With the leaves starting to change and the pumpkin spice making its way back into our cups, is it not the best time to update our look as well? Fall is the time of year that makes me want to switch up my hair color–warm it up, darken it, make it more dramatic, or just add a twist to it. The color scheme of this season is deep, fun, and surprisingly adaptable. With moody tones that reflect the sunsets of fall to lighter, glowing highlights that add life to cooler days, Fall 2025 is all about balance between drama and softness.
The best part about this season is that hair color is not a trend but rather a statement of how we want to feel going into the last months of the year. Do we want to be confident, comfortable, or a little fun edge? The possibilities are limitless and I have been tracking the shades that are trending on the streets of New York to the salons of Los Angeles.
In this article, I will take you through some of my favorite hair color ideas Fall 2025, all based on real-life looks that reflect the mood of the season. Are you more inclined to something daring, like lavender waves, or want to stick to the classic beauty of honey bronde? You can find a fall hair color idea here that suits you.
Okay, so, without further ado, let us get started- because who does not want their hair to be as inspiring as a crisp morning in autumn?
Retro Layered Brunette with Copper Highlights
The initial glance is about motion and depth. A medium brunette base is raised to a new level with copper-gold highlights that sparkle with warmth in every direction. The layers that frame the face and give it that almost feathered effect are what I love about this look. It is retro inspired but not costume-y, which is ideal when you want something bold yet wearable in everyday life.
To keep these coppery tones, I would use a color-safe shampoo, such as Pureology Hydrate Sheer, which does not remove the brightness in the hair. A glossing treatment every 6-8 weeks will also prevent the highlights going brassy as the season progresses. Gregory Patterson, celebrity stylist, has said that shine is the new accessory and I could not agree more with colors like this.
Personally, this style takes me back to lazy weekend coffee dates where you just put on a green jacket and feel instantly put together. The copper details are highlighted against fall wardrobes that are deep brown, creams and denim. It is such a fun way to acknowledge the season without going full-fledged with a change.
And is not that the magic of highlights? They provide you with the right amount of transformation to feel renewed, but the balance is still natural and does not overpower your features. A layered brunette with copper ribbons is a happy medium to those who are not sure about trying something bold.
Dimensional Bob with Cool Blonde Accents
This is where glamorous and carefree come together: a bob that is short not to be long, but to have its drama in the color placement. The foundation is a cool brunette, yet the dramatic blonde highlights that are intertwined with the layers give it a sculptural effect. It has a fall in the city vibe- a look that complements the denim jacket and fall weather.
Maintaining blonde highlights vibrant is a challenge, but I have found Redken Color Extend Blondage to work. Violet colors will help counteract the brassiness so that the blonde stands out as it did when you left the salon. It is one of those maintenance steps that is most definitely worth it, particularly when it comes to such a cut where color contrast is the highlight.
In my opinion, this haircut is a quick confidence builder. It is a perfect way to frame the jaw and make every outfit look styled even when you are wearing a simple tee. It also works well on its own–you can keep it sleek with a flat iron or add waves to soften it up, and either way it looks polished.
And after all, is not fall the right time to have a bob? Shorter lengths are less time spent blow-drying when the mornings are chilly, and the look can still be sharp under scarves and coats. Easy to wear, high style.
Blonde-Enhanced Layers to give a Soft Glow
This is a honey blonde with blonde highlights that gives it a warm glow that is like the golden hour in a bottle. The layering provides the hair with bounce and texture, and the soft curtain-like shape around the face is flattering without being too styled. In one word? Effortless.
To maintain the blonde looking this fresh, stylists usually advise a moisturizing treatment to avoid dryness, as the air cools down. I promise by Olaplex No. 8 Moisture Mask when my highlights are in need of a pick-me-up- it keeps everything smooth and minimizes breakage, which is essential when you are lightening.
This appearance is different in fall light. As you go outside and the sun reflects off the blonde ribbons, there is a glow that is instantly stylish. I have found it looks best with more subdued fall colors such as charcoal, olive, and even pumpkin orange. It is not over the top but it is pretty- the type of hair that people will compliment you on.
And even if you have ever wondered what it would be like to go lighter but not all the way blonde, this is a great way to dip your toes in the water. The layers do the heavy lifting and the color acts as a soft-focus filter on your entire appearance.
Bouncy Blonde Curls With Volume
This is out and out delight The thick, voluminous curls combined with the golden blonde color exude that playful yet timeless vibe–almost like you are walking right into a fall street scene with leaves blowing around you. The cut itself adds volume to the curls without making them heavy, so it is perfect to add some natural texture to shine.
