@hairluvbytiffany
If you want a subtle lightening through the ends, you can use a hair dye instead of bleach (if possible), which is a safer bet. The color will not be as bright or contrasting, but it will create a noticeable difference.
Although it has been popular for a couple of seasons, this coloring is still extremely trendy and in great demand. Actually, it’s a superb opportunity to express yourself and add a unique glow to your appearance. Most people want it because it’s very beautiful and low-maintenance. A professionally performed dye job can make your hair appear thicker and more dimensional, while also brightening the eyes and skin. We are going to share 60 versatile ombre looks. Some ooze easy, natural elegance, while others go for a bolder contrast. We’ve tried to cover different color solutions. Whatever your natural hair color, you will find here some really cool ideas with highlights or solid color.
How to pick ombre shades? The choice of colors usually depends on your skin undertone and, to some extent, your natural hair hue. People with cooler skin undertones and medium brown hair might lean toward icy brown or cool chestnut shades. Redheads with warm skin tones often look great in peachy and golden shades. A different take on the color fade goes bold, shifting from very dark to very light shades. After all, there will always be those who love a high-contrast look and want to try statement hair colors. If you’re up for experimenting, try the AI hair color changer. Now, let’s check out some photos.
@hairbynoora
Red and dark hair is hard to pull off because it can look unnatural. With a gradient color technique, you can gently fade dark hair from a subtle plum red into a lighter, vibrant shade. Plus, by keeping the roots dark, you don’t have to worry about the growing process too much.
If you want a subtle lightening through the ends, you can use a hair dye instead of bleach (if possible), which is a safer bet. The color will not be as bright or contrasting, but it will create a noticeable difference.
@hairluvbytiffany
The color gradient can be as creative or as natural as you want it to be. The concept still remains the same – fading one color into another one from top to bottom. Smoky gray and silver-blue make a trendy color combination if you’re looking to update your hairdo with a fresh hair color.
@rachellemariano.che
Blending shades in the same color family may seem too subtle, but in this all-brown style, it works. Bringing a warm brown copper shade with a cool-toned chocolate base allows the hues to complement each other, still standing out in a way that feels natural.
@morgan.mecca.hair
Those who want a more natural look should opt for a balayage. The painted-on method creates softer lines like the caramel ribbons shown here. It’s perfect if you crave a sun-kissed glow year-round.
@hairbykatlin
Long hair can seem lifeless without shape and dimension, so make sure to incorporate razored layers to give your style structure. Red and dark brown together is an edgy color combination, but it can look rather sophisticated, depending on the hue you choose. Auburn, with a mix of red, is a good color to complement very dark hair.
@off7thsalon
This “bleeding red” creates a standout hair color. When paired with leather and lace-up accents, it makes for a very commanding style. If you are actually touring and performing on the stage, dark roots are ideal for maintaining your style while on the road.
@notanothersalon
“Sombre,” is a softer, updated version of the popular trend. It melts highlights into a lighter hue at the bottom for the overall silky color that blends perfectly with your base color.
@morgan.mecca.hair
Many people believe that red hair is only for tough punk rockers. But the reality is, your red color solution can also be soft, depending on the saturation of color you go for and how you style your hair. Loose layered curls create subtlety and femininity refreshing such a fairly bold hue.
@off7thsalo
Ombre hairstyles can come in a variety of different shades. By adding juicy plum hues to dark hair, you can spice up your mane, keeping it on the easy-to-maintain side.
@butterflyloftsalon
One of the most traditional styles involves a fade from dark to light to give a lived-in appearance to your mane. Pair it with beachy tousled waves for a low-maintenance look that is appealing in many different settings.
@modernsalon
A reverse fade happens when shades go from light to dark instead of the opposite. This is not recommended for very thin strands because it will cause hair breakage, but it is a fun option for blondes with medium to thick hair.
@modernsalon
The honey-toned blonde beach waves styling gives off a healthy sun-kissed vibe – gorgeous hair that seems carefree and easy but still looks chic and polished. The middle part is ideal for softening the facial features.
