20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season!

If you’re itching for a fresh brunette look with sunlit highlights, you’re in the right place. This season asks for warmth and depth, and brunette colors with bright highlights catch the light in both day and night photos. I pulled together 20 stunning options you can try this season, from caramel melts to cool ash blends that still feel natural. These ideas work with most hair types and skin tones, and they’re easy to tweak to fit your personal style.

Here is why I made this post. I keep hearing from readers who want color that shines without a big upkeep or loud change. I wanted to give you real ideas you can talk about with your stylist, not a dream list that stays in a folder. You can mix and match ideas to fit your life, whether you work long hours or love weekend getaways.

Who this is for. If you love hair that looks rich and dimensional, this is for you. If your base is brunette and you want more depth and sparkle without a dramatic rework, this post is for you. If you want color ideas that stay fresh with simple at home care, you’ll find them here.

What you’ll get. Twenty ideas described in plain language, each with the vibe, the best skin tones, how to ask for it, and easy upkeep tips. You’ll see shade families like caramel, mocha, chocolate, hazelnut, ash brown, and gold highlight accents. I also note whether the look suits warm or cool undertones and what light does to the color in real life.

How to use this guide. Start by picking one or two looks that grab you. Save reference photos and bring them to your next salon visit. Tell your colorist you want a balanced technique such as balayage or foilyage plus a gloss to seal the color. Choose a shade depth that fits your natural base and your lifestyle, then add a color-safe care routine to keep shine.

Next steps. Read through, picture yourself in the mirror, and think about maintenance. This guide is for everyday people who want a salon vibe at home level effort. If you try one of these looks, share a photo and tag a friend who loves a fresh brunette routine. Let’s make this season glow with color that feels real.

Contents

1. Caramel Balayage Bliss

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 1. Caramel Balayage Bliss

Caramel Balayage Bliss

You want warmth in your hair that looks real and easy to care for. Caramel balayage on dark brown hair gives that glow. Soft caramel highlights are painted through the mid lengths to the ends. The result is a sun-kissed look that blends as it grows out. No harsh regrowth line, no constant touch ups.

Here is why this works. The balayage technique creates depth with lighter strands catching the light. It works well on both cool and warm skin tones. You can adjust the shade for your base color and still keep a natural finish.

Next steps for care. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to keep the caramel from fading. A color-safe conditioner helps lock in moisture. When you style, go with loose waves or a gentle bend at the ends to lift the highlights. This makes the caramel color pop even in everyday lighting. If you want more contrast, pair a chocolate brown base with caramel pieces for a richer look.

Seasonal tips. Caramel balayage looks great in sun and indoors alike. It suits many hair textures, from straight to wavy. For very dark hair, ask your colorist for a soft lift rather than drastic changes.

Maintenance tips. Schedule a gloss every 6-8 weeks. Use heat protection before styling. Brush with care to avoid breakage.

1. Caramel Balayage Bliss

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2. Ashy Blonde Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 2. Ashy Blonde Highlights

You want a brunette that feels fresh and cool. Ashy blonde highlights give that look with little risk. They create a bright contrast that stays chic, not brash.

Ashy tones lift dark chocolate or espresso hair. They add a modern twist to a classic shade. You get lightness you want and depth you need.

This style lets you enjoy blonde vibes without going fully blonde. It softens strong colors and adds motion and shine to your hair.

Maintenance is simple. Use purple shampoo once a week to keep brass away. Follow with a color-safe conditioner. A monthly gloss refreshes the ash and keeps the tone even.

Hair texture matters. It works with a sleek straight style or loose waves. Face-framing pieces brighten your features and fit many looks. Your colorist can tailor the ash blend to your base, usually around 20–40 percent of the length.

This option suits cool or neutral skin tones best. If you have warm undertones, ask for a softer ash that balances. Do a strand test to see how the shade sits in daylight.

Next steps: plan a consult, pick your ash level, and test with a small highlight.

2. Ashy Blonde Highlights

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3. Rich Chocolate with Caramel Drizzle

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 3. Rich Chocolate with Caramel Drizzle

You want hair that looks full, healthy, and easy to care for. This mix of chocolate brown with caramel highlights can give that result.

– Base color: a smooth, dark chocolate shade that reads natural.

– Caramel highlights: thin, warm ribbons that catch the light.

– The effect: depth and a soft glow without loud contrast.

