When the air turns crisp, pumpkin spice starts showing up everywhere, and backpacks get dusted off, you know it’s that time again: back-to-school season. But this year, it’s not just about hitting the books — it’s about hitting refresh on your look.
Fall 2025 is bringing a gorgeous mix of bold statements, timeless classics, and cozy-chic styles. Whether you’re walking through high school hallways, stepping onto a college campus, or just ready for a seasonal upgrade, these hair trends are turning heads this semester.
At TSPA San Jose, we live and breathe style. Our students and instructors are always keeping up with the latest techniques, colors, and cuts so you can walk out feeling like the best version of yourself. Let’s dive into the looks that will define this fall — from vibrant pink highlights to sleek Brazilian blowouts.
1. Pink Highlights — Playful Meets Sophisticated
Pink hair isn’t just for summer anymore. This fall, pink highlights are taking a softer, more refined turn. Instead of neon streaks, think dusty rose, blush tones, or even soft cotton candy shades that peek through your natural color.
Why it’s trending for fall:
- Pastel pink pairs beautifully with fall neutrals like cream, tan, and deep brown.
- It’s versatile — bold enough to stand out, but subtle enough for everyday wear.
- Pairs perfectly with both warm and cool undertones.
How to wear it:
- Add pink ribbons to face-framing layers for a youthful glow.
- Blend into a balayage for a seamless, lived-in effect.
- Go chunky for a nostalgic early-2000s revival vibe.
Pro Tip from TSPA San Jose: Maintenance is key — pink tones can fade fast. Using a color-safe shampoo and minimizing heat styling will keep your highlights fresh until your next salon visit.
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2. Rose Gold — The Metallic Neutral
If pink highlights are playful, rose gold hair is their sophisticated older sister. This trend continues to evolve, but for fall 2025, expect it to lean warmer and deeper, complementing autumn’s rich color palette.
Why it’s trending for fall:
- Works for all skin tones, thanks to its blend of warm gold and rosy pink.
- Offers a luxurious shine that’s perfect for holiday season selfies.
- Pairs beautifully with cozy, oversized sweaters and fall makeup looks.
How to wear it:
- As a full-on color transformation for maximum impact.
- Melted into darker roots for low-maintenance regrowth.
- Combined with subtle blonde highlights for extra dimension.
Pro Tip from TSPA San Jose: Rose gold can be achieved on both blondes and brunettes, but pre-lightening may be needed for darker hair — so plan for an extra session if you want the perfect metallic finish.
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3. Brazilian Blowout — Smooth, Sleek, and Student-Friendly
Between busy schedules, late-night study sessions, and unpredictable weather, school life can wreak havoc on your hair. That’s where the Brazilian blowout comes in.
Why it’s trending for fall:
- Eliminates frizz during chilly, windy days.
- Cuts styling time in half — perfect for rushed mornings.
- Works for almost all hair types.
How it works:
A Brazilian blowout is a semi-permanent smoothing treatment that creates a protective layer around the hair shaft, sealing in moisture and leaving hair silky smooth. It lasts up to 12 weeks with proper care.
Pro Tip from TSPA San Jose: Use a sulfate-free shampoo and avoid tying your hair up for the first 72 hours to keep your blowout flawless.
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4. Blonde Highlights — The Fall Glow-Up
Blonde highlights aren’t just a summer thing anymore. This fall, they’re going softer and creamier, perfect for warming up your look while keeping things bright.
Why it’s trending for fall:
- Adds a sun-kissed glow to cooler days.
- Frames the face beautifully in layered cuts.
- Works well with warmer fall makeup shades.
How to wear it:
- Try “money piece” highlights — thicker, brighter strands around the face.
- Blend with your natural color for a low-maintenance grow-out.
- Combine with a soft brown base for dimension.
Pro Tip from TSPA San Jose: Tone your highlights regularly to prevent brassiness, especially if your hair naturally pulls warm.
