The National Television Awards (NTA's) took place on 8th September 2026 at London's O2 Arena, showcasing some of the biggest names in TV. Experts talk us through the top hair looks from attendees.
Cat Deeley's Jam Blonde
“If sunshine was a hair colour – it would be Cat Deeley’s Jam Blonde!" says Bruno Marc Giamattei, JOICO EMEA Creative Director. This golden blonde hue is infused with orange and yellow ribbons which seamlessly blend throughout the lengths to add depth and dimension to the colour, he continues. "At last night’s NTA’s, Cat paired her jam blonde colour with loose curls - harmonising with her golden undertones and striking features."
The placement of lighter pieces has been blended throughout the top of her hair and around her face for a multi-dimensional finish, framing her face beautifully, Bruno explains. When styling this look, he recommends starting with a heat protectant before using any heat tools to prevent hair damage. This honey-infused shade is perfect for the colder months, giving the complexion an undeniable glow and complimenting the health of her hair.
Bruno predicts that Jam Blonde will dominate blonde trends this winter "as we take a step away from the icy, platinum blondes that we’re used to, and switch it up with brightening, warmer hues!”
Ashley James's Slick Back
“One of my favourite hair looks from the NTA’s was Ashley James", says Seung Ki Baek, Creative Colour Expert at RUSH. Ashley wore her hair slicked back in a low slung braided bun paired with a deep side parting, he continues, which creates an understated look that does not take long to create, but when done right, looks chic, sophisticated and polished.
Ashely’s signature copper hue is perfect for the autumnal months, explains Seung, as a cocktail of golden, nectarine and copper ribbons which add a fiery undertone to the lighter base. "It’s rooted warmth with an inviting feel...exuding understated elegance.”
When recreating this look, Seung advises using hair products that will give hair as much lustre as possible with no frizz or flyaways.
Kavan Murphy's Soft Curtains
“Kavan Murphy’s soft and polished short curtain look was the perfect style for the red carpet", agrees Bailey Snowden, Barber and Founder of Snowden Hair. "His flowing curtains were accompanied with a subtle side part and soft tapering towards the back, adding a touch of volume and dimension to his style. This sleek look is an elevated adaption to his everyday style, showing how versatile this can be."
Bailey recommends using a point cutting technique to recreate the look, removing any bulk and achieving the soft tapering, combined with a lightweight styling mousse.
Olivia Attwood's Golden Blonde
“Olivia Attwood’s beautiful long golden blonde was such an iconic look", recalls Tracey Ann Smith, Creative Director at MOOD. "Her blonde locks were contrasted with a soft wispy fringe and face framing pieces, it was definitely a showstopper for me."
Olivia’s blonde locks where loosely curled in a soft blowout to create texture and dimension for an effortlessly lived in look, Tracey explains, which can be created using a shine spray.
Rochelle Humes's Romantic Braid
Rochelle Humes was seemingly inspired by the recent Odyssey premieres, sporting a waist-length, loose braid. "The face-framing pieces make the look extra soft and feminine. To recreate this look, I recommend using a small barrel to curl the hair", advises Brian Leo McCallum, Creative Director at ROAR Hair and Beauty.
"The next step would be to pin the top half of the hair up, making sure to leave some strands loose by the face. Then braid the remaining hair, taking time to gently pull some strands loose as you braid. Extensions would be needed if you’re looking to add a lot of length."
Lastly, Brian recommends using a setting spray to secure hair into place.
Sheridan Smith's Bold Red
“The bold red colour looked amazing on Sheridan Smith", says Suzie McGill, International Artistic Director at Rainbow Room International. "This was emphasised by the short cut and strong side part, giving an edge to the look."
Suzie suggests using a styling mousse to recreate this look, helping to give hair height and long-lasting volume. Book a consultation with your stylist and bring a reference photo when deciding to go for a bold colour, as they can help decide the best colour and dyeing process for you.
Ciaran Davies' Textured Volume
For Love Island star Ciaran Davies, the focus was on creating volume, movement and texture while keeping the finish natural, says Grant Carr, who styled Ciaran and led the Men's Grooming Area backstage for ELEVEN Australia.
Grant worked a volume foam through the hair before blow-drying, then layered in texture spray to create definition and a soft wave. To ensure the style photographed well under the lights, Grant used topical hair fibres through the crown before completing Ciaran's grooming with a facial, beard line-up and beard oil.
Grant later added the final touches with setting and shine spray before Ciaran headed to the red carpet.
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