How To Update Your Hair Colour For Autumn

What is flamboyage?

The technique takes its name from its predecessors – ombré and balayage – but the results are far more natural-looking. Think your hair but better: rooty and lived-in with natural, face-framing highlights and radiant, multi-dimensional tones. Essentially, it’s the easiest route to getting cool-girl locks.

Flamboyage involves using special clear, adhesive paper (instead of foils) that allows for more seamless colour application and blending. Stylists place a section of hair is placed on the paper, before creatively removing certain strands. Only the hair left on the adhesive panel will be coloured (the secret to get the colour flowing naturally), while the paper strip becomes the working surface (similar to balayage).

After the colour is applied, the panel is then folded in half and sealed. Since the paper strip is visible, stylists are able to better check the colour development at a glance, giving them better control of the process. Finally, once it’s finished processing, a toner is applied to give an extra boost of colour.
 
Who should try it?

The best part about flamboyage? As Kamila Pruszec, Co-Owner and Manager of Blue Tit London's Portobello salon, tells us, the colour service is flattering on almost anyone as it suits most hair types and textures – from thick curls to fine, pin-straight strands – and is ideal for grey hair, too.

“I would suggest using it to give a subtle update, and a colour that looks like it was created naturally by the sun, rather than as a way of completely transforming your colour,” she says. “For example, if your hair feels too dark or dull and you’d like to give it a sunkissed appearance to keep your summer look lasting longer.”

It also goes without saying the technique is ideal for bleach blondes or highlight-addicts tired of touching up their roots every few weeks, as there won’t be any obvious regrowth – simply let your hair grow out a little longer than usual before booking in. As long as you’re armed with a good colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner, you’ll be able to leave months between salon visits in future.

And in terms of which skin tones flamboyage works best on, Pruszec says there’s no one-size-fits all approach to the tone, as stylists can create bespoke shades to suit every complexion.

Which tone should you go for?

When it comes to autumnal hair colours, Pruszec says that warm tones are always popular – think coffee and chestnut for deep brunettes, caramel tones for mid-brown hair, earthy cinnamon shades for redheads, and buttery honeys for blondes. And for those wanting to have some fun with their colour, copper is having a moment in the hair world; try subtle peachy tones for an updated spin on last Autumn/Winter’s rose gold look.

Adding warm tones to hair can give paler skin its glow back, once that summer tan fades – especially if you've got an olive complexion or warm undertones. However if you have a cool skin tone, Pruszec reccomends sticking to cooler shades. Swapping icy, ashy toners for champagne shades and creamy colours if you're blonde, or adding bitter chocolate hues to brunette hair, are flattering ways of adding add richness and dimension, without too much warmth – which could look unnatural.

Is there a particular cut that complements the colour?

"Flamboyage lends itself to any cut or style, however adding layers and/or waves can really help to bring out the different tones in the hair," Pruszec explains. She also adds that whichever style and cut you choose, maintining your hair's condition is key: "Opt for an Olaplex treatment with every colour service and return for a trim every eight to ten weeks."

 
To book a flamboyage appointment or consultation at one of Blue Tit London's salons, visit BluetTitLondon.com