The peak of the summer heat is behind us which means it’s time to hang up our beachy waves, sun-kissed tones and mermaid locks for another year. Instead, the cooler months offer a fresh new way to experiment with colours, textures and style to suit the autumn weather.
Whether it be undone locks, athleisure-inspired ponytails or Sabrina Carpenter’s nod to the 1960s with a butterfly haircut, we break down all the autumn hair trends we’re loving in 2025 with the help of celebrity hair stylist Adam Livermore. Plus, keep reading to see all the products that will help you achieve the look.
What are the autumn hair trends for 2025?
Sporty ponytails
A great trend for those with long hair, Adam says drawing inspiration from upcoming fashion runway collections have sparked hair trends with a sporty feel. More specifically, a ponytail with a sporty vibe.
“Casual ponytails, effortless looks and headbands all complement athleisure-inspired collections. We saw this vibe at Hermés, Dior, Stella McCartney, Ferragamo, Brandon Maxwell, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and others,” he shares.
And how do you achieve this look? Aim for a looped ponytail right at mid-height. Avoid anything too low down at the nape or too high.
Cheeky braids
Braids were everywhere in 2024 and it doesn’t look like they’re going anywhere in the new year. Instead, they get a bit of a youthful update with what Adam is dubbing “cheeky braids”. While braids can often be worn as a protective style for those with textured hair, the autumn 2025 version of braids is more fun and playful, with nothing too strict or structured.
“We saw this at Hermés, Isabel Marant, Valentino, Batsheva , Balenciaga, and Carolina Herrera,” he adds.
Neo-grunge texture
Perhaps a sign of the times (cc: cossie livs), autumn 2025 is welcoming distressed, deconstructed, imperfect, and perhaps a little grungy textures. Not to be mistaken for dirty or unintentionally messy locks, the neo-grunge vibe leans on a more rebellious vibe. Think tousled waves, undone layers, choppy bangs or the ever-popular wolf cut.
“It’s a great way to take a classic everyday look and give it a bolder, edgier feeling. Lived-in gritty meets glam,” Adam says.
Retro-inspired looks
Like fashion, what’s old is new again with the revival of retro-inspired hairstyles. Autumn will see classic looks from the 1950s through the to 1990s with a slightly modern twist. But don’t just take our word for it. Italian fashion designer Alessandro Michele has been quoted speaking about “Démodé” or “not in fashion now” as he was working through the archives at Valentino and bringing past inspiration to life.
Look to celebrities like actress Zendaya at the 2025 Golden Globes with her face-framing bob, or singer Sabrina Carpenter’s “set and brushed” throwback locks.
What hair colour looks best in autumn?
When it comes to hair colour trends in autumn, look to nature for inspiration. Warm browns, deep reds, smoky brunettes, bronzed tones and creamy undertones are timeliness classics. Consider your skin tone before deciding on a colour, especially on cooler complexions.
What hair length makes you look younger?
Before deciding on a hair length, reflect on your type of hair. Generally speaking, those with thinner hair may benefit from a shorter mid-length or pixie cut with plenty of texture to achieve a youthful appearance. For those with thicker hair, a medium to longer hairdo can help add volume for a more polished and younger look.
Is long or short hair in for 2025?
While some hair styles like the sporty ponytail cater towards those with longer hair, retro-inspired hair dos and grungier looks are perfect for short-haired girlies. Having one or the other shouldn’t make you feel unfashionable or “out” so do whatever feels right for you!
What is the trend in hair colour for 2025?
Much like the weather, the warm tones of autumn will reflect in hair colours. Think golden blondes, caramel browns and rich auburn reds.
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