Katie Holmes just debuted a head of waist-grazing, beachy blonde waves—and let’s just say, it’s giving major summer inspiration. Known for her laid-back brunette styles, the Poker Face actress has officially gone mermaid mode with golden lengths that shimmer, bounce, and feel pulled straight from a Sofia Coppola daydream. The look is impossibly pretty—romantic, ocean-inspired, and perfectly undone—and is the kind of hair you imagine blowing in the wind on the Amalfi Coast while sipping something spritzed. And while mermaid hair has been around for years, Katie’s fresh take is everything we didn't know we needed. “Mermaid hair is all about long, flowing, ethereal waves that look effortlessly magical,” says celebrity hairstylist, Vanessa Ocando. “It enhances the hair’s natural texture and brings softness to the face.” Think long layers, airy waves, and color that catches the light without looking overdone. There’s an ease to the look, but don't let it fool you—it's all about strategic intention. It’s aspirational, yes, but it’s also achievable. Read on to learn exactly how to get the look for yourself. How to Get the Look To style mermaid hair at home, it’s all about embracing texture and creating soft, natural waves. Start with a hydrating leave-in or curl cream on damp hair to enhance your hair’s natural texture and prevent frizz. Once your hair is prepped, reach for a 1-inch or 1.25-inch barrel curling iron. Wrap sections of hair around the barrel, but leave the ends out for a relaxed, undone finish. Alternate the direction of your curls to keep them looking organic and beachy. “This helps avoid a too-perfect, styled look,” says Ocando. If the curls turn out too tight, gently stretch the ends or run your fingers through them to loosen up the shape. For the finishing touch, brush through the waves or spritz with a light sea salt spray to create more texture, or go for a shine serum to give your hair that fresh, glossy, sunlit look. Mermaid hair thrives on softness, so avoid any crunchy curls or stiff finishes. The goal is that just-stepped-out-of-the-ocean glow—effortless, soft, and natural.

Self-expression via stylish accents are one of the season’s biggest style trends, popping up as charms on purses to decorative add-ons for shoes. Though hair jewelry isn’t considered “new,” we’re definitely seeing an uptick in people outfitting their strands in the chicest ways. “Hair jewelry is making a big comeback, transforming from a niche adornment into a mainstream fashion statement,” says Stephanie Angelone, master stylist at RPZL in New York City. She adds that its resurgence aligns with the broader trend of maximalism and hyper personalization we’re seeing across the entire fashion sector. “In 2025, hair jewelry feels less like an accessory and more like an extension of the overall look,” Angelone adds. “It's part of the outfit, the vibe, the image. It's becoming more intentional, architectural, and expressive.” Keep reading to learn more about summer 2025’s chicest trend. What Is Hair Jewelry? Hair jewelry is a statement accessory worn in or on hair, like sculptural clip-ons, hair necklaces, or sparkling charms and cuffs. And they’re not the same thing as headbands, bows, or claw clips. “Hair jewelry tends to be more detailed, while showcasing craftsmanship and delicacy into each of the pieces which makes them exquisite,” notes Eddie M. Parra, senior hair stylist at New York City's Benjamin Salon. “From crowns to a whimsical metal hanging off your hair there are so many ways to incorporate the hair jewelry pieces into your look.” Angelone adds that today’s evolved hair jewelry incorporates materials such as crystals, pearls, and metals to create pieces that allow for personal expression—just like traditional jewelry. How to Wear and Style Hair Jewelry Walking around big cities like New York or San Francisco to resort-like spots in the Bahamas or Hawaii, you’ll spot hair jewelry in so many iterations. They’re also all over the red carpet right now, with the recent Met Gala 2025 offering more than a handful of examples. Whether it’s rings wrapped around a braid, metallic pieces and dangling charm accents, or pearl necklaces draped across the back, there are lots of ways to lean into this trend. Match the occasion: Opt for subtle pieces for everyday wear and more elaborate designs for special events. For example, you could opt for an elevated (but still casual) option, you can do a pearl claw clip or a sculptural metal piece in a ponytail. Experiment with placement: “Don’t be afraid to try unconventional placements—like wrapping a necklace around a bun or weaving chains or a seashell extension,” Angelone says. Consider your hair type: Select pieces that enhance and/or work well with your hair’s natural texture and volume. For instance, if you have finer hair you may want to stick to lightweight pieces versus anything too heavy, while more structured pieces can create balance and show up beautifully against denser textures. Balance with your outfit: Hair jewelry is an accessory (just like earrings or a statement necklace) so consider how it plays with the rest of your look. If your outfit already has lots of embellishment, go for a sleeker hair accent. Or if your look is more minimal, a bold hairpiece can be the perfect standout detail.

