Silvery Rose Gold
@thejesjewel
Warm and cold may be extreme opposites but could actually work fantastically like these pink tones on silver hair!
Silver Ash Grey
@xcellent_kevin
If you do not want to have all of your hair entirely influenced by the silver color popularity, you can always opt for the ever beautiful ombre.
Silver Mermaid Hair
@graley_bruton
White Silver Hair
@hairmakeuplucy
This is an awesome option to think about if you have thin hair. The silver strands add dimension and can make thin hair look voluminous.
Ice Gray Silver
@yokii.san
No space for warmth with this ultra cool icy silver shade! Perfect on any hair length and texture!
Edgy Silver and Purple Hair
@__forestfairy.hair__
Q&A with style creator, Stephanie
Freelance Personal Stylist in Cupertino, CA / Tokyo, Japan
How would you describe this look?
As a personal stylist, I believe a completed look should be from head to toe, and that we shall always dress for the occasion.
My Instagram account is mainly focused on a hairstyle for Forest girl/Mori girl originated from Japan. I have always been drawn to the fantasy world and thought a soft metallic lavender color and fairy-like braids will be perfect for Mori girl fashion. I chose a ladder braid with an asymmetric finish to add some texture and playfulness.
Any advice for someone considering it?
In order to get this silver hue, I used Ion purple, a dot of Ion magenta, Olaplex No.1, and lots of clear conditioner.
I tried to wash my hair with Amino Acid Shampoo from Kiehl’s and Fino Premium Touch Hair Mask from Shiseido. I also applied a small amount of argan oil on my hair while blow drying and before styling in the morning.
Unicorn Silver
@mojkahair
Q&A with style creator, Joshua
Director @ Mojka Hair Shop in Sydney, Australia
How would you describe this look?
This would be a steel blue to silver ombre. It’s meant to be icy and reflects a more winter glacial look with the deep cool that creates the contrast to the more subtle silver ends.
We love the trend towards more depth in color where it’s not a flat tone but a facet of complement tones.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Bleaching is damaging to the hair no matter what is used so a strict home regime is essential. We recommend a variety of protein-based mask followed by a hydrating mask, and either a violet or blue shampoo to contract the yellow tones.
These type of colors require maintenance when being washed, but only requires a wash once or twice a week.
It will suit most skin tones, hair color, and face shapes, but might require a slight change in makeup tones so that the hair color does not overpower your features!
Most importantly, the wearer should have a confident attitude for this kind of color! It’s meant to be fun and chic with a touch of the ice queen.
Silver Ash Brown
@the_zix
Q&A with style creator, Zix
Freelance Hairstylist / Colorist in Barcelona
How would you describe this look?
This look will fade out quickly because the hair is bleached to a level 9 (that’s almost a platinum 1). You need to bleach it that much in order to obtain that silver look.
Any advice for someone considering it?
First, if you’re a person that doesn’t care a lot about hair color this one is not for you.
Second, the hair is bleached. So even if your hairdresser cares about the hair and takes care of it, it’s always bleached and it would dry out the hair. Keep in mind that you must hydrate and condition the hair as much as possible to keep it healthy and shiny. I recommend Olaplex N3 as a weakly treatment (the most known). L’Oréal shampoo/the moisturizer and the oil (all three pro-mythic oil products).
This look, even if it’s bleached to highest levels, still remains natural, but those ashy tones give it a more edgy look. This color looks good on girls with long hair because it gives more dimension. Usually, it’s better looking on girls that don’t use a lot of makeup (it’s all about natural edge), but it looks good even if you have a lighter or darker skin tone.
Silver Babylights
@hairbysamanthasimpson
Q&A with style creator, Samantha Simpson
Hairstylist @ Hair by Samantha in Sunshine Coast, QLD
How would you describe this look?
I would call this color a slightly lighter gunmetal silver grey. I love the different tones throughout the hair. It was a beautiful result.
Any advice for someone considering it?
It’s imperative that you understand what it takes to achieve this color: time and money for maintenance.
It can take many hours and many visits in your hairdresser’s chair to achieve this color. It can be a very challenging color to achieve, especially if you’ve been box dying it on your own at home for the past few years.
Be patient with your hairdresser and purchase the products she recommends! We actually do care greatly about keeping the integrity of your hair! We want it to be healthy and for your colors to last! Using cheap shampoo and conditioner only strips your color out.
Finally, be prepared to visit your salon every 4-6 weeks. These types of colors have a tendency to fade they are high maintenance.
Silver Mauve
@hairbyrachelkay
Q&A with style creator, Rachel Kay
Hairstylist @ Salon DVine in Renton, WA
How would you describe this look?
I love how well these two colors melt together to create what I like to call, ‘pale violet silver fox.’
Any advice for someone considering it?
This is a very fun, but high maintenance hair color. It may even require several bleaching sessions to achieve the root to tip, ice-y look you’re going for.
As for maintenance, you’ll also want to schedule a bleach re-touch and tone every 3-4 weeks. So definitely plan ahead and budget for the cost of your new locks. Once you achieve your new look, you’ll want to protect your investment with proper products.
