Hair trends tend to behave like exes: they slow fade out of your life after years of commitment, and then suddenly – on a random Tuesday, no less – pop up on your feed with gumption and confidence, as if they've never been away. Short hair is currently enjoying one of those triumphant returns, and leading the charge is the "trixie", a cut that feels equal parts rebellious, practical and just a little bit smug about how good it looks on literally everyone. (An exe could never.)
You're well acquainted with the pixie, but it's time to get to know the trixie, its slightly cooler cousin that knows a thing or two about texture and volume. In short, it's the pixie, but with personality. And perhaps a little more hair...
So, if you're looking to re-up your pixie – or dramatically cut your hair into something similarly short but softer – the trixie is the modern update to note. As Cos Sakkas, hairdresser and TONI&GUY Global Creative Director, explains, shorter hair is firmly back for spring/summer, and this cut is "the ultimate expression of confidence."
The trixie balances precise structure with airy texture, with wispy edges that give it a more lived-in feel than a classic pixie. As Cos puts it, it's "a softer, textured, more grown-up version of the timeless cut," adding that it's also "low-maintenance, modern and carefree."
What makes the trixie particularly appealing is its versatility. It can be worn slicked back and glossy or pushed forward into a heavy, textured fringe that reads indie rock. It also suits most face shapes (especially oval, says Cos), while a little added height at the crown cleverly balances rounder faces. In other words, it's flattering and forgiving, the duo we never knew we needed.
There's also good news for anyone with fine hair. The chopped layers and deliberately messy texture create the illusion of volume, meaning strands appear thicker and fuller almost instantly.
Everyone's clicking on...
And, as ever, celebrity endorsement has helped seal the deal. Emma Stone's recent chop has already nudged the trend into the spotlight, but it was Zendaya's brand-new take – debuted at the Louis Vuitton Womenswear Fall/Winter 2026–2027 show during Paris Fashion Week earlier this week – that really confirmed it. The trixie is officially the haircut to watch!
Convinced? Here are seven styles for every face shape to have on your radar.
Trixie styles to try
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
