Fall Hairstyle for Women 2025: Trendy Braids, Updos, and Color Inspo for the Season

Fall is the time of new beginnings, warm layers, and hair drastic decisions. But when there are so many styles that are in fashion, how do you select the one that really suits your vibe and your lifestyle?
Whether you’re craving something quick and easy, a moody new color, or a twist on classic braids hair ideas, this guide has you covered. Whether it is sleek ponytail or messy wavy hair, these Fall hairstyle for women 2025 trends are as scroll-stopping as they are wearable. Let’s find your new favorite.
Textured Bob with Effortless Layers
There’s something about a softly tousled bob that just gets fall. This medium length brunette cut appears light and dimensional, with face-framing layers that are softly flicked out to create movement. It is just below the chin, long enough to go behind your ears on a windy October day, but short enough to remain low-maintenance. I like that the part is not forced, it goes naturally, and that is what makes it work in 2025. It is one of those styles that do not attempt too much and that is its strength.
Lightweight styling creams or volumizing foams are the best products to use on a textured cut such as this. I’ve been using Ouai’s Air Dry Foam on damp hair, scrunching it in and letting it be — no heat, no stress. It provides a perfect level of hold without being stiff, which is essential when you want it to move this way.
This is the kind of bob I wore when I first came to Seattle. Rain did not trouble it much, and it even looked better with a bit of humidity. That’s how I learned that the fall hairstyle for women 2025 isn’t about perfection — it’s about feeling like yourself, just a little more styled.
When your hair is prone to flatten out in the middle of the day, simply flipping to the other side will give you an immediate volume. It does not require a complete claw clip moment, only a finger tuck and go.
Polished Platinum Asymmetrical Cut
This is a short length platinum blonde bob that is exuding sleek, modern vibes with a touch of playfulness. It has a bit of an asymmetrical shape, one side is slightly dipped a bit longer than the other, but it is not too architectural to be wearable. The completeness at the ends and the clean lines keep it down to earth. It is the type of cut that is beautiful with strong fall colors such as mustard, olive or burgundy, and gives an edge to even the most delicate knits.
You will not want that platinum tone to go brassy, particularly in drier fall air. I suggest applying Amika Bust Your Brass purple shampoo once a week and adding a deep conditioner such as Olaplex No. 8 once a week. For styling, a flat iron pass is all you need — or tuck it behind one ear for that “cool art girl” vibe.
It is one of those fast and easy styles that do not look like you did not think it over. I think it’s perfect if you’re transitioning from summer blonde but want to stay light without sacrificing shine.
In case your face shape is more round, you can add a side part, which will help to create angles without cutting too short. A classic side switch can really frame your features.
Face-Framing Blonde Waves with Dark Roots
These curvy layers of hair are soft and seem to be created to be worn in autumn. The roots remain rooted in a cool brunette base, and the ends dissolve in warm blonde ribbons. It is not balayage, it is not ombr, it is this in-between that is purposeful but natural. The balance is in the middle, but it is the volume at the cheekbone that makes it sing. I can already see this combined with a long coat and a coffee run.
Maintenance tip? Try applying a hydrating mask once a week. I rotate between Pureology’s Hydrate Superfood Treatment and a few drops of K18 leave-in molecular repair oil to keep things silky through the change in seasons. It’s essential for colored ends, especially as they’re more prone to fading in 2025’s unpredictable rain.
Celebrity colorist Matt Rez refers to such a tone change as reverse dimension-leaving roots deep provides contrast and makes the blonde even brighter. I totally agree. It provides brunettes long with an excuse to play with light without becoming full-on blonde.
Be not afraid to air dry it a little to get that real texture. These waves do not have to be perfect, they only have to be free.
Classic Layers with Curtain Bangs
This is such a romantic nod to retro silhouettes. Imagine medium length 2025 hair, a little feathered ends and, of course, soft curtain bangs that break at the brow. It is the sort of look that is lived in and pretty, as though you woke up with that natural swing. The layers provide bounce and lift and the bangs soften the entire expression. It is also multifunctional, you can wear it with a middle part, or you can pin one side behind your ear to get that casual look.
