Hair Color Trends

What hair color trends are dominating the streets and red carpets this year? One surprising word seems to define all of them: natural. Sure, there's the odd streak of wild, funky color to be found, but the majority of the looks center on down-to-earth, fuss-free hues.

Opt for rich, dark hues this year.

We're still letting the dust settle on last year's trends, but this year is already shaping up to be a glamorous year for hair. Even if you normally take a more adventurous approach to your hair styles and colors, you may be able to take advantage of this year's trends and make the look as unique as ever. Natural shades are the way to go, but that doesn't mean your new hair color has to be mundane. Actually, the new naturals are anything but – they're shiny and vibrant, and they transition from one season to the next with ease.

There are a variety of colors on the trend list. Just as the year's hottest styles are sure to leave their mark in hair history, so too are the hair color trends that shape this year's most memorable looks.

It's time to usher out last year's tendencies toward darker roots. Let's also wave bye-bye to bleached blonde locks that stand out for miles. This year, rich blonde hair color defines even light shades of hair. Look to shades of honey blonde and dirty blonde as models for the sort of hues that really stand out and work no matter what season it is. They're slightly darker shades that, with glossy finishes, look perfect year round.

If you regularly sport a head full of blonde hair highlights, the cooler months are the right time to tone that look down. Ease into spring with a softer, subdued color. Consider a hint of gold to give hair a subtle brightness. Not only will it keep the hair vibrant, it's also an instant anti-aging solution! Remember, though, that the color should truly be gold, not brassy or yellow.

Look to celebrity hair styles right now and you'll notice a sudden influx of women making the dramatic change from light to dark. Actress Kate Walsh, for example, is known for her bold red hair. Lately, though, the Private Practice star has been seen around Tinseltown sporting a warm shade of brunette hair. Mischa Barton's warm cognac shade has turned heads, too. Infuse your hair with some lowlights for extra warmth. This applies to all hair colors, whether brunette, blonde or red, as it perks up the look more naturally than highlights do.

Brunette shades with copper, chestnut and honey tones are all popular right now. The key is to find the shade that best plays up your features, suits your skin tone and boasts a simple gloss. This will add just enough depth and dimension to really amp up even a monotone color.

Red hair is ravishing no matter what time of year it is. In the summer, it's fun to go the strawberry blonde route or experiment with playful red hair highlights, but during the cooler months it's key to stick with a natural, understated finish. Note that understated doesn't mean boring! Opt for one of the year's hottest shades – auburn. This rich, sexy hue blends brown and red for a less extreme look.

Nix the fiery shades for now. Red is an especially tricky shade to get right if it's not a natural shade, but dark-haired individuals will likely pull off an auburn tone with ease. Hints of caramel, burgundy and maroon are also big winners in the world of hair color trends right now.

Of course, don't underestimate the power of a wild, out-there, head-turning look. If it's bold and outrageous you're after, look to the runways for inspiration. Crazy, two-toned wigs, bright streaks and shocking colors weren't completely out of place on stage. They don't necessarily have much presence in the real world, especially from a trend standpoint, but they certainly draw attention to the hair. Consider sporting artificial, bold-colored highlights in lieu of permanent colors – they'll allow you greater options and, of course, there's no commitment involved.

Of course, everything has its time and place – and everyone has a favorite look – so don't change your entire style just to suit a particular trend. If light hair suits you best, stick with it. If you're unsure about a particular color but want to give it a chance, utilize an online color simulator, such as InStyle's Hollywood Hair Makeover, or visit a hairstylist for advice.

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