To future-proof it, have your colorist root-shadow the color with a very light translucent taupe so that the grow-out blends. Then when winter comes and you push appointments, it does not look like you are pushing. That is the flex.
Sculpted Ends Platinum Grace
This hair is like a greatest hits album of classic classiness: cool-toned platinum gray, brushed and gently curled under at the ends. It has structure, but not stiffness, and the hair is as polished as a necklace of pearls. It is the hair that appears to be in the right place with silk, satin, or a sharply cut blazer and here it is.
To preserve the cool brilliance of silver highlights like these, I like to use dpHUE Cool Blonde Shampoo—yes, even for gray! It does not over-tone any yellowing. I even use a heat-protective leave-in mist, such as Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair, even when I am using hot rollers or a light blowout, just to ensure that polished finish is frizz-free.
This look is so authoritative and at the same time so soft. It makes me think of the way stylist Chris Appleton discusses the strength of the so-called intentional volume- this is it. It is not big hair, but it is presence. You might be attending a board meeting or drinking a cabernet in Rome and the hair works in both.
What makes this even better in my view is the way it says: I take care of myself, but I am not chasing anything. It is ready, not delicate. A tip of the hat to the old, and a shine on the present.
Side-Swept Lift Dimensional Steel
It is simply something wild about this cut, shorter in the back, dramatic volume on top, cool steel base with lighter stripes that reflect the light in motion. The angular swipe on the forehead immediately provides shape to the face and the contrasting shades all over are simply amazing. It is not shy-man stuff–which is precisely the idea.
In the case of such hair, light products are essential. To get root lift, I apply Virtue Volumizing Primer and once styled, I apply R+Co Trophy Shine + Texture Spray to add that silky, piece-y texture. To maintain color, Redken Color Extend Graydiant Conditioner maintains those cool tones snatched and photo-ready.
The shade brings to mind what colorist Jack Martin has always said: silver does not need to be soft or faded, it can be sculptural. Powerful. I believe it is an excellent fall alternative to those of us who are itching to wear something that is less cozy and more trendy.
A piece of advice in case you choose this path: a sharp cut and regular trims are not up to discussion. The form is the message, so leave it sharp.
Ash-Blonde Layered Volume and Bangs
It could be the most wearable fall hair inspiration I have seen in a long time: a light ash-blonde, feathered layers that fall just below the shoulder, and curtain bangs that flatter the eyes. It is young, yet not so sweet, traditional, yet fresh. It is a perfect neutral-blonde shade to be combined with natural silver regrowth, which is a great option to choose by people who want to reduce the number of visits to a salon.
Toning glosses are my best friend with such shades. To maintain that light ash undertone until the next touch up, try Kristin Ess Signature Hair Gloss in Winter Wheat. A light boar bristle brush can also help spread the scalp oils to shine in the fall air that becomes dry.
When I wear my hair this way, I am always complimented. It is warm and refined, as though you have just stepped out of a Nancy Meyers film set. Stylist Tracey Cunningham has said that a soft movement and subtle tones can give a lit-from-within effect on mature skin and she is right on the spot.
In case you are in the mood to update your look with a soft touch, this cut and color is one of the safest, most flattering bets this fall. Bonus: it looks gorgeous with comfy knits and traditional jewelry.
Vintage Influenced Classic Slate Roll
This is pure nostalgic glam, which has been revived temporarily. The rich slate gray with smoke-silver threads are carved into a retro roll with a gentle twist- emitting the mid-century glamour with the contemporary assurance. It is theatrical but not costume-y, and it is so nice to see mature hair being treated as a style, and not an afterthought.
I suggest using LOral Professional Silver Shampoo to maintain that slate base, and a little Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine to maintain texture pliable and shiny without stiffness. Old-school hot rollers can be magical, in this case, just leave them to cool down before brushing out.
I will always tell you that vintage-inspired hair is not about going back in time; it is about a vibe. This style takes me back to how stylist Sally Hershberger manages to strike a balance between soft and tough- it is the style of the woman who does not speak in a low tone.
Don’t be afraid of structure! It is strong to demonstrate that you made a decision to wear a certain style instead of resorting to something that is easy. Such hair is intentional- and it catches attention in the most flattering manner.
Ice-Pale Silver Bob with Sharp Edges
And in case you plan to go short this fall, I would recommend this razor-sharp ice-pale bob with the right amount of movement. It is contemporary, it is easy to care, and it positively shines in cool-weather wardrobes, particularly navy, black, and camel. The silver color, which is almost white, adds a freshness to the mature skin and the smooth ends provide it a tailored effect.
What is the secret to glimmer in tones this light? Kerastase Blond Absolu Cicaflash Conditioner- it moisturizes without making the hair heavy and prevents the silver color to fade. I also put a bit of Ouai Hair Oil before blow out to get that glassy look. And the root lift mousse, of course, in case you want that crown height to remain raised throughout the day.
In my case, this is the cut that I visualize when I want to feel like the editor-in-chief of my own life. Clean, a bit edgy, and no fluff. It is the color that is not natural in a way, but so well done that people do not even think about it.
You can tell your stylist to give you bright silver with icy white ends, clean perimeter, and light interior layering to create volume. Simply make sure the edges are clean- this style works best on precision.
