Your Autumn Hair Refresh

Forget January. September is the month for new beginnings and fresh starts. With the kids back at school and gingerbread lattés back on the menu, it’s safe to say autumn is on the way. While we may be in mourning for the summer we never quite had, the good news is that the change in seasons is the perfect time to for a style refresh. 

This month, Veronica shares her pick of the hair trends that you need to know about this season. ‘Autumn hair is all about embracing shadows and texture’, she says. ‘As we wave goodbye to that summer glow, our sun-kissed strands might feel a bit dry, but it’s nothing a fresh fringe can’t fix. If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, a long, textured bob or some flowing layers will bring depth and dimension to your look. Throw in some glossy copper tones for that extra shine, and you’re all set to welcome the season in with style!’

The bob

Okay, so this is definitely not a new trend. But the timeless bob is definitely having a moment, and we’re all for it. One of the reasons for this style’s enduring popularity is its versatility. Whether you go for a classic chin-length style or a longer ‘lob’ that you can still tie back on workout days, the bob is universally flattering, working for all hair textures and face shapes

For autumn, consider a midi-bob like actress Alicia Vikander, who recently went for the chop and debuted a blunt, tousled one-length bob. Feeling fresh and on-trend, the midi-bob is the perfect way to transition from summer-frazzled ends to a more polished look, and the length is made to work with polo necks and chunky scarves when the temperature starts to drop. 

Warm up your colour palette

Autumn is all about embracing warm, rich hues that reflect the season’s changing colours. Think caramel blondes, chestnut and chocolate browns and copper and auburn tones. 

If you’re blonde, incorporating caramel hues is a perfect way to mute brighter, sun-kissed shades as we move into autumn, while brunettes can warm things up with deeper, richer tones. 

Fiery copper and red shades are always popular at this time of year, and there is a tone to suit every hair colour and skin tone, from bold and spotlight-grabbing (think Chappell Roan) to subtler cinnamon and pumpkin tones that add warmth and depth.

At Shine we custom blend our colours to reflect each client’s style and lifestyle, and during your colour consultation we will discuss with you what colours and application will work best for your hair and the look you want to achieve. Following any colour treatment, aftercare is key for maintaining your colour and keep it looking vibrant. You stylist will be able to recommend some products that will help lock in your colour for longer. We love using Aveda’s Color Control range of shampoos and conditioning treatments in the salon.

Curtain bangs

Thanks to the likes of Sabrina Carpenter and Jenna Ortega, ‘70s style curtain bangs are back (with a bang). And for good reason, because this fringe is a low-fuss way to update your look and it can work for any style or texture of hair, from straight and sleek to tousled curls. 

Curtain bangs are essentially a graduated fringe, styled to part in the middle and cut shorter in the centre so they frame your face (hello, instant cheekbones). They can be worn short or long and are very low-maintenance compared with a traditional fringe that covers your forehead.

To achieve the perfect curtain bangs for you, your stylist will consider your face shape and hair type, as well as how you usually wear your hair. To style your fringe like a pro, Veronica recommends drying it at a low speed to begin with, using your forehead and fingers to shape it as you go. When it’s almost dry, use a brush to guide the direction of the ends. Avoid overloading it with product and finish off with a light spritz of hairspray for a soft, effortless look (this one is a Shine favourite).

Repair summer damage

Summer can be tough on your hair, leaving it sun-bleached and dry. So now is the time to focus on restoring your hair’s health and shine. Veronica’s must-have for heading into autumn with smooth, healthy locks is Aveda’s Cherry Almond Softening Leave-in Conditioner , £28. ‘It’s a total game-changer for post-summer hair- leaving it silky, knot-free and full of moisture. Plus, the delicious scent is just the cherry on the top (literally)!’

Investing in an intensive hair mask is a great way to repair damage and rejuvenate your locks. Look for a deep conditioning mask that offers intense hydration and nourishment and use weekly for best results. Veronica’s all time favourite hair mask is Aveda’s Botanical Repair Intensive Strengthening Masque, £40. Available in both light and rich formulations to meet the needs of all textures of hair, it instantly strengthens and protects hair, leaving it looking and feeling healthier, softer, smoother and shinier. 

Embrace the change

If you’re ready to embrace the change and find a new look this autumn , when not come in for a consultation with one of the team. We’re here to help you find the perfect look to help you shine!

What we’re loving this month…

The nights are drawing in, which means all the good TV is back. Here at Shine we were counting the days until season 2 of Aussie feel-good comedy Colin from Accounts (iPlayer) returned to our screens and we are relieved to say this gem is still an absolute joy to watch. If you haven’t discovered it yet, you’re in for a treat. 

That’s all for this month. Book your next appointment with us online, by email or over the phone. Hope to see you soon!

Jonathan Harries