When the sun-kissed lightness of summer turns into the warm and cozy refinement of fall, I always feel the urge to change something in my hair game. It must be the cool weather, the pumpkin spice latte, and the layered clothing, but I feel like I want my hair to be more textured, voluminous and dramatic. However, there are so many trends floating around, how do you pick a look that feels new but classic? Fall hair this year is wearable glamour, polished, effortless styles with the right amount of movement. I have compiled my top long-hair looks of 2025 that you can wear to brunch and then to a late-night fall party. Which of them are you going to use this season?
Cascading Curls and Big Crown
It is all romance–soft, definite curls over the shoulders with a sculpted, voluminous crown that adds height without being stiff. The face-framing tendrils are the right finishing touch, making the features softer and the style purposeful. I adore the way the highlights run through every curl and how they reflect on the light in that magical golden-hour manner. It is the type of hair style that can fit in well at a fall wedding as well as at a fancy dinner downtown.
To maintain the curls smooth but still touchable, I would recommend the Dyson Airwrap to shape and finish with Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray. It holds but does not fix hair in place, which is important to this style. Deep conditioning on a regular basis, i.e. like the Kerrastase Nutritive Masquintense will help keep that silky finish through the drier months.
To me, this style is reminiscent of the fall evenings at the beginning of fall when the air is slightly cooler than it should be, but you still want your hair to be a bit light. It is a great way to achieve the balance that celebrity hairstylist Harry Josh always discusses in formal hair- structured at the crown, looser at the ends.
To make it less formal, you can replace the ideal curls with looser waves and allow some more strands to fall freely around the face. It immediately becomes “event” to “effortless.”
Glamorous Loose Waves Tousled Updo
It is a lesson in organized messiness–all that volume is stacked on top of each other but the romantic, unstructured waves around the face give it a softer feel. It is modern because of the balance between sleek and messy. It is dramatic enough to go with a bold lip or a dramatic fall eye, but not so detailed that it is outdated. Ideal to when you want to display a neckline or earrings without losing the softness of loose hair.
The important thing here is to keep the shape without making it heavy. I would then begin by spraying a texturizing spray such as Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun and then follow up with a light-hold hairspray to fix the volume. Due to the curled nature of the ends, it is important to keep them hydrated- Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother is a miracle worker.
I adore the personality of this updo, it seems to have one, it is not fussy but confident. This is a prime example of what celebrity stylist Chris Appleton has frequently stated, that movement is luxury in hair. In a formal situation, you can observe the hair breathe and move naturally.
In case you want to make it more into a daywear, just bring the bun a bit down and leave the tendrils a bit undone. It makes it the ideal I just threw this on but still look amazing.
Sleek High Bun and Face-Framing Layers
This topknot is a minimalism with a twist, the sleek and shiny finish balances out perfectly with the soft, curved face-framing strands. It is a very versatile style that can be worn both to the office and evening occasions, especially when combined with a strong brow or bold lipstick. Its smoothness immediately takes an ensemble to a new level, and even a plain turtleneck can look like it is on the runway.
I would recommend using a smoothing serum, like Moroccanoil Treatment Light, to get that mirror-shine effect before blow-drying. My fall favorite is LOréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Fix Anti-Frizz Spray that gives a perfect hold without crunch. It does not make hair stiff and holds it even on windy days.
In my case, I really enjoy the way this bun makes me feel like it is a quiet luxury, it is not shouting at you, but you can feel that it has been done with a certain purpose. Hairstylist Jen Atkin has frequently said that the secret to a classic bun is in the prep: silky hair, tight base, and face-framing elements. This style is an ideal one.
To dress it down on casual weekends, don t use the shine spray and make the texture more natural. It becomes a stylish, relaxed topknot, which continues to flatter all face shapes.
Structured Waves Long, Voluminous Ponytail
This ponytail is polished power itself-slicked up high with a sleek crown and waves that stay put. It is bold, young and very adaptive. The retro touch of the volume at the crown is nice, and the waves make it modern. It is one of those styles that can transition between a sharp blazer and a flowing evening dress without blinking.
To get the most lift and staying power, I would pre-treat with a root-volumizing spray such as Redken Root Lifter and blow dry. Those sculpted waves will be provided by a large-barrel curling iron, and a flexible-hold hairspray such as Kenra 25 will hold them in place but allow them to move.
I always feel like I can do anything in this style-there is something about the energy of having your hair up and big. Stylist Justine Marjan has been known to speak about ponytails as instant facelifts, and with this amount of volume, it is certainly so.
