As the seasons shift, the hair world is trading summer blondes for deep, multidimensional brunettes. celebrity colorist Liz Jung and other experts are highlighting a variety of rich shades, ranging from cool espresso to warm chestnut, to define the upcoming Fall aesthetic.
The seasonal shift from summer blondes to Fall’s rich espresso tones
The transition from summer to autumn often brings a change in both wardrobe and beauty rituals, and hair color is no exception. After months of sun-bleached highlights and lighter tones, the trend is pivoting toward a more grounded, moody palette. This move toward darker hues reflects a broader seasonal desire for richness and depth, moving away from the high-contrast brightness of July and August.
According to a report by Marie Claire, this isn't just about going darker; it is about exploring a "whole world of brunette hues" that go far beyond a person's natural born color. For many, this shift represents an opportunity to experiment with sophisticated tones that feel more aligned with the heavier textures and deeper colors of fall fashion.
How Liz Jung uses "Espresso Silk" and "Smoked Mocha" to balance undertones
Choosing the right brunette requires more than just picking a dark shade from a swatch book; it requires an understanding of skin chemistry. Liz Jung, a Los Angeles-based celebrity colorist and founder of the haircare brand Glôsē, suggests that complexion and eye color are the primary drivers of a successful color change. Jung notes that warmer undertones are best complemented by chocolate and chestnut shades, while those with cooler undertones should lean toward espresso and mocha.
One standout option mentioned in the report is Espresso Silk,a deep, cool-toned shade that can appear almost black indoors but reveals subtle brown hints when caught in the sunlight. For those seeking a cooler finish without looking overly ashy, Jung recommends Smoked Mocha, which incorporates muted, smoky undertones and slight hints of taupe. These specific nuances allow for a dark look that remains intentional and polished rather than flat.
Adding movement with "Cocoa Cashmere" and "Candlelit Brunette"
A common fear when going darker is that the hair will lose its dimension and look like a "solid block" of color. To combat this, experts suggest using varied tones to create a sense of movement. Jung recommends leaving a bit of softness through the ends to ensure the color feels dimensional. This technique is central to the Cocoa Cashmere look, which utilizes a dark cocoa base paired with very fine, slightly lighter brown pieces throughout.
Another way to achieve a glow without returning to blonde territory is through the Candlelit Brunette technique. As colorist DeGennaro explains, this look is achieved using carefully placed babylights that create a soft, gollden reflection against a darker base. This allows the hair to appear as if it is sparkling in the light without the dramatic, high-contrast lines associated with traditional highlights.
Can "Suede Brunette" really stay low-maintenance?
While many of these rich shades require precision, some options are designed for the woman who wants a "lived-in" look. Suede Brunette is described by DeGennaro as a blend of soft highlights and rich lowlights that are more diffused at the roots and more pronounced at the ends, making it a flattering, lower-maintenance choice for various skin tones. However, questions remain regarding the actual longevity of these high-pigment shades. While the report suggests using lukewarm water and lightweight shampoos to preserve color, it remains to be seen how often users of ultra-deep shades like Black Truffle will need to return to the salon to prevent the color from losing its richness.
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