Dark brunettes can add vibrant pops of color with a balayage style incorporating blonde or reddish strands, but for those seeking subtler hues it is also possible to achieve this result – creating what looks like it was just touched by sunlight!
This rich brunette balayage combines cool ashy tones for an effortlessly natural appearance, while copper highlights frame the face for an eye-catching glow.
Ombre Dark-to-Light
The ombre hair trend continues to dominate beauty scenes and we love this version on brunettes! Dark roots and chestnut strands transition seamlessly for an eye-catching sun fade effect that exudes feminine charm – especially when styled with beachy waves!
For this look, ask your colorist to hand-paint your brunette locks with a lighter hue starting around mid-shaft and gradually fading towards the ends in a gradual fade effect. For even greater impact, ask them for more drastic change by going full blonde at root level with darker highlights added afterwards as Billie Eilish does here.
Suitable for those not quite ready to commit to full vivid hues, the balayage technique offers depth and dimension while being easy to manage, according to professional colorist Justin Toves-Vincilione. Incorporating highlights into your hair without directly hitting your scalp is another perk of this approach.
Ash Lob
An ash bob is one of the most eye-catching balayage hairstyles for brunettes. This look works regardless of whether your locks are poker straight or teased into artfully undone curls; and its shade fades naturally, guaranteeing low maintenance requirements and an organic-looking finish.
If the color of ash blonde makes you worry, ask for subtle highlights to give the hue depth and add dimension. Try mixing silver and ash shades or go for full platinum highlights like Pretty Little Liars actress Trioan Bellisario does for maximum impact.
Rich brunette balayage works wonders with short haircuts of any kind, from the classic blunt lob to wavy or curly bob. Celebrities like Simone Biles and Zendaya have made waves by sporting this striking style which shows off the beautiful texture of shoulders-grazing locks. Balayage highlights can also create the desired eye-framing bob or curtain bang look; simply ask your stylist to expertly apply lighter shade into your strands for an effective blended effect.
Tortoiseshell Lob
Many women may find full-on color difficult to commit to, so opting for subtle yet natural-looking highlights may be the perfect compromise. Balayage techniques employing honey and brown shades create beautiful dimension in an eye-catching dimensional look; also, brown hair colors reflect light well, making them attractive options for highlighting.
This wavy lob is given life by soft caramel and chestnut balayage that shimmers throughout its lengths, adding chunky slices of warmth that liven up its dark ash base for an authentic beachy surfer-girl vibe.
Tortoiseshell is a mottled brown material formed by the carapace scutes of certain marine turtles, particularly hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata), loggerhead (Thalassochelys caretta) and green turtle (Chelonia mydas). Additionally, tortoiseshell can also be used decorative veneer and inlay; and for balayage on dark hair that creates rich chocolate tones with caramel and brown honey hues; perfect for those wanting a bit more drama or natural shades alike!
Ash Blonde Lob
If ash blonde is too much commitment for you, balayage may offer an easier route. This shade involves adding subtle cool tones into a brunette base for an approachable and low maintenance style that complements warm complexions like those worn by model Barbara Palvin here.
Cool tones fade more gradually and do not wash out as easily, so ask your stylist for a balayage highlight job with silver tones that will add shimmer and shine without completely altering its tone.
Wavy long bobs with side-parts are always in style, especially with pretty tints of dove gray and sparrow brown for an effortless feminine style that’s easy to manage. Dirty ash blonde hues also work nicely when worn loose; their gray undertones help balance out dark roots, keeping your locks from appearing stark or flat; giving it the added head-turning appeal necessary for making an impressionful first impression!