Purple shampoo and a weekly nourishing treatment will be your new platinum blonde hair’s best friends. Cool, light blonde hair can easily fade to a pale yellow due to hard water, sun exposure, and regular shampooing.
The use of a tone-correcting purple shampoo and the weekly use of a deep conditioning treatment will keep yellow and dullness away, and help maintain the lavender/platinum blonde hair color.
Short Silver Pixie Undercut
@chelsey_marciniak
Q&A with style creator, Chelsey Tobias-Marciniak
Master Colorist / Stylist @ The Hair Gallery in Augusta, ME
How would you describe this look?
This short silver hair has a fearless undercut. A color just outside of the “norm” that is really going to turn some heads and make people talk.
Any advice for someone considering it?
For anyone who would like to rock short hair, you just need to find the right stylist to fit your style and your lifestyle.
To keep the integrity of your hair, slow and steady lightening is the proper way to do it.
Silver Periwinkle
@allison.oliver
Q&A with style creator, Allison Oliver
Barber / Stylist @ Tried and True Salon in Denton, TX
How would you describe this look?
A transitioning color from red to silver turned out to a dimensional cool tone color melt which is smoked sapphire and smokey ash blue.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Use color safe shampoo and conditioner sulfate and paraben free. I suggest AG hair care because they’re cruelty-free and each their product goes towards women’s education in Africa.
For daily upkeep, use S Factor Luminizer and Aquage Silkening Oil with Biomega shine spray and heat protectant to prevent it from fading.
To prevent your color from washing or fading out, rinse it out with water that&rsquos anywhere from room temperature to cold.
I have no rules when it comes to color. You should feel confident in any color you wear regardless or what the “normal or say so” is.
Ice Blue Silver
@ashleylynn.hair
Q&A with style creator, Ashley Lynn
Senior Stylist @ Salon Khouri in Dulles, VA
How would you describe this look?
This look is a smokey, silver, pastel blue-violet.
My favorite thing about this look is how far we came from the start of her appointment! I wish I had taken a before photo because she had been having one of her friends (who is not a stylist) do her bleach retouches at home. With the right tools and a lot of patience, we got her to the right canvas to do the color she was looking for.
I must say, the smile on her face when she saw the end result was the best thing in the world for me.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I have a lot of clients ask for silver hair color. I think this silver hair dye is BY FAR the hardest to achieve. This client is very light naturally, which made it much easier to accomplish.
I would encourage clients to consider what their natural color is, and understand that the darker their hair, the harder it is to achieve this look. If you’re starting with a dark canvas, you most likely won’t achieve this look in one sitting.
I also strongly encourage all of my clients who get any sort of vivid color to leave the salon with a product that day, otherwise, their color is not guaranteed to last. Using poor quality shampoo and products at home will strip these beautiful colors out VERY quickly, especially silver because it is one of those colors that fade if you don’t take care of it properly.
The last thing I always suggest to clients is to consider their lifestyle. For colors like this, the less often you wash your hair the better. I usually suggest for clients to shoot for 1-2 times a week, and to use dry shampoo if necessary in between.
This look is also something that needs to be refreshed every 4-6 weeks, which can be time-consuming and costly. I always ask clients for their budget and what they would like their maintenance schedule to be before we decide on whether or not this is realistic for them.
Silver Hair Highlights
@hooliganhair
Q&A with style creator, Julie Bonaduce
Balayage & Vivid Specialist @ Element 808 Hair Studio in Eugene, OR
How would you describe this look?
This super, sultry, ashy, silver highlights was a lot of fun to do. This guest came to me after having used dark box dye in her hair for several years and was ready for a change.
She really loves bright fashion colors but works in a conservative corporate environment. It was really fun to give her a totally new look, with hints of blue and silver but not being too flashy.
Any advice for someone considering it?
These types of pastel and metallic tones can be quite an undertaking to achieve. Because pastels and silvers have such little density of pigment, the hair needs to be very pale blonde (almost pure white) in order for them to show up.
It can sometimes take multiple sessions to get the hair color to an appropriate “blank canvas,” so it’s incredibly important to be patient to avoid over processing or damaging the health and integrity of the hair.
Upkeep of these soft tones can also be high maintenance. All hair color does fade over time, and when dealing with pastels or metallics we tend to see them fade back to blonde much more quickly than with deeper colors. That is why a good at-home haircare routine is crucial. I typically recommend not shampooing more than twice week, and using a pigmented hair mask every other week to keep the color looking on point! (My favorite is Overtone Extreme Silver Deep Treatment).
Silver Hair Ombre
@sarahbolinghairmua
Q&A with style creator, Sarah Boling
Master Stylist 2 / Makeup Artist @ Lunatic Fringe in St. George, UT
How would you describe this look?
This is a silver ombre. It’s a deep smokey root melted into a lighter silver or violet.