Curls and color require some attention, however. I would apply a curl-defining cream such as DevaCurl SuperCream to hydrate and define and manage frizz. And because blonde tones can easily lose their color, toning mask once a week will help to keep the color bright without having to go to the salon every time.
In my personal opinion, curls such as this one will add personality to any outfit. Even a simple white tee will be fashion-forward with this much texture and bounce. It is almost as though the hair becomes the statement accessory, which is such a fun way to lean into seasonal style.
I also like that this look is versatile. Air-dry the curls to achieve an undone look or style them closer together to achieve a polished look. Either way, it shouts confidence- and that is always in season.
Balayage Blending on Soft Waves
Balayage is not going anywhere in Fall 2025 but it is becoming more natural and soft. Here, there are brunette roots that are fading into caramel-golden ends, and the soft waves make the gradient look even more beautiful. It is casual and at the same time sophisticated, something like a fall wardrobe staple that will never go out of fashion.
Balayage is notoriously low-maintenance, although I would still suggest a color-safe mask every few weeks to ensure that the blend stays luxurious. Kristin Ess has a Color Depositing Conditioner that restores richness between salon visits without overwhelming the hair. It is one of my favorite tricks to prolong the life of warm highlights.
Personally, this type of appearance reminds me of evenings with string lights- simple, romantic and just a bit undone. It goes with everything oversized button-downs, cozy sweaters, or even crisp blazer when you need that extra polish.
And the best of it is it grows out beautifully. You will not be in a panic to get root touch-ups every few weeks. Soft balayage waves are the perfect option to get that autumn look that is chic but does not require a lot of maintenance.
Bold Lavender Statement
There is something alluring about lavender hair in the fall. It is a surprise and yet it is so appropriate, almost like the cool misty mornings of October. This color is the perfect match to a softly layered bob, which gives volume and depth without being too polished. The lilac undertones make it fun, yet the deeper violet at the roots makes it acceptable even in a more structured place of work. I think this is the most city-girl shade of all, strong but fun.
Having this type of pastel hair is not easy to maintain. To prevent lavender turning into a dull gray, I would use a color-safe shampoo such as Pureology Hydrate, which will keep the color fresh and moisturize the hair. A gloss treatment once in a few weeks also helps restore that sheen. I now know that a silk pillowcase is a silent savior when it comes to pastel colors–it creates less friction, so there is less fading during the night.
I personally love how this color makes a classic bob look editorial. It is the sort of shade that makes even a blazer-and-shirt combination look fashionable. Gregory Patterson, celebrity hairstylist, has said that pastel colors are becoming less seasonal and I could not agree more. Lavender can be spring on paper, but in fall, it exudes strong personal style.
And, come on, isn’t it great how this color almost looks like jewelry on the hair?
Buttery Blonde Waves
Soft waves in a buttery blonde tone are classic, but Fall 2025 adds a new twist to this trend with blended highlights that glimmer like candlelight. This color is the optimal blend of cool beige and warm gold, so it will suit everyone. The waves themselves are carved and yet free, the type of texture that automatically makes you feel glamorous without being overdone.
The care of this shade is all about hydration. Blondes are prone to becoming brassy or dry very easily, so I rely on Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo to keep the color clear and bright. A deep conditioning mask once a week is a good way to keep the waves smooth and frizz-free as the air gets drier with the season.
I remember how a similar color practically glowed in the autumn light a few falls ago. It has a romantic touch to it, it is luxe but yet accessible. Hair stylist Tracey Cunningham, who is known to have created some of the most famous blonde locks, often stresses on the necessity of having lived-in highlights that grow out gracefully, and this style does just that.
Does it not make you want to run your fingers through your hair and have those waves catch the light?
Golden Caramel Elegance
Caramel tones are really in their moment and I think Fall 2025 will be the season where they will shine the most. This shade blends honey and golden ribbons into a darker base, which makes the color eye-catching, yet not overpowering. Worn in long, loose waves, it conveys that “effortless luxury” look, which is ideal whether you are headed to a work meeting or out on the town.
I never have any problems with caramel shades as opposed to ashier ones. A color-protecting conditioner, such as Redken Color Extend Magnetics, will do wonders to keep the shine in. A gloss every two months keeps it warm, so it does not end up in the dull zone.
In my opinion, caramel is one of those colors that make you feel at home- it is warm, welcoming, and it suits most skin tones. I have read Chris Appleton say that hair color should make you look better, and the golden caramel definitely does that, it is like carrying your own halo.
