As summer fades and the coolness of fall beckons, many people feel the need to refresh their routines and aesthetics. Whether you spent your warmer months chilling in an air-conditioned space or sipping cocktails at a sun-drenched resort, autumn often awakens an urge for transformation. While some may turn to seasonal decor or update their wardrobes, one standout approach preferred by many is visiting the hair salon. In this vein, we’ve consulted top hairstylists to uncover the most exciting hair trends for fall.
A shift toward embracing natural beauty is apparent in the hair color trends this season. New York City hairstylist Vanessa Ocando points out an increasing number of clients are opting for soft, sun-kissed highlights that enhance their natural hair color instead of altering it dramatically. The emphasis is on creating looks that are low-maintenance yet still striking. Min Kim, another expert colorist, elaborates on this, noting that clients are focused on longevity due to economic uncertainties. They want styles that require less frequent touch-ups but still allow them to maintain a polished appearance.
Contrastingly, when it comes to haircuts, there seems to be a collective eagerness for change and bold transformations. Ocando describes a newfound energy around personal reinvention, where people are gravitating toward dramatic cuts as a metaphorical fresh start. While the blunt bob reigns supreme as the season’s most popular cut, there are also subtler options like adding bangs or refreshing existing styles with ’70s-inspired layers. The resurgence of 1970s hairstyles, known for their vibrant personality and movement, adds to the appeal. Los Angeles stylist Sunnie Brook highlights the need for spirited, rebellious hairstyles that inject a bit of fun into our daily lives.
The color palette for fall introduces shades that are both luxurious and easy to maintain. One standout hue is the “crème brûlée blonde,” described by colorist Tia Lambourn as a balanced, multidimensional blonde that’s neither too warm nor too cool. This low-contrast blonde channels a soft luxury while being forgiving enough for those who desire a less demanding color upkeep. A shining example of this trend was seen on Bella Hadid during the Cannes Film Festival. Colorist Jacob Schwartz created a hue that was intentional yet subtle, ensuring it looked healthy without veering into overly processed territory.
Equally enchanting is the “brown-sugar brunette,” a cozy, earth-toned shade perfect for fall. Tracey Cunningham, the mastermind behind this color, defines it as rich and low-maintenance, ideal for capturing the sun-drenched depth often associated with autumnal days. This hue, which plays with dimension and warmth, is designed to shift beautifully depending on one’s styling choices—an attribute Cunningham successfully demonstrated on celebrity Lana Del Rey. The versatility of the brown-sugar brunette allows for styles that can appear uniform when hair is up, yet reveal lighter ends when worn down, embodying that effortless “lived-in” aesthetic.
Maintaining these stunning looks involves a few essential steps. For the crème brûlée blonde, colorists suggest using the Olaplex line to keep locks healthy and vibrant in between salon visits. Similarly, brown-sugar brunette requires attention to maintenance, advocating for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioning treatments to enhance shine and minimize fading. Regular use of clear gloss treatments can help return vibrancy and maintain richness in color. These practices ensure that the beauty achieved in the salon lasts well into the season, allowing individuals to feel their best as they embrace fall in all its glory.
In summary, the transition into fall spurs both hairstyles and colors that reflect a desire for rejuvenation while remaining manageable. As people seek solace in their appearance through an occasional trip to the salon, the emphasis lies in enhancing natural beauty while allowing for exhilarating transformations. From embracing warm shades and sun-kissed highlights to experimenting with bold cuts inspired by the iconic hairstyles of the past, this fall invites everyone to explore and express their unique styles. Embracing these trends can lead to a renewed sense of self, making the impending season not just a time for physical change, but also for internal reflection and growth.