The Top 3 Hair Color Trends for 2012

By Anastasia Nam for GalTime.com

Landmark/ PR Photos
Landmark/ PR Photos

Hair color trends come and go! Last year, chunky highlights, funky colors (think hot pink and electric blue), and even gray strands were popular.

This year, softer, more subtle shades are "in." Here's a guide to what's en vogue for 2012:

Small highlights closer to your natural color are a hot trend this year. Celebrities like Nicole Richie who have a honey-gold base are opting for golden highlights for a more sophisticated look. The key is to go for highlights just two shades lighter than your natural color. Ask your stylist to give you small thin strands throughout your hair to achieve the look.




Andrew Evans/ PR Photos
Andrew Evans/ PR Photos

























Copper reds are "red hot" right now. Avoid purple or blue based reds for a more modern look. A warm red is more natural looking and flatters almost every skin tone. Your stylist can formulate a color that works the best for your skin type.

Related: Why Does My Hair Color Fade!?

If you want warmth, but aren't crazy about red, consider warm browns. These hues have a red undertone that are more subtle than an all-over red color.

Red is infamous for fading quickly, so be sure to stay on top of your touch ups, and ask your stylist to add a gloss to your hair to keep your color vibrant.

Ombre color is still going strong, but with a more natural twist. Instead of an obvious line of demarcation, try a gradual change of color from root to tip. You can go from dark to light, or vice versa. The key is to keep the color graduation subtle.


Charles Norfleet/ PR Photos
Charles Norfleet/ PR Photos





























Other hair trends for 2012 include beachy waves and big blow outs. Headbands and braids are also popular. You can even combine these two trends and wear a braided headband made of your own hair, or purchase one already plaited. Have fun, and don't be agraid to try new things!

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