Winter 2026 Hair Color Trends: Wine Reds, Hazelnut Browns and Icy Blondes

Winter is when many people want richer, more polished hair color. This season's most talked-about shades fall into four groups: deep wine reds, soft gourmand browns, glossy blacks and cool, luminous blondes. Here's what each one looks like, who it tends to suit, and what it takes to keep it looking fresh.

Wine reds

Wine red is a deep, cool-leaning red that reads as rich rather than loud. It tends to flatter cool and neutral undertones and looks especially striking on deeper skin tones. Reds fade faster than most colors, so plan on a gloss or regrowth refresh about every four to six weeks.

Gourmand browns

Brunettes have the most options this winter. Frosted hazelnut is a soft brown with cool, icy ribbons that adds brightness without going blonde. Teddy brown is the warmer choice, with caramel and cocoa notes that suit warm and neutral undertones and show up beautifully on waves and curls.

If you want more movement, ask about hyper-dimensional brunette. It starts with an espresso or cacao base and adds fine ribbons of chestnut or caramel for a glossy, multi-tonal finish.

Glossy blacks

Soft black shades are a dramatic option that still feels modern. Unlike flat box-dye black, a midnight espresso has cool brown undertones that give it dimension and a softer grow-out. If you've lightened your hair before, talk to your colorist first, because going dark and later going light again is a much bigger project.

Icy and pearl blondes

Winter blondes are moving away from stark platinum. Frosted pearl is a glowy blonde that sits lighter than beige but softer than platinum, while iced chestnut blonde blends beige, pale honey and champagne tones to cool down brassy warmth. Both need upkeep, including root touch-ups, toning or glossing, and regular moisture treatments.

How to choose the right shade

• Start with your undertone. Cool shades tend to flatter cool skin, and warm shades tend to flatter warm skin. Neutral undertones have the most flexibility.

• Be honest about upkeep. Reds and icy blondes usually need the most frequent visits. Dimensional brunettes usually grow out more gently.

• Bring photos. One shade name can mean different things to different people, so pictures make the conversation with your colorist much easier.

• Share your color history. Previous color, lightener or box dye can change what's possible in a single appointment.

Book your winter color

Philip Ciampa Salons has been a Massachusetts family salon since 1972. Book online at our Andover or Lexington salon, or call our Winchester salon at (781) 729-6372.