Choose your shade range. Go deep espresso for a bold look or lighter milk chocolate for a gentler touch. The caramel sits between, adding depth without shouting.

Why it works: the color pair creates dimension, so hair looks thicker. It stays wearable for daily life and for special moments.

Where to place highlights: frame the face with caramel near the cheekbones, blend lighter ribbons through the mid-lengths, and add a few wisps on top for lift.

Care and upkeep: use color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Rinse with cool water after washing and shield hair from strong sun.

Style notes: curls make the colors pop; a gentle wave reveals the caramel glow.

Next steps: bring a photo to your stylist and request a two to three tone caramel balayage. Do a strand test first.

Common questions: fading happens; a light toner can refresh the color. Plan touch-ups every 6–8 weeks.

Rich chocolate with caramel highlights is the perfect way to add depth to your brunette hair color. Choose your shade wisely – a little warmth goes a long way in creating that healthy, effortless glow!

3. Rich Chocolate with Caramel Drizzle

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4. Subtle Golden Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 4. Subtle Golden Highlights

If you want warmth without a loud change, subtle golden highlights are your best bet. They blend with brunette hair, adding warmth and light, like a soft sun kiss. The glow brightens your look while keeping the color feeling natural and effortless. It’s easy to wear all day and into the night.

Here is why this look works

This soft glow suits many brunette shades and feels natural.

Where it shines

This look shines best on straight hair or soft waves. Still, it adds warmth to any texture without overpowering your base color.

Application options

– For a natural blend, ask your colorist to weave light gold in thin strands.

– If you DIY, choose a kit labeled for brunettes and apply where light would catch.

– Ask for a preview under a lamp to see how it shifts in daylight.

Care and upkeep

To keep color bright, use a weekly hydrating mask and color-safe shampoo. Limit heat and shield hair with a color spray. Protect from sun and wind with a lightweight UV shield daily.

Next steps

Start with a strand test to see how the shade sits in your light in person. Then book a quick color consult and refresh every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the glow bright and soft.

4. Subtle Golden Highlights

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5. Bold Auburn Streaks

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 5. Bold Auburn Streaks

Want a quick way to brighten your brunette hair? Bold auburn streaks can add heat without a full color change. The mix of deep brown and bright auburn creates a warm, eye-catching contrast that catches light as you move. It works well for the fall season and can blend into winter looks with little effort.

Auburn highlights come in a range—from soft copper to rich burgundy. You can pick something subtle or a noticeable statement. Here is why you should chat with a colorist: they’ll match the shade to your skin tone, your base color, and your hair health. If you want to try at home, start with a small strand to test how the color reads on you.

– Placement ideas: face-framing streaks to brighten your eyes, bold streaks through the crown for drama, or hidden underlayers for a peekaboo effect.

– Styling tips: long, layered hair shows off the color best. Curl or wave to make the auburn pop. Use a color-safe shampoo and cool water to keep tones true.

Care and upkeep: plan touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks. Fades tend toward copper tones in sun or chlorine. Protect with a UV spray and condition well to keep the shine.

Next steps: decide where the color lives on your head. Book a consult or try a low-commitment kit to test the vibe.

5. Bold Auburn Streaks

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Hair Color Style Description Maintenance Tips Cost
Caramel Balayage Bliss Warm caramel highlights on dark brown hair for a sun-kissed look. Use sulfate-free shampoo, schedule gloss every 6-8 weeks. $8.97 (shampoo)
Ashy Blonde Highlights Cool ashy tones added to dark chocolate hair for a fresh look. Use purple shampoo weekly, follow with color-safe conditioner. $9.97 (purple shampoo)
Rich Chocolate with Caramel Drizzle Deep chocolate base with caramel highlights for dimension. Use color-safe products, rinse with cool water. $7.13 (shampoo)
Bold Auburn Streaks Bright auburn highlights for a warm contrast. Plan touch-ups every 6-8 weeks, protect with UV spray. $9.49 (conditioner)
Sun-Kissed Honey Effects Golden honey highlights for a natural glow. Condition weekly, use color-safe shampoo. $24.00 (shampoo)
Icy Cool Highlights Platinum or icy blue tones added to brunette hair. Schedule refreshes every 4-6 weeks, use color-safe products. $13.00 (heat protectant)

6. Sun-Kissed Honey Effects

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 6. Sun-Kissed Honey Effects

Sun-Kissed Honey Effects

Want a glow that brightens your brunette without turning it blonde? Sun-kissed honey highlights add warmth that looks natural and fresh. The golden tones catch the light and give your hair a beachy vibe year round.