To have a softer version during the daytime, simply pull the ponytail down and brush the waves out to have a more natural, lived-in style. It is still chic but with a little more accessibility.
Wispy Layers Romantic Braided Chignon
There is that soft, storybook romance about this style; a very complexly braided chignon and airy face-framing layers that flutter about the cheeks. The braiding gives it some texture and interest and the loose tendrils prevents it being too formal. It is the type of hair style which seems just as appropriate at a fall engagement party as it does on a candlelit dinner.
I would suggest using a lightweight mousse such as Sebastian Whipped Crme to add volume to hair without weight prior to braiding. Just a couple of drops of shine serum will ensure the texture of the braid is highlighted perfectly even in the autumn light.
To me, this style has that warm-but-refined fall vibe, like when you go inside a warmly lit house after being outside in the cool night air, hair done just right but somehow romantic. This type of braided updo has been a favorite of stylist Sarah Potempa who has frequently discussed how it adds dimension to darker hair colors.
To make it less formal, leave the braid less tight and more strands to fly out. It goes instantly “special occasion” to everyday elegance.
Soft Bow Half-Up Waves
The soft bow half-up waves are the steals of the season and the fall 2025. It is feminine, it is structured, it is playful, a combination that has the feeling of timelessness and newness. The top is carved into an ideal bow shape and the remaining hair falls down in free glossy waves that swing with you. It is the type of style that can be worn to a weekend brunch or a cosy evening party and the warm autumn light is captured in the most beautiful way.
To maintain a hairstyle such as this in its best condition, I would always suggest a light-hold hairspray that does not make the hair rigid- something like L Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray. It does not weigh the waves down and keeps the bow intact. A shine-enhancing serum applied to the ends will also give that camera-ready, polished look that is not so effortless.
Personally, I have discovered that this style gets people to turn their heads without appearing to have overdone it. Jen Atkin, a celebrity hairstylist once said that fun shapes such as bows give it a personality but still makes it wearable and I could not agree more. It is a conversational piece, yet it can be used in day-to-day situations.
I would add that this is one of those styles that make you feel like you are wearing a small accessory, without really adding something extra, a bonus to minimalists who do not want to go overboard with the statement.
Elegant Voluminous Chignon
The voluminous chignon is simply elegant- the kind of updo that can fit in a fall wedding and a smart dinner in the city. The hair is brushed back and there is a softly sculpted bun at the nape which is layered in loops to give it some texture. There are some face-framing strands that are curled slightly outwards, softening the appearance and modernizing it.
This kind of volume maintenance requires prep. My favorite is to blow-dry on a volumizing mousse such as Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse to give structure without crunch. A stiff yet malleable hairspray locks everything in place and yet allows the hair to appear touchable.
I adore the way this style is reminiscent of old-Hollywood glamour yet has a more light and airy touch to it that makes it not seem dated. I have used similar outfits to formal functions and they really last hours without losing shape, even when you are dancing.
When you want to feel taller, both literally and figuratively, this is the style to go with, it simply has that authoritative feel to it.
Long Wavy Ponytail
One of those hairstyles that seem to be effortlessly chic in fall 2025 is the long wavy ponytail. The hair is smooth on the crown, raised high to give lift and then cascades into large, loose waves that move with each step. It is young, adaptable, and it fits casual days and more sophisticated moments.
I normally use a heat protectant spray before curling and then a light mist of Kenra Professional Thermal Styling Spray to maintain those waves throughout the day. A little smoothing cream on the surface will tame any flyaways, but it will still leave bounce.
I feel that this style is effective as it is a mix between sporty pony and glamorous waves. Chris Appleton, a celebrity stylist, has repeatedly claimed that high ponies immediately steal the face and provide an uplifting effect, and I can confirm that it actually does provide the self-esteem boost.
It is also the type of style that goes best with a comfortable fall sweater or a sleek leather jacket- making it a favorite to wear with nearly every mood or outfit.
Twisted Crown Loose Waves
The wavy-loose crown is romantic and somewhat whimsical and that is why it is ideal during those crisp fall afternoons. The hair is parted on the side, and then twisted back into a crown effect which frames the face and allows the rest of the hair to fall in soft, defined waves. It is immensely flattering because there is a balance between structure and freedom.
On twists that do not slip, I use a light texturizing spray such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray prior to styling, it helps provide grip and the perfect amount of lived in. Some bobby pins entwined in the twist keep everything in place without being seen.
This is my favorite fall look when I am outside, i.e. apple picking, winery afternoons, or weekend markets. It photographs so well due to the manner that the twists provide dimension on all sides.
It is also a style that can be used on any hair color but the highlights or balayage will see how the twists bring out all the various shades.
