Why colorists can’t stop talking about sunrise blonde.
Blonde hair definitely feels warmer this summer. Salons are getting tons of requests for golden touches, creamy highlights, and sunlit blondes. Sunrise blonde really fits the moment. It’s bright, warm, and super flattering in summer light. Here’s why people love it and what to consider before you switch.
@looksxkels
Trends never change overnight, but colorists are definitely noticing a tendency toward warmer shades in hair color trends for 2026. More clients want warm-toned, dimensional blondes instead of overprocessed platinum. They’re choosing shades with depth, a play of colors, and a grow‑out that feels easier to live with.
This change in taste is a big part of why sunrise blonde is taking off. It checks all the boxes people want right now. It looks bright and expensive, but still natural enough that your roots don’t jump out after a few weeks.
This trend is also tied to a wider move toward healthier blondes. Shades like foiled cashmere blonde and hot honey blonde have led the way, bringing back dimension and shine. And sunrise blonde fits right in.
@salvofiletti_hairdesigner
Sunrise blonde has that “first rays of morning light” kind of glow. The roots and lower sections are slightly darker for a natural depth. Brighter ribbons on top and around the face catch the sun and make the whole color look softly lit.
Sunrise blonde typically blends creamy blondes with hints of gold and copper. You’ll usually see those warmer tones show up in the lowlights. Colorist Linda Bester says one take on the look is a blonde boosted with copper lowlights, “Used a copper lowlight with a blonde to create this stunningly beautiful golden blonde.”
@lindabesterhairstylist
There isn’t a single formula for sunrise blonde. Depending on your starting color and desired brightness, your stylist may use balayage, traditional highlights, babylights, or a combination of techniques. Celebrity colorist Nikki Lee’s famous Emma Roberts transformation, often cited as an early example of the trend, relied on full highlights followed by strategic toning to create depth, softness, and shine.
@nikkilee901
If you’re naturally blonde, lowlights are often key to creating the depth that makes sunrise blonde pop. Brunettes can totally pull it off as well, though hitting those lighter ribbons may take extra sessions. In general, the darker your starting point, the more lifting it takes to get that brightness.
Summer is arguably the season where sunrise blonde shines brightest (pun intended).
Natural sunlight brings out every ribbon of color, making the tones look almost luminous outside. The deeper root area also makes upkeep easier. New growth blends in more naturally, so you’re not pressured to rush back for touch‑ups every few weeks.
Since the effect comes from dimension rather than lifting everything to the max, it’s often easier on your hair than a classic all‑over blonde.
@rafaandrade.ra
Fresh color takes a hit from heat tools, sun, chlorine, and salt water. Use a heat protectant when you style, a UV‑shielding product when you’re out in the sun, and a hydrating mask anytime your hair feels thirsty.
Days at the pool or beach definitely call for extra attention. Without protection, chlorine and salt can leave hair dry, dull, or discolored. Before your next swim, give our pool‑damage protection guide a quick read.
@dominga_debenedictis
If you’re thinking about a seasonal refresh, sunrise blonde is one of the most wearable blonde trends this year. Not sure how it’ll look on you? Try out a few blonde shades with our virtual hairstyle try‑on and find the one that feels right.
