Why Chocolate Hair Color is the Chicest Brunette Trend You'll Want to Try

With so many celebrities embracing brunette hues recently, it’s clear that chocolate hair color is finally having its moment in the spotlight.

People are discovering that while brown hair is common, it’s far from boring. There are endless ways to personalize it so that it doesn’t blend into the crowd.

A particularly enticing version of this trend is the rich, dimensional look known as “chocolate cake” hair, which adds depth and vibrancy to traditional brown tones.

This delectable hue mimics the layers of a chocolate cake, with deep and luscious shades enhanced by balayage highlights that emphasize your features and bring a touch of brightness to the darker tones. Unlike the neutral and slightly ashy traditional brunette, this new take is all about richness and warmth. The highlights are what really set it apart, giving it that extra pop that turns heads and makes it a perfect summer-to-fall transition.

While light chocolate highlights are gaining popularity, darker shades like chocolate glaze are also stealing the spotlight. It’s all about embracing the warmth of chocolate tones, which range from deep, dark chocolate to lighter milk chocolate hues. The key is to determine whether you want to go warm, neutral, or cool with your chocolate shade.

The beauty of chocolate hair is its versatility. Whether you prefer balayage like Eiza Gonzales or Camila Morrone, full-fledged face-framing highlights like Mindy Kaling, or a singular tone like Kaia Gerber or Megan Markle, there’s a chocolate shade that will complement your style. The best part? Achieving this look often involves depositing color without having to lift your hair, making it a low-maintenance option for brunettes.

L to R: Instagram/ @eizagonzalez & @camillamorrone

L to R: Instagram/ @brycescarlett & @mindykaling

If you’re tempted to try the chocolate cake look, consider consulting with a professional stylist to find the right shade for your skin tone and preferences. If you’re more of a DIY enthusiast, there are plenty of at-home options to explore.

For those who prefer a demi-permanent option, consider using a deposit-only formula which doesn’t require lifting your natural color. Just remember to keep color maintenance in mind to avoid crossing the line from warm chocolate to brassy brown. A blue shampoo can help manage any unwanted orange tones that may appear as the color fades.

Investing in color care is essential to keep your chocolate hair looking fresh and vibrant. Consider using color-depositing masks and glosses to enhance shine and prolong the life of your color.

The beauty of chocolate hair is that it’s not only trendy but also low-maintenance. Regular touch-ups are simple, and with the right color formula, you can easily maintain your look at home. 

With chocolate hair color, brunettes everywhere can celebrate a chic, rich, and deliciously unique look that’s sure to turn heads.