Bright, natural and easy-going, this shade of blonde is ideal for those who want radiance without artificial effect.
In 2026, coloring trends confirm a return to softness and sophisticated naturalness. Blonds that are too cold, almost gray, like shades that are too yellow and artificial, fade away in favor of more nuanced shades, more flattering for the complexion. For women over 50, the question of color becomes central: how to brighten the face, camouflage white hair and add radiance without hardening features or making maintenance heavier? The answer lies in subtle blondes, worked in transparency, which respect the maturity of the skin.
Among the strong inspirations of the year, one nuance clearly stands out. Inspired by sunny Californian blondes, but reworked with a very French sensitivity, it seduces with its creamy, luminous and natural finish. “ We are far from the very marked polar blondes or the overly yellow blondes of the past “, explains Rémi Billaud, Franck Provost training manager. This star coloring has a name: melted vanilla blonde.
Blended vanilla blonde is based on a fine, ultra blended balayage technique. Highlighting is delicate, often done using balayage or hair contouring, while the roots remain lightly shaded to avoid any demarcation. A double patina then balances the color, before applying a vanilla patina finish, intended to neutralize reflections that are too cold or too yellow. “ The goal is to achieve a bright but lively blonde that looks almost natural “, specifies Rémi Billaud.
When it comes to maintenance, the key is gentleness. We favor a non-stripping shampoo for colored hair, a nourishing mask once or twice a week and a purple treatment used sparingly, only if yellow reflections appear. A light oil or illuminating treatment on the lengths helps reinforce shine. Blended vanilla blonde is particularly highlighted by soft blow-drying or natural waves, which reveal the full depth of the color.
After 50, this shade is one of the most elegant to adopt. It brightens the complexion without hardening the features, naturally camouflages white hair thanks to its blended shades and allows you to maintain a more natural root for easier maintenance.
Ideal on light to golden complexions, it can be adjusted to a more neutral vanilla on very pink skin. Combined with a soft cut, like a blurred bob, it fully deploys its rejuvenating power without ever overdoing it.