There’s something brewing in Hollywood—and no, it’s not another live action movie. Florence Pugh just debuted a striking new haircut that’s already sending ripple effects through group chats and salon chairs alike. One part punk, one part polished, the mixie feels like a deliberate pivot from the predictable, and it’s catching on fast. A hybrid of the sweet, close-cropped pixie and the undone, rebellious mullet, the mixie marries short, choppy layers up front with a little length and movement in the back. “It’s the cooler, edgier cousin of the pixie cut,” says celebrity hairstylist Vanessa Ocando. “The key difference from a traditional pixie is that the mixie doesn’t hug the head. The hair has flow and confidence.” It’s got edge. It’s got attitude. And yes, it’s surprisingly wearable. Florence’s platinum, tousled take on the look gives the retro-inspired cut a decidedly 2025 spin. It’s giving Joan Jett meets Jean Seberg, but reimagined with a modern touch that works on and off the red carpet. It also feels like a welcome rebellion from the parade of polished lobs and blunt bobs that have dominated Instagram for months now. “This is a statement haircut,” Ocando adds. “It makes people stand out and shows confidence.” It’s short enough to feel liberating but leaves plenty of room to play—whether with styling, color, or texture. Bonus: it grows out into a lived-in shag that still looks intentional. Ready to copy Florence? Read on below to learn how to make the mixie your own. What to Ask for at the Salon When headed to the salon, start with reference photos—plural. And be sure to "ask for a pixie cut with extra length in the back and a slightly shaggy, layered finish,” says hairstylist and salon owner, Jerome Lordet. “It’s important to talk through how dramatic or subtle you want the contrast to be, so your stylist can tailor it to suit your face shape and texture.” Ocando recommends booking with someone who has serious experience in razor and precision cutting. “Think Vidal Sassoon-style work—sharp, detailed, and intentional,” she adds. And when you’re scrolling for inspo, don’t just go by the cut. Look for images in your own hair color and texture. It gives you a better idea of what it’ll actually look like on you. Keep in mind, this is not a wash-and-go for everyone. Some textures will require more upkeep than others. “If you’re not ready for a regular maintenance routine, consult with your stylist before taking the plunge,” Ocando adds. How to Style a Mixie The mixie’s magic lies in the texture—and how you choose to style it can completely shift the mood. “Use a texturizing cream or pomade to emphasize the choppy layers and define the shape,” says Lordet, who suggests slicking the front forward into a piecey fringe for a bold, directional vibe. Want something sleeker? Push the front back for a more sculptural silhouette. Either way, it’s all about contrast - the cropped edges up front and the length in back were made to play off each other. For a more lived-in feel, let your natural texture take the lead. “A salt spray or styling cream helps create a soft, flirty finish,” says Ocando. “It makes the hair look fun, natural - like it just fell that way.” Keep the tools to a minimum. Air-drying or using low heat helps preserve the cut’s shape without weighing it down or overworking the texture. And if you’re in the mood for drama? Go all in on the wet look. “I love a slicked-back moment—it adds shine and structure and makes the cut feel even more elevated,” Ocando adds. Apply just enough to sculpt the hair into place without flattening it out. The goal isn’t to erase the layers, it’s to amplify them. That’s the beauty of the mixie! It’s adaptable, and you can take it from grunge to glam with a few styling tweaks.