This style works best on medium to dark brunettes. It brightens without overpowering your base color. You get a sunlit effect that flatters many skin tones.

Here is how to get the look and keep it vibrant:

– Use a balayage or ombre technique for a soft, natural blend.

– Pick honey gold shades that are one to two levels lighter than your base.

– See a pro for application and ask for a strand test to check the tone.

– Plan regular conditioning to keep shine and bounce.

– Use color-safe shampoo and a heat protectant. Rinse with cool water to lock in tone.

These honey highlights are forgiving. A simple routine keeps them bright and smooth.

Then maintenance tips:

– Condition weekly and mix in a deep conditioner every now and then.

– Protect from sun and chlorine with UV spray.

Seasonal note:

– This look shines in summer but stays fresh all year.

Next steps:

– If you want a sun-kissed glow, chat with your stylist about your brunette options today.

6. Sun-Kissed Honey Effects

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7. Icy Cool Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 7. Icy Cool Highlights

Icy cool highlights on dark brunette

You want a look that feels fresh but not flashy. Icy cool highlights give that clean, modern vibe. Think platinum tones or a hint of icy blue tucked into rich brown hair. The contrast is bold, yet it stays polished.

This look shines most with a straight or sleek bob. It also works on long hair if you keep the highlights thin and well placed. Face framing panels or peekaboo slices can wake up your features without overdoing it.

Here is why it works: the cool tones lift depth in your brown base and catch light in different ways. In bright rooms, the icy strands glow. Under party lights, they look electric and chic.

Next steps to try it:

– Talk to your colorist about starting around level 5–6 brunette and using a cool-toned toner.

– Decide on placement: all-over balayage for a soft drift, or sharp face-framing pieces for drama.

– Use color-safe, color-preserving products and rinse with cool water.

– Protect the color with heat protection and limit sun exposure.

Maintenance tips:

– Schedule refreshes every 4–6 weeks.

– Keep the tones cool with a blue or ash tint if brass shows.

Possible downsides:

– Fading happens faster with heat; keep routines consistent.

– If your natural color changes, the contrast can look odd.

Icy cool highlights on dark brunette create a fresh, modern vibe. Embrace the bold contrast while keeping it polished – it’s all about the details that elevate your brunette hair color with highlights!

7. Icy Cool Highlights

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8. Dusty Rose and Brunette Combo

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 8. Dusty Rose and Brunette Combo

Dusty rose highlights on brunette give you a soft pop of color without shouting. The dusty rose sits between pink and mauve, so it reads romantic and modern in one sweep. You get depth, shine, and a hint of edge all at once.

Here is how to pull it off.

Base first: keep a rich brunette as your canvas. A deep shade makes the rose glow.

Placement matters: try soft face-framing pieces or a few highlights around the crown. It brightens your features.

Blend and tone: ask for a gentle blend so the rose fades into your natural color. Cooler tones stay chic longer; warmer ones fade faster.

Length and texture: it works on short, medium, or long hair. Soft curls or beachy waves boost the romantic vibe.

Work with a pro: a colorist who knows how to blend pink tones with brunette is essential. Bring photos you love and be clear about your goals.

Care and upkeep: use color-safe shampoo, wash in cool water, and limit heat. A UV protectant spray helps keep the shade from fading.

Practical tips: refresh at home with a gloss every 6–8 weeks or after a salon visit, and plan touch-ups near roots.

8. Dusty Rose and Brunette Combo

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9. Soft Copper Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 9. Soft Copper Highlights

Soft copper highlights add a warm glow to brunette hair. They brighten without turning you light. They also bring retro charm with a modern edge.

Best fit

They look best on warm undertones. If your skin has peach tones, copper flatters nicely.

Where it shows

Layered cuts let copper shine from different angles. Short layers catch light at the crown. Longer strands reveal depth toward the ends.

Care and maintenance

Use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Rinse with cool water to lock the shade. Apply heat protection before styling. Do a weekly copper gloss.

Keeping it fresh

Plan a touch-up every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on growth and fade.

At home vs salon

In the salon, ask for copper through mid-lengths. For DIY, use a semi-permanent gloss labeled for brunettes. Do a strand test first.

