Ombré hair is making a huge comeback in 2025, tapping into the nostalgia of past beauty trends. This season, it’s all about revamping the iconic dip-dye look with a modern twist. If the idea of revisiting ombré makes you cringe, you’re not alone. At first, I felt the same, but after speaking with hairstylist and trend forecaster Tom Smith, who predicts ombré’s return, I’m excited to see how the trend has evolved for 2025. Ready to reintroduce ombré hair to your routine? Here’s how it’s looking for this spring.
The Rise of Ombré Hair: A Trend with History
Ombré hair’s popularity can be traced back 10 to 15 years when the soft-grunge aesthetic ruled. Think bold, dip-dyed hair with contrasting tips – a signature look on Tumblr. “Ombré had that punk and grunge influence,” says Smith. “It was for those who wanted to stand out and make a statement.” As the look evolved, celebrities like Khloé Kardashian made ombré more mainstream, softening the contrast from harsh lines to a more gradual fade. Over time, ombré hair evolved from a sharp contrast to a subtler fade, which is what we’re seeing now in 2025.
The cyclical nature of beauty trends means that ombré hair is set for a revival after a decade of dormancy. For many, especially younger beauty enthusiasts, ombré might be the first trend they’ve seen come and go, making its return an interesting cultural moment. While some are excited to see it again, others are not as thrilled. But rest assured, ombré hair for 2025 is far from the same as it once was.
How Ombré Hair Has Evolved for 2025
In 2025, the ombré fade has been updated with a more flattering, elevated look. The fade line now sits higher—around the cheekbones or even at eye level. This placement helps subtly lift the face, enhancing the cheekbones in a way that aligns with the current trend for sculpted, contoured facial features.
Another major change is the softness of the fade. In the past, ombré hair featured stark contrasts between light and dark shades, with the difference sometimes as much as three levels. Now, the fade is much more subtle, with a shift of only one or two levels. If you prefer a low-maintenance look, this softer version of ombré is ideal. Still, feel free to get creative with vibrant colors (think Rihanna’s magenta ombré), but a smooth gradient will keep it looking modern and chic. For a natural, subtle ombré, look to stars like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, whose hair features a barely noticeable transition from dark to light.
For the most updated version of ombré hair in 2025, aim for a low-contrast look with a gradual fade that starts at or near the cheekbones. This modern twist gives ombré a fresh, contemporary vibe, perfect for today’s beauty trends. Of course, if you’re feeling nostalgic for the bold, dip-dyed tips of 2014, don’t be afraid to embrace the full grunge aesthetic. After all, fashion and beauty are all about self-expression—and trends always make a comeback.
By following these updated guidelines, ombré hair can feel fresh, stylish, and in line with 2025’s beauty trends. Whether you choose subtle or bold, ombré is the hair trend that’s ready for its next chapter. For more on the ombré trend, check out this article on Who What Wear.
