We see the same hair trends cycle through the seasons. Historically, autumn equals a shift toward deeper shades, and while we love the cosiness, pearl blonde is proof that, despite the evenings getting darker, our hair doesn’t have to. In fact, a bright, high-shine shade can give us exactly the lift we’re missing.
While we’ve seen a movement toward more muted, stone blondes that sit a little closer to natural mousy hair colours (and therefore are gentler on the bleach), we’ll always adore a bright, iridescent, eye-catching blonde, which bonus acts as your own personal ring light. That’s why top hair colourist, John Alfred, Principal Colourist at Josh Wood Atelier, predicts the shade will be one to watch as the weather gets colder.
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What is Pearl Blonde?
The shade taps up the luminous silvery-white colour of a pearl. Translated onto hair, the colour calls for a light, creamy, silky blonde.
“It gives the hair an icy, luminous edge that feels powerful and intentional,” says John. “Think clean, frosted tones, high shine and a touch of winter sparkle. It’s the perfect way to make a statement and keep your blonde feeling fresh, modern and completely season proof,” he adds.
Why is Pearl Blonde trending?
Don’t love following the crowd? The shade offers an antidote to the darker blondes and brondes that traditionally come through as autumn hits. “Everyone talks about going darker for the colder months, but it’s definitely not a rule you have to follow,” says John. “A bright blonde in autumn and winter is one of the most striking looks you can wear, especially paired with a great coat and that crisp seasonal light,” he says. But also, if you went blonder over summer, it means you can put all the hard work your colourist put in to good use. “For clients who love their summer brightness, I like to shift blondes into cooler, pearlier territory rather than taking them darker,” John says. The shade feels striking and seasonal, “without losing the lift and radiance built over the warmer months. So, no need to kiss goodbye to your summer lights,” he adds.
How to maintain Pearl Blonde?
Being a brighter blonde, pearl blonde does require more regular maintenance than a darker blonde, especially if you take it right up to the roots. Depending on how quickly your roots grow, a touch-up every 4-8 weeks will keep it fresh. However, if you wear it with a blended root or balayage, you can go a little longer (up to 12 weeks).
How to wear Pearl Blonde?
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite ways to wear pearl blonde below…