Flowing Waves Soft Side Twist
That easy, romantic energy of the soft side twist with flowing waves is ideal on autumn days when you need your hair out of your face, but you still want it to be loose and touchable. The twist begins softly at the temple, and comes together in the back in a delicate knot, and the remainder of the hair hangs in luxurious, even waves.
To maintain waves this shiny and smooth, it is often necessary to prep with a nutritious heat protectant cream such as Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser Invisible Oil prior to curling. Not only does it protect against damage but it also provides the hair with that soft fall of silk.
I have used the same styles when going out on coffee dates and casual Fridays and they always attract compliments. It is subtle, yet the twist is there to provide it with an appropriate amount of intent.
This is the type of look that can be worn easily through transition- you can add a jeweled clip to go out at night, or keep it simple to run errands in the day. That versatility means it is a keeper in my fall hair rotation.
Soft Glam Low Ponytail Face-Framing Waves
It is a low ponytail with an easy polish that is ideal in fall, with a smooth crown, a textured hair tie and falling into loose and sculpted waves. The layers that frame the face make the appearance softer, with a romantic and modern feel. It can be used in a boardroom presentation as easily as it can be used in a weekend wine-tasting.
I would use a 1.25-inch curling iron and seal with Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Perfect Texture Spray, which is a light hold. A smoothing cream such as the Kerastase Discipline range is a game changer to that silky crown.
I have always been a fan of the way a ponytail can be made to feel instantly fancy with the right texture and detail. Chris Appleton, who has made a name with his smooth celebrity ponytails, will tell you the trick is in the prep: smooth roots, a well-defined part, and thoughtful face-framing strands.
To make it less formal, swap the textured tie with a silk scarf and loosen the waves to make it look more bohemian in fall.
Big High Bun and Dimensional Blonde
This bun is playfully sophisticated–big, airy volume with dimensional blonde highlights that reflect the light. The front parts are designed as long curled tendrils that make the whole appearance softer. It is the ideal accompaniment to cocktail dresses and evening functions when you are looking something dramatic but accessible.
This is where a good foundation comes in- pin the base with bobby pins and a hair elastic and then add volume. I would apply Kenra Volume Spray 25 to give the hair lift that would last, and a shine-enhancing spray such as the R+Co Foil Frizz + Static Control Spray to make the blonde look shiny.
I like the movement of this style the most it is not rigid and overworked. Stylist Jen Atkin likes to remind her followers that updos should not feel glued in place and this one hits that sweet spot.
To wear during the day, you might pull the bun down a bit and omit more tendrils to make it look softer and more comfortable.
Crown Braid Cascading Ponytail
This hair is an all out showstopper- a heavy, elaborate crown braid that winds around the head, into a ponytail of loose curls. It is fanciful, even fairytale like, but the tidiness of the braid makes it stylish and up-to-date. Ideal when you wish to incorporate a playful element to a formal fall outfit.
To style, I would recommend prepping with a light mousse such as Bumble and Bumble Thickening Full Form to add extra grip to the braid. The ponytail will be given bounce with a curling wand but not too uniform.
I adore this style because it is a statement on its own, and it does not require additional accessories. Sarah Potempa frequently extols the virtues of braids because they are so versatile, and this is a great example of that–it is both a protective style and a head-turning detail.
To make it more casual, soften the braid and mist some sea salt spray into the ponytail to give it a lived-in effect.
Braided Halo Updo and wispy strands
This braided halo updo is a fine wrap around the head and is collected in a textured bun at the back. The face is framed by soft wispy strands so that the style does not appear too polished. It is the type of look that would look amazing with flowy dresses, fall weddings, or even a clean blouse and blazer to work.
A bit of texturizing spray prior to braiding will add volume and keep the style in place-I love Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. Secure the halo braid with small hair pins of your hair color.
The thing I like about this look is that it is sophisticated yet soft. Stylist Justine Marjan has a saying that goes, “the best updos are the ones that don’t look like you tried too hard, and this gives just that.
To make it weekend-ready, loosen the braid and release some more tendrils around the temples.
Half-Up Twist Structured Fall Curls
This half up style is full and lively–thick, voluminous curls with a structured twist at the crown. The style is glamorous and not fussy, which is why it is ideal to wear to a holiday party or an evening out. The highlights interwoven in the curls provide depth and glamour and reflect all the warm fall light.
I would use a large barrel curling iron to keep the volume and fix each curl with a light spray of LOrsal Elnett Satin Hairspray. Before twisting, teasing the crown will give lift and drama.