The one thing I like about layered cuts is that they do not lose shape as they grow. A round brush and a light blowout cream (like R+Co’s Park Ave) can bring the movement to life in five minutes flat. It’s definitely one of those medium length updo-friendly cuts if you’re into half-buns or clips.
I was afraid that when I got curtain bangs, they would be too much work, but now they are a trademark. A swipe of the flat iron and they are back to shape. And they are also great to redefine your face without making it drastic.
Thinking of a bow or ribbon accessory? Yes, do it. Knotted loosely at the back of the bangs in a preppy, French-girl fall finish.
Edgy Pixie with Pink Highlights
Hello drama, but make it playful. This is not a short length pixie because of the chop, but because of color. The pink accents in the deep brown foundation make this look so sassy without losing softness. The hair is side-swept and voluminous at the crown, which is flattering on virtually every face shape. It’s confident, a little rebellious, and very now.
Color this vibrant requires some love. When you need to update pink color without visiting the salon, I would suggest the Moroccanoil Color Depositing Mask in Hibiscus. Add a root touch-up spray to that and you are good in between visits.
Pixies like this are surprisingly low-effort. A bit of matte pomade or styling paste (like Fatboy Tough Guy Water Wax) adds shape without stiffness. You simply smear it up, apply lipstick and off you go.
It is the type of hair that makes you turn heads, but also makes you feel lighter, freer. Perhaps that is what we all require this season, a single daring change.
High Braided Ponytail with Sparkle
This smooth, high ponytail is raised with tight braiding on the scalp and a slight sparkle incorporated into the length a contemporary version of braids hair ideas that is not too young. The shine and the length make this particularly fun. This is clearly long hair 2025 with purpose. It is glossy, polished, yet wearable on a daily basis. High school nostalgia, upgraded.
To maintain the roots this smooth, even in cooler weather I recommend a boar bristle brush and a spritz of ShineFlash by Redken. A little bit of edge control around the hairline will have those braids poppin all day.
This type of ponytail is effective both when you are going out and when you are in a hurry to get to school or do some errands. I have worn something similar to a wedding, and again to the grocery store the following week. The versatility is unmatched.
Want to dial it up for evening? Put a second ribbon or clip at the bottom of the pony. Tiny details, big difference.
Warm Blonde Shag with Soft Bangs
This soft shag cut is in between medium length 2025 and long, it brushes the shoulders and has a broken up fringe that fits the eyes perfectly. The golden blonde color is warm and glows against neutral knits and brown palettes, which are all over this fall. It has a little texture, but not rough layering, so it retains that warm softness. Like if cinnamon toast had a hairstyle.
Maintenance-wise, a shag like this craves hydration. I would suggest a sulfate-free shampoo such as Verb Ghost line, and a leave-in such as Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser Invisible Oil. Bangs are prone to greasiness – dry shampoo will be your best friend in this case.
After I cut my bangs, I realized that they are not only a fashion statement, but a mood. You get to frame your face every single day. There’s something creative about that.
It is also an ideal style when you have greasy hair days- a little wave and you are back to cozy-chic.
Soft Waves with Half-Up Twist
There’s an effortless charm in a half up half bun when paired with face-framing curtain bangs and long, softly layered lengths. This style flows between casual and romantic, making it ideal for early fall — when you’re still clinging to a little summer energy but want something more structured. The bun is not tight and is high, maintaining the volume natural. It is the sort of style that takes the breeze at the right moment on a September day of transition.
In case your hair tends to be dry during this season, I would suggest a little bit of shine oil or a smoothing cream prior to making the twist. Oribe’s Supershine Moisturizing Cream is my go-to for frizz control without flattening texture. Tie the top knot loosely and remove some face pieces to achieve that undone look.
I personally believe that this look is best when you do not overanalyze it. A little bit of natural wavy hair, a little movement, a little bow in case you want to fancy it up, and you are finished. The slightly messier ones are chic, too, with gold jewelry and a soft knit.
It’s also an easy style for dealing with second-day greasy hair. Simply twist the top, freshen up the fringe and you are good to go.
Bubble Ponytail with Sleek Shine
This is a ponytail with personality. The bubble ponytail, which is achieved by dividing the length and securing with elastics, adds volume and interest without the use of heat. The top is smooth, which forms a clean foundation to balance the playful mood. It is one of those fast and simple styles that appear more complex than they are, and that is why it is ideal to wear during busy fall mornings.
