Cherry chocolate brunette is this season's shade for 'the girl with the plum lips’

Heading toward summer, the hair colour dial inevitably heads in a lighter direction, but cherry chocolate brunette is emerging as the rich, delicious renegade shade that's making us reconsider.

Normally, burgundy brown tones are reserved for the colder months, but there's something about a cherry infusion into brunette strands that feels fruity, fun and perfect for summer, while still looking luxe. So, before you book in for brighter highlights, you need to get the topline on this almost-edible hair trend first.

What is cherry chocolate brunette?

Cherry chocolate brunette takes a classic chocolate brunette base then adds a juicy cherry glaze on top for a more subtle nod to the red hair trend that's continuing to track. The result should resemble a soft burgundy as the brown and red tones lean a little purple, like the colour of black cherries, versus the strawberry blonde of more copper reds.

Why is cherry chocolate brunette trending?

The shade offers the opportunity for brunettes to have more fun, plus it's a great option if you want to be kind to your hair – since you it swerves the bleach needed for brighter blonde looks. “Cherry chocolate brunette is such a great colour for someone looking for healthy-looking hair,” confirms top Sydney hair colourist, Laura Kim, who created one of our favourite renditions of the trend. “Everyone's skin tone is different, sometimes you will need a bit of a cherry tone or brunette for your skin tone,” she adds. It works particularly well on warm skin tones, but it can add a little drama on cool skin tones, too.

What to consider before getting cherry chocolate brunette hair?

If you're already starting with a deep base, the colour change isn't too drastic, but it helps if the cherry tone is already part of your wardrobe and colour palette. “Think about your lifestyle, outfits and makeup,” says Laura. “If you're the girl with plum lips and rosy blush, this shade is for you.” So cherry girls, this is very much your wavelength.

46 beautiful balayage hair ideas, plus everything to know about the technique

19 Photos

By Elle Turner

View Gallery

What to ask your stylist?

As for what to do once you hit the salon chair, “ask to go chocolate brunette with a plum or cherry gloss to spice things up,” says Laura. And remember, reference pics are always helpful to give your colourist a clear idea of what you've got in mind.

How to wear cherry chocolate brunette…

We've rounded up some of our favourite ways to wear cherry chocolate brunette.

For more from GLAMOUR's Senior Beauty Editor, Elle Turner, follow her on Instagram @elleturneruk

Sign up to our newsletter for more daily content straight to your inbox.