13 Effortlessly Cool Ash-Brown Hair Ideas That Are Low-Maintenance, as Suggested by Stylists
Have you noticed a sharp increase in the number of fashionable brunettes taking over your Explore and For You pages this year? Fashion influencers on TikTok and Instagram are gravitating towards a particular shade that’s becoming one of the year's most popular colors: ash brown. Given our extensive scrolling for hair inspiration (and access to some of the best hairstylists and color experts), we decided it's the perfect moment to explore this trend and share our insights on what we hope to see more of. While we can't predict the future, the beauty editors at Who What Wear have a keen sense for the top hair colors you might consider for your next salon appointment. We’re excited to present 13 of our favorite ash-brown hair styles recently seen on celebrities, along with expert tips to help you achieve your ideal ash-brown locks.
What Is Ash Brown?
If you’re as intrigued by trending hair colors as we are, you might already have an idea of what ash brown is, but articulating it can be tricky. Thankfully, hair color expert Sue Tyrrell provides a straightforward definition that can guide your search for style inspiration. She describes ash brown as a cool-toned brunette infused with smoky silver undertones. When asking your colorist for this shade, she suggests requesting a neutral to cool brown, avoiding any red or orange warmth. Bringing a photo reference can also be helpful if you have a specific vibrancy or tone in mind.
Is Ash Brown Easy to Maintain?
Now for the crucial question: How much upkeep is needed to keep this shade looking fresh post-application? Tyrrell explains that ash brown does require maintenance, especially if your natural undertones are warm. "Ash tones tend to fade faster and can appear brassy without proper care," she cautions. "Using the right at-home haircare is essential." Consider this your cue to stock up on quality color-safe shampoos, conditioners, and styling products if you want this chic look to endure, and don’t forget to book touch-up appointments with a reliable colorist to prevent fading.
Keep reading to discover the most beloved ways to wear ash-brown hair, favored by editors and colorists alike — as exemplified by fashionable celebrities and public figures, from Lily-Rose Depp to Daisy Edgar-Jones. Plus, find some excellent products to maintain your strands' health and vibrancy.
**Golden Beige**
Depp graced the 2019 Met Gala with this gorgeous hue crafted by colorist Cass Kaeding. It features a blend of butterscotch blonde, soft ash, and brown with dark roots and light ends.
**Smoky Balayage**
Ashley Park from Emily in Paris is frequently seen sporting high-volume ash brown styles. The hairstyle above was made by celebrity hairstylist Clayton Hawkins, who blended bold caramel brown, taupe, and gray shades throughout her locks.
**Money Pieces**
For a soft ash-brown balayage, Tyrrell suggests adding money pieces to complement the base color. We’re inspired by Ciara’s tousled bun with face-framing strands seen at the 2024 CFDA Fashion Awards.
**Shadow Roots**
Tyrrell also recommends incorporating dimension into your ash-brown hair with shadow roots that blend into a smoky balayage. Hailey Bieber showcased this style at the Saint Laurent womenswear S/S 24 show, and it's stuck with us since.
**Brass Tones**
If you prefer striking brass tones, consider this sleek look worn by Emmy-winning news anchor Bianca Peters. Be sure to use plenty of heat protection before styling and finish with a shine and hold spray.
**Subtle Highlights**
Introducing subtle blonde highlights to a mushroom-brown base adds an enticing touch to wavy hair. This natural style on Selena Gomez was achieved by celebrity hairstylist Marissa Marino.
**Gray Streaks**
Strategically placed light strands near the face can enhance skin tones and make eyes appear brighter, especially against mousse brown shades, like the timeless bob worn by actress Hailee Steinfeld at the Sinners European premiere.
**Mocha Ash**
At the 78th Cannes Film Festival, Edgar-Jones turned heads with this sophisticated mocha ash style. Although it doesn't include blonde hints like some of our other favorites, we love how radiant her skin appears with it.
**Honey Dipped**
Goddess braids are trending now, so consider ash-brown braids featuring a balayage effect. Winnie Harlow wore these braids with honey-blonde tips at Kate Barton's show during last year’s New York Fashion Week.
**Toasted Taupe**
This shade resembles TikTok's toasted glam makeup, merging mocha and taupe with neutral blonde highlights, as seen on actress and model Kaia Gerber in her selfie.
**Bronde Tips**
If you're torn between adding brown or blonde to your ash-brown hair, opt for a mix of both. Shay Mitchell showcases a hint of blonde at the tips in a photo taken right before a Louis
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13 Effortlessly Cool Ash-Brown Hair Ideas That Are Low-Maintenance, as Suggested by Stylists
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