I love dimension, so I will always lean toward a shadow root of some kind. I feel it gives hair more character.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I discuss clear expectation to my guests who want this type of color. These colors take time, and investment, but have fun with the process! Enjoy each stage until you’re there. It’s a whole new look each time. I don’t want them ever feeling disappointed with their hair and hating it in between sessions.
When applying the silver tones, I like to take it slightly deeper to give more time before it fades out. I tell them they will leave with a deeper smokey gray that will fade beautifully, and give them more time with their new fashion color. Nothing is worse for them than spending so much time getting there and then having it fade out in a couple of washes.
Platinum Silver Hair
/ @brookebent
Q&A with Style Creator Brooke Benton
Master Colorist/Celebrity Hairstylist @ Brooke Benton Studio in Westlake Village & Los Angeles, CA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is a chic platinum silver. It gives the ability to have a very difficult to keep up with a white platinum look, but without the drama of having to keep up with regrowth every four weeks.
My favorite thing about this look is that it’s low maintenance platinum because it is balayaged (hand painted) into her natural root color, allowing a forgiving and natural grow out that can go on for months out of the salon. NO HARSH ROOTS. Yay!
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
To maintain the color and health of the hair in between visits, I recommend a great purple shampoo. My clients all use Fanola No Yellow once or twice a week because it leaves the hair grey without the hint of violet that sometimes occurs with most purple shampoos. I also send my clients home with Brazilian Bond Builder B3 shampoo and conditioner because it’s hair color-safe, it has the B3 bond building agent in it to keep the hair strong and soft, and it allows the hair to retain incredible shine.
As for styling, I use a 1 1/2-inch Bio Ionic ceramic curling iron after spraying Kenra Hot Spray in the hair to make sure that the hair is protected from heat damage. After styling with the iron, use a nickel-sized amount of texture paste from Kenra for added texture and separation to achieve that beachy, tousled look. You can also use a light hairspray if needed. The messier the better!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I recommend this look for people with a little bit of an edge to their style. It can easily compliment anything from athletic street styles to beachy boho chic hair.
Style and cut-wise, this look for anyone with fine to thick hair. It can amp up lifeless fine hair that needs volume and texture.
Color-wise this is best for lighter hair colors, natural blondes, and lighter brunettes (it IS achievable for most natural dark haired persons without prior colored hair, but is more expensive and higher maintenance). This color works great for light skin tones, especially those with yellow undertones to darker skin tones. Silver hair color has a tendency to wash out those with pink undertones, so remember this when talking to your stylist.
Deep Steel Brown Silver
/ @rozcorpuzhair
Q&A with Style Creator Roz Corpuz
Stylist IIII & Educator @ Umbrella Salon in San Jose, CA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is a deep steel brown silver shade, a dark grey with the slightest glimmer of brown.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
A common misconception that clients have about colors like these is the length of time it actually lasts. In their mind they’re “going dark”, but hairdressers know that while the tone of grey is dark, she is still ultimately blonde underneath. Because the desired tone is so ashy, we put the dark grey toner directly onto the blonde hair without using a filler first, giving the toner no “glue” to hold on to. This makes these colors very high maintenance.
I definitely recommend washing less and using less heat. Water and heat both open the cuticle, releasing more and more of your toner each time and causing fading. (Which may be a good thing if they like to change their hair color a lot!)
When you do wash and condition, make sure to use professional products to ensure your color investment lasts as long as it can. I love the Gold Lust line by Oribe. It’s highly reparative and super moisturizing. Always make sure to use a great leave-in conditioner as well! My holy grail leave-in conditioner is Supershine by Oribe. If you feel a little oily between washes, try Oribe’s Gold Lust dry shampoo. It absorbs all of the oil and doesn’t give your hair a coated or gritty feel!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I think anyone could be grey. When a client asks for grey hair, I don’t think they want it because they think it would compliment their eye color or skin tone. They want ir to be a little rebellious. Grey is a fun and edgy color that is meant to be a statement, an awesome accessory.
This color is definitely high maintenance. The clients that I have with colors like these I see at least every four weeks, sometimes more often!
Steel Metallic Silver
/ @ashairdesign
Q&A with Style Creator Ashley Arial
Hairstylist @ The Kru in Lancaster, CA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This shade of silver is as a wintery, metallic steel. My favorite thing about it is the pop of pigment as well as the violet and blue undertones.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
To obtain and maintain this hair color, I used 8SM by Guy Tang + Paul Mitchel Pop color in the shade steel, after lightening using Wella Freelights. For the roots I blended a level 3N with her metallic ends to create a seamless and timeless look. Blending is key!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look is for those who aren’t too defiant with the natural colors but are daring at heart. This shiny metallic hue is perfect for those sheek hearts, beating to their own drum. This look is modest, yet rock and roll. Perfect for any age, skin tone and hair type. Be prepared: This look is perfected over time and multiple lightening sessions, depending on hair texture and density. So be patient with your stylist, but most of all, be patient with your hair. The integrity of the hair is MOST important!
