As we begin to look forward to the spring and summer months, we’re already seeing celebs go lighter, blonder, brighter, and more sun-kissed. This year, it’s all about creating low-maintenance looks that are easy to care for at home. Clients are looking to extend the time between salon visits with shades that last. We’re also seeing a lot of tonal shades popping up this year. Rather than making a major change, clients are looking for subtle ways to refresh their color; hair gloss treatments, warm babylights, and twighlighting all offer the perfect solution.
Keep reading to see some of our favorite hair color trends for spring and summer 2021 and some of the looks we’re loving as we begin transitioning into fall!
Shadow Roots
The ultimate low-maintenance look, shadow roots combines a dark base with lighter mids and ends. The key to keeping the look intentional is seamless blending. Rather than a clear line between the two shades, lighter hues should be subtly blended into the darker base for an effortless, lived-in look.
Shadow roots work on all hair colors and tones, from the brightest blondes to the darkest brunettes and even on reds and colorful shades. And, because new growth will blend in with the darker roots, it’s a great option for those who want to lengthen the time between salon appointments.
The Face-Frame
For a slightly bolder take on sun-kissed highlights, consider the face-frame. Carefully placed highlights around the face makes this look pop without being too high-maintenance. It’s a great option for those looking for something a little different than a classic balayage but who aren’t ready to commit to all-over color. The end result is slightly edgy, still classic, and 100% gorgeous.
90s-Inspired Highlights
Thicker, bolder, and dare we say chunkier highlights are making a comeback. But unlike the high-contrast, blocky highlights of 20 to 30 years ago, the new 90s-inspired look is softer thanks to subtle blending and modern, hand-painting techniques. It’s a nod to the past, while still being firmly 2021.
The New Strawberry Blonde
This year’s take on strawberry blonde is a little darker and a little richer than classic strawberry hues while still being totally different than the coppery colors we’ve been seeing over the past few months. It’s a great option for those who want a subtle change from naturally red locks or those looking for a bold alternative to summer’s usual sea of sun-kissed blondes.
Strawberry hues also work on brunettes who want to go warmer for the summer and fall months. Incorporated as softly blended babylights, strawberry shades offer gorgeous dimension and depth to both light and dark brunettes.
Iridescent Pastels
Colorful hair is here to stay, and this year, we’re seeing the trend veer away from single-shade colors and embracing multi-hued, dimensional looks. With a subtle nod to the inside of a seashell or a swoop of cotton candy, iridescent pastels are having a major moment this summer. The look can be toned down by placing colorful pieces in natural patterns, essentially highlighting hair with rainbow hues, or it can be dialed up with decidedly unnatural placement. Either way, the end result is nothing short of stunning.