A good shine spray is key here. I tend to mist with Color Wow Extra Mist-ical Shine Spray before the last elastic to make everything look polished. When your hair is thick, tease each of the sections of the bubbles to add more fullness by tying.
I have used this on a weekend trip last October and it survived even after walking in wind and rain. The elastics keep the style in place and provide it with that Pinterest-worthy shape.
It is also a fantastic alternative when you need something more formal than a simple ponytail, but you do not feel like braiding. No braid skills required.
Short Ombre Waves with Volume
This is a short length ombre cut that is a combination of polish and softness. It is big, dishevelled waves with a bit of side-part, framing the face purposefully but remaining light. The rich chocolate brown to warm blonde color melt gives it a fresh look without the need to maintain it all the time. It is an excellent choice of a fall hairstyle in 2025 that does not want to be dramatic.
To make the most of this style, I adore a 1 inch curling iron and alternating the direction of the curls. Then I will comb it all apart with a wide-tooth comb and a blast of texture spray, such as the IGK Beach Club Volumizing Texture Spray.
This style takes me back to the time I wanted to experiment with short hair but not pixie. It still provided me with the styling versatility that I required and enhanced the natural lift in my roots.
The side part in this case is not merely a detail, it creates balance, particularly in case you have a rounder or heart-shaped face. It also gives the illusion of fuller cheekbones.
Voluminous Low Ponytail with Soft Curls
Even a low ponytail can be made to feel high when it is done with volume and soft, brushed-out curly texture. This one is collected at the nape in a full-bodied pony that runs down the back. The fluffy finish and the one soft piece left free around the face are what keep it feeling modern in 2025, it is subtle, but stylish.
To recreate the shape, I recommend using a volumizing mousse (like Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse) on damp hair before blow-drying. Then brush through with a large barrel iron to give a soft bend. Seal with a flexible hold spray to make things touchable.
I’ve styled this for fall dinners out — and yes, it held up perfectly in chilly air and a little drizzle. The trick is to ensure that the base is not too tight, otherwise the ponytail will be full and not droopy.
It is also an ideal backup when you want to display earrings or a collar. Easy, yet so multi-purpose – and worth saving in your hair repertoire.
Shaggy Pixie with Feathered Fringe
This season, the modern shag is going short and this one hits the nail on the head. This short length style is big on texture with feathered layers, barely-there bangs and soft volume. It provides a slight 70s flashback, a slight French cool-girl, and a lot of edge, which is exactly what you need when you want something lighter, bolder, and less predictable this fall.
This cut thrives with air-drying and some help from a styling cream like Davines This Is A Curl Building Serum — even if your hair isn’t naturally curly. Shape and fluff with fingers as it dries and then add dry shampoo to achieve that undone volume.
I did this cut two years ago when I needed a change so badly, and I must say it was a blast of a reset. It brought makeup to life, earrings to life, and it saved me so much time.
If you’re someone who’s always fighting your texture, this style says — don’t. Let it be wild. Let it be you.
Layered Bob with Tousled Body
This bob is bouncy, voluminous and a little undone with a cooler than crisp texture. The layers are trimmed so that the ends curl out a little bit, making this medium length brunette style have a casual glamour that fits anything, including turtlenecks and leather jackets. Throw in some wave and it is an immediate fall hairstyle women 2025 declaration.
Texturizing spray is your best friend here. I prefer the Not Your Mother Dry Finish Texture Spray, which adds movement but not stickiness. It only takes a few spritzes and some scrunching.
This type of bob is also so effective on those in-between times as well, when you are not quite ready to grow out, but not quite ready to have a complete re-shape. I love the inspo energy it gives.
It is also ideal when you want to pursue that preppy yet low-key look. An addition of a side-sweep or a claw clip would change the vibe in a second.
Side-Swept Platinum Pixie
Cool, bold and cut to perfection, this long side-swept platinum pixie is the epitome of fierce minimalism. The forehead length brings softness and the back is cropped to keep everything sharp. It is shamelessly brief and does not conceal anything, which is precisely its beauty.
