Bridgerton returns to our screens for the second half of season four today, and while all eyes are on the steamy scenes between Benedict and Sophie (spoiler, sorry), I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the hair of the ladies of the ton.
The hair of the leading ladies, from Phoebe Dynevor as Daphne Bridgerton to Simone Ashley as Kate Sharma, has always captivated audiences – Daphne’s Audrey Hepburn-inspired micro fringe sent waves of women to the hairdresser, while the exact auburn hue of Nichola Coughlan’s mane had us all reaching for the box dye.
Though the regency show is known for intricate updos, there’s been a shift in season four, and suddenly the hairstyles are remarkably more achievable. Now, the ladies’ looks are infinitely more wearable – these are the ones we can try ourselves – without a lady in waiting to tend to our hair.
Bridgerton hair we can actually wear
1. Penelope Bridgerton’s deep side part
© InstagramPenelope has always had the most relatable hair in the show, with her tumbling hair often worn long and loose, but her ever deepening side parting speaks to my millennial, emo-leaning heart in particular.
Reminiscent of Ariel in The Little Mermaid, and not simply because she’s a redhead, side partings are back in a big way – just look at Addison Rae at the Grammys this year, which sent Google searches for ‘side parting hair’ skyrocketing by 413%.
© Getty ImagesWhy is the early 2000s style resonating so strongly in 2026? Because it’s the perfect antidote to the minimalism we’ve had forced on us for so many years now.
“The deep side part is back because it brings a sense of drama and structure that people are gravitating toward after years of centre parting and minimalism,” confirms celebrity hairstylist Melissa Timperly.
“It offers a nostalgic nod to early 2000s glamour while still feeling modern, and it aligns perfectly with the current move toward volume, movement and more expressive styling.” On who can wear Penelope’s side part, Melissa reassures that it is universally flattering and incredibly practical.
“A deep side part adds instant volume at the roots, softens facial features and creates a natural asymmetry that feels effortlessly polished.” She notes that it’s good for days you don’t have time to wash your hair, too.
“It’s a clever solution for days when hair is unwashed or lacking shape, and it brings a touch of glamour with almost no styling required. The versatility is what keeps it relevant year after year.”
2. Sophie Baek’s slick back
Obviously, Yerin Ha’s leading lady look is dictated by the fact that she’s a maid and thus wears her hair in this minimalist ‘do, but there’s no denying it’s the most wearable look worn by any of the main cast members.
© LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX“The slicked back look delivers instant polish with minimal distraction,” Melissa says of the style. “It opens up the face, sharpens the jawline and cheekbones, and creates a clean, modern silhouette.”
You might also have noticed that the slicked-back look has become an elevated choice, with A-listers regularly opting for it on the red carpet. The BAFTAs this week saw Chase Infiniti, Alicia Vikander and Erin Doherty all lean into the look.
© Jeff Spicer/Getty Images“The style has become popular on the red carpet because it brings a sense of strength and attitude to traditionally feminine looks,” says Melissa. “That contrast between structured, almost androgynous hair paired with a dramatic gown creates a powerful look that feels current. It signals confidence, control and a willingness to play with gendered styling in a way that feels bold but still elegant, which is exactly why so many celebrities gravitate towards it for major events.”
3. Eloise Bridgerton’s bob
© LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIXAs a character who rebels against what is expected of her, we rarely see Eloise Bridgerton with the intricate ‘dos of her sisters, but she went a step further from the classic regency look at the masked ball in season four, wearing her hair in a bob – a timeless style because it can be tailored to suit any face shape, hair texture or personal style.
According to Melissa. “Whether worn sharp and sleek or soft and tousled, a bob always looks intentional and chic without demanding excessive styling.”
With part two of season four finally upon us, we can’t wait to see how the styles of the characters evolves are their roles in the ton change…
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