Trending Fall Hairstyles for Long Hair 2025: Cute, Casual & Effortless Looks
There’s something about fall—maybe it’s the crisp air or the soft scent of cinnamon drifting from a nearby café—but the moment the leaves start turning, I get the itch to switch up my hair. Anyone else feel that? No matter whether you are going to have an apple-picking day or just need a slight change in appearance to match the season, your hair is the best place to start. So what will be hot in 2025 when it comes to long hair?
There are easy, cute, and casual outfits, as well as those that feel a bit more editorial, but I have collected what I am really loving at the moment. All of these hairstyles are not only about what looks good, but how they feel. Let’s explore the cozy-chic shift that’s defining this season.
Elegant Waves with Gold Accent
I have very quiet luxury vibes with this style, simple, polished and timeless. The long soft waves are arranged in loose S-curves that are romantic but not too done. What is truly the center of attention is the huge gold rectangular clip that secures the upper half of the hair with a low-maintenance hair twist. It is such a fall hairstyle to long hairs that is ideal to be worn with a knit sweater and cappuccino weather.
I generally have a light protective heat product to retain this texture soft but polished such as the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Heat Styling Spray. Seal it with a soft-hold setting spray and not a firm spray when your waves are inclined to fall. It keeps things touchable, not crunchy.
The first time I tried this, I did not realize how much the clip added to the vibe. A statement accessory really pulls the whole look into that “girl who knows what she’s doing” territory—even when you’re late to brunch. Minimal effort, max impression.
Want a quick tip? Don’t overthink the sectioning. The beauty in this lies in the fact that minor defects make it natural. That’s the whole magic of this one.
Chunky Bubble Braid with Cozy Texture
There is something inherently fun about a chunky braid- especially when it is very soft and voluminous. This thick bubble braid is not a braid, but a row of tacked down pieces which are pulled out to give a cascade of puffed loops. It’s the ultimate casual yet Pinterest-worthy look that screams “fall adventures in the woods,” and it’s surprisingly easy to do.
To achieve this appearance, you must have soft hold and plenty of volume. I prepare with Amika Plus Size Volume & Body Mousse on the roots and blow-dry. After that, I fasten the braid in sections with transparent elastics and pancake each of the bubbles–I pull it to fluff–until it is fluffy and soft.
I wore a variation of this braid on a weekend hike last October and three people stopped and asked me how I did it. It is practical, safe, and does not make your hair flat like a tight pony. And let us call a spade a spade, it is the braid equivalent of a chunky knit blanket.
And, if you have dark hair like I do, the style is perfect because it casts some shadows in your hair, adding some depth. Fall light really makes it pop.
Romantic Braid with Autumn Leaves
This one’s for the poetic souls. A loosely-woven braid gently wrapped in golden-brown fall leaves? I mean… swoon. The style is a perfect combination of softness and drama; it can be worn to an engagement shoot in the countryside or just to make your Sunday walk more romantic. The texture is loosened, the twists are deliberate and light.
You don’t need to weave in real leaves (unless you’re feeling whimsical), but adding earthy-toned hair pins or fabric leaves gives a similar effect. Before braiding, I use a few pumps of Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother to smooth the hair and make the frizz go away.
This style makes me think that hair can be a decoration and a statement. I originally wore this style to a fall harvest dinner and it made me feel like a character in a storybook–in a good way.
For blondes, this one pops against golden hues. For brunettes, it leans rich and moody. Either way, the result feels like a literal poem.
Classic Dutch Braid with Seasonal Charm
Here is a long Dutch plait which begins at the crown and continues all the way down the back in even, thick plaits. It’s bold, timeless, and most importantly, practical. There’s something grounding about a braid like this—it holds everything together and looks chic while doing it. The little detail? A single fall leaf slipped in at the base. It brings a touch of beauty that is ideal during transitioning between September and October.
Second-day hair with a little dry shampoo is ideal in the braid. I have Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo that adds texture without leaving behind the build up. To give it a little extra shape, run some light styling cream through your lengths first.
Personally, this is always the style I turn to when I need to feel like I have my life together: clean braid, soft sweater, a latte in hand. The seasonal leaf detail? Totally unnecessary but totally satisfying.
