Going Blonde :O

Ok so I’m naturally a med-dark brunette. I currently have light auburn colour after getting a light cleanse.
I’ve heard horror stories of cleansing resulting in destroyed hair. Granted mine was only a light one but I noticed no real difference in the condition of my hair.
I’d like to hear how any of you ladies went blonde and if you did so through highlights or and all over cleanse and colour??
Any advice would be great!!