Tools abound with cordless and plugged-in options available to try. Wavers can create the crimped effect, so long as you buy one with small enough barrels. When the barrels are too large, or “jumbo” sized, they’ll leave waves in the hair rather than the iconic, closely-set crimps.
A good heat protector is a must-have, along with a bristle brush to brush out the waves into the floaty, fluffy, gravity-defying texture so popular this season. If flat roots or fine hair are a concern, a root spray or mousse and thickening mist will work to lift at the scalp and give extra body throughout the mid-lengths and ends.
Color Wow Raise the Root Thicken + Lift Spray