Dimensional Silver Bob
/ @colorgeekchic
Q&A with Style Creator Michelle Lindsay
Owner @ Cultures Salon in Clearfield, UT
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I call this hair color dimensional silver because I purposely put some highs and lows in the hair to give a multi-dimensional effect. I do this with a lot of my color, regardless of the tone, because I believe the most flattering hair color has dimension. If color is just one-note, it has less movement and tends to look like a wig.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
First off, these tones should only be attempted by a professional. For this client, I used a high lift Majirel color by L’Oreal Professionnel to lighten her natural hair, then glazed with a demi-permanent color. I like to use demi-permanent color for fashion shades whenever possible because of their longevity compared to
semi-permanent colors. And because they don’t transfer to my clients’ pillowcases and clothing.
This color will be easy for her to maintain because her hair is still in good condition, which will help the color last. We followed up her color
service with a Pro Fiber treatment, which strengthens the hair and protects the color, and she uses the color-safe Pro Fiber shampoo and conditioner. Anytime she wants to refresh the tone, it’s a simple in-salon service. If she doesn’t refresh the tone, it will gradually fade to the pretty iced blonde that she has underneath.
Anytime you do a fashion shade, it’s important to consider what the tone will fade to over time. We want our clients to look great when they leave the salon, but we also want them to look great several weeks after their color service.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
Your hair should definitely fit your own personality and style. This client with shorter hair is in the 60+ age category and has been nearly every color over the past several years. She has a great sense of style and always maintains a very stylish and classic look, even when doing the trends.
Grey tones work for anyone who looks good in cool tones. If you’re not sure whether cool tones or warm tones look best on you, ask your stylist. I tell stylists who have a hard time determining whether cool or warm tones look best to buy a large swatch of silver lamé fabric and another of gold lamé. Hold one of the swatches underneath the chin, draping the shoulders. Look in the mirror at the face and skin. Then repeat with the other swatch. It will usually jump out to you which color looks best on them. It’s the one that gives their skin tone a healthy glow and makes their eye color pop. If silver looks best against your skin, you should favor cool color tones. If gold looks best, you should favor warm color tones.
Medium Length Silver Hair
@thelibbylookbook
Q&A with Style Creator Elizabeth Eiten
Hairstylist @ Tease a Salon for You in Stillman Valley, IL
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I would describe this look as very trendy and fashion forward. What I like about this look is that it’s not something you see every day! It definitely sets you apart from others and really shows your style and personality.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
Achieving this look it took a couple of steps! I had to bleach and tone and knowing that I wanted to get her to that icy silver hairstyle and knew I had to cool her off before applying my finishing color. To cool her hair off, I used Goldwell’s Colorance 10P. It can be applied right at the bowl on towel dried hair. After that processed and she was blow dried, I used Elumen to give her that silver look! I used SV@10 and NA@2. If you want more of a charcoal grey, just add more of the NA@2!
Maintenance is huge if you want this color. Always use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner! I recommend Goldwell’s. Also, make sure you’re using heat protectant with your hot tools so the heat isn’t taking out the color (Sleek Perfection by Goldwell is great). Grey fades fast, so getting a Colorance gloss two to four weeks or so from the original service will help keep the style looking fresh. This color does require upkeep!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look is definitely for a client that is trendy and into fashion. Someone who likes to try new things and isn’t scared of change! I would also say the client has to be one that regularly comes into the salon! I would recommend this to a client who already has blonde hair. To get this tone, you have to be very close to a level 10 (white blonde). You will not get the vibrancy or target color if the client’s hair isn’t lifted to a level 10.
I think this hue looks great on people with fair skin. It is just enough contrast between their hair and skin tone. I wouldn’t recommend this to someone who has ethnic hair! This look requires a lot of upkeep, and if your natural hair is a level 6 and darker, this probably isn’t a good option for you!
Icy Gray
@hairbykristimurdoch
Q&A with Style Creator Kristi Murdoch
Master Colorist @ Comb Brows+Hair in Omaha, NE
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I would describe this look as a rooted icy blonde. I love the contrast between the darker base and the bright pops of balayaged blonde throughout. I feel like this really captures the “lived in” color that everyone is embracing lately. So many times icy blondes and grey blondes can seem one dimensional, but I love that this look has many different cool shades to compliment the others!
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
I would definitely recommend the perfect gloss/toner to maintain this look. I always tell my balayage clients, ESPECIALLY the icy and silver clients, to come every five to six weeks for maintenance. I like to re-gloss them at the bowl to keep those cool tones refreshed and keep the shine factor high. You never want a silver or ash blonde to dull out or seem flat. In this look, I utilized my favorite Redken Shades EQ and did equal parts 9V 9P and 9T. I also like to send my client home with a good blue-based shampoo to use at home. Oligo blue shampoo is my current favorite!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
The great thing about this look is that it can work with any hair type and skin tone. Clients with a darker hair color will have to be patient and understand it is a multiple appointment process to lighten the hair to achieve this look while maintaining the hair’s integrity. Blondes love this look because it’s something new, fresh and fun without 100% commitment! If I had a client in my chair who typically goes months between appointments, I would just make sure to let them know the silver hair color may fade with multiple washes over time unless they come in for their six week glosses, to keep their color right where they want it!
