Some of the top summer hair trends include ash bright blonde hair, braided half-up styles, beige blonde color, and dimensional brunette looks. These versatile trends work well for a variety of hair types and lengths while helping you achieve a fresh seasonal look.

At Phagans School of Hair Design, students learn about current trends, color techniques, cutting methods, and styling skills that help prepare them for careers in the beauty industry. If you’re looking for summer hair inspiration, these popular styles are making waves across Oregon.

Why Summer Is the Perfect Time for a Hair Refresh

Many people choose summer as the season to update their look. Between vacations, weddings, outdoor events, and social gatherings, there are plenty of opportunities to show off a new hairstyle.

Summer hairstyles often focus on:

• Low-maintenance styling
• Lighter hair colors
• Face-framing cuts
• Heat-friendly looks
• Texture and movement
• Styles that work well in humidity and sunshine

Whether you’re interested in a subtle update or a dramatic transformation, summer offers the perfect opportunity to experiment with new trends.

Ash Bright Blonde Hair

One of the most requested summer hair colors is ash bright blonde. This cool-toned blonde creates a fresh, modern look that feels sophisticated and effortless.

Unlike warmer golden blondes, ash bright blonde features cooler undertones that help neutralize brassiness. The result is a clean, bright appearance that reflects sunlight beautifully during the summer months.

Why People Love Ash Bright Blonde

There are several reasons why this color remains a summer favorite:

• Creates a bright and airy appearance
• Complements many skin tones
• Offers a modern, trendy finish
• Looks beautiful in natural sunlight
• Works well with various haircut styles

Many people choose ash bright blonde because it provides the brightness of blonde hair without overly warm tones.

Styling Ideas for Ash Bright Blonde Hair

This versatile color pairs well with many summer hairstyles, including:

• Beach waves
• Textured bobs
• Long layers
• Curtain bangs
• Sleek ponytails
• Braided styles

The cool tones help create dimension and movement, making even simple styles look polished and fashionable.

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The Braided Half-Up Do

When it comes to summer styling, few hairstyles are as practical and beautiful as the braided half-up do.

This style combines the elegance of a braid with the softness of wearing your hair down. It helps keep hair away from your face while still showcasing length and texture.

Why It’s Perfect for Summer

Oregon summers often involve outdoor activities, from hiking and farmers markets to weddings and festivals. A braided half-up style offers several advantages:

• Keeps hair secure on warm days
• Reduces flyaways
• Works for casual and formal events
• Creates visual interest
• Can be customized for different hair types

This hairstyle is especially popular because it strikes a balance between effortless and elegant.

Variations of the Braided Half-Up Do

There are countless ways to personalize this trend:

Classic Three-Strand Braid

A simple braid on each side gathered in the back creates a timeless look.

Dutch Braided Half-Up Style

Dutch braids add extra texture and dimension for a more dramatic appearance.

Boho-Inspired Braids

Looser braids paired with soft waves create a relaxed, summer-ready vibe.

Fishtail Accent Braids

Fishtail braids add intricate detail while maintaining an effortless feel.

The versatility of this hairstyle makes it one of the most requested summer looks.

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Beige Blonde: The Perfect Balance

Another trending color this summer is beige blonde. This shade has become increasingly popular because it blends warm and cool tones for a natural, balanced appearance.

Beige blonde sits somewhere between icy platinum and golden blonde, creating a soft, lived-in color that feels both sophisticated and approachable.

Why Beige Blonde Is Trending

Many people appreciate beige blonde because it offers:

• A natural-looking finish
• Lower maintenance than platinum blonde
• Soft dimension
• Versatility across seasons
• Compatibility with many skin tones

This balanced color works particularly well for individuals who want brightness without committing to extremely cool or warm shades.

Summer Styling Ideas for Beige Blonde Hair

Beige blonde looks stunning with:

• Soft curls
• Long layers
• Face-framing pieces
• Lob haircuts
• Textured waves
• Braided styles

The subtle variation in tones helps create depth and movement, giving hair a naturally sun-kissed appearance.