This color is a commitment, I use the Redken Blondage system to keep tones icy, and I do purple masks once a week to prevent yellowing. The shape itself grows out quickly, so it should be trimmed every 4-6 weeks to keep it sharp.
This is the type of cut that I would suggest when you want to feel totally free. It is assertive, it is straightforward, and it has nothing to conceal under long layers. Just you.
Short doesn’t mean boring. Throw in a deep berry lip or a pile of earrings and it becomes editorial.
Rogue Red Braids With Edge
This cherry braid is so deep it has the energy of a lead character in a dystopian fashion film, and I am living. The smooth roots are combined with the deliberate and powerful braids hair ideas that provide structure without removing the softness of the color. The difference between this style and Fall hairstyle for women 2025 is that it is two-fold: glossy, clean, and composed on the top; artistic, chunky, and experimental down the lengths. And the silver ear cuffs? Just the right touch of drama.
And, in case you are dealing with colored or bleached hair this season, I would recommend a pigment-saving shampoo such as Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash in Red. It deposits tone softly during the wash, and locks that just-out-of-the-salon color in place, particularly in rain or temperature changes that can wash away quickly.
I have used this braid pattern to a weekend music festival and felt immediately polished without being rigid. It is an excellent choice when you want to appear like you made an effort, but you did not put much effort. And a little shine spray and it glows in the cool fall sun like mad.
Hair chalk or temporary tints are a good place to start, in case you are not ready to commit to red. Or even better-try extensions in colors such as cherry cola or crimson velvet with no risk involved.
Orange Cider Half-Knot
This warm ginger-orange color combined with a soft half up half top knot is the epitome of fall muse. The color fades so perfectly root to tip, like the light of early morning through the pumpkin-spiced leaves. What I love most? It is a fast and casual style that is nevertheless polished. This is perfect for anyone with long hair 2025 or thick waves—especially if you’re trying to keep volume without the bulk.
To keep this tone vibrant, especially if you’re naturally brunette, you’ll want a color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo. I suggest Pureology Hydrate Sheer- it is a moisturizing product that does not make hair heavy and helps to maintain these warmer copper tones as the weather cools down.
I went through a period last fall when I dyed my hair this very shade, and I can tell you it altered my mood completely. People literally stopped me in Trader Joe’s. It is light-hearted yet romantic, a cinnamon-spiced fairytale come true.
And to those who are still unsure of going all color, you can also recreate the effect with a cinnamon gloss or even a colored leave-in conditioner to give it a hint of color. A mini experiment with maximum glow.
Double Bubble Ponytails
This is the type of ponytail that makes me feel like I just stepped off of a Pinterest board titled, cool girl back-to-school. This is a fun, yet organized, double bubble pony that incorporates traditional elastics to add depth, ideal on medium length 2025 hair or anyone with slightly wavy hair that they want to shape. And it has such a throw it up and go energy, but still looks like you thought it out.
It is a style that lives on a little grit, so it is actually perfect on greasy hair days. A decent dry shampoo, such as the Volumizing one by Batiste, will provide you with the hold and bounce. And it adds a lived-in quality to this look so it does not feel too bubblegum.
I personally wear this when I am in a rush yet I still want compliments. Pair it with gold hoops and a chunky knit? Instant fall uniform. You can even sleep in this one and wake up and just touch up the elastics. Lazy-girl magic.
In case you have fine hair and you desire more puff to your bubbles, tease each section and then fix it. Performs perfectly and works during windy and rainy days.
Glossy Chocolate Ombre Waves
This one is to the old-fashioned girls–the brunettes long and daring with waves that fade between raven and mocha. This style is easily rich and classy, providing gentle movement without shouting to be heard. In case you have been holding on to summer balayage, this is the best transition color into Fall hairstyle for women 2025.
Maintenance-wise, I have a bottle of Olaplex No.3 on hand–particularly in cooler months when indoor heating can dry out moisture in a flash. This assists in maintaining the ends shiny and soft, despite styling once a week.
I adore the fact that this hair is a bit like I am on my third novel and a bit like I brunch in soft knits. It’s elegant enough for work, casual enough for errands, and it looks killer with a dark trench or camel wool coat.
To achieve that perfect wave definition, you only need a large-barrel curling iron and a wide-tooth comb. No tight curls, here–only soft bends that play with the light as the head turns.
