How to Get an Illuminated Brunette Hair Color

You may have heard that you’re supposed to go darker for winter and lighter for summer—but the latest hair color trend says otherwise. This winter, it’s all about breaking those old hair color rules and rocking an illuminated brunette hair color. Want to learn more about this trendy color? Here’s everything you need to know about the latest hair color trend for brunettes, a hair care routine to keep it looking its best, and a few hairstyles to showcase your new illuminated brunette ‘do.

What is an Illuminated Brunette Hair Color?

So, what exactly is an illuminated brunette hair color? If you’re a brunette and have ever wanted to get highlights but steered clear due to the fear of having too harsh of a contrast, an illuminated brunette hair color is basically the answer to your hair color prayers. Using a balayage highlighting technique, the hair color trend involves painting highlights throughout your mane in a way that still allows your brunette strands to show through underneath. It truly looks as though your brunette locks are illuminated—so pretty! The color is also rooted, making it a low maintenance option for anyone looking to color their hair. The highlights can be in a shade that’s most flattering to your skin tone, whether that be caramel or golden blonde, so pretty much anyone can get in on the fun.

How to get an illuminated brunette hair color

Wondering how to get this trendy hair color for yourself? Since this hair color involves hand painting highlights to strategically create an illuminated effect, it’s one that may be best left to the pros. If you’re set on DIYing the color, you’ll need to use a hair color bleach to lighten your hair. Try using the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Bleach in Highlights to recreate the look on your own mane. 

How to take care of your new hair color

Once you’ve committed to this trendy new hair color, you’ll want to maintain a hair care routine for color-treated hair in order to keep your illuminated highlights looking their best. We recommend using the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Defend Shampoo, L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair and Defend Conditioner, and the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair Remedy Balm. This shampoo, conditioner, and hair treatment will strengthen your newly colored locks and protect them from color aggressors.

How to style your illuminated brunette hair

Of course, you can rock an illuminated hair color any which way you choose, but there are certain hairstyles that we think pair perfectly with this hair color. Here are a few ways to style your new ‘do.

Hairstyle Idea #1: Voluminous Curls

Voluminous curls are a classic hairstyle that’s fit for virtually any occasion, and showcasing your illuminated brunette hair color is no exception. Loose curls highlight the dimension of any hair color and will especially help to draw the eye to the blend of brunette and blonde tones throughout your mane. Wondering how to get the look? Read our article, How to Create Voluminous Curls on Any Hair Type.

Hairstyle Idea #2: Messy Bun

Who said your hair had to be perfectly styled to show off your hair color? A messy bun will not only showcase the dimension of your ‘do, but it’s also a quick and easy style to keep your hair out of your face and off your neck. Check out our article, How to Create a Messy Bun, for a step-by-step tutorial. 

Hairstyle Idea #3: Ponytail

Want your hair out of your face without hiding the length of your hair? A ponytail is the perfect solution! Whether you decide on a high, mid-height, or low ponytail is up to you. You can also take your ponytail up a notch by curling your strands! Here’s How to Create the Perfect Ponytail just in case you need a refresher.

Hairstyle Idea #4: Braided Headband

A braided headband is perfect for adding an extra touch of detail to any hairstyle you choose, whether that be wearing your strands down or throwing them up into a bun. Learn how to create this textured accent in our article, How to Get a Braided Headband Hairstyle.

Hairstyle Idea #5: Fishtail Braid

There’s no denying that braid hairstyles are the best for showing off a dimensional hair color. Try rocking a fishtail braid with a little help from our article, Our Easy Fishtail Braid Tutorial.

Want another brunette hair color trend to try? Head over to our article, Spice up Brown Hair with this Sweet Shade: Chili Chocolate Hair.