Reality check

Copper fades with sun and washing. You may see orange tones if you skip toning. A gloss refresh keeps the shade balanced.

Next steps

If you try this, gather a few photo ideas and talk options with your stylist. Soft copper gives a warm, not loud, change for many brunettes. If you want more glow, add a copper glaze in the last 5 minutes of your color service. Protect the color from sun with a hat or UV spray.

9. Soft Copper Highlights

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10. Purple Hues for Edginess

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 10. Purple Hues for Edginess

Shade range and placement

Want a bold, edgy look without wild changes? Purple highlights on brunette hair can give that pop you want.

Purple shades range from soft lavender to deep plum. Pick a tone that fits your style and skin tone.

– Longer hair shows the contrast best, letting purple peek from under the brown.

– For a natural blend, ask your stylist for balayage or foils that place color where light hits.

– If you dye at home, start with a semi-permanent shade for a reversible change.

– Seal the color with a color-safe shampoo and a color-protecting conditioner.

– Rinse with cool water to keep the pigment intact.

– Style matters: waves or sleek straight work well to reveal the tones.

– Refresh the color every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain brightness.

– Sun, chlorine, and heat can fade color, so wear a hat or use UV filters.

– Try face-framing pops of plum on bangs or ends for a modern twist.

Tips for care and maintenance

Test a strand first so you know how the shade reads on your skin in real light.

Warm skin tones tend to glow with lilac-lean shades, while cool skin tones can pull toward plum.

If you want the edge without a big dye job, pick a semi-permanent option.

10. Purple Hues for Edginess

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11. Strawberry Blonde Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 11. Strawberry Blonde Highlights

You want a softer, warmer glow on your brunette hair. Strawberry blonde highlights bring that glow to life without a big color jump.

What this look does for you

– It adds sun-kissed warmth and creates gentle depth in brown shades.

– The hint of pink-gold blends with your base so it looks natural, not full-on dyed.

– It flatters many skin tones and shines best in light curls or loose waves.

How to get the ideal shade

– Ask for a strawberry-blonde touch that hugs your brown base. Aim for a soft mix rather than stark stripes.

– Request a seamless blend where the highlights start mid-length and softly frame the face.

– Choose a warm copper or pink-gold tint for a natural, radiant finish in real daylight.

Next steps to stunning results

– Book a salon appointment every 6 to 8 weeks. Regular refreshes keep the color vibrant and the contrast balanced.

– Bring photo examples to show your colorist the exact level of warmth you want.

– Use color-safe, hydrating products to protect the glow between visits.

Maintenance and care

– Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and a nourishing conditioner to prevent dullness.

– Apply a heat protectant before styling to keep the color from fading.

– Deep-condition once a week to maintain softness and shine.

Effort you can manage

– Dry with a cool setting to lock in shine.

– Try soft curls with a 1-inch wand for a flattering, easy look.

11. Strawberry Blonde Highlights

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12. Ombre with a Twist

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 12. Ombre with a Twist

Here is why you might love a brunette ombre with highlights. It starts dark at the roots and fades to lighter ends. The extra highlights add depth and keep the color looking alive. You can keep the look soft or make it bold.

How to make it work for you:

– Pick a fade that fits you. A gentle shift looks natural; a sharp line makes a statement.

– Choose highlight shades. Caramel and honey blend nicely with brown; lighter toffee tones bring a warm glow.

– Decide how to apply. Foil highlights lift; balayage gives a sunlit blend.

– Think about a root smudge to help color grow out without a line.

Care and styling tips:

– Trim ends regularly and use a hydrating mask for shine.

– Use heat protection if you style with heat. Air-dry when you can to slow fade.

– Create movement with loose curls or waves to show off the color change.

What to know before you start:

– Very dark hair or gray needs extra time and care.

– Some fade is natural as hair grows out. Plan a refresh every 6–12 weeks.

Next steps:

Ready to try it? Talk with a color pro, bring photos, and test a strand first to see how the glow sits on you.

Elevate your look with a brunette ombre and highlights! Choose a fade that flatters you, and play with caramel or honey tones for depth that turns heads.

12. Ombre with a Twist

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13. Mocha with a Lift

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 13. Mocha with a Lift

If you want a color that feels rich but not heavy, try mocha hair with caramel or toffee highlights. The base is a chocolate shade. Lighter strands peek through and lift the look.

