The South London Blonde: Why the Lived‑In Look Is Here to Stay

August 15, 2025 Jacob Lindie

I grew up in South London. Maybe it’s being a Virgo, maybe it’s because I’m left‑handed – either way, I was given the gift of observation. I notice the little things. I believe every area of London has its own look, and as a true South Londoner I rarely cross the river. I’m biased – and that means my attention to detail in women’s hairdressing is at an all‑time high.

I’ve worked in salons all over South London. I started as an apprentice at a hair salon in Dulwich, moved on to stylist roles at hairdressers in Clapham and Herne Hill, and then became a mobile stylist visiting clients in Stockwell, Vauxhall and Battersea. Over the years a trend repeatedly stood out: a South London blonde that I like to call “the Clapham Blonde.”  Ten years ago, that trend meant a full head of highlights pulled right up to the roots with an ash toner. In the last decade the look has evolved – thankfully, in my opinion – into something softer and more natural: the lived‑in blonde.

What is a lived‑in look?

A lived‑in look still uses highlights, but they’re blended with natural root tones using techniques such as root drag or root smudge. The result is brightness in all the right places – mid‑lengths and ends – while the roots stay closer to your natural shade. That makes the colour grow out beautifully and extends the time between salon visits.

Popular names you might hear: Balayage, airtouch Balayage, babylights, root smudge, root drag or “foilage.”  Whatever you call it, these techniques share the same goal: a seamless transition from a softer, natural root into a glowing blonde through the lengths.

Why South London loves the lived‑in blonde

• Low maintenance: You’ll still need toning touch‑ups, but you won’t need a full retouch every six weeks.
• Natural movement: The colour grows out in a way that looks effortless and lived‑in – perfect for busy London life.
• Versatility: This approach works for all shades of blonde and complements different textures and lengths.
• Local style: The softer root and brightness through the lengths fits the aesthetic I consistently see across Balham, Tooting, Wimbledon and of course, Brixton.

A note on upkeep

Lived‑in doesn’t mean “forget the salon entirely”!  A quick toner top‑up refreshes the blonde and keeps it popping – without the time and expense of frequent full‑head highlights.

If you want a shade of blonde that feels natural, suits your lifestyle and grows out beautifully, this is the look I believe is here to stay.

Get in touch with Heads High Brixton to speak with one of our experts – we’ll tailor the perfect lived‑in blonde variation for you.