It’s almost the start of a new year, and you’re scrolling through old selfies thinking, Was I really still wearing crimped pigtails in 2023?
Listen, we’ve all clung to a trend a little too long (looking at you, 2007 scene bangs).
But 2025 is the year of evolution, baby!
It’s time to shed those overdone styles and embrace the future of fabulous hair. Here’s a breakdown of the trends we’re waving goodbye to—and the fresh looks ready to take their place.
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1. Super-Tight Slick-Back Buns
Why It’s Out: The ultra-sleek, tight bun has been a go-to for a polished look, but it’s starting to feel a bit too rigid and severe for 2025’s more relaxed aesthetic.
What to Try Instead: Embrace soft, undone low buns with natural texture. This effortless style exudes a chic, Parisian vibe that’s both modern and easy to achieve.
Hairstylist Sabrina Dijkman notes, “As we approach 2025, effortless hairstyles will be a focus, enabling individuals to achieve beautiful and natural looks with minimal effort.”
Expert Tip: To achieve the perfect undone bun, avoid over-brushing. Let your hair’s natural texture shine through for that effortlessly chic look.
2. Chunky Money Pieces
Why It’s Out: Bold, face-framing highlights had their moment, but they’re becoming reminiscent of early 2020s trends. Time to let them go!
What to Try Instead: Go for subtle, blended highlights or a “halo balayage” that adds a natural glow around your face without the stark contrast.
Hair trend forecaster Tom Smith predicts, “2025 will include extremes of very low contrast—hair similar in depth and tone to the skin, and also very high contrast—very dark hair on fair skin tones and bright platinums on deeper skin tones.”
Expert Tip: Chat to your colorist about tones that complement your skin tone for a seamless and flattering look.
3. Excessive Mermaid Waves
Why It’s Out: The meticulously styled, beachy wave is starting to feel overdone and time-consuming. Plus, who has the hours to spare?
What to Try Instead: Embrace your natural texture with soft, tousled curls or gentle bends. Think “I woke up like this” vibes.
Alterna Ambassador Sabrina Dijkman suggests, “Effortless hairstyles will be a focus, enabling individuals to achieve beautiful and natural looks with minimal effort.”
Expert Tip: Use a lightweight mousse to enhance your natural waves without weighing them down.
4. Over-Teased Crown Volume
Why It’s Out: Teased roots aiming for sky-high volume are giving off major retro vibes—and not in the good way.
What to Try Instead: Achieve volume with modern techniques like root-lifting sprays and blow-drying for a more natural lift.
Hairstylist Devin Toth advises, “You’ll want to consider your hairline’s growth pattern and density, as well as where your hair parts.”
Expert Tip: Blow-dry your hair upside down to naturally boost volume at the roots without the damage of teasing.
5. Platinum Blonde Overkill
Why It’s Out: The high-maintenance, icy blonde requires constant upkeep and can be harsh on your hair’s health.
What to Try Instead: Warm, lived-in blonde tones with creamy dimensions are in. They’re lower maintenance and gentler on your locks.
Colorist Patrick Ina notes, “For those voluminous, va-va-voom blowouts, Cutler recommends prepping with Redken Big Blowout Jelly, then finishing with Brushable Hair Spray.”
Expert Tip: Incorporate regular deep-conditioning treatments to keep your color-treated hair healthy and vibrant.
6. Blunt, Super Long Extensions
Why It’s Out: Hair extensions down to your waist can look unnatural and are often a hassle to maintain.
What to Try Instead: Mid-length cuts or layered extensions that add movement and blend seamlessly with your natural hair.
Hairstylist Lacy Redway suggests, “You should look for photos of people with a similar facial shape to yours to bring to your hairstylist.”
Expert Tip: Ensure your extensions match your hair’s texture and color for the most natural look.
7. Over-the-Top Hair Accessories
Why It’s Out: Giant pearls, bows and rhinestone clips are starting to feel more costume than couture.
What to Try Instead: Minimalist accessories like sleek metallic pins or understated claw clips offer a modern, elegant touch.
Hairstylist Chris Appleton recommends, “Sweeping the hair where you want it to fall and using clips like the Kitsch Creaseless Clips to set it in place.”
Expert Tip: Less is more. Choose accessories that complement your outfit without overpowering it.
Parting Words
Let’s be real—trends come and go, but hair is all about self-expression.
If you’re still rocking one of these styles and loving it, own it!
But if you’ve been feeling like it’s time for a refresh, why not give one of these updated looks a spin? Your hair deserves its own 2025 glow-up.
Found your perfect shade? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @coloredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair color stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.
Our Research & Review Process
To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.
We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.
Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.
This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.
As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!
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