Don’t overthink it. It is not a complicated look that makes it beautiful.
Crown Braid with Soft Waves
A crown braid is so regal and elegant, and it looks amazing with waves. It is not only sweet, but cute and a bit earthy. The braid begins at the hairline in front, and snakes across the top of the head like a headband, leaving the rest of the long locks hanging and unruly. The result? A style that is equally as fabulous with your gals at brunch as it is at a fall wedding in the woods.
If you have straight hair, then I would encourage you to use a 1.25 inch wand to curl the lower free which you can follow by brushing it through with a boar bristle brush to get a natural wave. To seal frizz lock and leave hair soft seal it with Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser Invisible Oil Primer.
I also adore wearing it with cozy knits and big gold jewelry and there is something about it that makes it look special but not excessive. And, in case your bangs are in between stages, the crown braid will take them out of the way.
It is a fall favorite that repeats every year, and it is not without reason. It’s got that forest-fairy-on-a-mission kind of energy.
Side Pull-Through Braid with Golden Honey Tones
The fluffiness of this side braid is all it takes to make her steal the show thanks to the sweet detail. The fact that it starts at the temple and cascades down the shoulder gives it drama, yet this is still anchored in that easy, simple vibe. It is one of the fall hairstyles on long hairs that can be called both juvenile and mature. The blonde locks of gold are just literally playing with the lighting in an utterly stunning way that gives out a dimensional effect with each turn.
I tend to prepare this type of braid by spraying the hair with a texture spray such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray- it is not heavy but provides the hair with the grip necessary to keep the shape. Blondes should use a purple-based gloss such as dpHUE Gloss+ in Cool Blonde, which will keep the brass at bay as the season dries out your hair.
This one is a different one on those days when you want to look put together but not too hard. It manages to be chic without being precious and, frankly, looks just as good with a trench coat as it does with an oversized flannel.
Bonus: in case you have bangs or face-framing layers, leave them out and curl them gently to have that extra softness.
Rainy Day Bubble Braid
With the right execution, the bubble braid is practical and dreamy. What makes this one special? It is perfect in the water-kissed weather, the low position, the fullness and gentleness of the wrap, the low position makes it perfect on those misty fall mornings or a surprise shower. I love the blonde to brunette gradient, and it is even better in transitional weather.
This look benefits from a prep of anti-humidity cream. I also use the Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream- I need it when I know I will be out in uncertain weather. It makes the style remain defined without frizzing out by noon
Honestly? I have worn this exact same style on rainy days when I am running errands in the city and it makes everything feel a bit more cinematic. There is an odd contentment in being pinned up in hair and having the city yell by you.
If you have thinner hair, tease each of the sections a little bit, before you pancake them–it will add more drama to the whole braid.
Sleek Crown Twist on Long Straight Hair
This one’s a nod to understated elegance. A fine plait wound round the back of the head in the style of a twisted crown adds a lot of Grecian power, with the remainder of the hair kept smooth and straight, falling over the shoulders like a ribbon. It is the best autumn hairstyle of long hairs in case you like minimalism but still want some art.
This style is all about smoothness, so I prefer to use a flat iron after spraying Gisou Heat Protecting Spray, which leaves the lengths shiny without heaviness. As a brunette, a shine serum such as IGK Crybaby gives the hair a shiny, almost glassy effect.
I always felt like this style has more to say than a messy bun. It is silent, deliberate and it makes me feel like I’m strolling through a museum in Vienna-even when I am going to dinner.
The fall layers and the dark lips and this braid, they are just like a match made in heaven, you know?
Boho Rope Twist and Bubble Braid Combo
Now this is a look that has autumn personality. The combination of twisted rope braids and crosses at the back are followed by a low bubble braid that is playful and sculptural at the same time. It is a complete Pinterest-core look with the right amount of texture to appear casual yet finished enough to wear to a weekend out or a casual gathering. The tonal blonde and brunette combine makes it even more dimensional- perfect in golden hour light.
This style is most effective on textured hair so I tend to apply some mousse to slightly wet hair and then blow dry. Not Your Mother Whip It Up Styling Mousse is a great product to add bounce to rope braids without that crunchy feeling.