Dark Silver
@houseofgen
Q&A with Style Creator Genevieve Caspillo
Stylist/Owner @ Titanium Studios in Vancouver, BC
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is a dark silver hair color that is striking yet subtle in its own beauty. It makes me feel as if that person exudes strength and confidence while maintaining a humble nature. This is powerful and inspiring if you ask me!
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
To create this color, I used Loreal Professional StudioBlonde Lightener with Brazilian Bond Builder to protect the integrity of the hair, then toned with Schwarzkopf Silverwhite and 0-11 Booster.
To maintain this color, I recommend Loreal Vitamino sulphate-free shampoo and Loreal Vitamino Color Save Conditioner for regular use. For weekly or bi-weekly maintenance, use Fanola No Yellow Shampoo and Loreal Vitamino Fresh Feel Mask. Avoid washing as much as you can and use lots of cold water when shampooing and conditioning.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
To be honest, anyone with the confidence to rock it and the willingness to maintain it can pull off this look. Olive to pale skin tone will be flattered by the color while warmer skin tones may clash with it. But we all know makeup can do magical things!
Hair can dry out and fade quickly on a person who is very active or tends to use a lot of heat (hot tools) on their hair. It comes down to people who are willing to regularly practice the “hair holy trinity”. The 3Ts are toners, treatments and trims.
The more natural light the hair is to start with, the better. I’m not saying this color is not possible on darker hair, it is just dependent on the level of lightening needed. It may take multiple sessions, lots of care, patience, cooperation, understanding and acceptance from both the stylist and the client.
Icy White Silver
@beautyinkaje
Q&A with style creator, Karo Jade
Hair Colorist/Owner @ Beauty in KaJe in Edmonton, Canada
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is icy white silver hair and my most requested color. This color is definitely difficult to achieve thought because the hair needs to be initially lifted to a level 10.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
This color is definitely not for everyone and not everyone can achieve it either. Some hair will never get this light due to natural underlying pigment or will break off before we can get near it. This is even with the use of the amazing Olaplex (which I always work with).
This color is also super high maintenance as it fades really fast. The client needs frequent toning sessions, purple shampoo on dry hair to tone back in between each session, and a purple shampoo to cancel out the yellow that comes back when the toner fades. Anyone who gets this color needs to avoid frequent washing, use cold water when they do wash, and make friends with a good dry shampoo.
This look also requires frequent touch-ups every four to six weeks to avoid any yellow banding.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I recommend this color for someone whose is already naturally pale (level 7 and up) so they have the natural features and skin tone to pull out this color. Either way, it can really wash someone out. I also recommend it on someone who is naturally tan like an Asian-type skin tone, but it will take multiple sessions to get there. Asian hair is hard to lift and has a lot of red underlying pigment.
It is also important that the person have the budget to maintain this type of color and understands the level of commitment that comes with it.
If your hair is black, dark brown, red or box dyed, this color won’t happen anytime soon. It will take multiple sessions and you have to be willing to cut a few inches off because the process will be extremely damaging to your hair.
Silver Blonde
@hairbymandyallen
Q&A with style creator, Mandy Allen
Hairstylist @ The Headshoppe in Dartmouth, Canada
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is a silver blonde color and my favorite thing about it is how light and bright it is! It also matches perfectly with her grays.
Which products did you use to create this look?
I recommend Matrix So Silver Shampoo because it has a purple tint which is perfect to keep the hair ashy. I also recommend Redken Diamond Oil Conditioner to add tons of shine to the hair, Redken Stay High 18 as a volumizer, and Redken Pillow Proof Primer which cuts down on blow drying time. Lastly, I recommend Redken Iron Shape 11 for heat protection and hold the loose waves longer!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look is great for clients who don’t mind coming in every three to four weeks to have the color refreshed. Silvery hair is beautiful, but requires a lot of maintenance! Lightening the hair also requires regular treatments to prevent breakage, so a busy, always-on-the-go person may not be the best fit for this type of look.
Multi-Dimensional Platinum Silver
@sinful_hair_and_brows
Q&A with style creator, Lindsay Huth
Owner/ Stylist @ Sinful Hair in Glendale, AZ
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is a multi-dimensional platinum blonde silver hue. This color has serious depth and still grows out beautifully! I’m obsessed with ice blondes that have dimension.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
I created this finished look using Moroccan Oil, Moroccan Beach Wave Mousse, and Moroccan Oil Dry Texture Spray for lift and lighter hold, and finished with a hairspray. I love this look on fine hair!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This is a great look for any type of hair or even lifestyle. The dimension makes it easier for the client to stretch time between appointments for easier upkeep.
