If you poll a group of stylists on when you should go warmer versus when you should go cooler with your hair colour [1], you may get some mixed answers. Luckily, we're of the belief that you should do whatever makes you feel good and forget about any "guidelines" that may tell you otherwise. For anyone itching to try something out of the norm of traditional blond hair-colour shades, winter's smoky blond, as seen on Cara Delevingne, Beyoncé (see: her latest cover for Harper's Bazaar) [2], and, more recently, Hailey Bieber, is worth your consideration.
The smoky-blond hair-colour trend [3] features ashy, grey tones that fall just short of looking silver and is the complete opposite of the soft caramel and honey hues [4] that usually dominate this time of year. "Smoky-blond hair colour is a very monotone, ashy colour that is best suited for someone with a very dark natural colour," hair colourist and Redken brand ambassador Ryan Pearl [5] told POPSUGAR. As Pearl stated, because the hair colour isn't a true blond shade but is also not brunette, it works on a wider variety of base colours than your typical platinum or icy-blond hues [6].
"This is a great transition from your summer blond to fall," said Jennifer Korab [7], a celebrity colourist and the founder of Renaissance Salon & Spa. It's edgy (just like Delevingne), and it has the power to give you a whole new look.
Before you head to the salon this month to undergo your own smoky-blond hair-colour transformation, Korab recommended you bring plenty of inspiration photos with you. "Keep in mind your current hair colour and that the more vibrant smoky-blond colour may not be possible in one visit," she said. Pearl added: "The key to creating the perfect smoky-blond colour is lifting the blond to a very light level to ensure less warmth and more ashy tones."
Because of its muted hue, Korab explained, it's a bit easier to maintain than a brighter blond. At home, Pearl recommended using a shampoo and conditioner that will keep your hair healthy and shiny and therefore prolong the colour, like the Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo [8] ($30). You can also use a purple shampoo, like the Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo [9] ($28), to keep away unwanted warm, brassy tones.
Keep scrolling for more smoky-blond hair-colour inspiration.