One thing I love about this look? It’s very forgiving. You do not have to be a professional braider to do this. It is also amusing to wear when you want something new but not to the extent of dressing like a costume.
It gives me strong “pumpkin patch with coffee” energy.
Chunky French Braid Revival
There’s just something classic about a full French braid, especially when it’s done with thick, buttery texture. It is smooth on the top and fluffy all the way down, a modernized look of an old-time favorite. I think it’s the ultimate go-to easy style when you want to feel neat, secure, but still put together. One of my very favorite fall hairstyles of 2025 on long hair.
To ensure the size is perfect, I section the hair in large pieces and braid loosely- I pull gently on each piece after it has been braided. A little dry shampoo at the roots before starting (I swear by Batiste Original) helps with grip and volume.
I would only wear French braids when I went to the gym. Now? I have a steady add-on to my workday outfit since they are a pure middle piece and some light finishing. Especially on blonde girls, the contrast of this braid against fall coats and scarves is so good.
It’s reliable, but never boring. and after all, is that not what we all want in a hairstyle?
Classic Double Braids with Romantic Twists
The double braid is back in a big way, and it is all grown up. These two plaits are thick and broad, and have a soft twist, and are supported by wavy locks left hanging loose to drape the face. It has a fantastical, broody feel that can be worn on a girl-night-out or when you just want to chill out with a red lip and a book. And when you have a thick blonde hair, this style just forms this sort of golden waterfall effect that is just unreal.
It is a braid that works better with some weight in the hair. I would wash my hair, put the Ouai Leave-In Conditioner, and blow dry it out, after which I brush my hair through with a styling oil which would give it a smooth finish without making it look flat, i.e. Moroccanoil Treatment Light. You want the strands soft, not slippery.
To me, this style makes me feel powerful. It is childhood nostalgia, but it is done in a manner that does not feel outdated at all. Just right on a day when you need a little extra attitude in your cardigan, whether it be a casual Friday or a cold Sunday.
Leave a bit of curl at your cheek bone–that gives the proper amount of softness.
Loose Side Crown with Boho Waves
This is light and airy in style, with one crown braid that begins at the side and goes over the back, with the remainder of the hair cascading in gentle, shaped waves. The blonde lengths have beautiful highlights which reflect light perfectly and this is why this is such a winning fall hairstyle with long hairs. It is rather romantic, but very wearable, especially with warm-tone autumnal outfits.
On hold and texture, I spray hair and curl using Drybar Hot Toddy Heat Protectant Mist, and wrap 1-inch wand to give the hair movement. To tone down the appearance, I blow out the curls after they have cooled and fix everything with a flexible-hold spray such as Kenra Volume Spray 25- it holds it all day but does not feel stiff.
I also tend to lean on styles like this when I want my look to be more on the quiet and stunning side. It provides a bit of structure through the braid, but does not take away the shine of your length.
Also? It is just perfect with both straight and naturally wavy hair. Super versatile.
Bubble Ponytail with Feminine Bow Accents
I am now in my official bubble braid phase and this one feels fresh, flirty and absolutely adorable. This ensemble is tied at intervals and has soft pink bows, which will immediately make your fall wardrobe look fabulous. The low position of the pony makes it comfortable to wear every day, but the bows make it more than a simple ponytail. It’s a hairstyle that makes people smile.
In order to perfect the polish of this style, first smooth your hair back using a light serum. To have a sleek look without stiffness, I use the Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray. Section the hair into bubbles with elastics and wrap thin strands around the ties if you want to hide them (or don’t—bows are the main event here).
The appearance makes me a bit like a contemporary ballerina- and I am not complaining. It is particularly sweet to fall festivals, brunches or even to dress up a white tee.
Bows are back, girls. Embrace it.
Side-Parted Golden Curls with Minimal Clips
It is the hair type of cashmere: smooth, glossy, luxurious. The side part, deep and brushed-out curls, creates a classic retro shape, the kind that has been sweeping the red carpets in 2025. Throw in two tiny hair clips on the side and you have a style that balances between comfortable and stylish.
To achieve this softness, I curl the hair under (not out) using a large-barrel iron. I brush through after cooling with a mixed bristle brush and Kerrastase Elixir Ultime L Huile Original to make shiny. The clips are a styling moment, and they are also functional, particularly when you want to grow out bangs or add shape.