Silver Lavender
@ bohobrushed
Q&A with style creator, Kelsey Kovacevich
Hairstylist @ CaJah Salon in Saint Paul, MN
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I like to call this color silver platinum. I love how it fades from a darker grey into the platinum. The melting from the dark to light creates dimension. It also makes for a better growout for the client since I bleach them all over to a level 10 before I apply the platinum color.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
First, I bleach and toned the hair. My client had a previous bleach and tone, so I just needed to refresh her roots and lift out the last bit of yellow on her ends. I used Schwarzkopf BlondMe 20vol on the roots and Schwarzkopf BlondMe 7vol/shampoo on the ends. I then toned with Wella Color Touch 10/6 6vol for a few minutes to get the last bit of warmth out. It is very important to tone before applying the silver to help prolong the color!
I then dried the client’s hair. The color takes better and lasts longer when applied on dry hair. I followed with Kenra Metallics 8SM (plus inch of 5VR) 9vol on the roots and 10SM (plus inch of 5VR) 9vol on mids to ends, then let process for 25 to 30 minutes. We rinsed with COLD water, then shampooed, conditioned and dried the hair into a fabulous style for the client! To maintain the hue, it is very important that the client rinses in cold water and uses a protective shampoo. I prefer Celeb Luxury Viral in Extreme Silver.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This hair color is ideal on cooler skin tones, but I love it with every eye color! Be aware that this is a high maintenance color. This will be the lowest maintenance and easiest to achieve on clients that have a natural level 7-10 hair, but that doesn’t mean you can’t achieve this color on natural level 1-6 hair. It may take longer to achieve and will be a higher maintenance color, but still beautiful!
It is very important to have expectation conversations with your clients so they are clear on how you will achieve the color (timing, pricing, how many appointments, etc.) and how to maintain the color (shampoo less, shampoo in cold water, shampoo, etc.). I truly love this color and recommend people to try it. Let’s all be silver foxes!
Pearly Blonde Silver Hair Toner
@ashleighhenson
Q&A with style creator, Ashleigh Henson
Hairstylist @ Kinkks Hair and Social in Sheffield, U.K.
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is a pearly blonde silver hue. My favorite things about it are the soft tones and clean blonde.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
I used Wella Professional Blond, Olaplex and Re-lights Toner. To keep up the color, I would use Fudge violet toning shampoo.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
Cool toned skin with brown, blue or green eyes will look great with this color. This look is perfect for someone who likes to look after themselves because it requires a lot of upkeep maintain color and cut.
Men’s Silver Steel Color
@cassandralee_hair
Q&A with style creator, Cassandra Gray-Smith
Salon Ambassador @ Hairhouse Warehouse Chatswood in Chatswood, New South Wales
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I describe this look as “strong like steel”! You have to have the personality to pull off something like this as well. My favorite thing about it is how it compliments his skin tone. Grey hair isn’t all about age anymore, it’s a statement.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
Silver shampoo is a must! De Lorenzo, Nak Blonde Plus and Alfaparf Grey Pride are some of my favorites. A heat protection spray is also recommended as styling with heat will affect the tone.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I would recommend this look for someone willing to do the home care and keep up with regular visits! I wouldn’t recommend this for someone who swims a lot or has lots of red/pink undertones.
Flirty Fun
@beyond_the_hair
Q&A with style creator, Rebecca Oranges
Hairstylist @ Diva Studio in Las Vegas, NV
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
What I love about this silver hair shade is that it’s fun and contemporary, but a very challenging color to achieve without compromising the hair too much. I never double book with this particular client so I can keep a close eye on the lightener. My favorite thing about this look is that it is beachy, flirty, and can brighten anybody’s day
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
The products I recommend to create this look start with the Schwarzkopf Igora PLUS with 20 vol adding the b3 builder to maintain the integrity of the hair. I toned the hair without touching the scalp with Wella Illumina 10/1 and double pastel. I finished it off with Paul Mitchell Icy/Blue Flash Finish to give the prelightened hair a fresh cool shine and an icy blue shimmer. To maintain this look, I recommend a b3 conditioning treatment along with an occasional purple shampoo like So Silver by Matrix to keep the blonde looking as fresh as possible. I would recommend using a leave-in cream by Morroccan Oil or a Lux Oil by Wella before all blow drying or styling
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look is best for someone that has a straight, skinny texture and is about a level 7 or higher. I think this is best for a high maintenance client that likes to get their hair done more often. It takes some time and more frequent appointments to keep the hair looking beautiful.
Deep Dark Silver
@hairbyana
Q&A with style creator, Ana Lara
Hairstylist @ Vintage Park Salon Boutique in Houston, TX
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This dark silver has a deeper feel to it. I love that we broke up her roots with a highlighting technique which will give her a nice grow out.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
To maintain her beautiful color, I sent her home with Viral Extreme Silver ColorWash and Kevin Murphy Hydrate.me rinse.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This shade requires a lot maintenance, so this is the perfect look for clients who don’t mind the upkeep and long hours at the salon.