Berry Plaits With a Bow
Now about accessories–this style is created by that neat bow which sits on top of smooth burgundy plaits. The color is intense, the structure makes it sweet and surprisingly wearable. This style is braided near the crown and is held in a medium length updo, which is not too tight but is customized.
It is a fantastic choice on windier days when you need everything in order. I’ve found that applying a bit of leave-in conditioner (try It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In) before braiding adds hold and gloss, and prevents the frizz that comes with sudden cold snaps.
I had a variation of this on a cider tasting with friends last October, and it was surprisingly comfortable. Didn’t move all day. And the compliments? Constant. The bow makes it flirty but not too precious.
You can completely replace a bow with a ribbon, in case you want to make it less flashy, or a velvet one, in case you want to add some texture. These little tweaks make it feel super personal.
Pumpkin Patch Side Braid
A chunky, side-swept braid is something eternal, particularly when it is combined with a warm white knit and the scent of woodsmoke in the air. It is a casual but romantic style with a carefree pull to the side and free tendrils around the face. It’s exactly the kind of braids hair ideas we’re reaching for this season: low-maintenance but not boring, soft but not too precious. In the case of fall hairstyle for women 2025, it strikes that ideal sweet spot between functional and cute.
To maintain it without being rigid, I would recommend a texturizing mousse such as the Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse. It adds hold but keeps everything touchable. And what about your hair that is inclined to come out of braids? A small amount of dry shampoo on your hands before weaving- game changer.
I have used this type of braid to go to Sunday markets, to do rainy errands. It just works. And, when it is pulled to the side, it is still visible, as an accessory built-in. It is not a crime to pull the strands of the braid a little bit to loosen and soften the overall appearance.
To take it a step higher, insert a claw clip at the bottom or run a velvet ribbon through the plait. It is layering time, and your hair is not an exception.
Preppy Loose Waves With Braided Crown
This one is designed to the girls who want to have a bit of preppy polish but still want to be soft and flirty. One braid wraps around the crown and the rest of the hair is in long, messy waves, which is perfect on anyone with medium length brunette or long hair 2025. It is a style that speaks in a low tone, not in a loud voice, and it is ideal in cold weather and big scarves.
I recommend prepping with a curl-defining spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Soft Waves. It makes wavy hair less crunchy, and provides that slight hold so the braid does not fall apart by lunch.
I personally have always adored this style in transitional fall weather when you are not quite ready to do full up-dos but still want a little control. The braid is interesting on the top and the waves make it relaxed and romantic.
Want to take it one step further? Try adding curtain bangs to frame the face. They’re flattering on just about everyone and grow out gracefully through winter. No regrets, just softness.
Messy Space Buns and Money Pieces
This half-up double bun is like the flirty sister of a standard updo simple, but with a serious fall makeover. The foundation is a messy wavy hair, parted down the middle and left to hang loosely to frame the face, and two messy top knots take the party up high. What ties the whole look together? These cool-toned curtain bangs and bright money-piece streaks that provide contrast and shine without much effort. It’s messy in a really intentional way.
This kind of style is a dream of a dry shampoo lover. When I want my roots clean, but still textured, I use Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo, which adds volume without the powdery effect. And it gives me an extra day of styling when greasy hair is an issue and I do not want to bother.
I tend to fling this on a Thursday when I have back-to-back errands to run but I still want to appear to care. It gives “cool and collected” without being too fussy. And with a pair of hoops and some gloss? Insta-ready.
Attempt to pin a small claw clip behind one of the buns to give it a lowkey twist, particularly adorable when you are layering fall colors into your accessories or nails.
Burnt Cinnamon Blowout
This deep copper color with loose, flowing curls is the type of fall hairstyle women 2025 will have where they feel like they just walked out of a rom-com montage in Vermont. It is a rich, textured color, a roasted chestnut to warm paprika, and the curly blowout style tames the brashness with that bouncy, touchable finish. The middle section makes it down to earth and refined and the motion gives it a lot of visual appeal.
To keep that shine into fall, particularly when the rain begins, I suggest the dpHUE Color Fresh Shampoo in Copper. It is a soft cleanser that has pigment to enhance your tone and keep things shiny-not brassy. Apply once per week and combine with a moisturizing mask.
