Is Balayage Still in Style? Find Out Here

The Buzz Around Balayage: Still Trendy or Fading Out?

Walk into any stylish hair salon in East Village, and chances are you’ll hear the word “balayage” tossed around. It’s been a favorite for years now—effortless, sun-kissed, low-maintenance. But in 2025, you might be wondering: Is balayage still in style or is it time to move on to the next big thing?

Let’s break it down, because hair trends, like fashion, evolve. But some looks stick around longer than expected. Balayage seems to be one of them, and here’s why.

What Exactly Is Balayage Again?

Before we dive into its popularity, let’s revisit what balayage actually is. It’s a French technique that means “to sweep” or “to paint,” and that’s exactly what happens. Instead of using foils like traditional highlights, your colorist paints the dye onto your hair in a freehand motion. The result? A natural, blended gradient that grows out seamlessly.

This technique first hit the mainstream years ago, but it was never meant to be just a passing trend—it was a game-changer.

Why People Fell in Love with Balayage

1. Low Maintenance (But High Style)

One of the biggest perks of balayage is how forgiving it is. Unlike traditional highlights, it doesn’t leave behind harsh lines or visible roots after a few weeks. You can go months between appointments and still look like you just left a top hair salon in NYC.

2. Universally Flattering

Balayage works on virtually everyone—blonde, brunette, redhead, curly, straight, short, long—you name it. And with a skilled stylist (like the pros at Palms Salon, by the way), the color can be customized to enhance your natural features.

3. It’s Just...Cool

There's something about balayage that screams effortless beauty. It's the kind of hair that looks like you woke up like this, even if you didn’t. That kind of vibe never really goes out of style.

Is It Still Trending in 2025?

Here’s the short answer: yes, balayage is still very much in style—but it’s evolved.

The classic caramel and honey tones are still in, but today’s balayage looks are even more tailored and creative. Think deeper roots, bolder contrast, unexpected tones like rose gold, and techniques like “reverse balayage” (where darker tones are painted in to add dimension).

Colorists at the best balayage salons in NYC, like Palms Salon, are constantly innovating. Balayage isn’t stagnant—it’s transforming. That’s why it's stayed relevant.

The Modern Balayage: How It’s Changing

1. Lived-In Color

The idea now is not just sun-kissed hair, but “lived-in color.” That means deeper roots, richer mid-lengths, and bright, soft ends. It’s less about contrast and more about depth.

2. Hybrid Techniques

Stylists are blending balayage with other methods—like babylights, ombré, and color melts—to create bespoke results. It’s all about what suits you, not following a cookie-cutter formula.

3. Bold and Experimental Shades

Some are swapping the traditional blonde tones for copper, lavender, icy blue—you name it. The freehand technique makes even the wildest colors feel wearable.

Is Balayage Right for You?

Let’s be real. Not every trend is for every person. But balayage? It’s surprisingly versatile. Still, here are a few questions to ask yourself before booking your appointment.

Do You Like Low-Maintenance Color?

If you don’t want to be in the salon every few weeks, balayage could be your best friend. It grows out gracefully and still looks intentional even months later.

Do You Prefer a Natural-Looking Effect?

Balayage isn’t for those looking for bold streaks or dramatic color changes. It’s subtle, soft, and designed to mimic natural lightening.

Are You Open to a Consultation?

Here’s the thing: the best results come from a top hair salon in NYC where stylists actually take time to understand your hair type, skin tone, and goals. Places like Palm Hair Salon (shoutout to their East Village location!) are known for customizing every balayage to perfection.

How to Keep Balayage Looking Fresh

Let’s say you take the plunge. How do you make sure it stays looking salon-fresh?

1. Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner

This is basic but vital. Sulfate-free products will help preserve your tone and prevent your hair from drying out.

2. Purple Shampoo for Blondes

If your balayage has blonde tones, a purple shampoo can keep brassiness at bay. Don’t overdo it, though—once or twice a week is plenty.

3. Heat Protection is Non-Negotiable

Balayage looks amazing when styled, but constant heat can wreck your hair. Always, always use a heat protectant before blow drying or straightening.

4. Regular Gloss Appointments

You might not need a full color refresh often, but a gloss every 6–8 weeks can bring your balayage back to life. It adds shine and subtly tones your color.

Real Talk: What Clients Are Saying

We chatted with a few East Village locals who recently went to Palms Salon for balayage, and here’s the general vibe:

When you hear reviews like that, it’s pretty clear balayage still has a loyal following—and for good reason.

Alternatives to Consider (If You’re Still Unsure)

If you’re feeling balayage-fatigue (it happens), you might want to explore:

• Foilyage: A mix of foils and freehand painting for a more high-contrast look.

• Babylights: Super fine highlights for a soft shimmer.

• Color Melts: Seamless transitions between multiple shades.
  

• Chunky Highlights (Yes, They’re Back): Bold streaks in contrasting colors—a ‘90s revival with a modern twist.
  

But even with these new (or recycled) trends, balayage remains a safe, stylish choice.

Final Thoughts: Classic or Trendy? It’s Both.

Trends come and go—remember feather extensions? Yeah... let’s not talk about that. But balayage has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s customizable, flattering, and evolves with the times.

Whether you're stepping into Palms Salon for the first time or you’re a balayage devotee who swears by the best hair salon in NYC, it’s safe to say this trend isn’t going anywhere soon.

So, is balayage still in style? Absolutely. But more importantly—does it feel right for you? If it does, it’s always in style.

And if you’re in or around East Village, pop into Palm Hair Salon. Trust me, your hair will thank you.