Hair trends are in constant evolution, with the latest sensation hailing from the 1990s–2000s era — the “Sonic Silver Hair.” Zoë Irwin, a top hair colorist and Matrix colorist ambassador, introduces this cool-girl shade as the go-to choice for the New Year, particularly complementing the cooler tones of the current season.
So, what exactly is Sonic Silver Hair? It’s a sophisticated silver hair color that effortlessly blends retro and futuristic vibes. Irwin describes it as a “beige-y, soft silver,” deviating from the heavy, ashy grays of the early 2000s. This trend embraces sheer, glistening, and glossier renditions, offering a much more subtle and delicate tone.
The Sonic Silver Hair trend is characterized by its ultra-sheer, high shine, and super iridescent features, creating a futuristic feel that exudes soft modernity. The inspiration for this trend lies in the turn of the century, specifically influenced by the Gen X Soft Club aesthetic, a TikTok trend reviving the late ’90s and early 2000s minimalist fashion and muted color palette.
Irwin explains the choice of the term “Sonic Silver”: “The reason I called it Sonic Silver is because the iPod launched in 2001 and really changed the amount of music we listened to. We weren’t really referencing the past; the music of the time was really quite original. It felt like a sonic generation; it’s very much referencing the time.”
This alternative shade is not your typical safe bet; it carries a gritty and daring essence that appeals to rebels seeking a delicate yet bold look. The beige, silver, and ash tones of Sonic Silver Hair are particularly flattering for those with a high pink tone in their skin. Notably, it has gained popularity for its versatility on Asian skin, heavily influenced by Japanese and Korean styles.
To achieve the perfect Sonic Silver Hair, a high-quality toner is essential. Irwin recommends the Matrix professional Silver Lining range for its superior results, providing high shine and color longevity. This second generation of toners surpasses the limitations of traditional silver shampoos or masks, offering a more iridescent finish.
Styling options for Sonic Silver Hair are diverse, ranging from wet-look styles to ’90s cropped cuts, blown-out variations, two-tone effects, bouncy bob styles, locs, spiky crops, XXL lengths, jellyfish cuts, and softly cropped looks. Whether short or long, Sonic Silver Hair allows individuals to express their unique style while embracing the Gen X Soft Club aesthetic.
Embark on the Sonic Silver Hair trend, a transformative and elegant choice that seamlessly marries the past and the future.
