Due to AI automation, the development of software and self-service technology, there are many job roles that are in decline in 2026. Administrative, retail, clerical and manual jobs, such as data entry, cashiers and general office clerks, are all roles that are slowly being taken over by computers. On the other hand, there are some roles that AI and the development of new software can bolster, but never fully automate. Roles in fashion and beauty, for example, all require real-life people, artists in their roles, to satisfy the requirements of the role completely. This is why many roles in fashion and beauty will continue to thrive in 2026. But what are the top five fashion and beauty jobs for 2026? Let’s take a look.
Our Top 5 fashion and beauty jobs for 2026:
Beauty and fashion roles are on the rise due to an increase in the demand for accessible luxuries, coupled with changing consumer habits. In 2026, the top five fashion and beauty jobs are expected to be:
Hairdresser
The high demand for self-care is only increasing, with consumers looking for more ways to focus their fashion and boost their confidence. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is through visiting the salon. Alongside a surge in self-care, there is also an increase in the demand for specialised services , including advanced colouring, hair loss management, afro hair extensions, and customised, high-performance as well as specialised treatments. We wrote entire guide on How to become a hairdresser in 2026
Nail Technician
Just like with hairdressers, the increase in the desire for self-care is also driving more and more people to visit nail technicians. There is a huge demand for professional nail art, thanks to this shift to self-care and social media trends which have turned nail art into a must-have fashion. And it’s not just women seeking out their local nail technician, more men are also indulging in regular manicures, pedicures and enhancements. This is a self-care regiment that is repeated every 4-8 weeks, which means there are plenty of returning customers and a growing need for technicians trained in nail care and art.
Makeup Artist
With this increased focus on self-care, many are turning to ‘non-committal’ luxuries. While modern hair-colours and nail arts are incredibly popular, they do require regular ongoing maintenance. Nails need to be infilled, roots need to be covered, and this means a consistent out-going cost, which some people simply don’t want to commit to. Make-up, on the other hand, can be applied, or not applied, whenever you want. The new make-up trend is bold, expressive “maximalist” makeup, and expert contouring to maximise the shape and appearance of the face. Makeup artists are quickly becoming influential figures, almost celebrities, with a skill-based credibility, and the popular trends require an expert make-up artist to achieve. Make sure to read our blogpost on How to become Makeup Artist.
Fashion Designer
There are two trends powering the surge in fashion designer roles. The first is the growing demand for ethical designs that consider the environmental impact and the workers who bring fashion designs to life. Designers, therefore, are continually seeking new production methods and innovative materials. Secondly, there is a trend for personalised, high-quality clothing that is bespoke and branded, individual and artistic, diverse and culturally relevant.
Tailor / Seamstress
Piggy backing off the trend for clothing to be more ethical and sustainable, many are turning to tailors as a way of extending the life of their treasured clothing, instead of replacing it. While recently consumers have been eager to benefit from disposable and cheap fast-fashion, this mood is now shifting back to the desire to have durable and well-made clothing that lasts longer.
Fashion and beauty are industries that are going to continue to experience growth, and therefore require more workers to handle the increased customer base. The future looks bright.