This is one of my re-worn looks this fall. I adore the way it plays on volume, but never looks too glam. Even a satin top or a structured coat still makes it feel casual.
It is an excellent alternative when you feel like getting something pretty but not braids or updos.
Vintage Waves with Auburn Volume and Baby Bangs
Let’s talk drama—in the best way. These carved waves and heavy bangs with warm and lush redhead coloring make this one of the most daring and best fall hairstyles on long hairs I have seen this fall. It’s giving modern Rita Hayworth. The sculpted S-waves bounce with assurance and the complete fringe gives an old fashioned pin-up touch.
Color like this needs care—especially in colder months. I am a loyal user of Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner in the red tones; it is sulfate-free and does not take away the color. It is kept shiny and healthy with a weekly mask such as the Amika Soulfood.
I have always loved daring haircuts such as this one and when I finally did it last fall, it was as though I entered my own fairytale. The statement is made by the bangs, the waves keep it all together.
If you’re feeling bold this fall, go red. Go bangs. Go full glam.
Glossy Sleek with a Silver Bow
There is something trance-like about a slicked back style with a center part and a huge satin bow. The hairstyle is simple and elegant, yet very stylish. The ice silver satin bow has a dreamy hyper-feminine feel, which gives a soft contrast of old-Hollywood glam and new-age glam. This is that style you pull out for gallery openings or when you’re in the mood to look like you belong in a Vogue shoot but still want to get home early.
To maintain the texture non-sticky I would recommend light anti-frizz serum e.g. Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream. A ceramic straightener will give that mirror-gloss finish, but do not over-heat it especially during the drier fall months. You want sheen, not split ends.
What I personally like about this is that it is versatile. I have worn something similar to a daytime brunch and to a micro-wedding of a friend. It is a kind of she did not put much effort but wow she looks presentable. Some hairstylists have even described bows as the sunglasses of fall because you can wear them and immediately up the ante of your entire look.
Add a pearl earring or a bit of shimmer on the lids and you are ready. It is not loud, not flashy, but instead it is beautiful and it does not scream at you to look at it, it just attracts your attention.
Peach Blonde Braid with Side Waves
The braid has returned, but not the tight and sleek one that you had in high school. This appearance presents us with soft blonde with romantic side waves, low braid, which is still effortless, and a few highlights that work well under golden-hour light. The lone bow at the end of the braid is in a dusty pink ribbon and is both delicate and editorial.
In order to make this braid stay fresh even in colder and windier days, it is advisable to treat the strands with a nourishing oil. I prefer Kérastase Elixir Ultime–it is a nice smell and it gives enough sliding without being greasy. A mini teasing brush will assist in giving that lift in the crown.
I am a total sucker for this wave-braided combo. It gives me the impression that I am the main character of my own indie film or that I am browsing through an old bookstore on a rainy day. There’s just something poetic about it, don’t you think?
And, incidentally, this is also a very simple outfit in case you need something less formal, but still you want someone to pay attention to you. Bonus: it’s extremely aesthetic in photos.
Warm Ginger Twist with Olive Ribbon
Fall isn’t fall without a stunning redhead moment. This lumpy, low-twist braid which is bound up with a sheer olive bow is a very cozy-girl braid. The deep copper undertones, the loosely curled front pieces and the natural-looking drop are the hair version of drinking cider in a cream knit sweater. This would look great on a pumpkin patch date or around your local coffee shop and still be on-trend.
The key to this look is moisture. Ginger colors fade quicker during the colder months, so it is great to apply a color-enhancing mask like Moroccanoil Color Depositing Mask in Copper at least once per week. It adds that shine without a visit to the salon.
This braid makes me remember why I like hair as a self-expression. It’s not loud—it’s intentional. And even those who tend to prefer simple and down-to-earth styles will feel that this one is not boring.
And can we all say that olive green is underappreciated? Especially combined with copper, it is somewhat surprising, very pretty.
Short Faux-Bob Twist for Medium Length Glam
Not long hair, but still, this faux-bob twisted updo is worth talking. The volume at the crown, the neat side part and the fine framing strands all combine in a glamorous, high-fashion style that is anything but hard to achieve with the right equipment. The dark espresso brown color is beautiful on brunettes who want something more stylish but not so drastic as cutting it all off.