Here is why this combo works. The mocha base adds depth. Caramel accents catch light and create dimension. The result is hair that looks fuller, more vibrant, not flat.

This shade fits casual days and special occasions. Style with loose waves to let highlights glow. For a sleek finish, wear straight hair with some shine.

Maintenance is simple. Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Treat your hair with a deep conditioning mask weekly. A gloss or glaze every month refreshes warmth and keeps the highlights bright.

Practical tips to get the look: ask for balayage or foils to weave caramel or toffee through mocha. Balayage grows out softly, foils give controlled brightness.

Who should try it? Warm skin tones shine in mocha with caramel highlights. If your undertones are cool, the contrast can still work with the right placement.

Next steps: bring a photo to your stylist and note the glow you want. Start with a consult, then plan a gentle transition if you are new to highlights.

Elevate your style with mocha and caramel highlights! This chic combo adds depth and dimension, making your brunette hair color with highlights truly shine for any occasion.

13. Mocha with a Lift

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14. Burnished Chestnut Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 14. Burnished Chestnut Highlights

Why burnished chestnut highlights work

Are you chasing a shade that feels polished without going fake? Burnished chestnut highlights offer a warm, sophisticated glow on dark brown hair. The mix of deep brown with coppery chestnut makes strands look healthier. You get depth in every angle, and light bounces off with a shine. This blend works especially well on medium to long hair, so the color can move and shimmer. It also looks great in warm lighting and bronze makeup. That helps the color stay vibrant.

How to get the look

Here is why it fits many looks: it brightens the face, it blends softly with your natural color, and it adds a touch of luxury without loud contrast.

– Start with a rich chocolate base.

– Then add chestnut highlights in a balayage or foil pattern.

– For a sun-kissed effect, go with balayage; for more drama, ask for foils.

– Keep the edges seamless so the highlight grows out naturally.

Maintenance and care

Schedule touch-ups every 6-8 weeks. Use a color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Add a weekly gloss or glaze to keep the warmth vivid. Protect color from sun and heat with a UV spray.

Next steps

Talk to your stylist about placement and bring shade photos. With care, this look stays classy.

14. Burnished Chestnut Highlights

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15. Twinkling Rose Gold

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 15. Twinkling Rose Gold

You’re after a shade that adds a soft glow to your brunette base. Rose gold highlights do this and more. The pink and gold mix catches light, giving a sparkling, refined look.

Why it works on brunettes

– It blends pink and gold for a subtle, twinkling effect.

– It flatters warm and cool undertones, helping most skin look brighter.

– You can keep it gentle or push it bolder with placement.

Where to place it

– Face-framing pieces wake up your features.

– Balayage through the mid-lengths adds sun-kissed depth.

– Foil highlights give a pop without overpowering the base.

How to style it

– Tousled waves or loose curls show off the shimmer.

– A straight, glossy finish looks modern and clean.

– A clear gloss boosts that pink-gold glow.

Care and upkeep

– Use color-protecting, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.

– Wash with cool water to slow fading.

– Apply heat protection and limit hot tools.

– Schedule a glaze every 6–8 weeks to refresh the tone.

FAQ at a glance

– Will it fade quickly? It fades with washing; gentler care helps.

– Can I do it at home? A pro application gives the best blend, but kits exist.

– Is it pricey? Costs vary by salon and length; good maintenance saves money over time.

If you love the look, chat with your stylist about placement and a maintenance plan that fits your routine.

16. Bright Copper Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 16. Bright Copper Highlights

You want warmth and sparkle in brunette hair. Bright copper highlights add a sunlit glow to dark locks. The orange-red shade catches light and makes your color pop. Pairing bright copper with a deep brown creates a bold contrast that stays chic. Copper shade options vary from light strawberry copper to rich copper with gold notes. Copper flatters many skin tones, especially warm undertones.

Face-framing copper pieces brighten your eyes. Crown sweeps give growth-friendly dimension. A soft balayage can keep it natural as it grows out. Wear it straight for a refined look or toss in loose curls for a playful vibe. This season, copper highlights are a popular choice.

Care and maintenance

To keep the color bright, wash with color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Rinse with cool water to seal the shade. Use a color-depositing gloss every 3-4 weeks. Always apply a heat protectant before styling. Limit sun and chlorine exposure, or wear a scarf or hat. Schedule touch-ups every 6-8 weeks to keep the shade lively. After color services, ask for a gloss to lock in shine.

