6 hair colours that will headline 2025
We should never underestimate the difference hair colours can make when it comes to shifting our mood, changing our aesthetic and expressing where we're at. Even a teensy colour tweak can make a whole world of difference (case in point: face-framing highlights will give complexions an instant glow-up), and as the seasons change, our hair colour is one way to reflect where we're at and what we want to channel, accordingly.
As for what's hot for 2025? Brunette is headlining this one. Dark, deep rich tones that reflect light are giving us the expensive finish we're seeking. Red tones remain a front-runner in pretty much every rendition of the shade, but earthy auburns and hi-vis violet undertones will be particularly popular. And, as the months warm up, sunkissed coppers will take off once again. As for the blondes? Bright, warm shades will lead the way, with vintage-y golden blonde reminiscent of the ‘50s and ’60s getting a modern spin (like Sabrina Carpenter's buttery blonde).
So, let's get to it. These are the hair colours to know for 2025…
Espresso martini
We'll see brunettes become glossier, warmer and darker, in monochromatic shades or with added soft dimension. Laura Elliott, head stylist and educator at haircare specialists Neäl & Wølf, is predicting espresso martini shades will be a popular choice for natural brunettes looking to up the ante of their hair colour. “The espresso brown hair trend will look best on clients who have darker natural hair and want something low-maintenance while still having a little dimension," she says. “This shade will particularly complement those with a medium skin tone, but also glossy, rich chocolate brown colours like espresso brown will suit cool undertones and help to bring out blue eyes,” she adds.
In fact, deep brunettes have gained a consensus among hair pros including celebrity hair colourist, Jenna Perry, who counts Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski among her clients. Espresso brunette “gives off a sophisticated and classy vibe,” she says, while Luci Green, hair colour specialist at Larry King insists “ultra shiny, super healthy, warm brunettes,” will rule. “Clients are wanting to warm up their skin with rich warm tones running through their glossy, expensive, liquid brunette,” she says. Alongside the colour, the condition is just as important: “high gloss is key,” says top hair stylist and trend forecaster, Tom Smith.
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Buttery blonde
Warm, bright blondes will dominate 2025. “We'll see a warmer, golden palette, particularly heading into spring/summer,” predicts Zoë Irwin, pro colourist and lead educator for Glaze Hair. “This shade has a softer, sunnier feel compared to the cooler, beige blondes we’ve been seeing. The blonde palette is staying warm, with a gentle honey tone adding a touch of brightness,” she says. And Dean Harris, colourist at Larry King South Kensington is in agreement. He recommends “soft sun-kissed shades of blonde that accentuate your hair’s natural colour, as seen on Sabrina Carpenter, Sofia Richie, Taylor Swift and Rosie Huntington Whitley.” It's a look that "emulates classic femininity," he adds. And Trevor Sorbie’s creative director, Giuseppe Stelitano, is also on board. “'90s blonde is making a comeback, with warm, buttery tones that feel nostalgic yet fresh,” he predicts.
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Fiery red
Cherry cola was a leading hair colour in 2024 and its following through into 2025 as reds and coppers remain a go-to cool-girl shade for some extra flair. Going forward, Dean predicts the shade is set to get even more attention grabbing with “a punchier more expensive-looking take on the classic reds we saw in 2024. As seen on Alessi Rose and Dua Lipa, deep cherry brunette draws the eye with its subtle red, violet and brown reflects, whilst maintaining the muted depth of a brunette.” One of our favourite examples of the shade looking phenomenal is Katseye's Lara.
Trevor Sorbie’s creative director, Giuseppe Stelitano, concurs. “Burgundy tones are leading the way,” he says. “They’re ideal for brunettes who want to warm up their natural shade and add depth without going too bold. Titian red is also on the rise – that timeless, Renaissance-inspired red that always stands out,” he adds.
And, heading into spring-summer, “rosewood coppers work really well,” says Zoë. “This shade has a more natural, earthy feel which complements the natural hair texture movement emerging for 2025. It’s a shift away from the intense crimson and scarlet tones, transitioning into something softer,” she says.
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Dirty blonde
If polished and perfect isn't your vibe, dirty blondes are also having a major moment in 2025. It takes hair in a lighter direction, but maintains a little moodiness. Once again we have the ‘90s and ‘00s to thank for the resurgence. It blends the grunginess and brattiness that has taken off over the past twelve months with the carefree boho styles that are also back with a vengeance. Think: Mary Kate and Ashley’s dip-dyed ends and darker roots. “We’re talking about really lived-in blondes,” says Sarah Bower, principle colourist at Josh Wood.
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Au naturale
Want to give your hair a bit of break from colour, but still give it a glow-up? “2025 could be the year of natural shades and styles," says Mathilde Heather, salon owner and Cloud Nine ambassador. “In salons it seems like natural looks and products are here to stay for another year.” It coincides with an 89% surge in searched for “natural hair colour” compared to last year. Celebrity hair stylist, Jay Birmingham, agrees, noting 2025 will be all about “embracing natural colour". “So less about the bleach and more focus on elevating natural colour with highlights or textured cuts to change the vibe,” he says.
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Toffee brunette
One final trend that blends two of this year's hair colour heavy hitters, is toffee brunette. It brings together the depth and shine of deep brunettes and the warmth of coppers and auburns. “Toffee brunette combines an intense golden caramel tone with a deeper mid-brunette base," explains Laura. "The blend of chocolate, caramel, and gold hues creates a reflective, youthful shine that’s perfect for those seeking a sun-kissed glow without the upkeep of bright blonde hair. This warm shade is particularly flattering on people with lighter olive skin tones, as its golden undertones enhance the natural warmth in the skin. Yellow and green undertones are brought to life by the rich caramel highlights, while the deeper brunette base provides a contrast that compliments and balances the complexion,” she adds.
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For more from GLAMOUR's Senior Beauty Editor, Elle Turner, follow her on Instagram @elleturneruk
