As the days become shorter and the air acquires that crisp frosty quality, I always feel like I need a change-some kind of something new that seems to fit the season. And what could be better to change than hair color? But what colours will be appropriate in winter 2025? Should we tilt towards dark sophistication, sprinkle with bright accents or look into warm chocolate brown?
The best things about this season are not only color but also mood, warmth and individuality. I will discuss concepts that can motivate those who are not afraid to take risks and those who change things in a subtle way in this post.
Golden Brunette Balayage Glow
Something old-fashioned about a base of brunette touched with warm blonde ribbons. The balayage extends into the mid-lengths in a soft caramel that gives that natural brightness I prefer in winter – it is not overt, but rather soft, polished and still friendly. It is a high-rise of the popular blondes balayage caramel style, which suits those who need depth, but with some shimmer during the cold seasons.
To maintain this soft dimension in a healthy state, I would always recommend alternating between a color safe shampoo and a hair nourishing mask. My favorite has been Acidic Bonding Concentrate by Redken, which is what makes the highlighted strands appear less brassy and dull when the winter air is dry.
I personally find this shade to be adaptable to any environment: you can wear it on casual weekends with a full knit scarf or you can put it on and go to a holiday party with glossy waves. Caramel colorist Tracey Cunningham once said that caramel is a great color on just about anyone, as it reflects the light so well- this style proves her right.
And in case you are a person seeking the ideas of brunettes that do not feel like high-maintenance, this palette is the precise spot to begin.
Cool Ash Dimension
The ashy highlights are on the rise, and this smoky gray-meets-dark brunette is evidence of why. The colder color palette is stylish, particularly during the winter, when smooth colors inherently go hand in hand with subdued wardrobes and cozy knits. It is not too icy, but there is enough silver-gray to make it noticeable. This appearance speaks of confidence rather than crying out to attention.
I have also been taught that toning products are necessary with cooler highlights. I have a purple shampoo ready at all times, and Fanola No Yellow does miracles to prevent brassiness, particularly when you have a natural warm undertone that struggles against the ash.
In my case, this is among the finest concepts in fair skin, since the ashy strands emphasize natural rosiness without dominating the skin. It is modern, sophisticated and a little edgy.
And though others might avoid cooler tones in winter, they look amazing with the contrast of a black coat or tailored blazer in winter. Cool colors produce that nonchalant air of elegant nonchalance that we all desire.
Bright Red Face-Framing Highlights
Discussion of making a statement! These crimson flashes around the face with the dark black waves are drama, in its best sense. I am fond of the contrast, which seems almost filmic-auburn fires against jet blackness. It is audacious, mischievous and completely unrepentant.
This type of color is certainly in need of attention. I would always suggest a sulfate-free shampoo such as Pureology Hydrate, which seals in the vibrancy. Red colors, particularly auburn and scarlet, are known to fade easily, and thus, they cannot be compromised.
To be honest, this appearance brings back memories of the time when I first tried to experiment with more dramatic highlights in college, I felt so much bolder. And I believe to this day this shade is the best bet to women who are willing to leave their comfort zone without making such a drastic commitment.
I would say this is one of the most fun fall carryovers to winter 2025, making it more cozy and fun in colder seasons.
Chunky Auburn Streaks
Here we see a gentler version of the hot red trend-thick but natural appearing streaks of auburn mixed into a brunette base. I prefer the boldness of the sections as compared to fine highlights, yet still soft enough to be worn on a day-to-day basis. It is a reference to the low lights chunky trend of the early 2000s reimagined.
Color such as this should be treated to gloss every few weeks to maintain the auburn. I would reserve a Redken Shades EQ gloss between color appointments- it is so shiny.
In my opinion, it is a perfect style when a person wants to have the ideas on how to make a brunette but does not want to be completely red. It retains the richness of the dark base with warm playful touches.
The overall vibe? Daring yet friendly-just right when the winter sets in.
Deep Red Waves
This fashion intertwines deep crimson ribbons all through the dark brunette hair to give a mesmerizing effect. It is less chunky than streaks, and that gives it the soft movement I love. The general impression is luxurious and moody-just the sort of color that is comfortable in winter evenings.
As far as care is concerned, I would recommend a color-depositing conditioner, such as Keracolor Clenditioner in Red, to maintain the vibrancy between salon visits. It is simple, fast, and leaves that much-dreaded faded auburn appearance behind.
This color reminds me of dinner by candlelight, warm sweaters, and the type of evenings when everything seems a bit more magical. Anyone who wants to get the idea of brunettes with a daring twist may find it the most intriguing of the season.
Smoky Brunette with Silver Balayage
And this appearance is all about that stylish contrast between a deep brunette base and light silver balayage. The slope is graceful, almost frost dusting the ends of every strand. It is not an icy blond, but it is in the same cool palette, so it is a winter standout. I like the way it appears so dimensional in natural light-the silver raises the entire style without overpowering the richness of the base.
Striking this balance correctly entails being even more tender with the lighter ends. I would always suggest using Olaplex No.3 at least once a week – it makes the bonds stronger and leaves the silver parts shiny rather than dry. Even a little additional effort in winter is worth a lot when the air itself can be so mean.