Hairstyle trends come and go, often emerging with a new twist that brings it squarely into modern times. The recently revived pageboy bob is the perfect example of this. Made famous in the 1960s by forever icons like Princess Diana and The Beatles, today’s pageboy bob has managed to fuse softness with precision and nostalgia with modernity. Here’s everything you need to know about the look, which is currently making waves everywhere. What Is the Pageboy Bob? The pageboy bob is a sleek, chin-length bob with blunt edges and often a straight fringe. It got its name because it looks like a style worn by English page boys in the medieval era, says Jessica Ruby, celebrity stylist and owner of The Flamingo Lounge in New York City and Los Angeles. (Don’t worry, the updated version is way cooler.) “This style hit the mainstream in the 1960s thanks to mod icons like The Beatles and Princess Diana, whose signature variation kept the shape but added volume and polish,” Ruby says. “It can be worn as a clean bob or with short round graduation. This look is fashion-forward and editorial—think East London cool girl energy, reimagined through a 2025 lens.” This short hairstyle is trending among other cropped do’s, like the Parisian and Italian bobs and the Christy cut (a modern version of the bowl cut). Ruby says that while those airy, tousled cuts lend a breezy feel, the pageboy bob stands out for its drama and precision. “We’re seeing a shift from low-maintenance to high-impact. The pageboy bob is unapologetically styled; it’s sharp, intentional, and timeless,” Ruby says. “Models, influencers, and musicians are embracing more structured looks that showcase confidence and personality, and the style’s being reinterpreted everywhere from TikTok to fashion week.” How to Style and Maintain a Pageboy Bob It’s no wonder the pageboy bob is taking off. It gives instant presence and loads of cool girl vibes. Plus, you can style it either super sleek for a modern mod aesthetic, or you can add texture for something more raw and rebellious. If you go for this power cut, follow this advice to keep it maintained and styled. Get Regular Trims: As with any structured cut, regular trims are important. “To keep the shape clean and fresh, you should trim it every six to eight weeks,” Ruby says. She adds that it’s essential to work with a hairstylist who has advanced training since this is a haircut that demands both technical skill and artistry. Perfect Your Blowout: You can wear a pageboy cut with natural texture, but if you want to capture the iconic essence of this style then a blowout is a must. “Start by wrap-drying the hair with a vent brush and a powerful blow dryer,” Ruby says. A blowout cream and serum will go a long way in adding a healthy sheen. Use a Flat Iron for Precision: Along with a blowdryer and round brush, a flat iron can help achieve those ultra-sleek, face-framing lines. Always use a heat protectant to prevent damage and to keep ends looking sharp and polished. Try Soft Waves for Contrast: To switch up the sleek style, try adding a few loose waves with a flat iron or curling wand. It’s a nice departure from the super structured look and has a more casual feel to it that’s perfect for weekends or more relaxed outings.

You’ve heard of the Parisian bob and have perhaps caught wind of the trending-again Christy cut, but we’d like to introduce you to the latest cropped hairstyle inspiring people to go for the big chop. Meet the Italian bob, a low-key, super chic cut that has “quiet luxury” written all over it. Keep reading to learn what the Italian bob is, what sets it apart from other short hairstyles, and how to style it at home. What Is the Italian Bob? The Italian bob dates back to the 1960s and is characterized by its blunt perimeter that sits right at the jawline, says Trevor Drenik, stylist and owner of The Studio by Trevor Allen in Sola Salons. The bottom is full versus layered or feathery, and it’s usually styled with a bend or wave for some texture and either a deep side part or smooth middle part. “While the French bob leans playful and artsy—often featuring bangs and a tousled finish—the Italian bob is more sculpted and sleek,” says Leo Izquierdo, hairstylist and co-founder of IGK Hair Care. “It’s less undone and more polished—the perfect balance of structure and softness.” Along with exuding a sort of chic and quiet confidence, the Italian bob is also pretty low maintenance and versatile. Drenik says we’ve seen everyone from Hailey Bieber to Kourtney Kardashian-Barker to Zendaya sporting this look recently. Izquierdo adds that it also taps into the Euro-inspired minimalism we’re seeing everywhere right now, and says it proves that short hair can still feel sensual, elegant, and powerful. How to Get an Italian Bob The good news about the Italian bob is that it’s somehow flattering on basically everyone. You just need to make sure your stylist customizes the look to your face shape, hair texture, and even hair density. “A stylist with great experience can customize this for you, adding soft layers, face framing, or waves can help enhance or minimize facial structures,” Drenik says. Make sure to bring a picture of the look so your stylist knows what you’re going for, and be open to some slight tweaks to ensure the style is perfect for you. Pro Tips on Maintaining and Styling an Italian Bob As for maintenance, Drenik says your cut schedule will depend on your lifestyle, hair type, and home routine. He recommends hitting the salon every six to eight weeks to maintain the polished look. This is par for the course with short hair, which isn’t as forgiving during the grow out face as a longer style. For styling, try these expert tips: Make it Glossy: Izquierdo recommends going for a glossy, shiny finish. He says to start with IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray on damp hair before heat-styling; it mimics the effect of a keratin treatment and protects up to 450°F. Use a hair serum to tame flyaways and a finishing spray to boost shine and lock in your style. Add a Soft Bend: One of the key characteristics of the Italian bob is its bend. Drenik says to use a wand or flat iron to add little bends all over, but don’t make them perfect! “I always add a wave going away from the face, then everything else, rotate in different directions, as this gives you a more lived-in look.” Use a Texturizer: “Adding a texture spray before blow drying will help define volume and fullness,” Drenik advises. He loves the Kevin Murphy Body Mass or Color Wow: Carb-Infused Leave In Thickening Treatment. Build Volume at the Roots: For a little oomph, add some volume. “Blow-dry with a round brush to build volume at the roots and keep ends tucked under,” says Izquierdo.

