Ash Brown Is Here to Help You Lighten Up for Fall

If you’re tired of one-dimensional brunette shades, you need to go edgier and we’ve got just the thing. Our newest color obsession? Ash brown. Deeper shades are very fall-appropriate, but this year, transitional, often barely-there highlights are pulling ahead of the pack.

Ash brown is the perfect hybrid since its light highlights make dark strands pop. It’s also pretty low-maintenance because you have enough to deal with this season. And you can choose where you want to fall on the hair color spectrum depending upon your cut and base shade.

Still not convinced? Here are some ash brown examples straight from Instagram that prove it’s the perfect shade for fall.

Chill Out

This ash brown balayage is a big fall mood. From the soft and subtle gradient to the seamless blending, everything just works.

Image: @xcellentbeautysalon

Stay Warm

The best way to fake volume is to opt for a deep ombre that starts mid-crown. You can stick with your dark roots, but add a smoky top layer to give your locks a little complexity.

Image: @ranypink

Play It Safe

If you don’t want to step too far out of the brunette box, ask your stylist to go with subtle ash babylights.

Image: @ra.chelstyles

Barely Blonde

We are in awe of this bright brunette look. The golden edges, the ashy caramel crown — it’s pure perfection.

Image: @leysahairandmakeup

Go for Gold

These blond highlights are almost as good as gold.

Image: @cellashairstyling

Just a Kiss

Strategic ashy accents are the low-key way to embrace the trend.

Image: @loewyboutiquesalon

Fade to Blonde

Have your highlights start in the middle of your mane for a gradual effect.

Image: @hairby_mayu_

Back to Brunette

If you’re tired of being blonde, a multifaceted ash brown shade is an easy way to go brunette.

Image: @elysecalverthair