Rihanna's Hairstylist Reveals The Hottest Hair Color Of 2025

Dhairius Source: NdotN Public Relations

Renowned celebrity hairstylist Dhairius is the mastermind behind some of the most stunning red-hot looks in the industry. Known for crafting some of the most iconic looks, from red carpets to fashion weeks, he has worked with top artists and influencers, including legendary tennis stars Coco Gauff and Serena Williams, award-winning recording artists Victoria Monet, Rihanna, Doechii, Kehlani, Saweetie, Toni Braxton and many more. For this year’s 97^th Annual Academy Awards, he created a soft textured chignon look on Coco that included chic braid details, complementing her custom-designed Miu Miu gown.

With cherry red taking over as the must-have hair color of 2025—spotted on icons like SZA, Keke Palmer and Mary J. Blige—Dhairius is here to break down why this bold shade is the ultimate power move.

MadameNoire spoke exclusively with Dhairius on what we need to know to keep our hair coifed. From pro styling tips to at-home color secrets, he’s got everything you need to slay your next hair transformation!

MadameNoire: How did you get started on your journey as a celebrity hairstylist?

Dhairius: I started in fashion week, assisting Rihanna’s hairstylist, Yusef Williams. My first big break was working on the first Savage X Fenty show in 2019. Before that, I was in a natural hair salon, focusing on natural styles all day. But when I got the opportunity to work in fashion, I realized I had what it takes to do this on my own. From there, my career took off.

RELATED CONTENT: Keyshia Cole Goes Back To Being A Short-Haired Baddie Ahead Of Philly Concert

My Hair Horror Story: What I Learned From Coloring & Breakage

Source: BTS of Dhairius, Coco Gauff and Make Up Artist. Photo dhairius / NdotN Public Relations

You’ve worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. What are the current hair trends you’re seeing?

Right now, we’re seeing a lot of natural hair integration. Women are embracing their curls and locks, blending them with wigs or extensions for a more seamless look. Hard, sculpted baby hairs are fading out, while natural edges and sleek styles like ponytails, chignons, and low buns are taking center stage. The trend is about enhancing what’s already there rather than relying solely on wigs.

Cherry red is the color of the season, landing at number one on Pinterest’s business trend list for 2025. Why do you think this shade is making such a strong comeback?

Beauty and hair trends always recycle. Back in the day, my sister would get braids in a color called ‘350’—that bright orange-red shade that Keke Palmer is rocking now. It was bold, but not widely worn. Now, it’s become more mainstream, and everyday women are embracing it. Artists like Sza have helped popularize it, evolving it from a bright ginger to a deeper cherry red, making it more versatile and wearable.

For someone who’s never dyed their hair, but have always been curious about trying color, what advice would you give them?

Start small. You don’t have to jump into a full head of bright red hair. Try a wig, highlights, or even a subtle ombré to ease into it. Hair color should be fun and an expression of who you are, so take your time finding the right shade that makes you feel confident.

For those who want to achieve a bold cherry red look at home, what’s the best way to get salon-quality results?

The key to pulling off cherry red is finding the right tone for your skin. It doesn’t have to be overly vibrant—it can be a subtle copper, deep burgundy, or warm auburn. Keke Palmer, K. Michelle, and Sza all show different variations of how red can work beautifully on different skin tones.

I’ve always been a fan of “Dark and Lovely.” They offer a wide range of red shades, like “Red Hot Rhythm,” which is great for a spicy red look. If you’re looking for something more everyday wearable, I recommend a deep burgundy. Burgundy is making a comeback, and I can’t wait to do that color on a client!

Coco Gauff’s hair styled by Dhairius. Photo provided by NdotN Public Relations for promotional use

Dark and Lovely has a shade called “Shade 68,” which is a really rich, deep burgundy. I feel like those deeper tones will be trending again soon. For anyone wanting to experiment with red hues, Dark and Lovely is a great option. It’s safe, easy to use, and the instructions are clear.

For those who want a really bold red, “Vivacious Red” is one of the brightest shades. But I always tell people: red is not for the weak! If you don’t wear the color with confidence, it will wear you. Red hair gets attention—people will stop you, they’ll look at you—so you have to own it.

Are lace-front wigs still on trend, or are we shifting toward something different?

Oh, they’re definitely still on trend, but there’s a new hairline technique. The way wigs are being worn now is evolving. Instead of the traditional “smiley face” hairline, we’re seeing more of a “McDonald’s arch.” It’s a subtle difference, but it changes the overall look.

Victoria Monet and Dhairius. NdotN Public Relations

I personally prefer glueless wigs because they sit behind the hairline, allowing the wearer to maintain the integrity and health of their natural hair. A lot of women use wigs as a shield to cover what’s underneath, but I like when natural hair is incorporated into the look. That way, you still have edges showing and blending with the wig for a more seamless appearance.

Many women, including celebrities like Beyoncé, wear their wigs slightly behind their natural hairline. She didn’t tell me that directly, but from studying different styles, I’ve noticed this trend. Even Keke Palmer dyes her natural hair to match her wigs, so when she wears her curls, it’s nearly impossible to tell where her real hair ends and the wig begins. It’s all about creating the illusion—blending everything so well that people can’t tell if it’s your real hair or a wig.

So, the key is discretion—making it look natural?

Exactly! When someone looks at you, their first question shouldn’t be, “Is that a wig?” or “I see the lace.” Instead, they should just admire the overall look. The goal is for everything to blend seamlessly so it’s undetectable.

How can people follow your journey and book a consultation with you?

You can find me on Instagram at @dhairiusnyc. I also have a website, and there’s a link in my bio where people can book appointments.

Right now, I’m focusing more on education—helping new stylists get into the industry and teaching them how to communicate with clients. I’ll be releasing educational videos tailored to aspiring hairstylists, sharing insights on how to grow in the industry.

I always answer my DMs, so if anyone has hair-related questions, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to help!

RELATED CONTENT: Beauty Of 5: DIY Solutions To Fix Your Hair Color Woes At Home