Extension Trends for Fall/Winter: Layering, Texture, Movement
Gone are the days of super-long, one-length extensions that scream “added hair.” This fall and winter, the extension trend is all about natural movement, shape, and dimension—not just length.
Whether you're adding volume, growing out a short cut, or looking to switch things up for the season, hair extensions can do more than just lengthen—they can transform the way your style feels and flows.
At Thomas West Salon in Chicago’s River North, Allen Wiggs specializes in hand-tied and custom-blended extensions that move, layer, and live like your own hair. Here’s what’s trending this season—and why it might be the right time to try something new.
Movement, layering, and natural texture are the season’s biggest extension trends.
✂️ 1. Layered Extensions for Shape & Movement
The newest approach to extensions isn’t just about adding hair—it’s about sculpting a shape. Layering the extension install helps:
Add natural movement
Blend more seamlessly with layered haircuts
Prevent that heavy, one-length look
Whether you wear a soft shag, curtain bangs, or face-framing layers, your extensions should work with your cut—not against it.
Allen customizes every install to match the natural fall and weight of your existing style—so your hair moves like it grew that way.
🧵 2. Blended Texture (Not Just Straight and Sleek)
Clients are asking for texture, not flat, ultra-straight hair. Think:
Loose waves
Air-dried bends
Tousled, undone finishes
This season’s extensions are styled to match your natural texture, not fight it.
Hot tip: Hand-tied extensions hold a wave beautifully, which means less heat styling for you—and more long-term hair health.
📏 3. Volume Over Length
Not everyone wants Rapunzel hair. In fact, one of the biggest shifts in extensions this year is using them to create fullness, not dramatic length.
If you have:
Fine or thinning hair
A recent cut that’s lost its shape
Breakage or shedding from stress or hormonal shifts
...extensions can help you feel more confident without making a huge visual change.
🧩 4. Seamless Installs, Invisible Wefts
Today’s best extension installs are nearly undetectable. Allen uses techniques like:
Hand-tied wefts with ultra-thin seams
Custom color matching
Hidden rows that lay flat to the scalp
This makes for a comfortable, low-profile install that’s easy to wear every day—whether your hair is up or down.
❄️ 5. Extensions for Winter Hair Protection
Chicago winters can be brutal on your hair. Extensions offer a little extra insulation from:
Dry indoor heat
Hat hair
Styling fatigue
Think of them as a protective layer that helps your natural hair rest, retain moisture, and grow.
Thinking About Extensions This Season?
If you’ve been curious about trying extensions—or ready to upgrade from clip-ins—fall and winter are the perfect time to do it.
📍Allen is now booking extension consultations at Thomas West Salon in River North, just steps from the Brown Line and Merchandise Mart.
💬 Whether you're looking for fullness, length, or a fresh shape, Allen will walk you through:
Extension type
Ideal length for your lifestyle
How to maintain the look through winter
Ready to elevate your style this season?