As an individual, this is the type of hair I would prefer when I want to feel immediately confident. It is that main character energy but not too much. Kim Kimble, celebrity hairstylist, frequently discusses the power of strategic volume and she is correct in this style.
To make it a daytime adaptation, leave out the teasing and make the twist less tight so that it is easy to wear.
Braided Crown Chignon Loose Waves
The hairstyle is a mixture of the shape of a braided crown and the texture of a chignon, which makes the style fall-compatible, romantic and down-to-earth. The braid encircles the head as a halo, and flows naturally into the bun, with some loose tendrils to interrupt the formality. It is the type of style that can easily go between a casual brunch and an elegant evening.
I would prep with a light-hold mousse such as Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse to give volume without stiffness. Braids also have the advantage of grip, so a texturizing powder may help to weave and prevent the slip. When you have it, a shine spray such as Kevin Murphy Shimmer Shine adds depth to the braid, particularly when the autumn light is warm.
I love the way this style is so grounded in traditional beauty yet it is something that can be worn. Hairstylist Sarah Potempa has been known to mention that braids can add more character to updos and this is evidence. It is trendy but not too done.
To get a daytime spin, loosen the braid a bit and have more strands fall free. It will be less tight and comfortable, ideal to wear on a sweater weather walk.
Soft Twist Low Bun and Subtle Highlights
This bun is simple and classy. The twists flow down into the collected form and the soft highlights peek through to provide dimension. It is refined, yet not off-putting, which makes it an excellent option to people who prefer a certain structure with a pinch of comfort. The waves that frame the face make it casual and that is ideal when you need to attend fall events and look sophisticated but not cold.
To maintain the appearance sleek, I would apply a heat-protective lotion such as Kérastase Discipline Keratine Thermique prior to blow-drying. Once styled, a flexible-hold hairspray such as Sebastian Shaper Plus will make it last without stiffness.
I, myself, view it as a style that can be combined with warm fall materials such as silk blouses or cashmere sweaters. It is that just right thing where you do not need to over think the other part of your appearance.
To dress it down, leave off the full polish and leave the twists a bit more messy. It turns into a casual, friendly style of informal events.
Loose Volume Bun and Soft Curtain Bangs
This is a contemporary bun which is experimented with in terms of volume and movement. The crown is uplifted, the bun itself is light and the soft curtain bangs are just enough to provide the face with the right amount of romance. It is a young, fun style that can be used at fall weddings or cool date nights.
To add the lift, use a volumizing mousse such as Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse, which will not make your hair heavy. I would also tease the crown lightly and then pin the bun to add more structure. To wear curtains bangs, it is better to brush them with a round brush and add a small amount of shine serum to prevent frizz.
I love this look because it combines the drama of height with the softness of undone pieces- it is not trying too hard. Stylist Anh Co Tran has often said that modern updos should look like they could fall apart (but don’t), and this captures that perfectly.
To get a more casual look, leave the bun slightly loose and do not tease to have a softer profile.
Sleek Twisted Low Bun Face-Framing Waves
This is a glossy, sculpted beauty of a sleek twisted bun. The twists are sleek and clean, and they attract the focus on the complicated form at the nape, and face-framing waves are soft. It is the type of style that goes well with statement earrings or high neckline.
I would prep using a smoothing balm such as Oribe Straight Away Blowout Cream to create that mirror-shine effect and then style. With a boar-bristle brush, the twists will produce that smooth, flawless look. Seal it with a humidity-resistant hairspray.
To me this style is like evening elegance, a night out or a formal fall party. It is organized, and the waves prevent it to appear harsh.
Should you prefer it less formal, make the twists a bit looser and less symmetrical. It will be smoother and easier.
Royal Low Bun and Rhinestone Headband
It is the epitome of statement chic- a sleek, carved low bun topped with a glittering rhinestone headband. The smoothness of the hair is contrasted with the fancy accessory, which makes the look appear sophisticated and glamorous. The wispy tendrils around the face diffuse the royal feeling, so it is not only to be worn on a wedding day.
In the case of accessories such as this, I would suggest that the hair be kept super-smooth with a straightening serum such as Paul Mitchell Super Skinny. The glitter will not be in competition with the shine. Bobby pins of the same color as your hair will help to make the bun perfect in all directions.
This makes me think of red carpet fashions of celebrities, in which everything is deliberate. Hairstylist Adir Abergel has been known to discuss the effectiveness of a good accessory to make even the most basic hair look special- and in this case, the headband turns the bun into a statement.
To make it less flashy, replace the rhinestone band with a narrow satin ribbon or a simple metal barrette. You will still end up with that smooth finish but with a more subtle appeal.