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5. Soft Brown Blend — Cozy and Effortless
Sometimes, less is more. The soft brown blend trend is perfect for anyone wanting a natural, low-commitment color refresh. Think warm mocha, soft walnut, and creamy latte shades blended seamlessly.
Why it’s trending for fall:
- Perfectly matches autumn’s earthy tones.
- Super low-maintenance — no harsh root line.
- Flatters every skin tone.
How to wear it:
- Add a few subtle balayage pieces for movement.
- Pair with curtain bangs for a romantic fall feel.
- Keep it glossy for extra depth.
Pro Tip from TSPA San Jose: Gloss treatments aren’t just for shine — they also help seal in moisture and protect your color from fading.
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6. The Bob — Chic and Timeless
From sleek French bobs to textured shags, the bob is the ultimate back-to-school haircut this fall.
Why it’s trending for fall:
- Works with all hair textures.
- Can be styled sleek, wavy, or tousled.
- Feels fresh and modern, but still classic.
How to wear it:
- Try a chin-length blunt bob for sharp sophistication.
- Go for a layered bob for volume and movement.
- Add bangs to frame your face.
Pro Tip from TSPA San Jose: If you’re not ready to commit to short hair, try a long bob (lob) first. It’s just as stylish but allows for ponytails and braids.
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7. Modern/Alt Mullet for Men — The Cool Comeback
Yes, you read that right — the mullet is back, but this time it’s modern, edgy, and way cooler than you remember.
Why it’s trending for fall:
- Blends vintage charm with a current, alternative edge.
- Works well with textured styling products.
- Makes a bold, confident statement.
How to wear it:
- Keep the top slightly longer with textured fringe.
- Fade the sides for a cleaner, modern finish.
- Pair with highlights for extra personality.
Pro Tip from TSPA San Jose: The modern mullet isn’t one-size-fits-all — work with your stylist to adjust length and layers to your face shape.
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8. Milk Tea Balayage — The Warm Neutral Everyone Wants
One of the most Instagram-worthy colors this year is milk tea balayage — a dreamy mix of beige blonde and soft brown, inspired by the creamy tones of your favorite boba drink.
Why it’s trending for fall:
- Soft, blended tones work perfectly with cozy fall fashion.
- It’s universally flattering and incredibly versatile.
- Low-maintenance thanks to a natural-looking root melt.
How to wear it:
- Keep the base warm for a more golden, autumnal vibe.
- Opt for cooler beige tones for a sophisticated look.
- Add waves to show off the color’s dimension.
Pro Tip from TSPA San Jose: Ask for a root shadow to extend the time between touch-ups.
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Styling Tips to Keep Your Fall Look Fresh
No matter which trend you choose, the key to keeping your back-to-school style looking salon-fresh is maintenance. Here’s what we recommend:
- Use the right products. Color-safe shampoos, leave-in conditioners, and heat protectants are non-negotiable.
- Schedule regular trims. Prevent split ends and keep your cut in shape.
- Protect from the elements. Fall winds and cooler air can dry out hair — deep condition weekly.
- Don’t over-wash. Washing too often strips natural oils and causes fading.
Why Get Your Fall Look at TSPA San Jose?
At The Salon Professional Academy San Jose, our student stylists (supervised by licensed instructors) are trained in the latest techniques, products, and trends. When you book with us, you’re not only getting a stylish transformation — you’re supporting the next generation of beauty professionals.
We offer:
- Customized consultations for your face shape, lifestyle, and personality.
- Access to professional-grade products that keep your style lasting longer.
- Affordable pricing without compromising quality.
Final Thoughts
Fall 2025 is all about self-expression, versatility, and confidence. Whether you’re leaning toward a bold pink highlight moment, a chic bob, or the cozy elegance of a milk tea balayage, there’s a style here for everyone.
School might be about learning, but your look can be about owning your identity. Step into the new semester ready to make a statement — because when you feel good about your hair, everything else just seems to fall into place.
Ready to refresh your look?
Book your appointment at TSPA San Jose today and step into fall with style.
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