@modernsalon
You don’t necessarily have to stick to dark roots; you can create a fade from auburn to blonde as well. The pale highlights close to the muted red roots create a beautiful soft contrast.
@carrie.laffen
Nice and natural is the vibe of this style. It’s perfect for those who work in conservative environments because it adds some flair to your look without being over the top. Just make sure to go for shades that are in the same color family.
@kaleybess
Sombre is a great choice for easygoing people looking for a quick update on their hair. Very light brown will give your style warmth and depth, but won’t take as much effort to maintain as blonde.
@igorkhonin
Blonde and brown gradations are not “one size fits all.” The shades and tones depend on the complexion of the wearer and should be custom-blended. A crisp, cool champagne hue will really pop against olive and dark skin tones. With such a soft, gradual transition, this look works best on longer hair; shorter styles just might not show off the full effect.
@rachellemariano.che
Many people would not think of this scheme, but check this gorgeous contrast of platinum against a dark brown base. You can also go for a black and blonde solution if you want a starker contrast.
@josievilay
If you want a more natural-looking hairstyle, opt for complementary colors. Dark mahogany and muted copper both have warm tones that work well together without clashing with your look.
@modernsalon
Long loose curls are romantic and universally appealing because the style looks good on most face shapes and hair textures, even if, after a while, it can get a bit monotonous. Revamp the look with blonde tips toned with a glossy pastel gold to give it more edge.
@hairbystevie
So often, we associate color fades with either brown to blonde shades or else – a dramatic DIY dip dye. However, this is a style that can be much more subtle and sophisticated if you wish. This style elevates the natural chocolate brown hair color, softly fading into a delicious caramel hue.
@neon_beauty
Dream of Rapunzel-caliber locks but don’t want the work of maintaining the blonde? Go for a dark, dramatic combination of hues instead, like black and red. Bright red tips are so much fun during the fall and holiday seasons.
@stevievincenthairartistry
While beautiful when straight, long hair takes on a romantic quality when styled with gorgeous, full curls. Use hot rollers or a large barrel curling iron to introduce the curly magic to your locks.
@constancerobbins
For this stunning look, opt for a sandy blonde hair color, as it is a perfect match for cool icy blonde tones. The closer to the blonde tips, the lighter the strands should get. You’ll also want to stay on top of your hair care routine to keep your bleached strands healthy and shiny.
@wesdoeshair
If you hold down a job in an office and can’t go too wild with your hairstyle choices, try a subtle color placement that only hints at a color job.
@hugosalon
If you’vebeen blessed with straight, long locks but want some more volume, this style will work well for you. To get this look, side part the hair and then curl the face-framing sections and midshaft. Brush out those curls to make them loose, and set them with a setting spray. The final result? A perfectly angled wave graced past your shoulders.
@saloncouture_ny
With a bit of a kinked curl and a fun fade, this is a great choice for those experiencing the dreaded “growing out” phase. Brown to blonde graduation can sometimes look obvious, but if you go for a darker, honey-colored shade, it will look more natural as it illuminates each strand.
@annieframartistry
If you have long and fine locks, you can also benefit from color transitions on your mane. The variation of hues will give the illusion of thickness and texture to the hair. Whether you go from dark to light or light to dark, it’s a popular body booster that people of all ages love to wear.
@neon_beauty
Dark brown hair is gorgeous no matter the season, and you can modernize your current ‘do with some color enhancement paired with thick, rounded bangs. The bang works beautifully if in the darkest shade, with the hair lightening on the way down.
@hairshaftralph
Light brown to dark blonde hair is a perfect canvas for some hair art. Have your strands bleached into a “V” shape to color your hair in a more creative way. Go outside of the basic ombre hairstyle ideas with the angled color enhancement.
@manuellobo
Embracing a pastel purple hue in your brunette base is a fantastic way to stand out and express your unique style. It’s a powerful choice that allows you to showcase your individuality and make a lasting impression.