Golden caramel is the perfect shade to wear when you want to look timeless but still up to date this fall.
Auburn Meets Blonde Fade
This color combination is a conversation starter in itself- the auburn roots that fade into a blonde base is a clever combination of warmth and light. It adds volume, texture, and modernity to the hair that is just right in the fall. The cut itself, with layers framing the face, makes the transition feel deliberate and stylish as opposed to stark.
Such transition shades must be well maintained I suggest alternating between a purple shampoo on the blonde parts and a color-safe shampoo on the auburn roots, to keep both colors bright. A heat protectant spray such as Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil is also essential, particularly when you are styling your hair every day.
I consider this style to be a fall foliage in hair. It is like taking the season with you–auburn warm as the fallen leaves, blending into blonde as the sunshine through them. When I first noticed this trend, it made me think of the Central Park in October, when the trees are in full swing of changing colors.
Would it not be a pleasure to have your hair a mirror of the season?
Warm Chestnut Glow
Chestnut tones have a down-to-earth richness that is always appropriate in the fall. This color, which combines medium brown and a hint of golden tones, is elegant and at the same time, friendly. Combined with the voluminous layers, it gives body and movement to the hair and never looks flat. It is a color that can be worn in a relaxed striped top as well as in an evening outfit.
Chestnut is so easy to care compared to lighter colors. A shine-enhancing serum such as Moroccanoil Treatment helps maintain the shine, and a gentle sulfate-free shampoo will help maintain the undertones. What I like is that even when it fades, chestnut does not appear to be tired but instead softens.
Chestnut hair is the equivalent of curling up in a blanket and reading a book to me, it is comforting, stylish, and dependable. It is not a screamer but it attracts attention. Warm brunettes are on the rise, and this look will only prove it right, as colorist to celebrities like Beyonce, Rita Hazan will tell you.
The most subtle decision can be the most effective one. You don t think so?
Eternal Caramel Layers
The first look encompasses all of my favorite things about fall: coziness, softness, and that natural sense of elegance. The caramel highlights flow into the sandy blonde undertones to create movement and dimension. It is the type of shade that suits most skin tones and is just elevated enough without being too much. Combining it with soft layers adds that additional bounce and liveliness- like a fresh fall walk where every gust of the wind makes you happier.
To maintain this shade shiny, it is important to invest in moisture. I would always suggest Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo and Conditioner that helps to maintain the blonde and caramel color. A weekly moisturizing mask is not optional, should you wish to keep that buttery glow through October pumpkin patches.
Personally, I have found caramel layers to be a comfort color. However much I experiment, I always come back to these tones since they are appropriate in a boardroom meeting as well as a casual weekend brunch. It is versatile like a good trench coat is classic, reliable and timeless.
And in case you still can not decide, celebrity colorist Tracey Cunningham has repeatedly stated that warm highlights are instant brighteners. She is actually correct, this shade is catching the light in the best ways.
Bold Money Piece Blonde
Fall does not need to mean everything darker. This style is evidence that a dramatic money piece, that face-framing streak of lighter blonde, is instantly dramatic. On the darker brunette background, the high-contrast streaks make the style new and bold. It is young, contemporary, and slightly subversive, like sneaking into the season with a secret spotlight on you.
To maintain, a purple shampoo such as Fanola No Yellow or Matrix Brass Off is important. Without that, those icy streaks can turn brassy in a hurry. I also have seen stylists add gloss treatments every six weeks, which makes the transition between base and highlight softer and still maintains that striking pop.
I will own up to the fact that I have always loved the way this style plays with confidence. It takes me back to when I first played with streaks in college, but here it is more refined, sophisticated, and purposeful. It is not about teenage rebellion, it is about redefining your edges in a mature manner.
Hair experts such as Gregory Patterson have observed that money pieces are here to stay at least another year because they have the ability to brighten the face instantly. And who does not want built-in light in fall when the days get shorter?
Honey-Gold Curls
This honey-gold color is like sunshine in a bottle. The curls add to the golden ribbons, which reflect light and almost glow. I think it is ideal to wear in the fall since it has the brightness of summer but just enough warmth to feel like fall. This warmer, golden blonde is a great compromise if you are afraid of going too blonde.
I use Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil to maintain the shine and definition of curls; it is not heavy. To maintain the color as long as possible, I would not use too much heat styling but instead use diffusers to add definition to the curls. In that manner, the gold details remain luminous.
