
While blonde shades are often associated with summer, beauty trends defy strict rules, and a fresh hair color is making waves this autumn: sunflower blonde. Predicted as one of the top fall 2024 hair trends by the visionary Tom Smith—who also foresaw the rise of cowboy copper—sunflower blonde is a vibrant, warm blonde inspired by the golden hues of its namesake flower.
“This shade usually features a sunny golden yellow base with warm undertones, sometimes resembling honey or caramel,” says celebrity hairstylist and blonde expert Kelly Novobielski. “It’s a rich, lively color that emits a radiant, sun-kissed glow. Unlike cooler blondes, it feels more natural and warm, evoking the golden brilliance of a sunflower in full bloom.”
This shade is ideal for autumn, as it’s less stark or white compared to the ultra-blonde tones popular in summer. Its warm, golden radiance and deep dimension seamlessly complement the season’s color palette and can add a flattering warmth to your skin tone. Novobielski suggests bringing photo references to your colorist and working together to tailor a sunflower blonde look that’s uniquely yours.
Check out these sunflower blonde hair color ideas to inspire your next transformation!
1. Sunflower Blonde Balayage
For a low-maintenance, grow-out-friendly sunflower blonde, Novobielski recommends a timeless balayage. The gradual transition from darker roots to warm ends creates a natural, radiant, and effortlessly chic style.
2. Angel Highlights on Sunflower Blonde
Choose delicate highlights scattered throughout your hair for a softly illuminated, multi-dimensional take on sunflower blonde. This method achieves a more organic and natural blonde appearance.
3. Sun-Kissed Sunflower Blonde
Enhance your sunflower blonde with a “naturally sunlit” effect. “I adore this dimensional, sun-kissed blonde because it maintains a youthful and fresh look,” Novobielski shares.
4. Honey-Dipped Sunflower Blonde
This variation adds a honeyed twist to the sunflower blonde style, incorporating hand-painted techniques. "The warm, lived-in balayage creates a natural, beachy lightness, delivering an easygoing sunflower blonde vibe," explains Novobielski.
5. Ultra Warm Sunflower Blonde
Elevate your sunflower blonde by embracing richer, warmer tones. This is an excellent choice for brunettes transitioning to lighter shades or blondes seeking a softer, autumnal look.
6. Faceted Sunflower Blonde
The beauty of sunflower blonde lies in its versatility, as it can be tailored with highlights and lowlights to complement your skin tone and personal style. “This dimensional color captures every element of a sunflower, from its seeds to its vibrant petals,” Novobielski explains.
7. Neutral Sunflower Blonde
Try a balanced sunflower blonde by blending warm and cool undertones. This harmonious mix of golden and icy hues offers a seamless transition for those accustomed to cooler blondes looking to explore a fresh, innovative style.