With the fall colors changing, comes the urge to change our decor and get a new fresh and comfortable feel to the season. In September 2025, the Fall Hair Color Trends focus on the warm tones, dimensional highlights, and some drastic changes. Whether you’re into rich brunette shades, buttery blondes, or soft caramel hues, this year’s September hair color ideas offer something for every style. Whether you need something wedding-appropriate to something trendy, everyday, get inspired by the most beautiful shades that will go perfectly with the autumn fresh air.
Caramel Framing on Deep Brunette Waves
Alright, we will get down to business, this dimensional brunette is the fall energy that I desire. The base is a deep neutral brown, however, it is those warm caramel stripes that embrace the face which makes it special. They’re not loud; they’re flattering. It is the best September hair color that brunette lovers are going to be addicted to, particularly in case you are growing out your summer balayage. The cut, loose waves and a little bit of body, provide bounce and softness. It’s cozy, it’s flirty, it’s so September.
In order to keep those caramel tones warm, yet not brassy, I would most definitely use a color-safe shampoo like Pureology Hydrate and alternate with a blue toning mask once a week. Also: don’t sleep on a good leave-in. Something like It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In will keep those waves silky, especially once sweater weather sets in and the air gets drier.
Honestly? This is a color that I constantly gravitate towards, it does not seem too trendy, but still looks on. And in the event you are a person who lives in neutrals/loves layering basics, this color slides right in with your wardrobe. It elevates without trying. And if you’re brunette but bored? These highlights are your not-so-secret weapon.
Celebrity colorist Matt Rez swears by this type of “ribbon contouring” — where highlights skim just the edges — to keep depth at the crown while lifting the features. It’s strategic color placement, not all-over lightening, which means lower maintenance with maximum glow. Smart, right?
Deep Cherry Mahogany on Soft Layers
Now this shade… she’s bold. We are talking rich cherry versus subdued mahogany, with a touch of violet warmth so it has intrigue. It is a softly rounded lob cut–long enough to be styled, short enough to be fresh. It is a dream tone when you want something rich but not black and is one of my favorite short hair color ideas in september with edge.
But here’s the truth: reds fade. Fast. I’ve been there. When you do decide to go as deep as a cherry like this, pick up a sulfate-free, color-depositing conditioner (Celeb Luxury has a Viral Red that is a favorite). I would also not wash it daily, but have dry shampoo days in between. Reds hate the sun, and love cool water–so handle this as a scarf of silk, not a beach towel.
I went cherry once after a break-up (classic, I know), and surprisingly, it didn’t scream rebellion — it looked elegant. The lesson I got is this: cherry tones need not be fire-engine. Under the fall light they shine, with the right undertones, as wine in a crystal glass. Think velvet, not vinyl.
This will pop if you have pink, olive or neutral undertones in your skin. And if you’re someone who leans into deep lips and earthy blush tones, this color belongs on your head — not just your mood board.
Classic Blunt Bob with Dark Espresso Gloss
This one is sleek, strong, and totally grounded. The bob is just below the jaw line with slight rounding at the ends and the espresso brown dye is nearly ink like. It’s what I call “quiet drama.” This is your vibe, if you want a brunette short hair color with the message I don t need layers to be powerful.
This kind of depth requires grave sparkle, and that is through both cut and care. I would definitely suggest a glossing treatment – even at-home one such as dpHUE Gloss+ in Dark Brown every two weeks. And yes, oil is your friend. Gisou Honey Hair Oil is a pea-sized pump of the stuff that gives this cut the polish to make it shine.
Personally, I think this color is like a good leather jacket — classic, versatile, slightly intimidating (in a good way). It’s not trying to be girly. It is minimalist, minimalist to the point of chic. Ideal when you are going into minimalist wardrobes or capsule dressing this autumn.
According to colorist Tracey Cunningham, a dark brown is perfect when it is more about light reflection rather than its darkness. When I see this sort of gloss I think of that. You want depth, not dullness.
Warm Honey Balayage with Root Melt
Now for something soft but sunlit. This is blonde, but not summer-y. The honey hues are extended to a deeper root to get that easy fall combination. You still have the brightness, particularly around the face but it is so grounded. This I would label as september blonde hair color done well.