On a personal note, I once got a honey-gold balayage just before a fall wedding, and I will never forget how the color looked under the reception lights. It is one of those shades that are festive but not loud. This is the reason why I believe this look should be on the list of the best of Fall 2025.
Celebrity stylist Anh Co Tran has repeatedly discussed the ability of golden highlights to add softness and femininity. And I see it here. It is subtle yet effective- like the final touch.
Contemporary Bulky Bronde
If you can not choose between brunette and blonde, this voluminous bronde shade is your solution. It has depth at the roots and lighter streaks fanning throughout the waves, which produces that ultra-modern look of having woken up like this. It is not overly styled, but looks lived in and polished at the same time.
Keeping bronde is actually low-key. I would alternate a color-safe shampoo with a hydrating shampoo, such as Pureology Hydrate, to balance the color and the moisture. A salon gloss every two months or so will keep the tones blended rather than streaky.
I have always liked bronde because it is versatile in various lighting. Indoors, it is more brunette-forward and richer. Go out, and all at once those blonde accents are like leaves in a sunset. It is dynamic, in a manner that makes you eager about your hair day in day out.
Pros such as Chris Appleton will tell you that the key to modern color is contrast. This bronde is just the right amount of it to feel daring, but universally flattering.
Fiery Autumn Red
Naturally, no list of fall hair colors could be complete without a hot red. This is a bright color, yet it is not too bright to feel wearable. The copper undertones darken into auburn depths to make a multidimensional finish that resembles autumn leaves at their peak. It is loud, unapologetic, and definitely a statement but what is fall without standing out?
Red hair is not easy to maintain The color washes out easily, so I always suggest buying a color-depositing shampoo such as Joico Color Infuse Red. It revitalizes the color between salon visits Cooler water rinses also help keep the richness even when the weather is calling you to take hot showers.
I have always envied women who turn red in the fall. It is daring and yet perfectly timely I have used a softer copper myself once and the compliments were endless, even the strangers. That is the magic of red, it does not speak in a low voice, it declares you.
As celebrity colorist Matt Rez has said, red is the new blonde this fall, and I can not agree more how gorgeous this shade is.
Rosy Peach Waves to add a Playful Touch
This color is all fun and games- a peachy-pink mixture that is like cotton candy at sunset. The soft waves make it romantic in energy, but the color is not overwhelming and feels adventurous. It is the type of color that instantly makes your face brighter and warmer, which is ideal in the transitional mood of fall.
Pastel colors such as this need attention, there is no doubt about it. A sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo is a must, and I would also add in a color-depositing conditioner to keep the rosy tones fresh. Celeb colorist Guy Tang has said before that fantasy shades require commitment, and it is true, you will need to get toning refreshes, but the playful edge it adds is worth it.
I see this style as the fall alternative to summer blonde- it is light, playful, and yet surprisingly stylish. To me, it is an ideal combination with warm knits or grayish colors, as the pink shades really stand out on neutral outfits.
Are you ever tempted to go pink during the season? It is one of those colors which make you feel instantly bold even when the rest of your routine remains basic.
Honey Bronde to Add Easy Warmth
Bronde has been on a roll, and this year it is gravitating towards honey tones that blend beautifully through waves of layers. The darker foundation makes it look natural but the lighter highlights make it look like it is in the sun even on a cloudy day. It is subtle, yet that is the beauty of it, you can never go wrong.
Maintenance in this case is not as hard as you would imagine. I would use a nourishing product such as the Kérastase Nutritive 8H Magic Night Serum which works overnight, leaving the hair shiny and hydrated so the blonde hair does not look dry. That extra bit of care will keep the highlights shining well into the colder months
To me, this look is the epitome of Pinterest fall hair. It can be used in the office or on the weekend and is visible enough in the right light. It goes well with cream sweaters, camel coats, and even go-to pair of jeans.
It is also a type of color that does not grow out as harshly, so you are not stuck going back into the salon on a regular basis. Admittedly, that functionality is what makes it even more attractive to anyone who needs a low-maintenance fall change.
Silver Frost Glam Cascading Curls
This one is a cool ice-blonde-platinum-meets-silver and it is so styled in cascading curls that it will turn heads instantly. The light hits each strand, giving it that frosted look that is almost holiday-appropriate but not quite. It is dramatic, bold and never-endingly glamorous.
Silver shades are however hard to care. A purple shampoo is essential to combat yellowing and I adore the Fanola No Yellow Shampoo to achieve that frosty effect. Add in a rich moisturizing mask once a week since lightened hair can dry out more quickly. This is the balance of tone and texture that makes it look polished rather than stressed.