Silver Red Ombre
@kylierose_hairartist
Q&A with style creator, Kylie Butler
Hairstylist @ The Nest inside Salons by JC in Seattle, WA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This look is definitely an unconventional approach into the world of silver. I created a look that would fit with every season. By combining both warm and cool tones, I created something eye-popping that stands out from the vivids you see day to day. My favorite thing about this look is honestly how versatile it is and, above all, how unique it is. This is not a hair color I see out in public.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
For stylists, I created this look with Pulp Riot hair color. It’s been around almost a year I believe and it is my go-to for any vivid color I create. To maintain a look like this, you want to limit the number of times you shampoo your hair, always washing in cooler water and using a very gentle conditioner. Silver hair tends to fade away quickly, but it typically leaves behind a blonde tone.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
Honestly, if you can get your hair to platinum, I think anyone can pull off this look. You can change up the tones a bit, maybe making the grey even bluer or going in the direction of a purple tone. You just have to get creative with different colors on your skin type and what your preferences might be. Your stylist should be able to direct you to a color that will suit you best if you are unsure.
All that said and done, this look may not work for you if you can’t break the hair washing habit, or if you frequently swim in chlorine pools. The color will fade quickly if not cared for properly and you really don’t want to waste hundreds of dollars and literally wash your color down the drain.
Grunge Silver Ombre Hair
@theladyofhair
Q&A with style creator, Chelsea Redman Hair stylist @ Prim Hair Salon in Roanoke, VA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
Grey hair is no longer something to hide. It’s grunge yet glamorous! My favorite thing about this silver ombre is how it’s hand painted into her natural color, making the smokey gray look soft and elegant.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
I hand painted up to about an inch to two inches away from her root (all the way to the root around her face for the money piece) using Joico Freeplay lightener. I pre toned all over using Redken Shades EQ 9P, 8V and a dot of 1B. I rinsed then colored the roots-midshaft with 6T and a dot of 1B and 9T = 9B on the ends. It is important to use foils to isolate the sections. I used Olaplex in the lightener and toners to help the longevity and porosity of her hair.
As stylists, we do what we can to help clients maintain their color, so they need to do what they can at home. This leads me to at home care! I recommend using AG Hair Sterling Silver shampoo and conditioner at home. Use ABSOLUTELY no drugstore products or shampoos as it will make the color almost immediately wash out.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
It doesn’t matter the length or the texture of your hair. Short, long, curly, straight…you can rock this! It looks incredible with any skin tone or eye color. Because it’s darker at the root and lighter on the ends, it gives it a natural, laid back look. No matter how you style your hair, it will look good with this color. The darker shades are perfect for cold weather and the lighter shades are perfect for warm weather. Smokey silver can be for anyone!
Silver Pixie Cut
@air_hair_newbury
Q&A with style creator, Nick Strong
Salon Owner @ Air Hair Co. Newbury in Newbury, Berkshire, U.K.
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I would describe this look as an ultra modern classic pixie cut! It’s actually quite 60s in its idea, but has lots of current techniques that give it a contemporary edge. The use of clippers to create the faded undercut and the silver tone give it that edge! It’s really a look created thanks to the freedom of modern fashion.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
For the color, I’ve been experimenting with the Schwarzkopf silver series, which is great as there are a few different tones in the range that help you achieve the color you really want. The color can be maintained using a good shampoo and conditioner. At the salon, I use FUDGE color lock shampoo and conditioner, and also recommend FUDGE Clean Blonde Violet Toning Shampoo to use every few washes to keep the silver vibrant!
To get the finished look, I love the FUDGE Big Hair range! I start by blow drying using the Mega Hair Milk. It’s great on shorter hair as it’s not too heavy. The Elevate styling power is brilliant as it creates great texture which is what this look really needs. Equally, a good styling wax like FUDGE Matte Hed is great and adds some definition. I also like to finish it off with a little mist of FUDGE Skyscraper for some hold.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I would recommended this look for anyone! I believe that as long as you feel great, you look great. It’s such a versatile cut and color with so many variations. It can be bespoke for any client, no matter what hair type.
It’s also a great look if you want to be on trend and stand out. The combination of the silver tones with the pixie cut is such a beautiful and elegant way to give everyone else hair envy!
Blue Silver Hair
@garycorcorancolour
Q&A with style creator, Gary Corcoran
Co-Owner @ The Hairdressers in Motherwell, U.K.
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is a textured short to medium haircut with a sort of laid back attitude to it.
The thing I love most about this cut is the versatility that comes with it. It’s completely undercut, and for the picture I decided to have it slicked back but without a wet look to it. This style can also be worn in a with a parting, giving it a shattered, flowing bob look. The cut and the way I styled it in the picture was inspired by Kassidy Ure’s hair from Australia’s Next Top Model.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
As we all know, silvers and grey and even ash colors don’t particularly last long in the hair if the hair has been pre-lightened before applying the toner.
I would recommend using AVEDA’s Color Conserve Shampoo and Conditioner to really preserve the color as long as possible. When mixing Olaplex in with these colors also adds longevity to your color. If the client wants to keep up the tone at home, I would recommend using Wella Color Fresh 10/81. This is a semi-permanent shampoo that clients can take home. It is packed with blue/grey tones to refresh any color fading.
