After some inspiration ahead of your next salon appointment? Look to Victoria Beckham, who debuted a new hair colour this week. Swapping her signature brunette for something altogether blonder, VB’s hair is a masterclass in the return of ombré hair - only this time, it’s a far cry from the high-contrast, dip-dyed ends that defined the trend back in 2016. Just look to her soft, beautifully blended ends for proof.
Ombré hair, for the uninitiated, is a two-toned colouring technique in which darker roots gradually transition into lighter ends. While she’s hardly a stranger to hair transformations (who could forget her iconic ‘Posh bob’) her latest look is a good example of ombré made modern. Highlights starting at the roots? So passé! Instead, think sun-kissed tips with seamless colour transitions and an expensive-looking, glossy finish that feels and looks considerably more effortless.
‘Ombré hair is in demand because it gives you the best of both worlds. It feels effortlessly lived-in but still looks incredibly polished when done well,’ explains award-winning hairdresser Stephen Adams, who has spotted the trend gaining momentum this season.
For blonde specialist and celebrity hairstylist Zebulen Howell, Beckham’s approach to lighter colour gets the balance right. Discussing her recent move towards this brighter, more sunny shade, he notes, ‘There are no obvious highlights or heavy face-framing pieces. Instead that depth around the roots and face works in harmony with her eye area and bone structure, subtly contouring her features in the most flattering way.’ It’s this considered placement of colour that helps contribute to the modern feel of the ‘do.’
VB resides in good company, too. Naomi Campbell has embraced ultra-long lengths that melt from deep roots into creamy, vanilla-toned ends, while Jennifer Lopez continues to champion caramel hues set against her deeper brunette base.
There’s no doubt the ombré trend reflects the growing appetite for what Adams describes as ‘low-maintenance luxury’. With darker roots and lighter ends, there’s no need to rush back to the salon every six weeks to disguise regrowth. Instead, the colour grows out gracefully, making it an ideal option if you’re looking to transition away from an all-over brunette or gradually introduce blonde without committing to a dramatic change.
'Modern ombré can be adapted to suit almost any palette. Honeyed blonde, buttery caramel and warm, chestnut tones are all worth considering, particularly as the cooler weather approaches and you’re hoping to add more warmth into your life,' says Adams.
But how to pick the shade for you?
‘Skin tone should always be taken into account,’ he adds. ‘Warmer or cooler undertones can work better with certain skin tones, and a good stylist will hold a colour chart against your complexion to ascertain which shades make your eyes pop or skin glow.’
If you’re planning to take Beckham’s latest look to your colourist, ask for depth at the roots, with a softer ombré that allows the lighter shades to blend gradually through the lengths. Howell recommends keeping the result ‘lived-in and effortless rather than overly highlighted’, with the colour tailored to your face shape and skin tone.
With a little consideration, turns out soft, sophisticated hair doesn’t require countless trips to the salon.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism.