The mornings are fresher, the sun is lighter, and your summer hair is in need of something new. But here’s the question: How do you embrace change without chopping everything off—or worse, regretting a dye job three days later? Whether you’re working with long hair black, curly hair short, or are somewhere in the medium hair sweet spot, this fall is all about elevating your look in easy, whimsical ways.
And let’s be real—sometimes, the smallest switch (like a bow or bold pin) can turn an entire vibe around.
Let’s talk hair. Let’s talk accessories. Let’s talk inspiration.
The Bubble Ponytail with a Bold Twist
This is an adorable look that is definitely one of the cutest ponytail season upgrades. The bubble ponytail gets a decadent, French re-design as you knot it with various bright bows. It is a great look on long hair easy styles and it creates volume and shape with no complicated braids or heat tools. The contrast is so rich, with the light blonde hair and cherry red ribbons being everything fall romance is supposed to be, cozy, structured, and completely scroll-stopping.
In order to keep this ponytail looking shiny, work a light smoothing cream like Ouai Finishing Crreme into each hair section before pulling it into the pony. And pro tip? Pull lightly at the edges of each of the bubbles to give it greater dimension and volume–that is the distinction between adorable and high fashion.
Sincerely, I was not confident that I could do this. However, the well-planned symmetry and dash of color made me feel completely confident, particularly on hectic days when I still want to feel put-together. Why it took me so long to understand what Chris Appleton meant when he said that structure in the hair means control in the vibe, I do not know, but I know now.
What really sells this look? It is so good with traditional fall staples: fitted coats, black bags, even your favorite chunky knit. You will never appear that you tried too much–but you will appear memorable.
Blush Braided Beauty
The literal cuteness of fall hairstyles is a soft braid with pale pink bows. It’s subtle, romantic, and wearable for just about anything—whether it’s a weekday coffee run or a weekend brunch. The blush color of the makeup and the sweater is what ties this entire look together like a Pinterest dream, and that is the power of a good accessory. The perfect length of this braid is medium hair or medium short hair as it does not appear too dense and heavy.
If your hair tends to frizz or fly away in cooler temps, try spritzing in a flexible hold mist like IGK’s Good Behavior 4-in-1 Spray before braiding. It’ll keep your hair smooth without that crunchy feel. I would also suggest putting small clear elastics on first and then tying the bows so they do not slip.
This one exudes a lot of I woke up like this energy–but in a fashion way. This is the form I have been wearing since I was a teenager and every fall, it simply seems appropriate. Bows in cooler months have something that elicits that whimsigoth meets retro-classic vibe.
It is your move when you want to soften your appearance without being too precious. It is simple to re-create, especially when it comes to kids, and it is comfortable to wear throughout the day.
The Silk Scarf Elegance
And here is a style that projects adult glamor with minimal effort: the short bob under a swanky printed scarf. It is ideal with medium short hair or straight hair who would like to have movement and color without a cut or change of color. The trick? Deciding on a scarf with strong, warm undertones that echoes the season-scarlet, amber, and gold will instantly warm cool-toned autumn days.
Silk scarves are one of the most low-maintenance and high-impact hair solutions I have found. No heat, no stress, just good styling and better accessorizing. And they shield hair against wind and dryness, particularly when you apply a nourishing leave-in, such as Mizani 25 Miracle Milk, first.
I have always envied the way French women wear scarves as second nature-this fall, I have adopted it myself. It is a little cinematic, a little retro, and a lot put-together even on the third-day hair.
And in a hurry it is two minutes at most. Tell me that’s not the definition of easy.
Retro Waves with Golden Clips
With serious vintage glam going on, this style is a fall favorite of anyone with curly hair who has short or tousled bobs. The copper-red color and the shiny oversized golden clips are verging towards the editor in a fashion house vibe. It is a sophisticated but carefree method of displaying medium or short hair, without the necessity to do all the curls to perfection.
This one needs just a touch of prep. After I diffuse, I apply Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair to give some shape and a little shine. And then, the golden clips? They do the rest. If you are looking to have a more unique edge you can find similar ones at Kitsch or even vintage shops.
Individually, this glance gives some drama to otherwise nondescript attire. It is the sort of thing I would wear to a dinner where I might run into an ex or that random high school acquaintance who I now follow on Instagram.
Come on, it is that time of year we all sort of rebrand. And this hairstyle? Total main character moment.
Sleek Side Part with Mega Hoops
Now we’re stepping into strong, sleek territory. This side-parted bob having a glassy finish suits best to those women who prefer a clean look with little fluff. Particularly on straight hair, this style is your power dressing or feeling like you are incredibly put together. Combined with extra large gold hoops, the vibe is cool, self-assured and prepared to handle anything.
To maintain the finish super crisp I have always used a fine-tooth comb and Redken Shine Flash 02 spray. A touch of serum on the ends will fix the style without making it heavy. A nice flat iron is also worth the investment one of my favourites is the GHD Platinum+.
This is my thing: I adore this look when I would like my hair to be treated as an accessory. The glimmer, the form, the balance–it simply outlines the face so beautifully. And it allows you to play up your earrings or makeup without overpowering anything.
It would be a fantastic school picture day hair moment, too–chic, effortless, classic.
Messy Curls & Headband Magic
This hairstyle exudes fall mornings of carefree carelessness: a cascade of curly hair gathered up high with airy bangs left loose, and crowned with a soft scarf headband. It has motion, plushness and a little bit of chaos to appear purposefully dishevelled. Medium easy hair or going natural texture? This one will be a dream–not too voluminous and fussy, not too slouchy and lazy. Bonus: the scarf gives color and warmth on days when your ensemble is more neutral.
For maintenance, I swear by Pattern Beauty’s Curl Gel to hold shape without stiffness. Combine that with a fluffy microfiber towel or a diffuser and you are good to go. I like to refresh my bangs with a few spritzes of Briogeo’s Rosarco Milk Leave-In Conditioning Spray, which helps them stay defined but bouncy.
I love this look because it is so joyful. I’ve worn it to run errands, to grab coffee, even to a friend’s bonfire. It is so carefree, so easy that it somehow manages to appear like you spent hours preparing it. It also provides big school vibe–in the best, most Pinterest-y way.
And not to mention: it is one of the few styles which are more beautiful the more you dance, move, live. Fall wind? Go ahead. It will just make you more of the muse you are.
The Effortless Claw Clip Bun
You are welcome to the hair style that has dominated cool-girl Pinterest boards with a reason. The large tortoiseshell holder of a twisty low bun is a no-fuss sophistication of long hair simple mornings. It is the autumn variant of throwing your hair up without sacrificing style. This look just works whether you are going out in a faux fur coat or a sweatshirt.
The secret here? Texture. My favorite way to begin is to use dry shampoo, even on clean hair. Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo provides texture and volume so your bun has form. Finish it off with a twist and a sturdy claw clip (you can find great ones at Machete or Mejuri).
I have been relying heavily on this style when it is transition weather and I just feel like I need to get out the door but I want to look put together but I feel like I should stay in bed another 10 minutes. It also is good with medium hair or even kids styles when using a smaller clip.
Plus, there’s something nostalgic about claw clips, isn’t there? Like the grown-up version of our ‘90s after-school hair. We are now wearing it with gold hoops and oat milk lattes.
Low Twisted Bun with Embellished Clip
This is a style when you feel like being the best-dressed person on any dinner. A smooth low bun, twisted in a neat and shiny clip detail- yes, please. This is the style that suits straight hair or hair that has been straightened using a flat iron into a soft shape. And the twist makes it have that quiet-luxury vibe that is taking over fall 2025.
I rub in Virtue Healing Oil to achieve that shine, and it is radiant, but not greasy. Then I brush back everything with a boar bristle brush, then twisting and pinning. A single statement barrette like this makes it all look intentional, even if you’re on day four hair.
The best thing about this bun is that it makes whatever I wear look better. It could be a slip dress, a wool coat, or even pajamas (don’t ask)—and I still feel expensive. This is evidence in motion when pro stylist Justine Marjan has stated that accessories are the simplest method to fake a complete style.
This is the hair you wear when you want the strangers to compliment you, and maybe an extra shot of wine at dinner.
Loose Waves + Striped Snap Clips
We’re back in playful territory with this one. These medium curls are loosely curled and subtly parted on one side with two striped snap clips that yell retro cool. It is not a boring casual style, especially when it comes to layering medium short hair or school style. It also happens to be a good solution to having hair in your face, but still appear polished at an outdoor event, fall fair, or even a golden-hour stroll through the park.
No major prep here—just a quick heat protectant and some 1.25″ curling iron magic. I set mine with Oribe’s Soft Lacquer Heat Styling Spray for that soft hold and subtle sheen. Then, just pop in your clips and go.
I slept on snap clips, I admit, because I thought they were too childish. But now? I get it. They are simple to provide structure and style without overdoing it. These have become my everyday when I need something to give me a little bit of mood without doing a full restyle.
And now, we are officially giving the striped snap clip its time? I say yes.
Side-Swept Blonde with Pearls
Long hair, side-swept, soft is the dream come true of the fall- especially with pearl clips. The style is casually elegant and yet hardly old-fashioned. The manner in which the hair clings to the face yet not too tightly and leaves the crown elevated is ideal in the layered medium long hair textures. Be it going to an informal fall wedding, or simply making your day at the office more stylish, this outfit will give old Hollywood a new lease of life in 2025.
I would always prep this style using a thickening mousse such as Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse and concentrate on the roots and then blow-dry the style using a round brush. The soft bend of the ends may be done with a wide-barrel iron–or even overnight rollers.
The thing I personally love about this style is the feeling of timelessness. It is what my mom wore in the 90s, and now I am in 2025, with chunky knits and hot cappuccinos. It is fall and this look is nostalgic in all the cozy-chic notes.
Also, pearls in the hair? Always a yes.
Polished Pixie with Statement Clips
Who says medium short hair can’t go full glam? This fall-approved pixie is slicked back slightly to reveal embellished hair clips that make a classic cut a style statement. This is the outfit to wear on a chilly fall morning when you can barely go outside without a coat and a turtleneck, but still look fabulous.
In cooler temperatures these short styles can flatten out, so I prefer to begin with a volumizing mousse such as the Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse, particularly at the crown. A bit of wax or pomade on the sides and ends will keep things in check and clean.
For me, this is a total boss energy hairstyle. I have taken versions of it to meetings, gallery openings and even on date night. And it never gets old, since you can switch out the clips according to your mood-pearl today, glitter tomorrow.
It is an ideal reminder that adorable fall hairstyles do not have to be fussy to be magnificent.
Romantic Ribbon Bun
Low, softly structured, and finished with a silky bow—this is fall’s take on romance. Whether you are dressing up to attend a cold evening wedding or you want to add some softness to your knitwear collection, this style is one of the easy curly hair, long hair styles that you can count on. It’s gentle, wearable, and honestly timeless.
If you’re working with natural curls, hydration is everything. Before I put the hair in a bun, I apply SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie- it helps keep the definition in without that hard gel feel. The ribbon? Go satin or velvet for fall texture goals.
This style simply makes me think I am out of an old novel. It’s soft but structured, romantic but grounded. I wore this to a dinner party and got more compliments on my hair than my outfit (which says a lot, considering I was in head-to-toe fall neutrals).
Need something that looks effortful but is actually low-key? This is it.
Top Knot with Face-Framing Bangs
This is the one to wear when you have five minutes and still want to appear as though you made an effort. The high knot is relaxed and informal and the front bangs and pieces add to the lived-in effect that we are adoring on medium easy mornings. It is a little bit ballerina, a little bit skater girl, and totally cool.
I prefer to straighten the bangs with a quick wave of the flat iron and leave them free. Drybar’s Prep Rally Detangler helps make brushing through sections easier (especially if your hair’s been tucked in a hoodie all morning).
I recently wore this outfit on a travel day: sweater, joggers, sneakers and still got compliments in the TSA line. It’s the definition of easy but styled. And when your bangs are on, then everything just kind of comes along with it, you know?
Great on children or even school days, too–sloppy but dressed is the new ideal.
Messy Lob with a Chunky Clip
So, let us discuss medium short hair in the most relatable way, i.e., the messy lob. Soft waves, undone texture, and a chunky rectangular clip to pull one side back? Ugh, it’s giving cool-girl-fall energy. It is so satisfying to wear something that moves naturally and then add one strong piece to make it purposeful.
Apply a texturizing spray such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to make the second-day hair look its best. And do not fuss over the clip–simply put it wherever your hair would fall. It’s more about attitude than precision.
And this is the truth about how I wear my hair 70 percent of fall. It looks great with every sweater in your closet. Especially with little makeup and over-the-top lip? Obsessed.
In case you have been wavering over whether to cut your hair this season-this is it.
Crown Braid Low Twist
I don’t know why, but there is something about a crown braid that reminds me of fall immediately. It might be the pumpkin-patch vibes, it might be the cottagecore revival, but this aesthetic? It’s cute fall hairstyles defined. Having a woven crown that turns into a soft low twist, it looks fantastic on long hair of black, medium, and balayaged textures.
I prefer to use a smoothing serum prior to braiding- Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil is a savior. Then I section, braid, pin, and twist. It is not that difficult after the first couple of tries and the final product is straight out of Pinterest.
I always associate this style with Sunday brunches or museum days or when I simply want to feel soft and feminine and not have to use a lot of styling tools to do so. It is also one of my favorites in school picture days or low-stress occasions that still need something special.
It is not a wonder when someone will stop you and ask how you did it. It’s a total show-stealer.
Soft Glam Ponytail with Polished Waves
It is almost cinematic how a high ponytail with soft sculptural waves looks elegant, sharp, and comfortable at the same time. This style adds a slick and high base that it then allows to fall into an immense and vintage-inspired curve which glides over the back like silk. It’s an effortlessly lifted style that elongates the face and gives off that “I’ve got my life together” vibe (even if you’re just running errands). It is ideal to wear during those in-between fall days when you need to have your long hair up and out of the way, but still want it to work.
This style works well with a heat protection spray prior to curling and a bit of shine oil on the ends-I have tried the Color Wow Pop + Lock Gloss Treatment and it leaves everything glassy but not greasy. When your hair is on a finer end, use a volumizing mousse on the roots to give your hair more lift.
On a personal level, I get my back-to-routine buzz in September with this hairstyle. I put on something like a coffee catch up with an old friend and was complimented three times. Twenty minutes and a curling wand, not bad, right?
And in case you have been considering revamping your ride-to-go pony, this is your cue. It is a modern twist on a classic yet it is new, feminine and adorable fall hairstyles approved.
Bubble Braid Ponytail with Sleek Finish
This one’s for those craving a little edge. The bubble braid ponytail is the cool-girl sister of the ordinary braid-organized, snatched, and seemingly effortless. It is clean and tight at the base, with every bubble further down the length providing texture and attitude. This style will get you to class, brunch or just out of your easy wardrobe routine.
I suggest serum smooth to give that glass look-I have been into the Redken Frizz Dismiss line with this, particularly when fall air begins to dry out my strands. The secret to holding the shape? Take small clear rubber bands and pull each section to fluff.
Fall makes me want to clean up my act and this adds the crispness of straight hair but with a little bit of fun to keep it soft. Plus, it’s perfect for both school days and nights out. Bonus points: it goes so well with hoop earrings or multiple chains.
Stop thinking about it, this is one of those medium easy braids that look like you tried your hardest, when you only took five to do it.
Diamond-Dusted Low Ponytail
This is not your average pony. Littered with small, shimmering jewels, this ultra-sleek appearance contributes a bit of drama, but not quite red carpet. The arrangement of the rhinestones gives depth and yet everything remains elegant and down to earth. It is low, chic, and so adorable fall hair styles with a preview of the holidays.
You’ll want strong hold here—spritz a firm hairspray like Kenra Volume 25 before applying embellishments (go for adhesive pearls or self-stick rhinestones, especially for finer medium hair). Wrap a strand around your elastic so it is seamless.
I’ve tried something similar for a gallery event last October—it felt elevated but not too precious. It’s also a surprising crowd-pleaser—people notice. Celeb stylist Pro tip: Justine Marjan recommends keeping the embellishments focused around the crown so the balance is best.
Make this your hair fall statement coat. It’s not loud—it whispers glam.
Twisted Half-Up Waves for Shoulder-Length Hair
This shoulder-length style is topped off with soft, twisted tendrils and feels like it was designed to be worn with cozy sweaters and hot cider. The twist detail takes the front back but does not leave it without volume, and the waves are keeping it flirty and lively. It is half up half, half polished, half undone- and frankly, a favorite when I can not make up my mind.
My favorite thing about this is the fact that it flatter nearly every face shape, namely when you have medium short hair or curly hair short and you want to experiment with shape. Use a 1″ curling iron, alternate directions, and let the twist anchor the volume up top.
This one is as though it were in a leaf strewn park, and photographed at the golden hour. It’s casual, but not careless. Put it on to go to work, put it on a date, or even put it on because you feel cute today that is what fall is all about.
Neither does it require much- a bit of texturizing spray and some fluffing of the fingers. Think of it as your hairstyle hug.
Romantic Braided Crown with Curtain Bangs
This one is all the softness you need when sweater weather comes. The halo is braided and wrapped around the head as a crown, with face-framing pieces left loose, softening the entire style. This style is ethereal without over doing it when paired with long and relaxed bangs.
For upkeep, you’ll want a lightweight dry shampoo to keep your roots lifted and your braid fresh (Living Proof’s Perfect Hair Day is a personal fave). A little of the flexible-hold hairspray will keep the softness soft and not fly away.
Braids always give me cottagecore fantasy, and this one’s no exception. It’s giving vintage storybook heroine meets modern-day goddess. I had something similar to a fall wedding last year and felt romantic and put together.
This one’s especially good for kids, too. It is not childish, and even adults adore the feeling of timelessness. Try it next time you want something just a little bit different.
Floral Braided Bun with Autumn Whimsy
This updo has a big romantic vibe, but the precision with which it is braided and bundled makes it have a natural and grounded vibe. The crown is framed by the braid which blows into a soft, in-folding bun with a sprinkle of floral sweetness. It has a sort of fairy-tale beauty about it–and yet it is real. That single blush rose nestled in the back? That is what makes this adorable fall hairstyles moment have a silent drama.
This look does require a little structure—so prep with a light mousse or flexible hold spray (I love the Aveda Phomollient Styling Foam), and make sure the braid is secure with bobby pins before tucking. The floral touch may be implemented using fresh flowers or artificial clips in the hair collection of Anthropologie.
When I put flowers in my hair, it changes my attitude to myself, even when it is only a bud. It feels a little like putting on your easiest floral maxi dress. You don’t need an occasion. The hairstyle is the occasion.
This would be adorable on children in fall family pictures or on anyone who would want to add a touch of softness to cooler months. Autumn does not necessarily have to be dark and gloomy in all the aspects of it, there is some space to bloom.
Chic Low Bun with Golden Butterflies
The classic low bun? Elevated. This is polished and sleek with a pinch of magical fantasy- golden butterfly clips placed just over the twist as a surprise sparkle. The style itself is clean and well-organized, but it is the clips that make it minimal to memorable. Think yes I am warm, but I am still the moment.
I would apply a smoothing balm such as Oribe Straight Away, and run over it with a flat iron before creating that bun. A toothbrush and hairspray is perfect to keep the flyaways under control.
This style reads like a grown-up fairy tale. The closest I wore it was to an outdoor fall dinner party and someone actually said to me it was ethereal. It’s not loud—it’s confident in its own quiet way.
It, too, is perfect on those with straight hair, particularly when the weather cools down and static is a war. The accessories do the work—just let them shine.
Retro Curls with a Glamorous Side Clip
Clean, precise and shamelessly glamorous, this vintage-inspired curl style is a throwback to the glamour of old Hollywood and transfers it to the present. The big barrel curls are voluminous and bouncy sweeping over one eye with a side part that is dramatic. The look is anchored by a pearl hair clip that catches the right amount of light to be elegant without the glare.
Curls this structured need patience and good tools. I vow by the T3 curling iron and a good hold setting spray such as the Kenra 25. Use a boar bristle brush to brush out those soft curves. Don’t skip the prep—this one needs it.
There’s something undeniably empowering about retro hair. I have always said it gives you main character energy when you need it. Paired with winged eyeliner? You’re unstoppable.
And in case your vibe this fall is warm and soft on the outside but strong on the inside, this is your powerhouse. Bonus: looks fantastic with medium hair lengths as well as long hair.
Side Crown Braid with Loose Face Pieces
This style is softer and more casual because the crown braid is applied along the side rather than the top, yet it looks so polished. The braid is incorporated into a tucked bun and the strands around the face have been left free to add motion and softness. It is very casual, reflective, and totally fall weekend brunch with friends vibes.
It is a style that improves as it becomes more undone. Spray dry texture spray, such as IGK Beach Club, and pin loosely braided hair. Pull a few face-framing pieces to soften it all.
I think this kind of braids suits medium short hair particularly well. It looks like a larger volume but is incredibly easy to work with. I’ve styled friends in this for casual photoshoots—and the camera loves it.
Don’t aim for perfection here. This is one of those medium easy styles in which the beauty lies in the vagueness.
Half-Up Voluminous Ponytail with Cascading Waves
This is your choice, should your fall vibe be I want volume, glam and a touch of edge. This half up half style brings up the pony with a neat, high pony and leaves the rest to fall in brushed out waves that are luxurious but not too formal. The teased crown gives it height and that tucked ponytail wrap keeps it smooth.
My favorite thing to use here is the Un.Done Volume Spray by Amika which volumizes the roots without making it crunchy. The height without looking like a helmet-head can be achieved with a curling wand and a little backcombing.
This style takes me to think of something I would see on Pinterest boards titled things like, perfect date night hair or easy glam- and they are not wrong. You feel put together without trying too hard.
It works best on long hair that is easy to style or even medium hair that needs a boost. Great for date nights, interviews, or whenever you want to look a little extra (without feeling it).