@xcellentbeautysalon
If you love winter and want to pay homage to it any time of the year, check out this blue-blonde blend that is as unique as it is beautiful. It’s a bespoke color choice with a stunning contrast of blue-black and silver.
@glamiris
If you want to try something different, go for a reverse scheme. Less hyped but just as beautiful. This is a fun option for natural blondes, too, as roots are much easier to maintain. Opt for a dark brown or deep violet on the tips.
@glamhairbymarie
Textured hair can look gorgeous with bleached streaks, too. While a lot of examples out there show long, straight styles, that’s definitely not the only option. Embrace your dark hair with its natural curl pattern by pairing it with lightened-up coils placed throughout your mane.
@curlfactor
If you are stuck between blonde and brown, this style is just for you! Play it up with a color solution that starts natural and ends platinum.
@donifortunato
Go bold with a fire engine red hue that is both head-turning and fun to showcase. A deep auburn or burgundy makes a great base color, with tips lightening into the brightest red. A red to blonde fade is another fun combo to try if you want other variations with red.
@shondabroadus
Start with something natural, like a medium brown that blends into a cool lavender tone. This works well for medium hair textures. If you’re born a brunette, this variation won’t be high maintenance, and you can cut your hair into a variety of ways and shapes to spice things up.
@christinakreitel
Long hair that goes from dark to light is the most popular transition look and one that a stylist can easily achieve on long locks. You can also opt for a combination of brunette hues.
@hairbykacie1
Play with fire (tones) – at least when it comes to your hair! This rich variation of red, orange, and blonde is stunning and classy at the same time. Extremely wearable if you are feeling fiery and brave. Because who said you have to stick to the “safe” blonde and brown hair color combo?
@breein.hair_makeup
This lovely natural ash gray fade is exceptionally beautiful. It’s a great choice if you want to try a bold ombre hair color that has a chic feel to it.
@bescene
A brown to blonde stretch is a beloved choice because it allows people with dark hair to lighten without going excessively lighter, keeping a low-maintenance routine. Plus, it provides warmth and brightness to complexions.
Looking for a style that stands out in pictures? This is a romantic and trendy hairdo that will look amazing no matter what the occasion is. It’s beautiful and non-trivial because it blends warm and ash hues into a harmonious beige tone.
@off7thsalon
Take your hair color to the next level with a cool-toned purple dip-dye. This shade is great for anyone who loves expressing themselves through fun colors. It is also a great way to showcase depth and dimension within thick and dense curly hair.
@raninessa
If you want to lighten your dark hair for the summer, or just need a change, a honey blonde to peach blonde variation is your best bet. It helps to brighten up complexions and provide a change without taking you out of your comfort zone.
@a_fournier222
The great part about any style that uses this coloring technique is that it’s easily personalized to suit your preferences. While it may be soft and subtle, it can also become contrasting by changing from cool brown at the roots to bright platinum at the ends.
@selamiersoyy
Give a whole new meaning to the name strawberry blonde with this gorgeous style. What makes it really unique is that it effectively sets off the warm tones at the roots while blending with a cool, silvery rose blonde at the ends.
@thefoxandthehair
This color transformation is truly stunning! Mix caramel brown and rose gold to create a perfect blend that complements your fair skin and elevates your look.
@amandaepsteinhair
A wavy lob is the number one requested style in salons as it generally flatters most face shapes. It is also low-maintenance to style on most hair types. By incorporating a light brown hue through the ends, you can uplift your tousled lob style.
@mizzchoi
The multi-toned black and blonde look, which was made popular by pop goths of the decade, has returned with a modern edge. The ‘90s have made a comeback and you can see the resurgence of early 2000s trends on the horizon.
@nikki_doeshair_
Brunette hair pairs well with blue and purple hues, so if your goal is to create a visually striking and captivating effect on your locks, opt for this stunning combination! The vibrant and bold nature of purple will emphasize the depth and richness of very dark hair for a dynamic, attention-grabbing ombre hair color.
