Gold Foil Is The Unexpected Hair Trend All Over 2024 Runways

While gold foil is typically used in ceramics, lettering, textiles, and other artistic mediums, this material –- sometimes referred to as gold leaf -– is the unexpected hair accessory lending itself to runways this year. You may have worked with the thin, shimmering foil in art class at some point but likely didn't consider applying gold leaf to your part of your updo. That is, however, exactly what's happening in 2024, and the ethereal look can easily be recreated at home with the right tools. The unconventional and innovative hair accessory is really more of a hair decoration and might not serve a practical purpose like claw clips for up-dos or headbands, but it certainly makes a whimsical statement. After all, more is more in 2024.

"It's kind of an alternative to a hair accessory or to wearing jewelry," TreSemmé and Dyson hairstylist Lacy Redway told Fashionista in a backstage interview at Christian Siriano's runway show. "It's an update to an accessory, and it's really interesting to have gold in your part. We ignore our parts all the time...so I just really wanted to highlight that." If you're ready to show your part some golden love -– or simply use gold leaf to elevate your hairstyle, here's all the inspiration you need to hop on one of the hair trends that will absolutely dominate 2024. 

A hair part glittered with gold foil makes a statement like no other. To accomplish this look, apply a hair-safe adhesive along your part, and place the gold foil as you wish, using tweezers if necessary. Gold foil or gold leaf can typically be purchased in sheets at art supplies stores or on Amazon. You might encounter some mild static cling when handling the gold foil sheets but keep with it. A golden part complements both updos and hair that's worn down, so feel free to let your creativity flow. 

Aptly called a "gold-leaf & glitter root smudge" by Neon Blonde on Instagram, this look, which incorporates some golden sparkles into the gold leaf application, makes for an extra ravishing look. There's plenty of room to exercise your creativity with this trend, and abstract shapes work in your favor, too, so don't hesitate to let loose. See where your inspiration leads you and what techniques flow best with your hair — you never know what you'll uncover.

Try a subtler placement of gold foil in your intricate updos, especially if they feature additional elements, like dried flowers. The decadence is top notch, and gold foil can elevate just about any hairstyle to suit fanciful events and outings. "[T]his is stunning the dried flowers compliment the style so beautifully!" one Instagram user commented on a post from hairstylist Hair.By.Amirah. We know what we're wearing next time we get a wedding-guest invitation!

Gold foil works on any hair color, but there's something particularly commanding about the contrast of shimmering gold leaf on rich, dark hair. If you're searching for a look that truly wows, all you need is a touch of gently placed gold leaf in a simple updo to completely transform your vibe. Suddenly, you're ready for a fancy tea party, a concert, or anything in between.

For more dramatic looks featuring a heavier use of gold foil, you can use heat to help the gold adhere to your hair. All in all, gold leaf is the crown we've been waiting for when it comes to majestic locks and unique hair decor. "Slicked back bun with artistic curls is already beautiful. The gold makes it magic," one user commented on TikToker Jordan Roth's video displaying a heavily foiled look. Ready to tackle this look? You may just feel like you're on a runway yourself.