Sleek Low Ponytail Waves
This fall, it is all about subtle elegance with the sleek low ponytail with waves. The hair is brushed back with a soft center part, low at the nape and held in place with a stylish minimalist clip. The ponytail itself cascades into huge, sculpted waves to provide a polished finish that does not seem too stiff. This style is ideal during transitional weather- it is polished enough to be at the office but romantic to go out.
I prefer to blow dry with Kerastase Elixir Ultime LHuile Original Hair Oil to keep that glossy smoothness at the crown. It leaves the strands frizz-free and shiny without being oily. Those flowing waves can be done in minutes with a large-barrel curling iron and a light mist of flexible hairspray will keep them going until the end of the day.
I have always adored the way a low pony such as this can lengthen the neck and make a graceful profile. Stylist Harry Josh has said that a sleek hairline is more likely to attract attention to the facial features and I have found this to be so true.
It also is a style that works well with outerwear, so you can toss on your favorite fall trench coat without having to worry about flattening your hair.
Frosted Platinum Textured Bun
Frosted platinum textured bun is a cool-toned fall 2025 dream. The hair color itself icy platinum with soft lowlights is enough to make this style stand out, but it is the airy bun that makes this style personable. It is loosely pulled back with volume at the crown and wispy tendrils around the face and has a soft elegance that suits both casual brunches and formal occasions.
Platinum colors should be treated with special care to be vivid. I would recommend Fanola No Yellow Shampoo once a week to prevent brassiness and a moisturizing mask, e.g. Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask, to prevent dryness.
In my personal opinion, this style is one of the best illustrations of how a properly done color can make a simple updo. Hairstylist Guy Tang has been known to say that light hair colors require dimension to prevent appearing flat and this bun has just that.
It is also incredibly versatile: you can loosen the bun to have a bohemian feel or smooth it out to have a high-glamour evening look.
Braided Crown Updo
Braided crown updo is an eternal choice of long hair this season. The sides are woven into thick, even sections which are then wrapped into a structured crown at the back resulting in an intricate appearance that nevertheless feels natural. The style is softened with a couple of loose tendrils around the face, so it does not look too formal.
Such braids are best kept when there is a bit of texture. I prefer to spritz Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray and then braid it, it gives me grip without stiffness. To add additional shine, a lightweight glossing spray at the end will give the weave some shine under fall lights.
I have used different versions of this style to outdoor weddings and it is so safe even in windy conditions. Braided crowns are also royal but not intimidating, which is a hard balance to find.
It is the type of updo that looks amazing with statement earrings, so it is ideal to wear to special autumn events.
Twisted Textured Bun
The twisted textured bun is a fall hairstyle that is versatile and combines sophistication with comfort. Several twisted parts are brought together in a voluminous bun in the back, which gives it depth and movement without the use of heavy accessories. The appearance is soft and flattering because wispy layers are left around the face.
I prefer to work with Living Proof Perfect Hair Day 5-in-1 Styling Treatment to maintain the twists defined, as it gives smoothness, hold, and frizz control simultaneously. Some subtle hairpins will hold the bun in place hours.
It is one of those updos that I resort to when I want something that is done but not too tight that I can wear it during the day to night. This bun is perfect, yet imperfect, which is exactly what celebrity stylist Kristin Ess frequently discusses when it comes to hair being beautiful.
It looks fabulous with a blazer or a fitted coat, so it is a wonderful option during the fall evenings when it is a bit cooler.
Tiara Detail Regal High Bun
The grandiose high bun and the tiara is the final touch to a fall event, whether it be galas, holiday parties or even autumn weddings. The bun is itself impeccably curled with lush depth, and a dainty crystal tiara curves across the forehead, with a fairy-tale sheen.
In a style such as this, hold is important. Blow-drying always starts with a good foundation prep like Sebastian Professional Mousse Forte and then a strong-hold hairspray like LOrEal Elnett Extra Strong Hold to set the bun.
I wore something like this once to a fancy dinner- the tiara reflected the candlelight so pretty, and the bun never got messy all night. It is the type of hairstyle that makes you stand up straight.
This is the one you should look at in case you want to add some magic to your fall hairstyle repertoire. It is classic, camera-friendly and will be remembered.
Fall 2025 is giving us all the inspiration we need to wear our hair long, whether it is relaxed waves or elaborate updos, you can consider it wearable art. Be it a sleek and minimal or texture and movement, the season styles are all about a balance of elegance and ease. The most exciting thing is that? All the looks are customisable to your personal vibe, so you can step out feeling confident, polished and a little bit unforgettable.
