Have you ever stood in front of the mirror, reaching for your go-to summer braid only to realize your wardrobe has swapped sandals for boots—and your hair needs an autumn refresh too? As the temperature drops and pumpkin spice season arrives, it’s the perfect time to reinvent your look with fall hairstyles that pair with sweaters, scarves, and rich seasonal colors.
Why switch up your hair for fall?
Fall brings drier air, more hats, and an urge to cozy up—so your hair care, styling routine, and even color choices should adapt. Transitioning from lightweight summer products to richer serums, adding protective heat tools, and experimenting with textured looks will keep your hair healthy and on-trend. Below are practical, real-world beauty tips for making that seasonal switch with style.
Fall Hairstyles You’ll Love
Whether you have a short bob, long layers, or natural curls, these autumn hair ideas and easy fall hair tutorials are wearable for everyday life and special occasions.
1. Soft, undone waves (best for medium to long hair)
- How to: Use a 1–1.25 inch curling wand, wrap sections leaving the ends out for a lived-in look, then finger-comb and finish with a lightweight texturizing spray.
- Tip: Apply a heat protectant and a small amount of hair oil on ends to guard against autumn dryness.
2. Low pony with a silk scarf (easy fall hairstyle for work)
- How to: Smooth hair into a low pony, tie a printed silk scarf around the base, and let the ends trail over a structured blazer or wool coat.
- Style note: This instantly pulls a casual outfit together—pair with a turtleneck and knee boots.
3. Textured bob with face-framing pieces (best fall hairstyles for short hair)
- How to: Use a salt spray on damp hair, scrunch while blow-drying with a diffuser, and finish with a light pomade for separation.
- Tip: Try a subtle fall hair color like warm caramel highlights or a cool chestnut gloss to complement autumn wardrobes.
4. Braided crown or halo braid (boho-chic autumn look)
- How to: Create two Dutch braids from either side and pin across the crown, or braid a single halo for an elegant evening option.
- Makeup pairing: Soft bronze eyes and a muted berry lip complete this ethereal combo.
5. Messy bun with face-framing tendrils (weekend cozy style)
- How to: Pull hair into a loose bun at the nape, pull a few pieces free around the face, and set with flexible-hold hairspray.
- Outfit match: Chunky knit sweater, leggings, and ankle boots.
Practical beauty tips for protecting hair in autumn
Transitioning your hair care routine is as important as swapping your skincare. These fall hair care tips will keep strands nourished and stylish.
- Switch to a hydrating shampoo and conditioner—look for ingredients like argan oil, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter.
- Use a weekly deep-conditioning mask to combat indoor heating and wind exposure.
- Limit heat styling; when you do use tools, always apply a heat protectant and work on the lowest effective temperature.
- Dry shampoo is your friend for in-between washes—spritz at the roots and massage to revive volume under hats.
- Trim split ends before heavy scarves rub against hair to prevent breakage.
Complementary makeup and skincare routines for autumn looks
Autumn makeup and skincare should feel richer but still breathable. Think hydrated base, warm tones, and barrier-repair skincare.
Skincare routine
- Cleanse with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser.
- Exfoliate 1–2x per week to remove dullness—swap to a gentler acid if your skin is sensitive.
- Use a hydrating serum (vitamin B5 or hyaluronic acid) and a thicker moisturizer at night.
- Don’t skip sunscreen—even in cloudy weather.
If you want more seasonal advice, check out our skincare tips page for product picks and routines.
Makeup suggestions
- Base: Use a luminous foundation or tinted moisturizer; add a cream blush for a dewy finish.
- Eyes: Warm bronzes, deep plum, and soft golds are perfect for autumn eye makeup.
- Lips: Berry stains, terracotta, or classic deep red—match your lip color to the occasion.
- Setting: A hydrating setting spray will keep makeup cozy and not cakey in cool air.
For trend-forward looks, explore our roundup of makeup trends for seasonal inspiration.
Outfit combinations that pair perfectly with fall hairstyles
Think layered silhouettes and textures that enhance your hair choices.
- Soft waves + wool coat + leather ankle boots = effortless city chic.
- Low pony + silk scarf + tailored blazer = polished office-ready look.
- Textured bob + oversized turtleneck + statement earrings = modern minimalist.
- Braids + suede jacket + midi skirt = brunch-ready boho energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best fall hairstyles for short hair?
Short hair works great with textured bobs, soft pixie styles, and layered lobs. Use salt sprays or light pomades for dimension and try warm highlights to echo autumn hues.
2. How do I protect my hair from cold, dry weather?
Hydrate with weekly masks, swap to richer conditioners, minimize heat styling, and use leave-in serums. Wear satin-lined hats or silk scarves to reduce friction and prevent breakage.
3. Which hair colors are trending this fall?
Warm chestnuts, caramel balayage, cinnamon reds, and cool espresso tones are popular. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone and maintenance level—low-maintenance lived-in color is ideal for busy seasons.
Conclusion: Embrace the season with confident fall hairstyles
Fall is the perfect time to experiment—whether that means trying effortless waves, adding a scarf to a low pony, or updating your color to a warm chestnut. These fall hairstyles will help you look polished, protect your hair from seasonal changes, and complement your cozy wardrobe. Which look are you trying first? Drop a comment below, tag a friend, or explore our fashion guides for more outfit pairing ideas. Don’t forget to bookmark this page for easy fall hair inspiration!
