"Vintage Brunette" Is the Cozy Shade to Try This Fall

When looking for hair inspiration, rather than looking to future trends, sometimes it's most helpful to take a look at the past. That explains why classic looks keep coming back time and again, from Audrey Hepburn bangs to Sophia Lauren’s updo. Somehow, these styles always look fresh, no matter how many decades ago they first hit the scene. 

The latest hair throwback of choice: vintage brunette. Wondering exactly what that means? “Vintage brunette is an extremely natural shade of brown,” explains Emaly Baum, colorist and founder of Beauty Supply salon. “It has an almost matte look to it. Lots of cool undertones but less blue, and more yellow-green undertones. There’s almost a '50s vibe to it.”

What Color Is Expensive Brunette?

"Vintage brunette explains this striking yet most simple brunette hair color that does not lean warm or cool, but neutral," says stylist Devin Graciano. "While one may think neutral is easily obtainable, it can be pretty tricky to accomplish because most people have natural undertones of color influencing their hair color that want to surface through the coloring process or in time following your hair color appointment."

That said, when a look is easy peasy to nail, that instantly gives it a head start in a popularity contest. “I think this specific shade is trending because it’s the opposite of the high-maintenance warm buttery blondes and coppers we’ve been seeing,” Baum says. “It’s a fun switch that has a natural vibe but still provides a dramatic change.” 

Like many hair trends these days, Baum credits its spark to people desperately wanting to go back to easy-to-maintain hair color routines. “I think now people are ready to be a little more low maintenance again,” she says. “For months I’ve been transitioning my clients away from highlights so it makes sense that this more monochromatic look is trending.” 

Another reason for the shade's popularity? “I think this tone can look good on anyone,” Baum says. “It’s less about skin tone and more about personal style. This tone is certainly easier for people who already have brown hair to begin with.” One of the major perks of vintage brunette hair is how easy it is to maintain. According to Baum, depending on where you’re starting from, this tone can be achieved and maintained with a simple gloss. “It’s really gentle on the hair and causes little to no damage,” she says. “Plus, it’s a super quick appointment! You’re not spending hours at the salon.” 

However, blondes may want to proceed with caution. “If you’re a blonde who loves being blonde but you want to try something new I would probably sway you to something else,” Baum says. “If you don’t have patience when it comes to transitioning back to a lighter tone I wouldn’t do this.”

How to Get Vintage Brunette Hair

As always, being on the same page as your colorist is key, and that starts with bringing inspiration pictures to your appointment. “This way you and your colorist are on the same page,” Baum says. “Ask for cool tones but make sure you’re not asking for ashy blue or violet tones that will make the color too dark. The yellow green still provides some light reflection.” 

To maintain vintage brunette hair, always use a color safe shampoo and conditioner. "A great way to upkeep this natural and neutral brunette tone is by using a mild and color safe shampoo (like Goldie Locks Signature Shampoo), as well as using products with high antioxidants that may prevent the sun from causing discoloration like the Goldie Locks Smoothing Cream," says Graciano.

Baum adds, “If you love this look, I’d recommend booking a gloss every eight to 10 weeks to maintain it.”

"If you tend to pull orange or warm from natural pigmentation, a blue shampoo would be best," Graciano adds.