For blondes like this, purple shampoo isn’t enough. Use Amika’s Bust Your Brass mask once a week to tone, and keep a hydrating shampoo (like Oribe Gold Lust) in your regular rotation. Honey blondes dry fast if not loved properly.
I am not naturally blonde, but when I became honey one fall I felt like every outfit suited me better creams, olives, and rust tones all pop against this hair color. It photographs beautifully too. Golden undertones glow against early autumn sun.
This is a great transition to those people who do not want full-foil commitment and love lightness. It’s playful, dimensional, and doesn’t scream “trying.” And that root melt? Pure magic for stretching out salon appointments.
Neutral Butter Blonde with Soft Texture
This one’s for the minimalists. The butter blonde in this case is fragile, not frozen, not golden, simply… composed. It comes with that standard collarbone length hair and minor curls, such as the air-dried cool-girl look we all pretend we just woke up with. But it’s so intentional. And yes, this is probably one of the most graceful hair colorings of September I have ever seen in 2025.
However, butter blondes have the tendency of turning yellow or beige when not handled properly. Apply a milk toner such as Redken Shades EQ Gloss after every 4-6 weeks, in the salon. Kristin Ess The One Signature Shampoo is my favorite at-home shampoo when I want things soft and touchable.
There’s a whispery energy to this look. It’s not loud, it doesn’t need to be. It is on behalf of the girls who have their nails in Oat Milk and they wear big wool coats in early October. I live off that vibe it is clean and cozy.
Also? The color is a beautiful transition if you have spent all summer platinum and just want to mellow into fall. No drama, just warmth and glow.
Chestnut Butter Balayage for Breezy Transitions
This balayage on chestnut is just perfect middle-ground: neither full summer blonde nor full winter dark. It looks great in that early fall light, too, particularly when combined with those creamy mid-length waves. You have the glow around the face in tendrils of gold, and all this rests on a natural root that makes care so simple. It’s one of those September hair color ideas brunette women are bookmarking left and right.
To keep the contrast in those highlights soft and not brassy, I’d recommend using a purple toning shampoo once a week — I love Amika’s Bust Your Brass Cool Blonde Shampoo even for brunettes with lighter pieces. It keeps the warmth buttery, not yellowy.
Frankly, this is the type of hair that is already styled even without any effort. You wear a tee, perhaps a gold hoop and bam, easy. It also takes very pretty photos, in case you already have fall weddings or engagement shoots in your dreams.
This appearance may need some gloss appointment after every 6-8 weeks to keep the tones deep and shiny. That’s what keeps it luxe instead of flat. Totally worth it.
Dimensional Cocoa Layers for Soft Glam
This is ultra-glossy brunette in the softest glam of fall. No chunky contrast, no overly-processed pieces. Simple healthy, swooping layers and a chocolate bottom with more low-key lighter ribbons running through the ends. It screams “rich girl low-maintenance” and feels very now. If you’re thinking about September hair color ideas brunette long, this is it.
Caring for this color is surprisingly simple. I always apply a leave-in that has UV and heat protection (especially if you’re into weekly blowouts). Use Kerrastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique- it does not leave the hair feeling weighed down. A weekly hydrating mask is a non-negotiable here.
I like this look because of its growth out. You don’t need constant salon visits to maintain it. It simply softens with time, which is great when you might be going into a busy season and you can not afford to do biweekly touch ups.
This one’s also super versatile for styling. Want soft waves for a fall wedding? Perfect. Want it sleek with a middle part for everyday? It delivers. This is your “it girl” brunette moment.
Platinum Pixie with Frosted Edge
Okay — this one is for the bold. The cool platinum pixie is acute, strong and all in season. It is clean and trendy with a slight touch of icy silver incorporated into it. And let us be honest, short hair will always come back, when sweater weather comes. This is a nice one of those September hair color ideas that short girlies must see to believe.
And keeping a platinum tone such as this is certainly a commitment. Weekly masks, toners, and gentle cleansing are key. My favorite to keep the brass away is Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo. Combine it by following it with a bond-building treatment and your hair will be thankful.
