Fall’s Biggest Hair Color Trends Are Surprisingly Low-Maintenance

The best rule of thumb when selecting a hair color for fall? Forget what’s “in” and go with whatever shade best suits your aesthetic, energy, and lifestyle. That’s not to say trends don’t matter — on the contrary, they can provide killer inspiration for a fall color refresh, something Louise Rusk, colorist and co-founder of Jess & Lou Beauty, says can have far-reaching effects that move beyond hair itself. “Changing our hair and hair color encourages us to be bold and change other things in our life — and that’s exciting and fun,” she says. 

Trending shades for fall run the gamut from espresso and wine-inspired hues to honey wheat and sandy cinnamon shades. For many, that means warm tones to match fall’s cozy vibe, which Rusk says will suit just about anyone. “Most skin tones can incorporate warmer tones, such as copper, gold, or pink, into their hair, using either subtle or vibrant shades,” she adds. 

Another throughline for fall? Transitional shades that offer easy upkeep. “Blondes this fall are ditching the bright Nordic look for a more rooted, grown-out blonde, going from a rich chocolate root into a sandy blonde tone,” says Joseph Michael, a go-to hair colorist for celebrities such as Debra Messing and Daisy Fuentes. The stylist adds that many of his clients are also opting for rich, dimensional hair color with roots that blend into preexisting hues. No matter what level of commitment to color upkeep you’re after, a crop of the country’s top colorists share plenty of inspiration, below.

Honey Wheat Blonde

Looking to transition your summer blonde into something a little richer? This mix of warm and cool-toned blonde shades makes transitioning easy. “Think of it as a deeper, richer blonde with soft, golden hues that feel like a warm embrace for the season ahead,” New York City-based colorist Marie Nino says. Bonus: The shade requires far less maintenance than other blonde hues, which is right in step with the season. 

“Culturally, we’re seeing a move toward more grounded and authentic looks. People want hair that enhances their natural features and fits with the less-is-more mindset,” she explains, citing celebrities such as Beyoncé and Gigi Hadid as embracing similar shades of blonde. “The honey wheat color adds depth, and golden undertones offer a seasonal refresh without feeling too bold or high-maintenance — something that resonates with the current mood in both beauty and fashion. It’s versatile enough to work with both cool and warm wardrobes,” she says.

Vanilla Chai 

Another lived-in hair color is one that’s ubiquitous on TikTok and happens to be an optimal shade for fall: a rooted, multidimensional shade dubbed vanilla chai (and famously worn by Margot Robbie). The hair color has neutral undertones but also incorporates the beige tones of a soft, sandy blonde for a natural look that’s made to grow out gracefully. Often, the shade is created with natural roots, making it a perfect choice for those who don’t want to spend every month or so in the salon for a color refresh.

“This understated blonde is one of my favorite looks to create,” Nino says. “It’s warm yet subtle, making it perfect for low-maintenance style. It looks stunning on individuals with neutral or cool skin tones.” 

Chocolate Espresso

Those with naturally dark hair can enrich their hue by opting for this rich brunette shade that marries the velvety hue of espresso with 70% dark chocolate highlights. The hair color is a hit in Hollywood, with celebrities including Lily Collins, Selena Gomez, Kylie Jenner, and Bella Hadid all taking to the shade. Mixing chocolate-inspired hues with an espresso-inspired base also creates the illusion of more voluminous hair. Michelle Hong, founder and creative director of NYC The Team, calls the look “a bit toned down” from single-color, dramatic brunette, while still creating a “luscious” fall color.

Sandy Cinnamon

Looking for a shade of brown that’s not too dark, and not too light? Say hello to sandy cinnamon, a light brown shade that infuses warm tones throughout the hair. “This hair color complements warmer skin tones and brings out light eye colors,” Michael says. “I usually create this low-maintenance color for people who don’t want to commit to becoming a full brunette because it creates depth while retaining some of the brightness.” The colorist says the shade particularly compliments those with lighter eye colors, while those with warmer or lighter skin tones can opt for a richer take on the color that incorporates copper shades.

Ruby Wine

We can thank Dua Lipa for the rise in this bold red shade for hair color, Hong says. The hue, inspired in part by the ruby cabernet grape, melds shades of purple, copper, and chocolate brown to achieve a striking, deep red color. No wonder it’s such a great option for those looking to transition from summer coppers or deep brunette. “Ruby wine feels so right for fall,” Hong says. “I love the way that hint of red glistens with hair movement.”