Sabrina Carpenter said it best: That’s that me espresso. And apparently, Hollywood agrees. It seems like everyone is going to the dark side lately—and for good reason. Espresso brown hair is taking red carpets and Pinterest by storm, with (seemingly) everyone ditching the blonde highlights to commit to the decadent and high-shine color.
Espresso brown hair is a deep, smoky, rich brunette shade that teeters the line between brown and black. Hailey Bieber recently traded her lighter bronde for her darkest, richest brown in years, joining many other celebrities embracing glossy espresso hair. Mrs. Bieber debuted her new look earlier this fall. The rich shade makes her hair shine and complements her darker eyebrows and brown-hazel eyes perfectly.
And she’s not the only celeb feeling the coffee shade. Dakota Johnson recently dyed her signature bangs and long locks much darker. At the New York City premiere of Verity, Dakota walked the red carpet showing off her cooler, darker shade.
But espresso brown isn’t just another dark brunette. The secret to its expensive-looking appeal is the subtle dimension and high-shine finish that keep the color from looking flat. And unlike some hair trends that require a complete transformation, this one can be customized to suit just about anyone. Sign me up! Interested in trying the shade yourself? Read on for exactly what the espresso brown hair color is, how to get the look at home, and what to ask your colorist for to find the most flattering shade for your skin tone.
What is Espresso Brown Hair?
Espresso brown is a deep, rich brunette shade inspired by—you guessed it—a freshly brewed shot of espresso. Think dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and subtle hints of cocoa blended together to create a glossy, dimensional brown that feels equal parts sophisticated and effortless. Unlike a flat, one-dimensional, nearly black shade, espresso brown has just enough depth and dimension to catch the light, giving hair that expensive-looking shine we’re all after. It’s dark, dramatic, and undeniably chic without feeling too overpowering for everyday wear.
And according to celebrity colorist Jenna Perry, Celebrity Colorist & R+COLOR Collective Member, the secret is all in the dimension.
“It’s a deep brunette that looks soft and reflective rather than flat or almost-black,” said Perry. “In the light, you see subtle hints of chocolate and mocha that make the color feel expensive.”
And while espresso brown might sound like one specific shade, there’s actually plenty of room for customization. Consider yourself cool-toned, reaching for silver jewelry and pinkier makeup? Stylists recommend opting for an ashier espresso shade, with almost-black undertones. Or maybe you’re warmer-toned, and would look better with subtle chocolate hues. Talk to your colorist about your undertones to figure out what shade would look best for you, without giving up that true espresso color.
Whether you prefer a cool, moody brunette or something a little warmer and softer, there’s an espresso brown for just about everyone.
How to Get Espresso Brown Hair Color at Home
Looking to dip a toe into the espresso brown trend without fully committing? A semi-permanent dye or gloss is the perfect place to start. And as a bonus, all of these products are under $40. Just keep in mind that your starting shade matters. If you’re blonde or have previously highlighted hair, achieving a rich, even espresso brown may require additional steps, so it’s worth consulting a colorist before making a dramatic change.
Part deep conditioner, part temporary hair color, this gloss deposits pigment while boosting shine and moisture. The color lasts up to eight washes, which is the perfect amount of time to test out the coffee color and decide if it’s for you. Try Dark Brown or Cool Dark Brown for a deep espresso finish.
If you’ve heard about hair glosses, you’ve probably heard about Kristin Ess’ Signature Gloss. This is an under-$20 one-time treatment that can be done in the shower. It has Vibrancy Boosting Technology to protect the hair and boost shine, an Antioxidant Complex to smooth and soften, and an Alkaline Neutralizing System to protect against fade and hard water deposits. The color lasts about 3-4 weeks.
With a shade literally named Espresso, this gloss practically has the trend written all over it. The smoky, ash-brown tone adds richness and shine, making it a particularly good option for anyone after a cooler take on espresso brown.
If your hair isn’t colored at all, Glaze’s Supergloss was designed specifically for you. It is an in-shower treatment that delivers semi-permanent pigment and a boost of shine and softness that lasts for up to 10 washes. It also has Babassu Oil to help repair dryness and damage.
Keracolor’s High Shine Tinted Gloss is designed to be used in the shower to revive dull color and provide extra shine. This is a great option if you already have espresso brown hair and want to keep your color fresh between salon appointments.
Want something a little more dramatic? This deep-conditioning color-depositing mask is a good fit for anyone who wants to refresh or add semi-permanent hair color while conditioning their hair at the same time. According to the company, the Espresso Brown shade can take even the blondest hair coffee-brown.
What to Ask Your Hair Stylist For
Rather have a professional handle this one? No problem. Instead of arriving unprepared, bring your colorist a few inspo photos and be specific about the shade you’re looking for. Ask for a deep, rich brunette with plenty of shine and subtle dimension, rather than a flat, almost-black color. Depending on your starting shade, your stylist may recommend an all-over color, a gloss, or a combination of techniques to achieve that signature espresso finish.
For a professional take on the trend, Renée Valerie, Director of R+COLOR Education and R+COLOR Collective Member, recommends focusing on dimension and shine.
“The focus is on achieving a reflective, glossy finish that enhances the natural movement of the hair rather than one solid color,” said Valerie. “At the salon, ask for a rich, glossy espresso brunette with dimension rather than a flat dark brown.”
To create that effect, Valerie often turns to demi-permanent color, which can deepen and refresh brunette tones without the commitment of permanent dye. “For me, my most used shades for this trend are R+Co. Hypermatic Demi-Permanent Liquid Hair Color in LOTUS (WG4) and PUNCH (NCH6),” Valerie shared.
And don’t forget to consider your skin’s undertones when choosing your shade. Cooler complexions may benefit from an ashier, more neutral espresso, while warmer undertones can look gorgeous with subtle chocolate or chestnut hues woven throughout. If you’re worried about going too dark, ask your colorist about incorporating barely-there highlights or keeping a little warmth around the face for a softer finish. The goal is a rich, glossy brunette that complements your natural coloring without looking too harsh. And trust me, a little customization can make all the difference.
Espresso Brown Hair Inspiration
With Blunt Bangs
Feeling adventurous? Combine a new shade with a new cut. Blunt, straight-across bangs bring a little edge to the rich espresso color, while long layers keep the overall look soft and balanced. The contrast between the sharp fringe and flowing lengths makes this combination feel effortlessly chic, with just the right amount of drama.
With long layers and touches of brightness
Long layers plus espresso with caramel highlights? Delish. The cascading layers add plenty of movement, while the lighter touches of brightness provide a ton of dimension to the darker base.
Mid-length with curtain bangs
There’s something about a rich espresso brown paired with a layered, mid-length cut that just works. The long curtain bangs frame the face beautifully, while the layers give the darker shade plenty of movement and bounce. It’s polished without feeling overly done, making it a gorgeous option for anyone who loves an effortless, lived-in look.
With a Bob
Espresso brown with a shaggy bob? Ultimate cool-girl energy. The shorter length gives the deep, coffee-inspired shade a fresh, modern feel, while the slightly undone texture keeps things from looking too polished. Style it with a little wave or tousled volume for that effortlessly chic finish.
Meaghan Moore, Contributing Writer
Meaghan is a Chicago-based writer who covers fashion trends, celebrity style, beauty news, and lifestyle.
The post Hailey Bieber Just Debuted Espresso Brown Hair—Here’s How to Get the Look at Home for Under $40 appeared first on The Everygirl.