You don’t have to live in South Korea to know that the Korean “hush cut” is having a major moment in the beauty sphere. This trendy layered hairstyle—known for its whisper soft layers and airy texture—is all over TikTok and Instagram right now. Though it gives “just woke up like this vibes,” the cut actually requires quite a bit of precision and skill. If you find a stylist that can nail it, though? You might just revel in the best haircut of your life. What Is the Korean Hush Cut? The Korean hush haircut is a lightweight, layered hairstyle that prioritizes soft texture and longer, face-framing pieces. It gets its name because it’s a subtle, more “whisper of a cut” versus a bold and choppy statement style. “It’s designed to frame the face with soft feathered layers, starting around the cheekbones or chin. It’s usually accompanied by wispy curtain bangs, so when you pull your hair back, you can utilize these wispy face-framing pieces and fringe to add a romantic feel to your style,” explains Kristina Dunn, stylist and owner of Dark Dahlia Salon in Sola Salons. Though the hush cut originated in South Korea and was made famous by celebrities in K-Pop and TV dramas, it has enjoyed a global breakout thanks to its gorgeous look, personalization potential, and versatility. “Whether you’re working with collarbone-length hair or waist-grazing strands, straight or wavy textures, this cut adapts beautifully,” says Aaron Grenia, stylist and co-founder of IGK Hair Care. “It flatters the face without overpowering it, making it easy to style but never boring.” Why the Hush Cut Is So Tricky to Pull Off Like many hairstyles with nuanced layers and built-in texture, the hush cut requires a skilled stylist to pull it off well. The whisper-light layers must be done precisely, and the person’s entire face shape and hair texture really needs to be taken into consideration, too. “Unlike trendier layered cuts that skew edgy or choppy—think wolf cut or Y2K shags—the hush cut is defined by its softness,” Grenia tells us. “It’s less about drama, more about balance: volume without bulk, layers without harsh lines. Everything should feel weightless and flowy—like it grew in that way.” If you love the look of Korean hush cuts, it’s important to find someone who understands the nuances of the style, is familiar with your type of hair texture, and is confident about their ability to create the look. Grenia says, “Look for someone who understands how to cut for movement and not just shape. The magic of the hush cut lies in its subtlety, and it takes a light hand to get it just right.” Bringing a picture will help a ton, but keep in mind the style will be tailored to your hair type and length. Tips for Styling the Korean Hush Cut If you get a hush cut, follow these expert tips for styling at home. Lean Into Your Texture To style a Korean hush cut at home, texture is your best friend. Grenia recommends using a texturizing product, like the IGK Beach Club Touchable Texture Spray, to “instantly bring those airy layers to life adding movement and grit without stiffness.” Play Up Your Volume Boosting volume is a definite do with a hush cut. Use a thickening mousse at the roots and rough dry for some nice lift, Grenia advises. A blow dry cream can also boost shine, bounce, and texture. Try Different Styles One of the perks of this style is that it looks so good even when your hair’s up. “You don’t necessarily need the bangs to accompany the rest of the layers, but they’re definitely one of my favorite parts of this cut,” Dunn says. “I also love that it adds style to your ponytails.” Just pull down those chin-length layers and the bangs for a soft, breezy vibe.

