Jessica Simpson has debuted a brand-new hairstyle during a special appearance on the season 23 finale on May 18. The singer turned to her longtime pro, Rita Hazan, a celebrity hair colorist and salon owner, for the fresh dirty blonde hue, which Hazan calls "more natural" and compares to "a kid on the beach."

The Hair Transformation

Hazan says it took "two hours" to complete the hair color, which she describes as "desert sunset blonde." She used Glaze's Supergloss, shade Vanilla Lights, to tone down brassiness in Simpson's highlights. The result is a "rich, shiny payoff" and a "silky, polished finish" that leaves hair looking "refreshed and healthier after just one use."

Simpson "loved" her new hair color, according to Hazan. "She was so happy to get a new look and switch it up," the stylist says. "She always had a super buttery blonde — this time we wanted something new and youthful."

The Mood Behind the Hair

Hazan adds that the updated hairdo is perfect for the "With You" singer, who is adjusting to her new normal following her split from Eric Johnson earlier this year. "I think it's a fresh and young vibe, but with confidence and a slight attitude to represent her mood," Hazan tells PEOPLE.

Simpson paired her new hair with an equally sexy gold sequin dress that fit like a glove. The daring design featured a plunging neckline decked out in vintage-looking brooches and a leg slit so high, it nearly reached her waistline.

For more celebrity news, check out Madonna's tribute to her late mother and American Idol's season 23 champion.

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