As fall nears, many individuals feel compelled to change their hair color. This seasonal shift enables people to harmonize with autumn’s deep, cozy hues, embracing the trends and moods that accompany cooler temperatures. Whether driven by style, emotional rejuvenation, or a craving for a new beginning, altering your hair color can serve as a delightful and significant way to greet the approaching season.
We turned to some top texture experts who specialize in color to find out what fall looks they’re loving most – classic looks like caramel and auburn, as well as new trends like soft pastels and Crayola-bright hues.
“My favorite looks are ones that I accidentally discovered as I was doing a guest’s hair or inspirational images they brought to me, and then we did our own thing,” says Deva stylist, Christin Brown.
Reds
Bright Red
Image Source: @hairbyreema
“Red is always in style!” says celebrity curl expert Sophie Rose. “ If you want to switch up your style, don’t hesitate to choose the perfect red. I am absolutely in love with the All About Curls 5R shade!”
See how red hair can spice up your look. @curlsbynato
Auburn
Image Source: @matrix
With its blend of red and brown tones, Auburn adds warmth and depth to curly hair. This color is ideal for those looking to make a bold statement while still keeping a natural look. The red undertones can make curls look more vibrant and lively.
To get the look at home, try the Clairol Nice’n Easy Permanent Hair Dye.
Get a little inspiration here @glamour_muses.
Deep Burgundy
Burgundy offers a rich, intense color that looks stunning on curly hair. The deep red undertones can add drama and sophistication to the curls, making them look more luxurious and defined.
Check out this burgundy transformation here from @nicole.linnea
Golden Copper
While icy hues have been having their moment, warm hair colors will always be classic. To spice up both your curls and your shade, give golden copper curls a try. Copper is a bold, fiery color that can add personality to curly hair. It enhances natural movement and gives curls a dynamic look. This shade is particularly striking on those with fair to medium skin tones.
Check out this beautiful copper look here from @jessiniaspallet
Browns
Chocolate Brown
This hair color is still trending due to the fact that it’s so customizable, much like your actual coffee order — think of the different hues in your drink when you add more milk and ice one day and less the next. Try L’Oréal Paris Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color in Deep Bronzed Brown and Downtown Brown to color your curly hair.
Check out how this color can change your look from @itsamandaguido
Warm Brown
“A warm brown is also an option if you do not want to go full-on red,” says Rose, who recommends it. All About Curls 6WB. “it’s a great way to achieve some of those caramel tones for your brown hair and is guaranteed to sparkle in the sun.
See an example of how a warm brown can jazz up your hair here from @dvcolour.
Two-Tone Hair
Two-tone hair (also known as Gemini hair, named after the zodiac sign that’s symbolized by twins) is great for someone who wants a hair color that’ll stand out — it’s also the perfect place to land when you’re not able to choose just one of the lovely colors that we previously recommended.
“As time-consuming and particular as it can be, color blocking is one of my favorite designs to do with my clients because of the juxtaposition,” says Brown.
Check out this 2-toned look from @only1ebonyy
Bayalage
Image Source: @mizani
Balayage is a highlighting technique that creates a natural, sun-kissed effect, perfect for curls. Placing lighter shades strategically throughout the hair adds dimension and movement. The gradual lightening towards the ends can make curls look fuller and more defined.
“Balayage on any hair color always looks amazing,” says Rose. “Whether you have brown, black or blond hair, consider trying some hair painting to brighten you up. This technique will give you a sun-kissed look without going in the sun!”
Watch how it’s done here from @yourstrulyeddyy
Caramel Highlights
Image Source: @yourstrulyeddy
Caramel highlights add warmth and dimension to curls, creating a sun-kissed effect that enhances the natural movement of the hair. They work particularly well with darker base colors, such as brown or black, adding depth and richness.
“Caramel highlights are always a must as we transition into fall,” says.”Apply your lightener where you want your highlights, then fill in (or color) with All About Curls 5N for the perfect caramel shade.”
See how caramel highlights can make your curls pop at @curlsbyaisha.
Pastels
For those who love experimenting, pastel shades like lavender, pink, or mint can create a fun, playful look on curls. These colors make curls look ethereal and unique. These colors can be used to highlight texture or for a more uniform look.
Image Source: @designsofcomposure
Lavender hair can help make curls and coils pop. If you want to take lavender hair for a spin without any commitment, try the oVertone Haircare Color Depositing Conditioner in Pastel Purple.
Pink can be a fun, eye-catching color, offering a lot of room for creativity. You can go for a lighter baby pink or a deeper, hot pink. Try the As I Am Curl Color in Flamingo Pink to color your curls at home.