The ‘90s brought us some of beauty’s most iconic (and freshly revived) looks, like supermodel blowouts, French manicures, and shimmery pastel eyelids. You can add another resurrected trend to the ranks: the Christy Cut. “I love that it is equal parts bold and minimal,” says Jennifer Korab, celebrity hairstylist and owner of Renaissance Salon & Spa in Hillsborough, New Jersey. “It makes a statement without trying too hard, and it looks just as good on the runway as it does on the street.” Intrigued? Keep reading to learn what the Christy cut is, how it’s being adapted to modern times, and pro tips on styling it. What Is the Christy Cut? Inspired by supermodel Christy Turlington who rocked this look through the ‘90s, the Christy cut is a cropped style that embraces soft structure, a little texture, and a sort of non-fussy easiness. “It’s a sleek, fashion-forward take on the classic bowl cut. It’s sharp, sophisticated, and has that effortless cool-girl vibe,” Korab says. Technically, yes, it is a bowl cut. But not the awkward bowl cut associated with your childhood. This variation is a polished, modern version with tailored edges and soft underlayers. Korab says it hugs the head in all the right places, with clean lines and a refined silhouette that gives it a high-end editorial appeal. “We are in a major ‘90s revival, and bold, structured hair is part of this movement,” says Korab. “Celebrities like Hunter Schafer and Charlize Theron have been spotted with similar shapes, and there’s something striking about a short haircut that frames the face and shows off your features. It’s confidence in haircut form.” Celebrity hairstylist Mia Santiago agrees, adding that this fresh take makes it feel new with a twist of nostalgia woven in. She adds, “Plus, people are loving embracing their natural texture. The model, Mathilda Gvarliani, is perfection rocking the Christy.” How to Style and Maintain a Christy Cut Whether you’re going for the big chop or looking for a new way to zhuzh up your short hair, this cropped hairstyle is surprisingly flattering and versatile. Korab recommends it for those with straight to slightly wavy texture, and notes that it really flatters oval, heart, and square face shapes. Bring a photograph to your stylist so they have a visual reference of the look you’re going for. From there, you can customize the Christy cut to your specific features. “Blow dry with a small round brush to keep that polished finish,” Korab says. Work with your hair’s natural texture and waves versus trying to go against it. Bringing out your natural texture is the beauty of this style. Finish by styling with using a lightweight smoothing cream or styling balm to define the shape and control flyaways. A shine spray can also take it to the next level. Since this haircut is all about shape, regular trims every four to six weeks are essential. Alternatively, Santiago says you can let it grow out and evolve over the course of eight to 12 weeks if you’re OK with adding length.

There’s the edgy allure of a cropped ‘do and the glamour of a long, flowing mane, but the middle ground doesn’t get enough credit for its beauty. Though sometimes considered an awkward “in-between,” medium-length haircuts are often incredibly flattering and even style forward. To prove our point, we consulted with celebrity stylists about their favorite medium-length hairstyles that are full-on gorgeous. So whether you’re transitioning from one length to the other or simply want to switch up your current medium-length cut, you’ll find inspiration from here. 01 of 08 The Blunt Lob You’ve heard of the blunt bob, but what about a blunt lob? The perfect medium-length haircut, this style “typically sits around the collarbone with no layers and keeps the ends blunt and sharp” says Jenna Spino, hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. “This cut looks great styled sleek and straight, showing off the sharp bottom line.” 02 of 08 Old Money Lob While the "old money" bob sits just above the chin, the lob grazes the shoulder blades and rests just below them. The goal: polished volume. "This is a classic take on a blunt bob," says Kayla Lofaro, hairstylist and owner of the Discotheque salon in Los Angeles, Calif. "It has movement, which can be accomplished by using a volumizing mousse and a big round brush. It's a truly timeless haircut!" 03 of 08 French Girl Midi For some Parisian chicness, try on the French Girl midi—a medium-length twist on the very trendy Parisian Bob). "This year’s French-inspired midi cut takes cues from the iconic muses of 1960s Paris—like Jane Birkin, Françoise Hardy, and Anna Karina—with its soft structure, long curtain or full fringe, and a subtly rounded silhouette that skims the shoulders," says Ashley Streicher, hairstylist and collective member at R+Co. " It’s clean and feminine, with a touch of flirtatious drama." 04 of 08 Textured, Mid-Length Hairstyle Whether you want to lean into your natural texture or add a bit more movement to your mane, a shaggy mid-length style is a great go-to. Spino says this layered and textured cut creates a low-key “messy” look. “I can be a wash and go cut, or it can also be styled with a curling iron or waver.” Keep the ends out for a more beachy look and finish with a texture spray for more dimension. 