As far as hair is concerned, attendees of the 2026 Academy Awards are punching up.
Literally.
Taking examples from the likes of Elle Fanning and Zoe Saldaña, updos were the name of the game. Accentuating the trend were Ava DuVernay, Amelia Dimoldenberg and Wunmi Mosaku, the latter of which was inspired by the ocean and the shapes of coral.
For Misty Copeland’s bun, stylist Miles Jeffries used Olaplex products and said, “I then begin to wrap the hair into a knot. The idea was a very open bun that appears to be there on its own with no pins.”
Elle Fanning at the 98th Annual Oscars held at Dolby Theatre on March 15, 2026 in Hollywood, California.
JC Olivera/WWD
On the simpler front, Demi Moore’s hair stylist Dimitris Giannetos said, “Extra glossy and shiny with a nice, soft bounce at the ends and iconic middle part.”
Keeping it old-school, Kate Hudson went full Old Hollywood. “Achieving a timeless red carpet look begins long before the final brushstroke of styling, it starts with the hair itself,” hair stylist Renato Campora said of his work, using Joico products on Hudson.
“The result is a look that feels both modern and timeless – sophisticated, elegant and undeniably glamorous. On Oscar night, every detail matters and this style allows my client to step into the spotlight and shine in true Hollywood fashion.”
Kate Hudson at the 98th Annual Oscars held at Dolby Theatre on March 15, 2026 in Hollywood, California.
Gilbert Flores/Penske Media
Emma Stone, who rocked the 2025 awards season with her pixie cut, went for a softer and more kinetic bob for the night. Her hue was done by longtime colorist Tracey Cunningham.
“I wanted a 90s blowout with soft movement in Emma’s bob, keeping it feeling fresh, modern and full,” said Stone’s hair stylist Mara Roszak. “The look was polished but effortless – soft volume, subtle bend, natural volume and subtly brushed through.”
