“Milkshake Blonde” Is This Summer’s Coolest, Creamiest Hair Color Trend

While I’m not particularly interested in random boys coming to my yard this summer, I am intrigued by the idea of a backyard bash with loved ones where we sip on blended ice cream drinks. Ideally it’s like 78 degrees out, there are fries to snack on, and my hair looks as creamy and delicious as the treats I’m serving.

That’s right, babes: order up! “Milkshake Blonde” is trending.

“Milkshake blonde represents the creamy sweetness of a vanilla milkshake. This shade is characterized by its rich, solid appearance, reminiscent of velvety vanilla cream,” explains celebrity colorist Nicole Kahlani, who coined the term after providing model Alla Bruletova with the perfect Milkshake Blonde shade. “It features a subtle icy hue that creates a look that is both soft and vibrant.”

Ahead, learn everything you need to know about the Milkshake Blonde color trend—including how your stylist can help you get the look.

The “Milkshake Blonde” Trend

Kahlani has a personal preference for blonde shades that lean toward a warmer tone and embrace a more “solid” look.

“I often draw inspiration from the era of indie sleaze, particularly from Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, as well as the hype beast style of the 2013-14 period,” she explains. “During that time, the bleach was extremely blonde, but I like to elevate it further by mixing cool and warm tones.”

We also can’t talk “Milkshake” without talking Kelis. Good thing one of our best Milkshake Blonde celebrity spokespeople also has major 2003 radio hit energy.

“Addison Rae is a great example of how to use bleach with boldness, showcasing warm creamy tones that resemble a strawberry milkshake,” Kahlani adds. “Her look has a slightly lived-in feel.” Another example? Iris Law, who “has a more classic bleach-blonde hairstyle reminiscent of a vanilla milkshake.”

How to Get the Look

The best way to capture a hair color yourself is to bring example photos to your stylist—they know your strands best. But Kahlani also has some specific recs to help you on your way. Her favorite toners come from Wella’s Illumina line; their violet undertones help create a soft, icy hue, which she suggests combining with the brand’s Color Touch Hair Color in 10/0 Neutral Vanilla.

As far as maintenance goes, she suggests mixing your favorite conditioner with Bleach London White Heat, a semi-permanent color cream. “You don’t want to completely remove the warmth; just take the edge off slightly,” she says.

What’s Next

Wait… did you finish your milkshake already?! I’m not judging you—I’m impressed. Please, have another, unless you want to move onto something a little edgier. Kahlani has some ideas about what’s next up in the Milkshake Blonde trend cycle.

“I’m seeing the era of hype beast becoming a reference point, with scalp bleaches and vanilla blondes that have a slightly lived-in look, which is not natural,” she says. “This is reminiscent of Miley Cyrus’s “Wrecking Ball” phase, alongside Zendaya’s more streetwear-inspired era.”

So cool—in every way.