Next steps

Show this guide to your colorist and ask for copper-focused options. Tell them where you want the color: around the face, around the crown, or all-over. Bring photos to show the exact copper tone you love.

16. Bright Copper Highlights

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17. Mellow Yellow Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 17. Mellow Yellow Highlights

Want a playful lift for your brunette hair without a full color change? Mellow yellow highlights can give you a sunny, friendly vibe that’s still easy to manage.

– Shade range to choose: soft lemon for a gentle glow, or bold canary for a bright statement. You can mix tones for a natural sun-kissed look or go all in on a punchier finish.

– How to wear it: loose beachy waves make the yellow stand out without looking flashy. Face-framing accents give you a cheerful touch at the front, while a crown of small highlights adds depth.

– Where it works: best on medium to dark browns, especially if your base has cool or neutral undertones. It reads warm and fresh in summer light.

Here is why this style fits right now: the yellow pops catch the eye in photos, videos, and daylight. It’s easy to grow out, and you can switch up the intensity anytime.

Care and upkeep:

– Use color-protecting shampoo and conditioner to keep the yellow from dulling.

– Protect with a heat shield before styling and limit heat use.

– A weekly gentle toning mask or a purple-tinted conditioner helps prevent brassiness and keeps the yellow lively.

Tips for best results:

– Ask for partial balayage or face-framing highlights so you don’t have to dye every strand.

– Refresh at the salon every 6–8 weeks, or do a home gloss to revive color.

Next steps: plan a quick consult with your stylist to map out the shade you love and the placement that flatters your skin tone.

17. Mellow Yellow Highlights

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18. Smoky Gray Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 18. Smoky Gray Highlights

Smoky Gray Highlights

Are you craving a shade that feels bold but not loud? Smoky gray highlights give brunette hair a fresh edge. They blend the deep warmth of brown with cool gray strands, creating a chic contrast. The look suits many brown base tones and adds depth without changing your color.

Any brunette can wear smoky gray, from dark espresso to warm chestnut. The trick is where the gray sits on your hair. Ask for fine, sun-kissed slices woven through the mid-length and around the face so the contrast looks natural. A professional foiling or balayage technique yields an even, seamless result.

To keep the shade true for you, use color-preserving shampoos and cool water. Moisturize with a weekly deep conditioner. Limit heat and always use a heat shield. Plan touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks to refresh the contrast. If you skip, roots may show and the gray may fade against the brown.

Straight hair makes the gray pop, while soft waves soften the edge. A well-timed gloss or color-refresh can keep the hue vibrant. If gray tones fade, a dash of ash-toned glaze helps.

Here is why this trend works for you: it adds dimension, not a full dye job. Next steps for you: collect photos, talk about base color and level, and set a maintenance plan.

18. Smoky Gray Highlights

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19. Bright Magenta Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 19. Bright Magenta Highlights

You want color on brunette hair without losing your natural shade. Bright magenta highlights give a bold pop that stays chic. In sunlight the magenta spark seems to glow on dark brown hair. You will notice a red undertone in some lights. With proper care, the shade lasts several weeks.

– Thin ribbons through the mid-lengths for a peekaboo effect.

– A few strands at the temples frame your face.

– Distribute color around the crown to move with your hair.

How to get it right

– Ask your stylist to lift only the strands you want colored.

– Choose magenta that fits your skin tone and hair level.

– If your hair is very dark, you may need a gentle lightener or a glaze.

– If you want a softer look, choose a shade closer to fuchsia.

– Aim for a balanced pattern; avoid big blocks on one side.

Care and upkeep

– Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner.

– Wash with cool water to slow fading.

– Protect with a heat spray and limit hot tools.

– Schedule touch-ups every 4–8 weeks.

What to expect and tips

– Magenta fades with washes; refresh with a color-depositing conditioner.

– Protect from sun and chlorine to keep the color longer.

– Add a purple-tinted gloss between visits for extra shine.

Next steps

– Bring photos, ask for a patch test, and talk upkeep with your stylist.

19. Bright Magenta Highlights

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20. Espresso with Highlights

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - 20. Espresso with Highlights

An espresso brunette with highlights gives a classy, timeless vibe. You get a deep base that feels rich, with lighter pieces that catch the eye. The mix adds depth without shouting. This look suits most hair types and moves from day to night with ease.

