Lazy Girls Will Love 2016's Hair Color Trends

In 2015, we saw hairstyles turn into works of art. From pixelated hair to fiery ombres, statement-making strands were all the rage. So what sort of hair color trends will 2016 bring? I turned to top celebrity stylists to figure out what trends we can expect to see in the new year. With so many loud shades taking over this past year, I honestly couldn't imagine things getting any wilder.

Turns out, I'm probably right: Instead of crazy colors and extreme cuts, many stylists agreed that softer, more natural hair would be reemerging in 2016. It's no longer about how jaw dropping we can make our locks. According to the stylists interviewed below, it's all about highlighting our own natural beauty. No more worrying about constant touch ups for vivid roots and shaggy styles. Sorry Kylie Jenner, but neon shades may just be headed out the door. In 2016, we're turning more towards realistic color choices and simpler cuts. Not only will these trends look more flattering, but they also require less touch-ups. As a lazy girl, that's something I can get behind. So, before you book your next appointment, make sure to check out these top hair trends for 2016. It's the easiest way to update your "new year, new me" status.

1. Natural Hues

While we all loved Kylie Jenner's crazy hair transformations in 2015, colorist at Rita Hazan Salon, Nicole Tresch says we can expect tones found in natural to be very on-trend for 2016. "We are still seeing trends of these fun pop colors for the more daring, but I think the look of year will be keeping the natural tones – ones that work for your skin tone," Tresch tells me over email.

2. Murky Pastels

It seems like the "Granny Hair" trend was everywhere in 2015. This year, pastels are going to be more gently incorporated into the hair rather than be used as an all-over color. Celebrity hairstylist, Nick Arrojo states we can be on the lookout for "murky pastel" hair coloring, "Think of a neutral ash-brown base highlighted with bits of soft pastel creating an effect that is grungy, muted, and muddy, as if all those bright shades have been blended and blurred together. "

3. Bronde

Confused about what "bronde" actually means? It's actually a no-brainer! It simply means a hair color that lies between brunette and blonde, and it will continue to be very on-trend for 2016. Cutler Soho colorist Ryan Pearl actually coined this trend as the “chocolate chip cookie hair color" as it is the perfect buttery brown shade.

4. Opal

If you're looking for a gorgeous, pearlescent hair color, try opal. This shade is a blend of blue, purple, pearl and soft pink hues that look insanely good, if done correctly. Stylist Rodney Cutler suggests heading to an experienced professional if you're interested in trying out the look. "This is a big step and you should have a trustworthy relationship [with your stylist]." I agree! This is definitely not an at-home color look.

5. Balayage

Balayage is definitely here to stay in 2016. The hair painting technique looks amazing with any hair shade, and is perfect for those who want less visits to the salon. Redken Senior Colorist, Rachel Bodt swears by the process. "[Balayage] is soft and seamless and can be tailored for everyone," she tells me. "I'm loving ribbon-ey highlights that have a super soft root so you can't see the line of demarcation." Hurray for fewer salon trips!

6. Classic Coloring

Let's leave crazy color trends in the past. Classic hair coloring techniques are back in action for 2016. Celebrity hairstylist Nick Arrojo says, "After many seasons of wild hair colors—ombre, pastel, sand art, rainbow—things are changing in 2016. Colors are getting softer and so are placements. There’s a resurgence of traditional highlights and single process shades."

7. Dimensional Shades

Forget about two-toned colors and dip dyed tones. Colorist Nicole Tresch says that more subtle dimension is in. "Plan on seeing looks where things are seamless ... no stripes or severe two tone ombres (all dark on top/all light at bottom). I think we will see good balance of multiple tones in the same color family — something that grows out easy." Growing out easily sounds like my dream come true.

With 2016 being the year of softer, more effortless hairstyles, it's perfect for lazy girls and fashionistas alike!

Image: Brooke Cagle/Unsplash