In 2022 I wore one of these and it gave me a new level of confidence. Heads turned. People asked about it constantly. And if you have ever been tempted to go short, fall is an excellent time to make it–there is something about that seasonal reset that makes you bold.
It would also be incredible to anyone that is having a city wedding or elopement this season. It is powerful, contemporary and it looks fantastic on white or ivory. It’s giving editorial and personal.
Caramel Blonde Waves with Autumn Glow
This is your just out of a vineyard weekend look. These long, gentle waves are caramel and honey in color that glistens under natural light. The shadow of the roots makes it look grown-in-like, but the lightness of the ends makes it playful. It is certainly one of my favourites in the top choices of september blonde hair colour enthusiasts who are seeking that nonchalant luxe.
What I love in this is the versatility of this tone. It applies on warm and neutral skin shades, and does not need a heavy bleach-and-tone to attain. A foilyage and gloss combination will take you there ask your colorist to give you a lived-in caramel blonde with golden lights.
I chatted with a stylist friend in L.A. who said this is the #1 requested blonde right now. “It’s sexy but doesn’t scream try-hard,” she said. And I couldn’t agree more. Particularly as we enter event season, aka fall wedding guests, or even engagement photos.
To keep the glow, invest in Davines OI Oil. It also gives shine without being greasy and makes those ends look fresh not frizzy.
Copper Crush Lob with Soft Flicks
It is always one color that makes me stop scrolling and this copper red bob is that color. It is so aesthetically between wearable and vibrant. Not neon, not dull. Just enough spice to match a September sunset. If you’re hunting hair colors for September, this is your wake-up call.
Maintenance-wise, reds do fade faster — no sugarcoating that. That is why a color-depositing conditioner such as Oway Hcolor Mask in Copper is essential once per week. Also, washing in cool water makes a massive difference. I learned that the hard way!
And, if you have not tried copper tone, fall is the best time to give it a go honestly. You will be more alive, comfier in neutrals and there is undeniable romance to red hair in the fall. Maybe it’s the leaves? Or the candlelight vibes?
This chop, that bouncy, slightly mussed lob is universally flattering as well. It is short enough to be fresh, and long enough to be a hundred ways styled.
Smoky Plum with a Soft Edge
This smoky plum color is on the sultry side without being over the top dramatic. It’s a deep, dusty mix of mulberry and violet undertones that catches the light just enough to give it dimension. The layering in this case is sublime, almost imperceptible- which allows the color to speak by itself. This is a true gem to anyone who is looking at september hair color ideas black women or anyone with darker skin tones that does not want basic brown or flat black.
To keep this cool-toned plum in pristine condition, I would use a shampoo + conditioner pairing that guards against fade, Redken Color Extend Magnetics is good. I’d also say: don’t overheat style this. The less processed the texture is, the more depth in tone comes out.
This brings me back to a shade I used after college- it was defiant yet romantic. Back then, I didn’t have the maintenance game down. Now I know, plum tones love hydration and gloss. I’ve learned: less wash, more mask.
It also makes a great transition color should you have been brunette all summer and want to get your feet wet in purple/berry world without going all out with vivid.
Chestnut Balayage with Golden Twist
This is one of those color combinations that never goes wrong in the fall: a warm chestnut base with only a touch of golden-bronze balayage. It is not highlighted in the usual sense–it is more melted. This is a scream of Ideas brunette long and I like how it maintains the depth yet gives a halo effect to long, curled hair.
When you are wearing this length, you require moisture, end of story. I am a weekly deep conditioning devotee to Olaplex No. 8. It brings bounce without weighing everything down. To avoid brass creeping into the lighter ribbons, a color-safe glossing glaze (like dpHUE Gloss+ in Warm Brown) every few weeks is a must.
This is the kind of color that gives “I just got back from a winery weekend” — warm, polished, and a little luxe. It’s ideal if you’re headed to fall weddings and want something photogenic but not over-processed.
Colorist Nikki Lee says the trick to making brunette hair “dance in natural light” is to mix a soft chestnut with light-reflecting ribbons. I’d say this combo hits that sweet spot.