I also love AVEDA’s Thickening Tonic. This product expands strands from roots to ends and instantly makes hair look and feel thicker.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This type of look is for your more adventurous and trendsetting client, as not many people would want all their hair undercut so neatly into the scalp. It is for someone who doesn’t mind heads turning to look at them. I am very lucky to have this client as she lets me do whatever I want to her! We discuss a few ideas that we both have, then collaborate together. If you have a look through my Instagram, you will see I have done an array of colors on this girl going from deep pastel pink to royal blue and sky blue.
I believe silvers, grays or ash tones suit rosy pink, pinkish beige or pearl/porcelain skin tones. Grayish green, bluish green or light blue eyes look great with silver hair. Ideally, a client’s natural hair would be light to dark ash blonde.
Silver A-Line Bob
@matevanhair
Q&A with style creator, Mathew Ocasio
Hairstylist @ Style Tee Salon in Wilkes Barre, PA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I would describe this look as a dimensional, rooted, cool blonde, with accents of pearl and grey. My favorite thing about it is how beautifully it blends into her root and how it’s cooled down without looking muddy.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
To create this look, I would recommend using Redken Shades EQ 9B, 9V, and 9T with clear, or Kenra Professional’s Guy Tang Metallic Series. To maintain the silver tones and keep the blonde cool, I recommend using a purple shampoo such as Fanola’s No Yellow shampoo, or Clairol’s Shimmer Lights.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look would work for clients of all skin tones, although sometimes when the client has a pink undertone it may seem like the hair is muddy, or in other words “green”. When it comes down to it, it’s really client preference.
As far as hair type, if you’re someone that has medium to fine texture and a level 8-6 base (1 being the darkest and 10 being the lightest), this color would work for you simply because maintenance and styling would be easier. If you’re someone that needs lots of heat styling tools such as flat irons and curlers, this color may be harder to maintain because heat will make the silver hair tones fade faster and promote damage to the lightened hair. Always use a great heat protectant, preferably something that nourishes the hair and protects up to 450 degrees like the Argan Oil Hair Shield by Agadir.
Black and Silver Braids
@sachikoreece
Q&A with style creator, Dawn Reece
Master Stylist and Educator for J Beverly Hills @ Haute Hare Salon in Castle Rock, CO
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I describe this look as a grey shadow root with braids. I did a double French braid, only bringing hair into the braid from one side of each braid. I then added a single tiny braid down the middle. I pulled out sections of the tiny braid for texture and also pulled out some of the French braid to add fullness. I love how the braids showcase the dimension in her color!
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
The products I used for this black and silver hair color were all J Beverly Hills. I prepped with Detangle and Glaze Me. For styling, I used Mousse Up. After drying, I used a little Finissage when I was braiding for control. Before pulling the braids out, I sprinkled some Volumis onto the braids to give them some grip while pulling.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look was done with very fine and thin hair and my client has a light olive complexion. The style could be done on almost anyone, however the color I would probably recommend for lighter to medium skin tones.
Agate Slice
@haircraftbymaggiemftx
Q&A with style creator, Maggie Venour
Salon Owner / Hairstylist @ HairCraft Salon and Barbershop in Marble Falls, TX
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I named this look agate slice because it felt like looking at a thin slice of agate (a type of crystal) when finished. This is an icy and metallic blonde with silver and metallic light brown lowlights. I love how the silver has underlying aqua tones in different types of light.
My favorite thing about this look is that it is a unique take on the usual summer blonde. it is totally different than the beach blonde we see all the time.
What products do you recommend to create and maintain this look?
To create this look, I used L’anza Healing Color. I started with an Ultimate Treatment at the shampoo bowl. I mixed 1N & 3N 1:1 with Demi Developer to smudge her root a bit darker. At the same time, I used L’Anza Decolorizer mixed with 20 vol in a hand-painted balayage technique to lift out her previous gunmetal shade quickly and without damage. All mixtures included L’Anza trauma treatment to protect and heal the hair. I washed with L’Anza Healing Colorcare Shampoo, then applied L’Anza Color Attach step 1 to towel dried hair and overlayed varying mixtures of L’anza Vibes in Smoke and Clear from root to tip, with the lightest pastelized mixture on the tips of hair.
The color processed beautifully on the mixed underlying tones of her prelightened Level 8-10 balayage. I finished with L’Anza Color Attach Step 2. Olaplex used as directed was added to all formulations, as well as Olaplex 2 prior to shampoos. To maintain, I recommend L’anza Healing Color Care products and Celeb Luxury Viral Silver Shampoo cut in half with regular color care shampoo. An Olaplex Color Bomb can also be made for take home with Olaplex 3.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This particular client already sits at a natural level 7-8, which makes achieving the higher level of blonde that facilitates silver tones relatively easy. She has a natural golden/olive skin tone so the cool blonde does not wash her out. This client can achieve this look in one visit, which is optimal. She understands that frequent visits and home care keep her look on point! She’s truly a model silver-tone client. Any darker natural tones require several lightening sessions.
