In the ever-evolving landscape of hair fashion, a new trend is making waves, and it harks back to the nostalgic vibes of the ’90s and ’00s. Introducing “sonic silver hair,” a trend spotlighted by top hair colorist and Matrix colorist ambassador Zoë Irwin as the must-know cool-girl shade, especially given its seamless alignment with the current season’s cooler temperatures.
But what exactly is sonic silver hair? Irwin describes it as a soft silver hue that exudes both retro and futuristic vibes. “It’s a kind of beigey, soft silver,” she explains, emphasizing a departure from the heavy, ashy grays that dominated the early 2000s. This fresh iteration is marked by sheer, glistening, and glossier renditions, presenting a more subtle and delicate tone.
Describing the trend, Zoë Irwin emphasizes its ultra-sheer nature, high shine, and super iridescence, attributing a futuristic feel to the beigey-silver color, which, in turn, adds a soft modernity to the overall look.
The inspiration behind sonic silver hair roots itself in ’90s and ’00s trends, notably the resurgence of the Gen X Soft Club, a TikTok sensation. Irwin connects the trend to the cool, minimalist aesthetic of the late ’90s and early 2000s, marked by beige tones, pale blues, and greens. Sonic silver hair, according to Irwin, pays homage to this era, with its choice of name derived from the transformative impact of the iPod’s launch in 2001, symbolizing a sonic generation.
Notably, sonic silver hair isn’t just a safe bet—it offers a more alternative shade with a gritty and daring appeal that warmer tones lack. Irwin suggests that it is particularly flattering for those with a high pink tone in their skin, and its popularity has surged, influenced by its versatility on Asian skin, drawing inspiration from Japan and Korea.
Curious about achieving sonic silver hair? Irwin reveals the secret lies in a great toner, specifically recommending the Matrix professional Silver Lining range. This second generation of toners provides confidence to colorists, offering high shine and color longevity, producing a six-week result that surpasses conventional silver shampoos or masks in terms of iridescence.
When it comes to styling sonic silver hair, the options are diverse. While the Gen X Soft Club aesthetic leans toward shorter styles reminiscent of the ’90s and early 2000s, including alt mullets, bobs, braids, and long layers, the choice ultimately rests with the individual’s preferences, allowing for a personalized and trendy expression.