Soft Brunette Bob with Subtle Contour Lights
Clean, crisp, and understated. This soft bob is based on cool-to-neutral brunette with the finest contour highlights in the very front. They don’t scream “blonde,” they whisper “refined.” It is one of those september hair color ideas short that will suit literally any age or vibe casual, elevated, minimal or glam depending on how you style it.
Upkeep? So easy. Apply a moisturizing, tone-protective conditioner such as Pureology Strength Cure, and have a gloss every 6-8 weeks to revive those face-framing pieces. I would leave out purple shampoos in this case because they would be too harsh of such a soft contrast.
I even had a version of this bob two years ago and it was literally the least work I ever had to do with my hair. It would be great when you have some jewelry or structured necklines on, it makes that lovely neck-framing shape.
This is the lower-stakes, higher-reward ticket if you don?t feel comfortable going blonde-blonde but need something face-lightening.
Chocolate Curls with Mocha Lowlights
This one is for the curl-lovers. The foundation is a milk chocolate brunette, but it is those darker mocha lowlights that are intertwined that make it that much better. It gives definition to every twist and coil. The color adds that richness of fall to the texture that steals the show. I would save this in the Ideas brunette highlights and september hair colour ideas brunette that looks amazing on natural volume.
Curly hair is constantly required hydration, and especially so with color-treated hair. My best suggestion here is Pattern Heavy Conditioner by Tracee Ellis Ross, it moisturizes, but does not sacrifice bounce. A wide-tooth comb and microfiber towel are musts too.
Personally, I have not had curls this way, but I have done friends with this sort of pattern and we always discuss how essential it is to get the color that adds to the shape rather than masks it. These mocha tones do exactly that.
This color is a good solution in case you are afraid of dimension being lost in thick curls. It reflects light in all the right places.
Dimensional Blonde Fade with Root Depth
This blonde is different- it is grounded, lived in and dimensional not streaky. It is seamless in how it fades from darker beige at the crown to warm honey at the mid-lengths and ends. When you are on the search of a september blonde hair color that will feel modern and low-maintenance, here it is. And it looks gorgeous on long hair and complements natural waves so well.
Fall blondes need gentle toning and deep repair. I would recommend Kerastase Blond Absolu Cicaplasme leave-in to protect against heat and tone in between visit. And in case you do a lot of heat styling, add in a bond-repair serum such as Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate to prevent that parched, straw-like change that blondes can sometimes develop.
There’s something very coastal-autumn about this look. Think: chunky sweater, breezy outdoor brunch, knit headbands. It is neither too bright nor too ashy, it is just right and smooth.
It is also an outstanding bridal-friendly color- pretty enough to stand out in photographs and solid enough to grow out beautifully. This tone is a complete winner especially when you are a September bride or even a member of the wedding party.
Walnut Brown with Caramel Veil
This soft bob with wispy face-framing layers and soft bangs is accented with a yummy walnut brown underpinning and subtle caramel veils over the top layer. It is very subtle yet dimensional, the sort of september hair color ideas brunette lovers will always take advantage of during the autumn with its layered, warm outfits. There’s depth without darkness — and it feels easy, wearable, confident.
To maintain, a color-protecting shampoo such as Pureology Hydrate Color Care is excellent to keep tones shiny and the lighter ribbons out of becoming brass. I also spray a shine spray in the middle of the week to restore dullness- particularly when the air becomes dry.
Warm-toned bobs with warm highlights are always my favorite unsung heroes of transitional hair. You do not require dramatic change to feel like something new. It’s the finesse that makes this one stand out.
In case you have been admiring ideas of brunette highlights that are natural-looking yet styled, this one should be pinned right away.
Toffee Melt Brunette Curls
This color is giving “fall goddess energy.” Consider deep espresso roots melting through toffee ribbons with cascading curls a blend of motion, heat and sheen. This is the sort of the brunette long hair moments that go in a different way after September comes.
To maintain this type of brunette dimensional and frizz-free, it is all about hydration. Once a week, apply Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, and a curl-enhancing cream to style. I prefer lightweight formulas to make the waves not stiff.