Why this pairing shines

– It adds dimension to flat brunette shades.

– It stays soft and easy to maintain.

– It shifts from work to weekend with little drama.

Color options to try

Soft caramel highlights bring warmth that catches light around the face.

Milk chocolate accents create a gentle, chocolatey contrast.

Honey gold specks mimic sun-kissed strands for a brighter, yet subtle effect.

Next steps to get it right

– Start with a true espresso base. If your natural color is lighter, go a shade deeper for clear contrast.

– Pick 2–3 highlight tones that harmonize with your skin tone.

– Ask for finely woven highlights so the color looks natural and blends with your base.

Styling and maintenance

– Style in sleek waves or a straight blowout to showcase the depth.

– Use color-protecting shampoo and conditioner. Wash less often to keep color looking fresh.

– Shield the hair from sun and chlorine with a UV protect spray.

Give this look a try with a pro or at home with careful foiling. It delivers a refined, lasting result.

20. Espresso with Highlights

Editor’s Choice

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🌟

BEGINNER

Try Caramel Balayage

Opt for caramel balayage on dark brown hair for a natural, sun-kissed glow that’s easy to maintain.

🔥

QUICK WIN

Add Bold Auburn Streaks

Incorporate bold auburn streaks for a vibrant contrast that brightens your brunette look instantly.

🎨

PRO TIP

Experiment with Dusty Rose

Use dusty rose highlights for a soft pop of color that balances romance and modernity in your brunette hair.

ADVANCED

Go for Smoky Gray

Consider smoky gray highlights to add a chic edge to your brunette hair without overwhelming brightness.

☀️

ESSENTIAL

Embrace Sun-Kissed Honey

Choose sun-kissed honey highlights for a warm, natural look that enhances your brunette base without drastic changes.

💖

WARNING

Bold Purple Highlights

For a daring twist, try purple highlights on brunette hair for an edgy yet sophisticated style.

Conclusion

20 Stunning Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights You Must Try This Season! - Conclusion

Brunette hair colors with highlights offer a magnificent variety for anyone looking to change their style for the season.

From soft caramels to bold purples, there’s a stunning option for everyone. Embrace your inner stylist, and don’t be afraid to try something new! Which of these highlighted looks are you excited to rock? Share your favorites and let’s celebrate beautiful brunette hair!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Brunette Hair Colors with Highlights for This Season?

This season, you’ll want to explore a mix of styles like Caramel Balayage, Rich Chocolate with Caramel Drizzle, and Bold Auburn Streaks. Each of these options offers a unique blend of warmth and depth, perfect for catching the light and enhancing your brunette hair color with highlights!

How Do I Choose the Right Highlights for My Brunette Hair?

Choosing the right highlights depends on your base color and the effect you want. For a warm glow, consider Subtle Golden Highlights or Soft Copper Highlights. If you prefer a cooler look, go for Ashy Blonde Highlights or Icy Cool Highlights. It’s all about finding what complements your unique style!

How Can I Maintain My Brunette Hair Color with Highlights?

To keep your brunette hair color with highlights looking vibrant, use color-safe shampoos and conditioners. Regular deep conditioning treatments will help maintain moisture. Also, schedule touch-ups every 6-8 weeks to keep those highlights fresh and prevent dullness. Your hair will thank you for the extra care!

Are There Any Trending Highlight Techniques for Brunette Hair?

Absolutely! Techniques like Balayage and Ombre are trending right now for brunette hair. These styles offer a soft, natural transition between colors, adding dimension and depth without harsh lines. Plus, they look stunning whether you choose subtle or bold highlights!

Can I Go from Dark Brunette to a Lighter Shade with Highlights?

Yes, you can definitely go from dark brunette to a lighter shade with highlights! Techniques such as Sun-Kissed Honey Effects or Bright Copper Highlights can lighten your look while still maintaining your brunette base. Just make sure to consult with a professional stylist to achieve the best results!

Related Topics

brunette hair color

highlights

caramel balayage

summer hair trends

easy hair colors

bold highlights

ombre hairstyle

hair color ideas

fashion hair trends

subtle highlights

brunette styles

seasonal hair color

3 Comments

  1. Towfiquir Rahman October 4, 2025
  2. Kiet Lê October 4, 2025
  3. Bùi Xuân Hùng October 4, 2025

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