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Dimensional Brunette: Rich, Natural Beauty

While blondes often dominate summer trends, dimensional brunette has emerged as one of the season’s most sought-after color choices.

Dimensional brunette incorporates multiple shades of brown throughout the hair, creating depth, movement, and visual interest.

Rather than appearing flat or one-dimensional, these brunette looks feature highlights, lowlights, and strategically placed color variations.

Why Dimensional Brunette Is So Popular

Many people choose dimensional brunette because it:

• Enhances natural hair color
• Creates depth and texture
• Requires less maintenance than some blonde services
• Looks healthy and vibrant
• Provides a sun-kissed effect without dramatic lightening

For those who prefer darker hair, dimensional brunette offers a beautiful way to add brightness while maintaining rich color.

Popular Dimensional Brunette Techniques

Stylists often use a variety of techniques to achieve dimensional brunette looks, including:

These methods help create customized color results that look effortless and natural.

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Summer Haircare Tips

No matter which hairstyle or color you choose, proper haircare is essential during the summer months.

Sun exposure, swimming, humidity, and heat styling can all impact your hair’s health and appearance.

Protect Hair from UV Exposure

Just as skin needs protection from the sun, hair benefits from UV protection as well. Consider using products designed to help shield hair from environmental damage.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration plays an important role in maintaining healthy-looking hair. Drinking water and using moisturizing hair products can help support softness and shine.

Minimize Heat Styling

Summer is a great time to embrace natural texture. Air-drying and heat-free styling methods can help reduce damage.

Schedule Regular Trims

Routine trims help maintain healthy ends and keep your hairstyle looking fresh throughout the season.

Use Color-Safe Products

If you’ve invested in a new color service, using products formulated for color-treated hair can help preserve vibrancy and longevity.

Learning Today’s Hair Trends at Phagans School of Hair Design

Behind every great hairstyle is a skilled professional who understands color theory, cutting techniques, styling methods, and client consultation.

At Phagans School of Hair Design, students have the opportunity to develop foundational beauty skills while gaining exposure to current industry trends. Through classroom instruction and hands-on learning opportunities, students can practice techniques used to create many of today’s most popular hairstyles and color services.

From blonde transformations and dimensional color to braiding and styling, aspiring beauty professionals can explore the artistic and technical aspects of hair design while building confidence in their abilities.

Is a Career in Hair Design Right for You?

If you find yourself constantly following hairstyle trends, experimenting with color, or helping friends and family with their hair, a future in hair design may be worth exploring.

Beauty professionals have the opportunity to combine creativity, technical skills, and client relationships in a dynamic industry that continues to evolve with new trends and techniques.

Whether you’re inspired by ash bright blonde transformations, beautiful braided styles, beige blonde color, or dimensional brunette looks, learning the skills behind these trends can open the door to exciting possibilities.

Start Your Beauty Journey

Summer hairstyles may come and go, but the skills needed to create them remain valuable year-round. From bright blondes and rich brunettes to elegant braided styles, today’s trends showcase the creativity and artistry that make the beauty industry so exciting.

If you’re interested in learning more about hair design and exploring your passion for beauty, Phagans School of Hair Design offers programs designed to help students build foundational skills and prepare for opportunities in the industry. Contact Phagans School of Hair Design today to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward pursuing your beauty education.

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Have you always been the go-to friend for hair braiding, styling, or glam transformations before a night out? If you’ve got a passion for hair and creativity running through your fingertips, becoming a hairstylist might be more than just a fun idea—it could be your dream career.

But how do you turn that dream into a reality in Oregon? At Phagans School of Hair Design, we’re here to help guide you step-by-step, from your first day of class to your first day on the salon floor.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know about becoming a licensed hairstylist in Oregon—and how Phagans can be the perfect place to start your journey.

Why Consider a Career in Hairstyling?

Cosmetology and hair care aren’t just thriving industries—they’re creative, people-centered professions that offer flexibility and personal expression. In fact, the beauty industry employs over 640,000 professionals, and job growth is projected to rise by 7% over the next decade.