To me, this style is shouting confidence. It is the color that does not conceal, but rather that proclaims being seen. Even a plain black-and-white sweater can become an eye-catching look with this much volume and texture.
And although it is not to everyones liking, silver is the sort of color that is classic and yet on-trend. If you have been tempted to give a bold platinum moment a go, then fall is the season to give that icy shine a go.
Dark Brunette with Bold Money Pieces
This one is contrast all about A deep, dark brunette foundation is given an instant attitude with large platinum money pieces around the face. It is dramatic yet in a controlled fashion, which adds a sculpted and contemporary touch to the whole look. It is strong yet not overpowering, which makes it a perfect fit to anyone who wants to make a statement this fall.
Maintenance of money pieces is relatively easy as opposed to full highlights. You will have to touch up around the face more frequently, but the other hair can remain natural longer. I would suggest using Color Wow Dream Coat to ensure that frizz is out of the picture and that the platinum streaks stand out against the darker background.
I personally like how this look is daring yet not too extreme. It can make a plain outfit look fancy-without having to overhaul your entire look. It is the type of detail that makes you look together even when you are not.
If you like the idea of highlights but aren’t ready to commit to a full head, money pieces are a playful way to dip your toe in the water. In addition, they highlight your features in a way that is almost like a spotlight.
Thick Blonde Streaks with Brunette Depth
Here we have the re-emergence of chunky streaks but with a more refined touch. There are wide blonde ribbons woven throughout a brunette base, layered to create bold contrast that is nostalgic yet updated. It is a clear reference to early 2000s hair but with a twist of softness and shine to make it 2025.
To maintain chunky highlights, hydration is essential. I would recommend Oribe Bright Blonde Shampoo to tone it down a bit and keep it looking high end. It avoids the blonde becoming too yellow, and does not sacrifice the depth of the brunette base.
I must say I am excited by the fact that chunky highlights are back. They come with an attitude of self-confidence, unapologetic, and undeniably stylish. The manner in which these layers fall gives the streaks an intentional rather than abrasive appearance, which is why they are modern.
Would you do chunky streaks again? I think fall is the best reason to indulge in nostalgia but keep the finishing modern. It is fun and yet very stylish.
Soft Vanilla Blonde
Vanilla blonde is that type of shade that appears to be immediately professional but soft enough to fit any autumn outfit. The light base with creamy highlights makes the face look bright, and the darker lowlights at the roots provide it with enough depth to avoid a flat effect. Worn in loose waves, it is contemporary and accessible, a combination of comfortable elegance and casual cool.
Maintenance, toning is all with blonde. A violet shampoo such as Fanola No Yellow will help prevent brassiness, and I would follow up with a hydrating conditioner because lightened hair is usually drier. I have found that frequent cuts (every 6-8 weeks) also help the cut to appear purposeful as opposed to washed out.
I personally like the look of vanilla blonde, it has a clean girl quality to it, and it works well with knitwear, neutrals, and layered fall looks. It makes it look like you care about how you look but you are not a fussy person. Hairstylist Tracey Cunningham says that a balanced blonde is not just about being light but about creating glow and this style does just that.
If you ever wanted a color that is as warm as a turtleneck and as fashionable as a catwalk, vanilla blonde is what you are looking for.
Rooted Champagne Ombre
Champagne ombre is a fun fall take on the trend- it takes the warm color of brown roots and fades into creamy champagne ends. It is glamorous but not high-maintenance, particularly when worn in long, shiny waves. The contrast adds volume to the hair and the soft shimmer of champagne tones is almost like candlelight dancing with every movement.
Ombre is less demanding in maintenance than other blonde styles. The roots are darker so you can extend the time between salon visits without having to worry about unsightly grow-out lines. I would still apply a nourishing mask such as Kerastase Blond Absolu once a week to ensure the lighter ends do not feel dry, particularly as the weather cools.
In my opinion, this style represents the change of seasons, the summer blonde is gradually turning into a more earthy autumn tone. Rita Hazan refers to rooted tones as the modern luxury blonde, because it looks natural and ages well, and I couldn t agree more.
Doesnít it feel good when your hair color fits the season and not against it? This champagne ombre is like that.
Fall 2025 is a season of daring decisions and smooth shifts, where comfort meets contrast and neutral tones go along with bold colors. Are you attracted to soft honey bronde, cool silver, or fun rosy peach, the true magic is to select a color that makes you feel like yourself, just a bit more elevated. Which of the two will you taste when the leaves turn? I will tell you–I am already thinking about my next visit to the salon.