One of my colorists once told me that copper tones are the color of confidence, and she was not wrong. Even jeans and a sweater were deliberate when my hair was like this. It inspired me to work hard at small things- such as wearing mascara on a random Tuesday.
To add additional glam, turn the ends out with a round brush and diffuser. It adds even more bounce to this style without being retro. Slightly undone is key.
Silk-Scarf Ponytail
A smooth ponytail with a patterned scarf thrown through is something quite lovely and unobtrusive. It is a timeless, clean, and fully versatile look, which can be worn in a pumpkin patch or a client meeting. The smooth finish and the mid-height pony positioning keeps it adult, and the silk ribbon provides just the right touch of texture and sophistication. It’s giving soft luxury without the price tag.
I constantly have a couple of neutral scarves on rotation- particularly when humidity or rain attempts to flatten or frizz my hair. To complete this style, use a light serum such as Ouai Hair Oil to make strands smooth and shiny, particularly on misty mornings.
I have worn this exact style when walking downtown after a coffee date and I swear it made my whole outfit feel more curated. The scarf provided the right amount of motion as the wind struck- pure fall drama.
Don’t have a scarf? A scrunchie with a ribbon tail or even tie in an antique handkerchief will be more personal. Mixing prints with soft knits is a fall win.
Playful Braided Pigtails
Here is the daring and playful version of your braids hair ideas- two high pony sections twisted into tight braids and released with long hair 2025 streaming out of the top. The symmetry is young yet can be worn at any age and the small braid detail on the top gives it the right amount of structure. It is worn with volume and a little bit of tousle and straddles the boundary between polished and playful with ease.
You will need a good elastic system,–not one that tugs or snaps. Invisibobble Slim Hair Rings are my favorite to use on these types of styles since they grip without the crease. And in case your hair has a tendency to go flat quickly, apply some dry texturizing spray, such as Oribe, to volumize the foundation.
I would personally wear this to a casual Friday brunch or a weekend walk when I want something a bit different to the regular topknot. It holds up well even when you’re moving a lot or facing light wind.
It is easy to insert a bow or small metallic clips to secure the braids. Or for something softer? Leave the ends unattached and forego the last hair ties.
Side-Swept Platinum Bob
This is a short length platinum bob that is all elegance with a twist. The side part creates immediate volume and drama, and the sweeping length creates the illusion of layers without heavy stacking. It’s sleek, but not stiff. Clean, but not cold. It is empowering downtown power woman- ideal to anyone who is willing to change things this fall.
To maintain that cool blonde, purple shampoo is essential. I never hesitate to suggest Fanola No Yellow as a professional level tone refresher once a week. Combine it with a heat protectant when styling every day, short hair may dry quicker when the air becomes crispy.
It is one of those cuts that I dream of every other year when I am sick of layers and want clean lines. It is daring in its simplicity–and it is surprisingly easy to lengthen out into a medium length 2025 shape later.
To add some softness, tuck one side behind the ear and put a small clip or barrette. You will still have that side-swept drama but in a more balanced way.
Dimensional Blowout with Volume
There’s something magical about medium length brunette hair that catches the autumn sun just right. The style introduces cool blonde shades with face-framing highlights, which are layered into the voluminous wavy hair that seems to be created to fall leaves and oversized cardigans. The layers are not overt but work well, creating body without excessive form.
Keeping the body in these layers implies using less conditioner and paying more attention to the volume of roots. The Kenra Volume Spray 25 is one of the rare ones that does provide hold without crunch.
I have this very style several times, it is simple to style, and even when it fails by the third day, it still appears purposeful. It is ideal when you are in a hurry in the fall mornings and you cannot re-curl everything.
To make this appearance a bit more glamorous, twist some pieces that frame the face and pin them back with a clip or a small bow. It keeps your hair out of the way and it flaunts that blended dimension.
Conclusion
Whether you’re stepping into a coffee shop or the first drops of rain, the right hairstyle can make you feel like the main character of your own cozy autumn movie. It is all about texture, movement, and a touch of edge this year, but with softness and ease. One, three, just not to leave the season without changing it. Because fall isn’t just a vibe—it’s your moment. 🍂