Brown hair gets a nasty rap for being basic and lacking in dimension. (We’re pretty sure a blonde made up this rumor.) But that’s not the case. If you’re looking to go darker this fall, try adding cool ashy tones to your raven locks for the perfect fall hair upgrade.
Don’t know what your complexion or skin tone is? Perry says, when it comes to maintenance, a toning product like Redken Color Extend Brownlights Shampoo and Conditioner is essential.
Ash brown hair can be worn in subtle highlights or a full balayage if you are looking for a full makeover. It’s also the perfect way to try the silver hair trend without regrets or destroying naturally dark hair. Below, we’ve got the ash brown hair color inspiration that you’ll want to screenshot before your next salon date, and the tips you’ll need to pull off the trend.
Ariana Grande
Did Ari give up the big pony for two braids? Only time will tell, but we love the new grayish ombre look she made her VMA debut performing “Rain on Me” with Lady Gaga. Breathless balayage is about as low maintenance as it is when it comes to dyeing your hair.
Ciara
Unspoiled roots allow you to embrace your naturally dark base, creating a low-maintenance transition that won’t get you into your stylist’s chair every week. Ciara’s beige-gray biscuit balayage pairs well with creamy off-white features, creating a cool tone that transcends the seasons.
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s borderline blonde look is perfect for anyone trying to cover up gray locks. The cool shades of this light shade and the variety of reflections and lowlights camouflage all traces of unruly gray and facilitate maintenance.
Gigi Hadid
Like Gigi Hadid, if your brown hair is on the light spectrum you will still keep your ends sunny, while trying the ash trend. Your colorist will accompany less warm tones and incorporate more silver. However, it’s your job to add a toning hair product to your regular hair routine to avoid brassiness.
Lily-Rose Depp
While the ash brown trend looks completely natural, remember that some maintenance is required by all colored hair to maintain a healthy looking Lily-Rose Depp shine. Choose products that are safe for color-treated hair like sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. Once a week, treat yourself to a nourishing hair mask. And, finally, a hair oil will give you instant shine when your hair lacks a certain shine.
Try: Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil, $ 28
Tyra Banks
If you thought ash brown hair was washing you out, Tyra Banks’ cool color proves that they can really warm up even the most golden skin tones. Keep in mind that if you have dark brown or black hair, you will likely need to bleach it before it turns ash brown. If you are starting with a lighter shade, you can skip this step.
Barbara Palvin
The model’s shiny locks are subtly light at the ends, a summer-reminiscent tip since your hair is slightly lightened by the sun and makes it appear longer.
Jessica Alba
If your hair is already light at the ends like Jessica Alba’s, you can still keep your fellow, while going with the trend of ash hair color. The best part is that your already low-maintenance dye job will be even easier to maintain. Unlike coppers and toffees, cool tones last much longer and fade much slower. Just make sure to use a purple shampoo and conditioner every time you wash to keep the ashy tones fresh.
Blake Lively
Another fan favorite bronde is none other than Blake Lively, and she knows exactly how to achieve ashy tones. For lighter skin with cool undertones, try weaving silver highlights and low highlights to give your hair dimension without diluting your complexion.
Shay Mitchell
If you’re looking to soak up the ash brown hair trend, but aren’t quite ready to commit, try this super subtle Shay Mitchell-style balayage. The color technique and cool undertones make it feel like a major refresh, but incorporating thin ribbons and sticking to the ends requires low maintenance and causes the least mess.
