Do blondes really have more fun? While that age-old question might never be answered, one thing we do know for sure is this; blonde hair is always in vogue. And, in 2024, there are more options for wannabe blondes than ever before.

From updated classics, like the Bardot blonde, to low-maintenance twists on the shade, like toasted coconut and cream soda-inspired blondes, there are so many colours to choose from. 

But, with so many options available, which blonde is right for you?

To find out more, we reached out to Adam Reed, UK editorial ambassador for L’Oréal Professionnel, for his take on the new blonde hair trends.

Here’s what he had to say…

Solar blonde

Essentially, the solar blonde trend is a bright white colour with a sunshine-yellow twist, which means it mimics the colour of the sun. 

Now, it’s best to see a professional for a high-impact hair transformation like this, as it will require careful bleaching and toning. For those already sporting white-blonde tresses, though, you can achieve a similar look with Bleach London’s Just Like Honey Super Cool Colour (£6.50).

Smoked marshmallow

Smoked marshmallow (or toasted marshmallow, as it’s sometimes referred to on social media) is a lived-in blonde hair colour that makes for a seriously low-effort colour transformation. Essentially, you’re looking for an intense balayage effect, one that sees your hair fade from brunette roots to icy blonde ends.

“Ask your stylist for a rooted, ashy blonde colour,” advise the experts at L’Oreal. “They’ll be able to perfectly place your highlights and lowlights.”

Sunset blonde

If you want to nail the sunset blonde trend, you need to go richer and warmer than usual; think super-sweet honey and strawberry tones, akin to those seen in Adele’s enviable mop of hair, with a darker root for added au naturel vibes. 

The best thing about this shade is that it can be adapted to suit pretty much anyone – and it can be a big transformation or just a subtle change. Think delicate highlights, chunky lowlights or even an all-over colour. Chat to your hairdresser to see what they recommend.

Ribbon blonde

The ribbon blonde trend is basically a high-contrast form of balayage. This means that your hair colourist will hand-paint a brighter blonde colour directly onto your hair to create a gorgeous sun-kissed effect.

It’s little wonder this look is so popular; not only does it make your hair seem as if it has gleams of bright sunlight running through it at all times, but it’s a low-maintenance option for people with darker hair, too. Win-win!

Bardot blonde

“Having been away from the salon for so long, we are seeing a rise in clients wanting that perfectly kempt colour that’s really luxe,” Reed tells Stylist.

“The Bardot blonde is a very nostalgic blonde; it’s biscuity, soft and with caramel-infused tones that are beautifully toned and natural looking. Think Brigitte Bardot and Debbie Harry, if you need an example.”

Reel blonde (aka Hollywood blonde)

“A reel blonde is a hyper modern, beautifully toned, raw blonde,” explains Reed, citing Billie Eilish’s previously blonde strands as an example. “Taking inspiration from social media, a lot of clients are looking for that Insta-ready hair transformation, with a blonde so blonde, it’s not just IG ‘reel’.”

But he also warns: “Always have a thorough consultation with your stylist prior to any hair change and discuss how this could work for your hair. Those with naturally lighter hair may find their hair can lift a little easier while those with darker hair will need expert advice on how best to lighten their colour without putting their hair’s health at risk.”

Toasted coconut blonde

Reed says: “A fresh spin on ‘bronde’ hair, it is all about a beautiful shadow root – aka dramatically dark roots – slowly melting into luminous, frosty blonde ends.

“Again, always have a thorough consultation with your stylist prior to any hair change and discuss how this could work for your hair – and, with regards to this trend, consider whether you are looking for super frosty tips or a more natural and gradual blonde at the ends.”

Cream soda blonde

“Cream soda hair could be referred to as the ‘softer’ version of toasted coconut blonde,” explains Reed.

“It’s essentially a warm blonde that creates a glow around the face – so nothing too frosty or deep – and can be the perfect transitional colour for brunettes who are looking to add in some blonde for the first time.”

Reed continues: “With beige brown and warm gold tones, the lighter hints of colour give a creamy tone that perfectly complements the natural and darker grounding roots. And this means that the cream soda blonde trend looks particularly great with tailored face-framing highlights.

“For instance, those with a heart-shaped face may look to keep the top half of the head darker and fade out, whereas those with more oval shapes might look to add highlights to the side of the face, near the ears, to add more width to their frame.”

Ice blonde

“Ice blonde hair is a look that we have seen many celebrities look to over the years,” says Reed, describing the look as a “light, cool-toned hair colour” featuring platinum tones that is sometimes paired with white, blue and silver hues that shimmers as if touched by frost.

“If you are considering the icy blonde look, always have a thorough consultation with your stylist – consider how you normally wear your make-up, what clothes you wear and your personal style. Because, when considering a colour pop like this, it’s important to take your entire look into account.”

Rose gold blonde

Reed notes: “Rose gold is a timeless colour that many blondes love to use to freshen up their colour, swerving the brighter shades and opting for a more subtle sheer tone that’s sophisticated and punky in equal measure.”

Tempted to try one of the new blonde hair trends?

If you’re keen to sign up to the blonde hair club, Reed asks that you consider the condition of your hair before and after your appointment and speak to a stylist ahead of any major colour changes.

He also urges blondes to keep their hair in tip-top condition after their appointments with deep conditioning balms and products.

Images: Getty