I associate this style with a first date night or autumn wedding. It’s soft glam, but doesn’t scream for attention. Rather, it stands out more like… it is refined and unstrained.
Not sure what to ask for in the salon? Inform your stylist that you would like long layers with soft toffee babylights and deep root blend. It makes the grow-out feel intentional, not patchy.
Vanilla Blonde with Soft Shadow Root
This one is a dream in case you have been holding on to your summer blonde but are looking to refresh it a bit more into fall. It is a creamy blonde with a slight shadow root that makes it feel rooted and looks good in the sweater season. The luminance remains close to the face whereas the ends are a whisper of golden vanilla.
Purple shampoo will assist in keeping brass at bay, but I would take it one step further and get a toner refresher at the salon every 6 weeks. dpHUE Gloss+ in Light Blonde can also do wonders at home between.
I went through a period when I would have bet my life I could never be a blonde girl- until I spotted this shade on a woman leaving a coffee shop and I booked an appointment in a heartbeat. It has that kind of presence.
Also: this tone flatters every eye color. Blue? Green? Hazel? It catches the light so tenderly romantically.
Ink Black Wavy Bob
Smooth, luscious and no doubt impressive, this wavy bob in jet black is the power of simplicity. It’s one of those september hair color ideas black women can rock effortlessly, especially paired with autumn neutrals and bold makeup. This color gives soft waves radiance and structure in a manner that is never sloppy.
Dark tones can fade flat if not treated right. I suggest a color-safe shampoo (Bumble and Bumble Color Minded) and regular deep conditioning. When you are natural or relaxed, including light oils, such as argan or baobab will make you stay soft.
I love that this bob is sculpted, not stiff. It goes along with motion and breeze, in other words, the whole character of fall. And black doesn’t have to mean “boring.” With the right cut, it becomes sculptural and chic.
Want extra drama? This is one of the shades to combine with a dramatic berry or wine lip and turn heads all month.
Soft Roast Brunette Lob
This is the quiet-luxury version of a fall lob. not too dense, not too brief–and the color? The color of a velvet September hair color between roasted chestnut and dark brown sugar. It gives richness without pulling too warm.
What I like about this appearance is the fact that it is universally gorgeous. You might be going to meetings or snuggling up to pumpkin chai and it goes both ways. To maintain, I would apply a gloss treatment about twice a month such as Redken Shades EQ, to preserve the richness.
As an individual, this color brings to my mind some fresh leather boots and woolen scarves. It is non-obtrusive yet memorable- the sort of tone you fall in love with gradually, and then passionately.
In case you want to find something brunette without taking care of highlights, this shade could be your new trademark.
Silver Fade with Smoky Roots
Straight and unashamed, this silver-fade lob with soft smoky roots is fall s most unexpectedly cool moment. It’s modern, minimal, and feels incredibly fresh right now. When you are in need of ideas short that are not afraid to push boundaries, then this is the place.
Silver and gray tones need serious care. I’m talking color-depositing conditioners (Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash) and sulfate-free everything. The root shadow assists in extending the interval between toners, which is so a win.
Not everybody will wear this color, and that is the point. It is to the girl that prefers a white tee and a red lip, and whose hair should do the talking.
Pro tip from L.A.-based colorist Rachel Bodt: “Always tone your silvers slightly warmer than you think. It fades cooler and lasts longer.” Honestly, that tip saved me more than once.
Amber Spice for Fiery Fall Feels
It is red hair re-conceived: bright, yet gentle, loud, yet warm. Coppery amber with warm golden lowlights, which adds life to all curls and waves. This is the best of the best when we discuss hair colors to wear in September that are completely seasonal and yet can be worn in everyday situations.
Red tones fade faster than you’d like, so glosses and color-safe washes are essential. Experiment with Kristin Ess The One Purple Shampoo once every two weeks and a shine-enhancing oil to finish the deal.
When I look at this hair I immediately think of apple-picking, fall weddings, golden-hour walks. It is simply like fall in a head of hair. And it is striking enough to be memorable without being in neon or artificial.
This color also looks pleasant on porcelain, olive and freckled skin. Copper is taking over boards and there is a reason behind that, copper is finally getting its due.
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