OK. The 2026 BAFTAs red carpet delivered some serious hair inspo. This year, we saw a shift away from undone beach texture and towards something more considered: precision cuts, sculpted waves, glossy finishes and romantic updos.
From Old Hollywood glamour to bold platinum statements, here’s our expert-led round-up of the standout hair moments of the night.
Our favourite? Has to be the Princess of Wales and her glamourous waves.
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Princess Kate
OSMO Ambassador Becky Sutherland described Princess Kate’s look as her ultimate “power move.”
Timeless soft waves framed her face, sitting perfectly between beach texture and structured Hollywood curls.
“The beauty of these waves lies in their control… glossy and intentionally styled but never overworked.”
This is modern royal glamour — refined, immaculate and effortlessly photogenic.
“To get the look, start with OSMO Thermal Defence Heat Protectant Spray and OSMO Mattifying Texturiser Spray on dry hair. Create loose waves with a curling wand. Finish with OSMO Extreme Extra Firm Hairspray and OSMO Blinding Shine Illuminating Finisher Shine Spray.”
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Gracie Abrams
According to Andy Heasman, International Creative Director at RUSH Hair, Gracie Abrams was one to watch.
“Gracie Abrams was spotted on the BAFTA’s red carpet sporting one of this season’s hottest cuts – the ‘Italian Crop’. Influenced by ‘la dolce vita’ style, this is an androgynous cut that perfectly balances authority and femininity.”
Falling between a bob and a pixie, the Italian Crop is defined by its intensely groomed silhouette and subtle femininity. Styled delicately away from the face, with one side tucked behind the ear, the cut perfectly accentuated Gracie’s high cheekbones and strong jawline.
“The silhouette of the ‘Italian Crop’ is like no other – an intensely groomed shape with a hint of femininity. Gracie absolutely rocked this!”
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Jenna Coleman
Bruno Marc Giamattei, JOICO EMEA Senior Creative Director, praised Jenna Coleman’s timeless approach.
“Jenna Coleman’s swept-back waves brought an essence of Old Hollywood straight to the BAFTA’s Red Carpet in London.”
Her sculpted soft waves, paired with a deep side parting, complemented her square face shape beautifully, while the glossy chocolate brown shade enhanced the polished finish.
“The elegance of the hairstyle lies in its polished yet delicate style… Jenna was the epitome of sophistication.”
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Odessa A’zion
Offering contrast to the sleeker styles, Odessa A’zion embraced texture and personality with voluminous curls and a playful fringe.
Big curls are firmly back, but softer and more touchable than ultra-defined ringlets of seasons past. The fringe added a youthful edge, drawing attention to the eyes.
Becky Sutherland said ” To achieve this look, I would apply OSMO Thermal Defence Heat Protectant Spray. Use a curling iron to create loose curls throughout. Finish with OSMO Curl Spray Curl Enhancer for added definition.”
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Minnie Driver
Suzie McGill, International Artistic Director at Rainbow Room International, admired Minnie Driver’s flowing glamour.
“Her hair fell in soft, cascading curls down her back, flowing naturally with movement and shine.”
Extensions were used seamlessly to add length and volume without heaviness, resulting in polished, princess-like curls perfectly suited to the glamour of the evening.
To sum up, this year’s BAFTA carpet clearly signalled a return to controlled glamour.
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