Brown Ale Hair Is Fall's Coolest New Hair Color
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Just as you might swap a pale summer ale for something heartier when the temperature drops, hair colors are following suit for fall. Sure, that’s nothing unusual for this time of year, but this season, thanks to hair colorist Colin Caruso, it’s a bit more, well, literal. While visiting a brewery earlier this fall, the John Paul Mitchell Systems Artistic Director of Color didn’t only kick back a few pints of brown ale—he turned it into a hair color.
Like its namesake beverage, Brown Ale hair has a deep mahogany base and swirls of amber highlights. “It’s different from traditional brunettes because of the richness and the depth it provides,” Caruso tells Glamour. “It’s warm without the brassy or mousey undertones some people associate with traditional brunettes.” He says the shade is perfect for this time of year since it’s a great way to go deeper and richer for the cold weather ahead, while still offering a touch of warmth.
To get that warmth without veering into brassy territory, Caruso emphasizes to ask your stylist for rich and warm highlights, and that dimension is key. “If you’re cautious about going darker, tell them to start slow,” he says. “Add some lowlights or drop your toner down a level or two. No need to rush—you have all winter to take the plunge.” He also recommends asking your colorist for a demi-permanent color if your hair has been damaged from your summer blond.
Another reason he says a demi-permanent color is key to this shade is because of the crazy shine it provides. “Dark hair needs to look rich and healthy, and the demi-permanent color is ammonia-free to ensure your hair is shiny and healthy,” says Caruso. He also notes that another bonus with demi-permanent color is that it only lasts six to eight weeks, which is perfect if you’re just dipping your toes into a color trend. “You get the rich healthy look of Brown Ale hair without the long term commitment, ensuring your hair will be happy, healthy, and ready for summer blonding soon enough.”
If you’re ready to cross over to the dark side (permanent or not), scroll on for some of our favorite examples of the trend, and get ready to screenshot your heart out.
Bella Cacciatore is the beauty associate at Glamour. Follow her on Instagram @bellacacciatore_.