Nostalgia Meets Modern Artistry

It’s been almost a decade since 2016, a time when hair color trends were dominated by brondes, cherry cola reds, and unblended ombrés. However, as beauty trends often do, the styles of the past are making a comeback. This time around, 2016’s rich dimensional tones are experiencing a major resurgence, with a fresh twist.

Celebrity colorist Larisa Love attributes the revival to fashion’s love affair with the past, citing the current popularity of Y2K and 90s fashion as a driving force behind the trend’s return. “All trends come back around,” Love says. “With the resurgence of Y2K and 90s fashion, it makes sense that the rest of the beauty trends will follow, including hair.”

However, unlike the bold, dramatic hair moments of the past, today’s revival is all about subtlety. Jacob Schwartz, Schwarzkopf Professional U.S. Hair Color Trend Ambassador, notes that the key to making the 2016 revival feel fresh is to soften the look with more dimension and depth. “Back then, color was much more dramatic, think chunky highlights and bright copper tones,” he explains. “Now I’m seeing similar color shifts with more refinement, like tonal soft color and strategically placed highlights and lowlights.”

The result is a modern take on the classic 2016 hair colors. Jet black is still a striking choice, but it’s now paired with subtle dimension and warmth. Auburn honey is making a comeback, but with a more natural, multi-dimensional undertone. Bronde, once a bold and brassy color, is now a dimensional shade that gives the illusion of natural hair color.

Other popular hues making a comeback this season include supermodel blonde, which is achieved by finding balance in a soft and multi-dimensional undertone. This look is perfect for those who want a bright, sun-kissed color without the harshness of a one-dimensional blonde. Brunette sweetheart, on the other hand, is a casual, nonfussy hue that’s perfect for those who want a cool-girl look without the fuss. This shade is characterized by its natural, effortless appearance, with subtle dimension and warmth that adds depth and dimension to the hair.

The trend is also seeing a resurgence of bold, statement hair colors, such as jet black, auburn honey, and cherry cola red. These colors are being reimagined with modern techniques, such as tonal soft color and strategically placed highlights and lowlights, to create a fresh and modern look.

One of the key factors driving the trend is social media. With the rise of Instagram and TikTok, people are more aware of the latest beauty trends and are eager to try out new looks. Celebrity influence is also playing a significant role, with stars like Charli XCX, Zendaya, and Sabrina Carpenter showcasing bold, statement hair colors on the red carpet and on social media.

In terms of maintenance, the trend is all about embracing natural texture and minimizing damage. “The key to making the 2016 revival feel fresh is to soften the look with more dimension and depth,” Schwartz says. “This means using gentler hair care products and avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the hair.”

For those looking to try out the trend, Schwartz recommends starting with a consultation with a professional colorist. “It’s all about finding the right shade and technique for your hair type and skin tone,” he says. “With the right guidance, you can achieve a look that’s both on-trend and timeless.”

Overall, the return of the 2016 hair color era is a welcome trend that brings back the richness and dimension of the past while incorporating modern techniques and styles. Whether you’re looking for a bold statement hair color or a more subtle, dimensional look, there’s a shade to suit every style and preference.