This is a style in which a good dry shampoo is your best friend apply a Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo, to get volume and texture. Put in pins that match your hair color to make everything unnoticeable and fixed.
I was surprised the first time I tried this style because it made me feel so confident. It is like wearing a good pair of heels- you walk taller, you carry yourself with a little more yes-I-did-that. According to celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, these types of styles are power moves. And he’s right.
Not quite ready to go short but want to get the feel of it? This will do the job. It’s timeless.
Goddess Braid with Retro Side Curl
This platinum blonde color with a mega braid and sweeping retro curl is full of vim. The carved wave on the forehead, the thick braid with a gold wrap, all that screams high-fashion editorial but is still wearable. You might refer to this as the lovechild of Old Hollywood and Pinterest-core.
The lightness of this blonde shade requires a lot of protection- UV sprays like The Shield by Amika are great at preventing yellowing and dryness. And braid control? Mousse and edge gel. Always.
As an individual, I have pinned this to my dream hair on NYE. It’s bold, yes, but still soft. This is when you feel good and you want the whole world to know without uttering a word.
This braid is the vibe when you want to go out on a fall party, gallery night, or when you simply want to dress up your Tuesday. And trust me, the compliments will follow.
Romantic Half-Up Curly Crown
Pinned half-up curls at the crown have a magnetic softness, especially when they are wild in all the right ways. This style uses both volume and texture and leaves plenty of loose ends to frame the face in a way that is just perfect. It’s wavy, it’s whimsical and it’s emitting the vibe of that girl without ever trying too hard. This is a style that can be worn with jeans and boots just as easily as it can be with a slip dress and an oversized blazer.
The most effective method of maintaining this style is to style according to your natural curls. I am obsessed with Curlsmith Curl Defining Souffle- it has volume and is not crunchy and can do second day hair. Make use of a diffuser when using a blow-dryer and spritz some water to bring back curls every day.
I personally have always found this half-up look to be the most flirtatious of all curl styles. It balances structure with softness, and there’s something really feminine about showing off your face while still keeping that mane energy.
To be fair, this is the type of look that does not require attention, it just takes away the spotlight. Think candlelit dinner. Think impromptu fall date. Or your average Thursday but with main character glow.
Cascading Ponytail with Soft Bangs
This is a great hairstyle to wear in the fall, especially by a curly-haired brunette whose hair is long. A high ponytail is a great way to show off your curls with wispy bangs adding a touch of lightness that frames the face. It’s high-energy, high-impact, and incredibly flattering. There’s something playful but pulled-together about it, like you know exactly what you’re doing—even when you’re running five minutes late.
To keep this style frizz-free, a styling custard like Pattern’s Curl Gel (from Tracee Ellis Ross’s brand) gives definition with hold. Blend edges with a loose brush and edge control when you want it blended, or leave it unfinished a bit brussed around the edges when you would like it more casual.
What I like about this pony is that it is very wearable I’ve worn it to brunch, on a run, and even to a fall wedding (no joke). It lengthens the face, displays earrings, and looks good with chunky sweaters or strapless dresses.
And yes, you can wear bangs with curls, it is 2025, we are breaking all the old-time rules.
Glossy Ringlets with Vintage Volume
This next one is something we should discuss: short glossy ringlets with an old-fashioned curl shape that is nearly sculptural. Although it is more of a bob, it is worth considering by anyone considering the chop but still keeping it classic and feminine. These curls are more compact, more shiny and with that vintage look that comes out of a black-and-white movie, but with a 2025 twist.
A small-barrel curling wand and heat protectant like GHD Bodyguard Spray can replicate this shape even on hair that is not naturally curly. To achieve a lasting hold, damp hair finger-coiled with leave-in cream is the answer to natural curls.
This style takes me back to the looks of my grandmother in the old photos-but better, cooler, more badass. It makes me want to put on satin pajamas and have a dinner party with jazz on vinyl. It’s equal parts nostalgic and powerful.
Try this when you’re craving structure. It does not feel like a bad hair day, it feels like a statement, and I love how unapologetic it is.