From “Old Money Blonde” to “Cherry Cola,” Experts Predict the Top 15 Winter Hair Colors of 2024

Not into red? The experts are predicting blue that is going to be a reigning color for the season. “Similar to the color of dark-wash denim, this shade looks deep blue on your hair. It often has cool undertones, which gives it a slight purple or violet finish to make it look even more unique,” says O’Connor. While you can definitely get this done at a salon, O’Connor says you can achieve the look at home as well, using a lightening kit and a blend of dusty metallic blue and gray dyes. 

Looking for a subtle change to your brown locks? Consider ‘bronde,’ as seen on Jennifer Lopez, Sofia Vergara and Gisele Bündchen. This classic shade uses brown and blonde tones that blend seamlessly together for a natural, soft finish. “Every season inspires [new] hair color enhancements that allow people to explore softer approaches and provide a fresh and exciting look [for winter],” adds Haliti. 

This trend proves that it’s OK to rock grown-out roots—just ask Margot Robbie. “It involves intentionally leaving darker roots, while incorporating blonde tones throughout the rest of the hair for a more natural look,” says Haliti. The expert suggests using either a leave-in conditioner or a heat protectant spray to keep locks hydrated and protect them when styling. 

We’re calling it: This Beyoncè-approved hair color is going to be huge this winter. Inspired by the chantilly cream dessert topping, this shade is great for both brunettes and blondes. “Since vanilla gold is a soft tone, this color will look flattering on everyone, while still giving a lightness to the hair,” says Freidag. “The key is not pulling in too much warmth, so try to go two shades lighter than your natural color.” To maintain the shade, Freidag recommends a toner to keep the color soft and natural.

‘Chocolate Cherry’ uses a blend of rich browns and deep red tones to add shine and dimension to your strands. “This shade is perfect for adding red to any brunette, and since red shades are notorious for fading quickly in the summer sun, winter is the perfect time to try this color,” explains Freidag. To maintain the vibrancy of hue, the colorist suggests using a hair mask often to minimize damage and prevent color from fading. 

“Candlelit Brunette emerged earlier in 2023 and is projected to [gain even more popularity] this winter,” says Leake. The low-maintenance look is created by adding a gloss treatment on brunette hair so it has more dimension. A stylist will also add highlights around the face and blend them into the rest of your hair, according to Leake. He adds, “You can extend the effects of the gloss by mixing in moisturizing products into your hair care routine for more shine.” 

Although we’re near the end of 2023, Barbiecore is having its last hurrah in the beauty world. Enter ‘Barbie Blonde,’ a blend of ash and warm tones that are great for the winter months. From January Jones to Ciara, this buttercream blonde had to be on our list, and the experts are on board. According to Cisneros, using a hair mask once a week will “help repair the hair and protect it from the dry winter months ahead.” 

We already have ‘Cherry Cola lips,’ so it’s only fair that our hair gets the same color treatment, right? “It’s a simple way to stand out amongst all the other winter colors like black and gray, as the pops of red add a bit of mystery to your hair,” says Tang. The shade consists of a dark brunette base (the cola) with the top layer of a deep red (the cherry) as seen on Dove Cameron above. 

“Espresso is the perfect late fall to early winter color. As the seasons start to transition, many people have balayage or highlights, so this dark brunette look is a great change for the weather,” says Tang. For even more shine, the hair colorist recommends using a color-depositing conditioner and a styling spray to keep your locks vibrant. 

Pastels were all the rage in 2020, but this light blue hue is making a comeback just ahead of the new year. “Elemental Blue can be worn all over for a bold look or can complement a deep chocolate brown (or a neutral brunette shade for a soft hint of warmth) for those wanting a duo-tone trend. It’s a cool-toned pastel with a soft metallic finish that makes it look expensive,” says Black. Since it requires a major color transformation, Black recommends implementing a haircare routine that’s designed to repair and strengthen strands, while also preserving the light shade between touchups.

Sweet shades keep on comin’ and this chocolatey base is a great choice for the season. “It’s a super low-maintenance look that adds subtle highlights to brunette hair,” says Rojas. “The dimensional balayage consists of a warm base with a natural almond tone for movement and shine.” According to the colorist, all you’ll need is a color-treated shampoo and conditioner to nourish your hair and maintain its vibrancy at home. 

Red continues to be a popular pick for the season and this soft iteration of the shade will be a strong contender moving into 2024. “Unlike strawberry blonde, ‘Subtle Strawberry’ is a full color all around with a soft pigment to it. It’s the perfect color to transition into winter,” says Leake. If you want to elevate your natural blonde base, the process is quite simple, as it doesn’t involve stripping away any color. You just add light red tones throughout. However, Leake notes a hair mask should be implemented into your routine to prevent breakage, damage and dryness.