05 of 08 Marquise Midi Like so many other trends from the '70s, marquise layers are enjoying a return in today's modern age and incorporating them into a medium-length hairstyle makes perfect sense, says Katelyn Ellsworth, hairstylist and founder at The Roslyn in San Diego, Calif. It gets its name because it creates the shape of a marquise-cut gemstone. "It is textured slightly at the ends and has a thin frame of layers that start around the cheekbone area," she says. Wispy fringe is optional, but a fun option for the warmer months. 06 of 08 Medium Shag If you really like a textured look then the retro-modern shag is the way to go. This new spin on an old favorite has been enjoying quite a bit of time in the spotlight for its lived-in appeal. "The shag is an edgy haircut perfect for someone with thicker hair that still wants length," Lofaro says. "This is a very low maintenance style that could be achieved by air drying or styling with a 1 inch round brush." 07 of 08 Grown Out Box Bob Last season’s sharp bob has eased into something more relaxed—a mid-length version that hits just at the collarbone. "The shape retains a defined outline, but now with softened edges and gentle internal layers for subtle movement. It’s sleek, but not severe," Streicher says. If you're transitioning to longer hair, ask your stylist to keep the lengths long and remove some of the sharpness from the bob. Customized layers can give it a more personalized touch. 08 of 08 Longer Layers Yes, you can have medium-length hair with longer layers, too. The idea is to incorporate the layers in the lower portion and to customize the look to your face shape and hair texture. Spino says, “This cut is a more classic look that sits at the shoulders with some layers for movement. Style with a blow dryer and round brush, style it straighter, or opt for a more voluminous look.”

Color theory is one of the most useful tools in art and design, and you might have even used it when applying makeup—like bringing out the color of your eyes with an opposing hue) The concept can also be applied when choosing a hair color, zeroing in on undertones and how they pair with your complexion and other features. On top of that, lots of hair salons are offering color analysis consultants to go through the process professionally. Ready to dabble in color matchmaking? Follow this quick guide on how to use color theory to find the best hair color for you. What Is Color Theory? Color theory starts with the “color wheel,” which is a round diagram featuring “pie slices” of primary, secondary, and tertiary hues. The idea is that opposite colors (like blue and orange) create striking contrast while neighboring hues (like blue and green) are more subtle. While we typically see the color wheel in art applications, it absolutely comes in handy for hair color (which is an art in and of itself). “Color theory is the foundation of every great colorist’s work since it helps with understanding how hues interact, how to balance warm and cool tones, and how to enhance a guest’s natural features, allowing for a unique and custom color specifically suited to that guest,” explains Janell Geason, executive director of Aveda Technical Education. Heard of Seasonal Color Analysis? This method actually applies color theory to personal coloring—your skin tone, hair, and eye color—to determine which hues flatter you most, explains Briana Martin, professional hair colorists in Miami Beach and Sarasota, Fla. They're divided into Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter, each tied to specific undertones and intensity levels. By matching your season, you can choose colors that enhance your natural features rather than overwhelm them. The same concept can also extend to your hair color. How to Use Color Theory for Hair Color Follow this step by step guide on finding your most flattering hair colors via the color theory method. Step 1: Analyze Your Complexion Undertones The first step is to determine whether you have warm, cool, or neutral undertones. Martin says to look at your veins—bluish means cool, greenish means warm, and a mix suggests neutral. You can also see how your skin reacts to jewelry; silver tends to flatter cool tones while gold suits warm tones. Generally speaking, warm pairs best with warm while cool pairs best with cool. “Warm undertones pair well with golden, honey, or copper shades, while cool undertones suit ashy, icy, or cool brunette tones. Neutral skin tones can wear a range of colors,” says Alanah Kenyon, stylist and owner of Studio Linea. Step 2: Factor in Your Natural Hair & Eye Color Next, factor in your natural hair and eye color. “Looking at the client’s natural depth and pigment gives clues on what shades will enhance or contrast beautifully,” says Kenyon. And if you want to make your eyes pop then you’d go with a hair color on the opposite side of the spectrum. “ Rich, golden hues can make blue or green eyes pop, while cooler tones emphasize hazel or deep brown eyes,” Kenyon explains. Step 3: Focus on Balance Versus Hard Rules Color theory can guide your hair choices, but real-world application is all about balance