The Boldest Hair Trends of 2025

This year’s hair trends are serving major looks—no rules, just bold moves. From deep cherry hues to sparkling gems, it’s all about self-expression and unapologetic vibes. Whether you’re slaying natural texture, elevating your highlights, or keeping it real with length retention, 2025 is the year of hair that makes a statement. Let’s break it down.

Dark Cherry Red Hair

According to Eliza Pineda, the in-house hair expert at Mayraki Professional: "For 2025, red hair is getting a sophisticated update with darker, cooler tones taking center stage. Think cherry cola—deep red with hints of purple and brown—that complements a wide range of skin tones. This shift moves us away from bold, extreme colors toward richer, more subtle hues that add depth and elegance."

Arctic Fox Semi-Permanent Hair Color in Wrath is a vegan, cruelty-free formula that delivers vibrant cherry-red tones with a hint of depth, perfect for experimenting with this trend.

Price: $11.99, Availability: coralblueisa.com

Hair Gems

Kameese Davis, a textured hair specialist and CEO/Founder of Nylah's Naturals shares: "Hair gems are making a sparkling comeback in 2025, bringing playful glamour to hairstyles everywhere. Inspired by Y2K fashion, these embellishments add charm to everything from sleek ponytails to flowing mermaid waves. For Type 3 and Type 4 hair, gems go beyond adornment—they celebrate texture and individuality, turning hair into works of art. This trend isn't just about accessorizing; it's about self-expression and embracing the beauty of natural hair patterns."

The Metal Rhinestone Loop Claw from kitsch is an on-trend gold clip with clear rhinestones that offers a strong grip, perfect for pinning thick hair and adding sparkle to any updo.

Price: $12, Availability: mykitsch

Wispy bangs

OUAI Air Dry Foam adds light hold and definition to bangs without making them stiff, perfect for achieving soft, feathered styles.

Price: $28, Availability: theouai.com

Length Retention over Hair Growth

Kameese Davis highlights a meaningful shift in the natural hair community for 2025: "The focus is moving from rapid hair growth to length retention, prioritizing healthy, sustainable practices for Type 3 and Type 4 hair. While growth remains a goal, many are realizing that protecting the length you already have is the key to achieving stronger, longer hair. This means caring for the ends—the most delicate part of the hair—with techniques like protective styling, proper hydration and regular trims. Low-manipulation styles, such as twists, braids and updos, are also gaining traction, as they reduce breakage caused by daily handling."

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil helps nourish and protect the scalp, reducing breakage for improved length retention.

Price: $9.56, Availability: amazon.com

Highlights and lowlights

Eliza Pineda concludes: "In 2025, highlights and lowlights are making a comeback, but with a softer, more natural twist. Think sun-kissed strands that subtly frame the face and add depth without overpowering your look. It's the perfect way to elevate your style while keeping things effortless and understated."

Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector is essential for maintaining the health of highlighted or lightened hair, preventing breakage, and boosting shine.

Price: $30, Availability: ulta.com