At Phagans, we’ve helped thousands of students discover their calling and build a future in this exciting and dynamic field.

Step 1: Meet Oregon’s Licensing Requirements

Before you can officially work as a hairstylist in Oregon, you’ll need to meet several state licensing requirements. These include:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Graduate from an Oregon Board-approved cosmetology school (like Phagans!)
• Complete the application to take your licensing exams
• Pay the required fees

Already Licensed in Another State?

You may be eligible for an Oregon reciprocal license. If you’ve held an Oregon license in the past three years but let it lapse, you can apply for reinstatement without retaking exams. If it’s been longer, though, the exams will be required again.

Step 2: Enroll in a Hair Design Program at Phagans

To sit for your Oregon licensing exams, you need to complete your education at an approved school. That’s where Phagans School of Hair Design comes in.

With decades of experience in beauty education and two Oregon locations (in Portland and Salem), we offer a hair design program that prepares you for success, both in passing your exams and thriving in the real world.

Program Length

• Full-Time: Around 10 months
• Part-Time: Flexible schedule that fits around work or family obligations

Whether you’re fresh out of high school or making a career change, we make sure our programs meet you where you are.

Step 3: Learn Hands-On Skills That Matter

At Phagans, our curriculum goes beyond basic hairstyling. We help you build the well-rounded expertise you need to excel in the beauty industry.

What You’ll Learn:

• Hair cutting, coloring, and styling
• Nail care (manicures & pedicures)
• Skin care and facial techniques
• Sanitation and health regulations
• Product chemistry and ingredients
• Business and customer service skills

One of the highlights of our program is the student salon clinic, where you’ll practice your skills on real clients under the guidance of experienced instructors. This hands-on experience is key to building confidence and preparing for your future career.

Step 4: Pass the Oregon Licensing Exams

Once you’ve completed your education, it’s time to take the exams required by the Oregon Health Licensing Office. You’ll need to pass:

• A written theory exam
• A practical skills exam
• An Oregon Laws & Rules written exam

If you don’t pass on your first attempt, don’t stress. You can retake each exam up to 10 times, and many students schedule a retake for as early as the next day. Once you’ve passed all exams and paid your fees, you’ll receive your license and can begin working immediately.

Step 5: Start Your Career as a Hairstylist

With your Oregon cosmetology license in hand, the possibilities are wide open.

Many of our graduates start their careers in:

• Local salons or barber shops
• Spas and wellness centers 
• Cruise ships or luxury hotels
• Entertainment and fashion industries

Explore Other Career Paths With Your Cosmetology License

Hairstyling is just one of many options in the world of beauty. A cosmetology license from Phagans School of Hair Design can open doors to a wide range of careers:

• Hair stylist or colorist
• Nail technician
• Skincare specialist or esthetician
• Makeup artist
• Cosmetology instructor
• Salon or spa manager
• Beauty influencer or brand ambassador
• Product rep or sales specialist

At Phagans, we encourage our students to explore all areas of the industry and find the path that best aligns with their passion.

Why Choose Phagans School of Hair Design?

We know that choosing the right cosmetology school is a big decision. At Phagans, we’re more than just a beauty school—we’re a community of creative professionals committed to helping you thrive.

Here’s what makes us different:

• Decades of experience in beauty education
• Small class sizes for personalized attention
• Real-world experience through our student salon
• Ongoing support from experienced instructors
• Locations in Portland and Salem to serve you better

When you enroll at Phagans, you’re not just joining a program—you’re joining a legacy of passionate beauty professionals who are changing the industry every day.

Begin Your Journey to Becoming a Hairstylist at Phagans School of Hair Design

You can realize your dreams of becoming a hairstylist, and it all starts with choosing the right cosmetology school for your needs. Phagans School of Hair Design has a curriculum and reputation for excellence that you deserve. Our team and staff members take pride in offering a first-class education and providing you with the skills you need to be successful in your new career. Contact us today and take a tour of our campus. 

