As the temperature drops, we’re all about finding ways to stay warm—whether it’s snuggling by the fire, sipping on hot chocolate, or diving into a movie marathon. But for us, the highlight of winter is something a bit more glamorous: the seasonal hair color switch-up.
Every year, warm-toned hair colors become the go-to choice for winter. There’s just something about toasty hues that perfectly complement the chilly season.
Looking for the ideal warm-toned shade to try this winter? We spoke with Mark Creed, L’Oréal Professionnel U.K. stylist, to get his expert take on the best cozy hues for the season. Whether you’re thinking of going blonde, brunette, or somewhere in between, here are 15 gorgeous shades to inspire your next look.
The Best Warm-Toned Hair Colors to Try Now
Cold Brew
For all the iced coffee lovers out there (yes, even in freezing weather!), cold brew hair is the perfect match. This rich, dimensional warm brunette shade mimics the tones of your favorite coffee order, blending warm browns with hints of golden undertones.
Cold brew hair is universally flattering and works beautifully with any skin tone. If you’re a natural brunette, it’s even better—this shade is low-maintenance and grows out seamlessly, making it a stylish yet effortless choice for the season.
Caramel
For a color that radiates warmth, caramel is an irresistible choice. Much like a drizzle of caramel in your morning latte, this rich shade adds the perfect touch of warmth and brightness to your hair. Looking for a low-maintenance way to embrace this hue? Go for caramel balayage, where the warm tones seamlessly blend into your natural color for a soft, sun-kissed effect.
Hot Chocolate
Chocolate brown hair is a classic, but hot chocolate is the ultimate winter upgrade. This rich, cozy shade is perfect whether you’re a brunette looking to add dimension or a blonde ready to deepen your tone. Your stylist can tailor the perfect version of this hue to suit your look and vibe.
Honey Blonde
Who says you have to go dark just because it’s winter? If you want to keep your hair light and bright even in the colder months, honey blonde is the way to go. This warm, dimensional shade adds a touch of golden warmth to your look, making it perfect for brightening up gray winter days. Ask your colorist to blend in subtle highlights for an even more radiant finish!
Ginger
Ginger hair is a perennial favorite, and for good reason—it’s bold, warm, and endlessly captivating. This soft, fiery shade is especially stunning on pale complexions, making it the perfect red hair color for winter. Its warm tones brighten up chilly days, giving you a vibrant, head-turning look that never goes out of style. We’re obsessed, and we know you will be too!
Honey Brown
If you’re craving a hint of honey but aren’t ready to part ways with your brunette locks, honey brown is the perfect compromise. This light brown shade is infused with warm, golden streaks of honey, adding dimension and a subtle glow to your hair. It’s a low-maintenance choice that beautifully enhances your natural color while keeping your look cozy and chic.
Cayenne
For those who love a little heat in their life, let cayenne inspire your next color transformation! This spicy red shade is bold, vibrant, and perfect for winter. It blends fiery tones with a hint of warmth, giving your look an edgy yet cozy vibe. If you’re ready to turn up the heat this season, cayenne is the color for you!
Mulled Wine
Love a cozy glass of wine by the fire? Channel that vibe with mulled wine hair—a rich blend of deep red and mahogany tones. This luxurious shade is the perfect winter twist on traditional red, offering warmth and depth that feels festive yet timeless.
Espresso
There’s nothing quite like espresso hair color. This deep, rich brunette shade is timeless, effortlessly chic, and incredibly low-maintenance. Best of all, it flatters every skin tone, making it a go-to choice for anyone looking to embrace a sophisticated and polished winter look. Simple, classic, and always stunning!
Burnt Sienna
Burnt sienna is the color everyone’s buzzing about—and it’s easy to see why! This fiery orange-red hue brings a bold vibrancy that goes beyond traditional copper tones. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit any skin tone. Whether you want a subtle warmth or a statement-making glow, burnt sienna is the perfect choice for a fresh, standout look.
Spicy Cider
Spicy cider isn’t just a cozy drink to enjoy by the fire—it’s also a dreamy hair color perfect for winter! This warm, balanced shade blends brunette and copper red hues in just the right amounts, ensuring neither tone takes over. The result? A soft, multidimensional color that feels natural yet striking.
Auburn
When it comes to red hair, you can’t go wrong with a classic like auburn. This timeless shade combines warm red and brown tones for a rich, natural look that’s perfect for winter. Whether you’re new to red hues or a seasoned pro, auburn is an elegant choice that never goes out of style.
Chestnut
For the perfect balance of red and brown, chestnut is the ideal pick. This warm, reddish-brown shade adds just a hint of red to your hair, creating a subtle yet stunning look. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to warm up their color without fully committing to a bold red hue.
Golden Highlights
Add a touch of luxury to your look with golden highlights! These warm, radiant streaks instantly brighten your hair and give it a more polished, high-end feel. Perfectly paired with a dark base color, golden highlights create depth and dimension, making your hair look effortlessly chic and glowing for the winter season.
Red to Orange Ombre
For a bold and fiery look, red to orange ombre is the ultimate warm-toned hair transformation. This vibrant gradient seamlessly blends deep red into bright orange, creating a head-turning effect that’s full of energy and warmth. Since vivid shades like this can fade quickly, swap your regular hair products for a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner to keep your ombre looking fresh and vibrant for longer.
FAQs
1. How do I choose the best warm-toned hair color for my skin tone?
Match the warmth of your hair color to your skin’s undertones:
- Fair skin: Soft tones like honey blonde or light auburn.
- Medium skin: Rich shades like caramel or chestnut.
- Dark skin: Bold hues like burgundy or burnt sienna.
2. Are warm-toned hair colors high-maintenance?
It depends on the shade. Subtle colors like caramel or chestnut require minimal upkeep, while vibrant reds or orange ombres need regular touch-ups and color-safe products to maintain vibrancy.
3. How can I keep my warm-toned hair looking vibrant?
Use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner, limit heat styling, and wash with cool water. Schedule regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks to keep your color fresh.