@jonathan_colors
Take inspiration from nature next time you want to rock light red or blonde hues. Replicate the shades of sunset within your style and fade your colors from vibrant red to strawberry blonde. Textured layers with choppy bangs are on trend for the season.
@_ta.maa.ra_
This coloring technique does not always fade from dark to light, even though it’s the most common iteration; a reverse ombre, like the one shown here, moves from light at the roots to dark at the ends. While the effect is definitely cool, it requires a bit more maintenance at the roots than a typical style would.
@karaleehair
You can make the color transition as intense or as subtle as you want. Here, it is used as an accent for big, bouncy curls. Rich brown seamlessly flows into a yummy toffee shade that beautifully catches the light.
@josievilay
If you want a natural look, as if the sun has lightened your strands over days spent on the beach, then blonde tips are a solid pick. You can also opt for a subtle version of the style seen here.
@jesstheebesttcolor
In case you are looking for some “outside of the box” color ideas, this is a great place to start. By mixing purple with a soft, washed lilac, you get a delicate but still current look. Skip this if you’re looking for something low-maintenance. With the colorful hue placed at the top, you will definitely have to visit the salon regularly.
@modernsalon
Bright reds can create a timeless and striking look, especially when paired with dark hair. The contrast between vibrant red, deep brown, and black creates some of the most captivating looks.
@lanahaircolorist
Black hair takes more effort to be lightened, but it does look incredible in combination with a wide array of hues, even some truly resolute as this provocative bright pink.
More daring color choices blend better with darker hues of basic hair colors. There are periods in life when we crave brightness. Demi-permanent dyes would be ideal to quench the thirst.
This iconic dark-to-caramel melt is a memorable style. The color combination is frequently cited as a go-to example of a perfectly executed, healthy-looking dye job.
If you’re seeking a significant change and want to make a bold statement, transitioning from total black to bright colors like blue and turquoise can be a striking choice. Complement this hairstyle with beachy waves for a more dimensional look.
@locksbylauryn
If you haven’t tried the ombre trend yet, take some time to scroll through photos that match your hair color until you feel confident about the look you want. Once you’ve picked your ideal shade, bring a reference photo to your colorist. Terms like “soft chestnut ribbons,” “rose gold highlights,” or “toffee tones” can mean different things to different people, so it’s always best to show, not just tell. A little prep goes a long way – good luck!
Yes, it is, but today’s ombre tends to appear more natural, being less contrasting than it has been in the previous seasons. Now, the choice for the ends would often be multitonal. Brunettes look flattering in so-called sombre looks with a subtle change of color, such as medium brown and honey hues blended with dark brown roots. Blondes with cool skin undertone seem extremely charming with natural beige fading into icy blonde up to almost silvery shades.
Ombre hair color should be lighter in tone and complement your base shade. The most popular ombre hair color combinations are a gradual fade of warm brown to caramel and a fade of cool, ashy brown to platinum blonde. If you are considering bright ends in colors like red, yellow, teal or blue, they will pair best with dark brown and black shades.
Ombre has evolved compared to the original take on the technique and, in many cases, balayage and ombre look quite similar now. Unlike balayage, ombre starts mid-length, which makes it more low maintenance. However, it may also require longer hair lengths to look natural. Also, mind that while reverse balayage – adding lowlight to tone hair color down – is quite popular during the fall months, it is something totally different from reverse ombre – a transition from lighter roots to dark ends, which results in quite an alternative hair color.
Despite reaching its peak popularity in the 2000s, ombre remains a highly sought-after coloring technique in salons today. With a modern shift towards softer gradients and a blend of darker and lighter tones, this technique still maintains full saturation at the ends.
I love how the article explores various options, from rich reds and silvers to chocolate and copper tones. Personally, I'm drawn to the light-to-dark ombre styles, as they challenge the traditional norms of coloring techniques and offer a bold and refreshing take on ombre. The inclusion of reverse ombre styles is a standout feature for me in this article! ”