Fall 2019 Hair Color Trends: Vibrant Shades & Celebrity Inspiration

Fall 2019 marked a significant shift in the hair color landscape, moving away from the cool, ashy tones that had dominated the prior few seasons. Hairdressers and colorists reported a strong client desire for warmth, depth, and a sense of comforting richness that mirrored the changing leaves and cozy knitwear of the season. This movement was less about drastic bleaching and more about sophisticated toning and developing a nuanced, multi-dimensional shade that felt both modern and classic.

The Rise of Rich, Warm Browns

The dominant palette of fall 2019 centered on a spectrum of warm, decadent browns. Think espresso, mocha, and dark caramel rather than flat, dull black. These hues offered depth and sophistication, providing a perfect backdrop for sun-kissed highlights or balayage. The goal was to create a luminous, healthy-looking color that appeared to glow from within, rejecting the flatness that had previously been popular.

Key Shades to Watch

• Guatemala Ginger: A rich, spicy brown with red undertones that add warmth and vibrancy.
• Cappuccino Mochaccino: A deep, chocolatey brown that provides intense depth and a polished finish.
• Golden Caramel: A lighter brown infused with golden honey and buttery tones for a softer look.

Balayage and Babylights Take Center Stage

While solid colors were popular, the trend for fall 2019 leaned heavily into subtle dimension. Balayage remained a top choice, but the technique evolved to be softer and more blended. Instead of stark contrasts, the focus was on seamless transitions that created a natural, sun-lightened effect. Similarly, "babylights"—fine, subtle highlights woven through the hair—gained immense traction. These delicate streaks of color added movement and a youthful shimmer without looking harsh or artificial.

Embracing Copper and Mahogany

For those seeking a bolder statement, copper and mahogany tones made a strong appearance. These shades brought a fiery, radiant energy to dark hair, catching the light with a metallic sheen. Often applied as a gloss or glaze, these accents were used to refresh existing color or add a vibrant touch to brunettes. The key was to integrate them smoothly to avoid a stark, costume-like appearance, resulting in a look that felt powerful and intentional.

The Gloss Treatment Phenomenon

Shine was a major theme, and semi-permanent gloss treatments were the secret weapon of fall 2019. Applied after the color service, these glosses added incredible shine, corrected brassiness, and helped extend the life of the dye. They were the ultimate finishing touch, transforming color from good to brilliant. Clients loved how a simple gloss could make their hair look healthier, silkier, and more vibrant without committing to a new base color.

Root Smudging and Lowlights

To avoid the tell-tale line of demarcation, the industry moved towards more effortless regrowth techniques. Root smudging, where the new growth is subtly painted to blend with the existing color, became increasingly popular. This, combined with the strategic use of lowlights, helped create a more natural, lived-in look. It reduced the harsh contrast between the grown-out root and the ends, making the color appear more cohesive and requiring fewer touch-ups.

Influences and Inspiration

The color trends for fall 2019 were heavily influenced by a desire for authenticity and nature. The deep, earthy tones were inspired by forest floors, rich soil, and dark tree bark. The warm reds and coppers drew from the imagery of changing maple leaves and autumnal landscapes. Fashion also played a significant role, with the era's penchant for luxurious textures and muted neutrals translating directly onto the head.