Shades of Blue
Blue
Image Source: @beauty_studio_trend_nasice
Whether it’s turquoise or Navy blue, these shades are sure to turn heads. If you’re looking for a deep blue, check out Keracolor Clenditioner Hair Dye in Blue.
Rose Gold
Image Source: @edgybgirl
Rose Gold looks beautiful on just about everything — from jewelry to makeup. Why not incorporate this stunning color into your ‘do too? The warm, pinky golden hue instantly brightens up the face without being so bold that it’s distracting. To test it out sans permanent dye, try the Curlsmith Hair Makeup in Rose Gold.
Toners
An easy, low-maintenance way to shift your look is to use toners.
“Toners are great because they’re ammonia-free and deposit-only, making them easier to rinse out,” says Rose. For my brunettes, consider a golden-brown toner/rinse to add shine and create some beautiful, warm hues
- Toners: “I am also getting a ton of clients asking for toners to shift the tone into something less maintenance. Ask your stylist for a rose gold toner if you have blond hair and want a fun switch-up with minimum damage. This can give you amazing results in less than an hour!
How to Care for Your Hair after Coloring
Coloring textured hair requires special considerations to ensure the hair remains healthy and vibrant. Textured hair, including curly, coily, and kinky hair types, is often more delicate and prone to dryness, so it’s important to approach the coloring process with care.
Here are some key considerations:
1. Hair Health and Condition
- Assess Hair Health: Before coloring, it’s crucial to assess the health of your hair. Textured hair tends to be drier and more fragile, so it’s important to ensure your hair is in good condition. Deep conditioning treatments before coloring can help strengthen and prepare the hair.
2. Moisture Retention
- Hydration: Textured hair needs ample moisture, especially after coloring, which can be drying. Use hydrating shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments designed for color-treated hair to maintain moisture levels and prevent breakage.
3. Choosing the Right Products
- Gentle Formulas: Opt for hair color products that are free of harsh chemicals like ammonia and sulfates. These can be particularly damaging to textured hair. Consider using semi-permanent or demi-permanent dyes, which are less harsh and can be gentler on the hair.
4. Color Selection
- Color Intensity and Shade: Textured hair often absorbs color more readily, so choosing the right shade is important. If you’re going for a vibrant or bold color, it might appear more intense on textured hair. Consulting with a professional can help in selecting the most flattering and appropriate shade.
5. Heat and Chemical Damage
- Minimize Heat Styling: After coloring, limit the use of heat styling tools to prevent additional stress on the hair. When necessary, always use a heat protectant. Also, be cautious about overlapping chemical treatments, such as relaxers or perms, which can weaken the hair further when combined with coloring.
6. Protective Styles
- Protective Styling: After coloring, consider wearing protective styles like braids, twists, or updos. These styles can help reduce manipulation and protect your hair from environmental factors that could cause the color to fade or the hair to become damaged.
7. Color Maintenance
- Regular Touch-ups: Textured hair may require more frequent touch-ups depending on the color and type of dye used. To prevent over-processing, try to focus on roots only during touch-ups and use color-depositing conditioners or masks to maintain vibrancy between salon visits.
8. Scalp Care
- Scalp Health: Maintaining a healthy scalp is essential for the overall health of your hair. Regularly cleanse your scalp with gentle, sulfate-free shampoos to avoid buildup from color products. Moisturize your scalp with oils or lightweight leave-in conditioners to keep it balanced.
9. Professional Consultation
- Expert Advice: Given the unique needs of textured hair, it’s often best to consult with a professional colorist who has experience with your hair type. They can recommend the best products, techniques, and colors to suit your hair’s texture and condition.
10. Aftercare Routine
- Tailored Hair Care: Develop a hair care routine tailored to color-treated, textured hair. This might include regular deep conditioning, protein treatments to strengthen t
“There’s a ton of care involved with any color result,” says Brown. “You should do everything from deep conditioners to preservation of highlight tonality to making sure that no matter how bright or bold we go, the hair is still healthy
If you’re a blonde or client with highlights, opt for a product like DevaCurl No-Poo Blue to preserve the tonality.
Stylist and Education Expert Victor Moore suggests t a good bond or repair service, especially after lightening the hair because it can cause damage. Both recommend ALL ABOUT CURLS® Bond Building Anti-Breakage Spray.
“I send it home with clients for detangling wet or dry hair and for use on dry hair to refresh and revive curls and help protect their color on non-wash days,” sas Moore.