The post How to Become a Hairstylist in Oregon appeared first on Phagans School of Hair Design.

Being a hairstylist can be one of the most social and rewarding career options for those with the right talents. Hair stylists help their clients become their best selves by identifying and creating styles that are ultimately flattering for each face shape and match each personality. Hairstyling can not only be rewarding on a personal level, but it can also be quite financially rewarding work as well, depending on the salon you work in and the clientele you cultivate. 

If you are considering becoming a hairstylist in the state of Oregon, you may be wondering how long it takes. The answer is it can take at least 12 months to complete. Here at Phagans School of Hair Design, we know everything there is to know about hair styling education and the requirements to get certified as a professional hair stylist. 

Understanding the Requirements in Oregon

Understanding the requirements in Oregon is essential for anyone considering a career as a hairstylist in the state. In Oregon, individuals aspiring to become licensed hair stylists must complete a comprehensive training program. At Phagans School of Hair Design, we’re committed to providing students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience necessary to excel in the field of hairstyling. Our curriculum is designed to meet the specific requirements set forth by the Oregon Board of Cosmetology, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to pursue their passion and thrive in their careers. 

The Path to Licensure: Timeframes and Milestones

Here are the requirements for those interested in becoming a hairstylist: 

• Hair Design: 1,150 hours, 1040 are practical hands-on learning.
• Oregon Laws and Rules: 20 hours
• Career Development: 20 hours

At Phagans School of Hair Design, our program is 1,150 hours covering all things hair to prepare you for a future career. In this program, you can expect to learn:

• Hair Color (hot trends like balayage, fashion colors, and more!)
• Perming (oh baby, these curls are in!)
• Relaxing (sleek, shiny, and straight is a classic.)
• Haircutting (chop it like it’s hot.)
• Hairstyling (updos, wedding styles, and intricate designs.)
• State Testing Preparation (practice BEFORE you sit for the exam.)
• Teamwork Skills (there’s no I in team.)
• Salon Expectations (what will you accomplish after graduation? Find out how to succeed in a salon!)
• How to Open Your Own Salon (you’re the boss. Learn how to run your own business.) 

Factors Affecting Program Duration

If getting your license takes about a year as a full-time student, what might affect the total time it takes to become a hairstylist in Oregon? Here are a few of the most important factors that might extend that timeline and affect your program duration.

Daily Study Time

How long do you have to dedicate to school each day or week? The total amount of lesson hours you can rack up each week will determine how many weeks your education will take before you can become a professional hair stylist.

Your Choice in Program

The school and program you choose will also play a role. Each school has different courses laid out with a focus on different areas of hair styling. Each course may take a different amount of time to complete, and may or may not be welcoming to part-time students. Look for a program that is close to home to limit your time lost to commuting, and a program that offers classes at exactly the schedule you need.

Alternate Demands on Your Schedule

Of course, you can only dedicate as much time as you have to study. Alternate demands on your time including your current job, family obligations, and other factors might extend your education time or help you free up time to complete the coursework faster.

Tips for Prospective Hair Stylists

Of course, getting started as a hair stylist is not always an easy task.  You will need focus, drive, and all your student abilities to learn the necessary skills, memorize the regulations, and prepare for your upcoming career during the training process. Here are a few helpful tips to guide you toward a successful selection, study, graduation, and licensure process.

• Research hair design education programs and choose the right option.
• Maintain focus and dedication throughout the training process.
• Practice both inside and outside the educational environment.
• Review laws, facts, and regulations with fellow students or with friends at home.
• Seek out mentorship and networking opportunities in the industry.
• Find a salon you would like to join and cultivate connections. 

Becoming a Hair Stylist Starts with Education

When wondering how long it takes to become a hair stylist in Oregon, remember that it’s all based on the program you choose and how much time you dedicate to study. Whether you choose a part-time student program or full-time education, you will soon be on the path to becoming a professional hair stylist with an Oregon cosmetology license. To learn more about the hair stylist licensing program offered by the Phagans School of Hair Design, contact us today.

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