and nuanced choices. “For example, just because someone has warm undertones doesn’t mean they can’t wear cool hair colors—we just have to tweak the shades,” Kenyon says. “A client with warm undertones who wants ash blonde may need a hint of warmth in their gloss to keep them from looking washed out.” She says she also uses contrast strategically. For instance, if someone has green eyes, adding warm copper tones will make them pop, while a soft, cool brown might create a more subtle, elegant effect. Geason agrees. She adds, “Someone with cool skin can still wear warm tones if they’re customized correctly; maybe they’d wear a golden beige instead of an overly warm copper.” And someone with warm undertones might shy away from cool hair colors like ash blonde, but a neutral beige blonde or a cool tone with subtle golden lowlights can strike the right balance. The goal is to create a harmonious, healthy-looking result that complements your skin beautifully, and the best hair colorists can do this with ease. Step 4: Consider Your Maintenance Preferences Finally, make sure to factor in your own preferences and the upkeep. Just because a hair color looks great on you doesn’t mean it’s the right pick based on your lifestyle or hair goals. “I always ask, ‘What do you want your hair maintenance schedule and budget to look like?’ A bright, cool blonde might require more maintenance and toning sessions, while a soft, blended brunette might only need touch-ups every few months,” Kenyon says. Maybe you’re in a season of going full drama, or perhaps you want to keep things easy for a little bit. Let this guide your decisions while sitting in the salon chair.

We’ve seen a lot of Y2K trends emerge from the ether in recent months—capri pants, French manis, and shimmery pastel eyeshadow—but chunky highlights is a comeback story we didn’t have on our bingo card. Yet here they are, as covetable as they once were two-ish decades ago, this time with a modern approach that makes them feel fresh for 2025. “Chunky highlights became very popular in the late ‘90s and early 2000s; celebrities like Kelly Clarkson and Christina Aguilera come to mind,” says Zach Mesquit, a professional colorist and brand ambassador for Wella Professionals. “I personally think it’s a fun look, but the wearer has to have a certain style to pull it off—either edgy or very bubbly. Think pop-star vibes.” What’s interesting about the return of chunky highlights is that it’s a sharp deviation from the subtle quiet luxury/old money/clean girl aesthetic that’s been popular for a while now. Both are trending at the same time, with the Y2K chunky highlight look serving as a bold alternative for those who want to embrace a bold, loud, and in-your-face style. What Are Chunky Highlights? Unlike subtle highlights that blend in with the rest of your hair, chunky highlights are thick, streaky stripes of blonde through the hair. “When the hair is parted ,there are distinct lines or streaks of blonde in the hair that create a very high contrast and artificial look,” Mesquit says. This technique is also referred to as “block coloring,” which has actually been around for a while. For example, Audrey Hepburn had this look in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, says Becca Kraeger, a master colorist and educator at Spoke & Weal. She says that today’s chunky highlights can run the gamut from the high contrast we saw in the ‘00s to softer variations. “I love when this trend is done more subtly. I like taking larger panels, but making sure the dimension is only a shade or two lighter than my clients’ natural [color],” Kraeger says. “This way it still looks blended, but gives a pop at the same time. [And] when the highlights are blurred at the top it gives a more expensive color.” What to Know Before Getting Chunky Highlights Chunky highlights are a look. If you haven’t had them before, it’s the equivalent of going from ultra-long strands to a pixie cut—people are going to notice, and you will definitely get a little shock every time you look in the mirror. Here are a few pro tips. Prepare for Upkeep: The grow out can be very harsh, so prepare for routine salon visits to maintain your highlights. “The look is very much the opposite of blended or natural, so it isn’t something you can get away with going months between salon visits,” Mesquit says. Use a Toner: Along with routine visits to the salon, Kraeger recommends toning your hair to prevent the chunky highlights from turning orange or brassy. Bring Reference Photos: Always have a few reference photos with you. Kraeger says, “You’ll need to go to an experienced colorist that will collaborate with you on a finished look that suits your fashion style, haircut, and lifestyle.” You Can Soften the Look: If you want to ease into chunky highlights, start with a lower contrast highlight. Also, Kraeger says to ask your colorist to blur the panels at the top so they blend in a little bit more (if that’s the look you want). Deep Condition Regularly: As with any highlighting service, Mesquit says, “bleaching the hair will be required so the hair needs to be strong enough to handle that process.” Also, make sure to deep condition your hair weekly to keep it healthy.