5 Old Money Brunette Hair Trends You Need to Try

Old money brunette hair is a sophisticated color trend that’s catching the eye of many women this year. This luxurious look features rich, deep brown shades that exude an air of timeless elegance. It’s a style that recalls the polished appearance of wealthy families from bygone eras, hence the “old money” moniker.

The popularity of this hair color trend stems from its versatility and low-maintenance nature. Women are drawn to its ability to complement various skin tones and its natural-looking finish. Unlike some bolder hair color trends, old money brunette offers a refined and classic aesthetic that works well in both professional and casual settings.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the characteristics that define this particular shade, the most popular variations, and how to achieve and maintain the look. We’ll also discuss styling techniques that can enhance the old money brunette aesthetic. Whether you’re considering a hair color change or simply curious about this trend, you’ll find valuable insights to help you decide if this style is right for you.

What makes a brunette shade “old money”?

The “old money” brunette trend has captured the attention of many women seeking a sophisticated and timeless hair color. This style exudes an air of effortless elegance, reminiscent of classic beauty icons. But what exactly sets this shade apart from other brunette hues?

At its core, the old money brunette look is about creating a rich, multidimensional color that appears natural and luxurious. It’s not a flat, one-dimensional brown, but rather a complex blend of tones that add depth and interest to your hair.

Rich, multidimensional color

The key to achieving this look lies in the layering of various brown shades. Your stylist might use a combination of cool and warm tones to create a nuanced color that catches the light in different ways. This multidimensional effect gives the impression of naturally beautiful hair that’s been kissed by the sun.

Subtle highlights and lowlights

One of the defining features of the old money brunette style is the use of subtle highlights and lowlights. These are not the chunky, contrasting streaks of color you might remember from the past. Instead, they’re delicate variations in tone that blend seamlessly with the base color.

The highlights are typically just a shade or two lighter than the base, while lowlights are slightly darker. This creates a soft, sun-kissed effect that looks natural and understated. The result? Hair that appears to have subtle variations in color, just like naturally brunette hair does in sunlight.

Natural-looking transitions

Another hallmark of this trend is the natural-looking transitions between different shades. There are no harsh lines or abrupt changes in color. Instead, the various tones melt into each other, creating a smooth gradient effect.

This technique, often achieved through balayage or other freehand coloring methods, mimics the way hair naturally lightens in the sun. The color is typically darker at the roots and gradually becomes lighter towards the ends, but in a very subtle, barely-noticeable way.

Glossy, healthy appearance

The old money brunette look is all about healthy, shiny hair. This glossy finish is what gives the color its luxurious appearance. To achieve this, your stylist might use glazes or other shine-enhancing treatments.

But the glossy look isn’t just about salon treatments. It also requires good hair care at home. Here are some tips to maintain that healthy shine:

• Use a sulfate-free shampoo to prevent stripping your color
• Apply a deep conditioning mask weekly
• Limit heat styling and always use a heat protectant
• Get regular trims to prevent split ends
• Consider using a silk pillowcase to reduce friction while you sleep

Timeless elegance

Perhaps the most defining characteristic of the old money brunette trend is its timeless elegance. This isn’t a flashy or trendy color that will look dated in a few months. It’s a classic, sophisticated look that transcends passing fads.

The beauty of this style is its versatility. It works well with various hair textures and lengths, and it complements a wide range of skin tones. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or going for a casual everyday look, this hair color provides a polished backdrop that enhances your overall appearance.

Ultimately, the old money brunette trend is about enhancing your natural beauty rather than dramatically changing it. It’s a subtle, refined approach to hair color that gives you a polished, put-together look without appearing overly done or artificial. If you’re looking for a hair color that exudes quiet confidence and timeless style, this might be the perfect choice for you.

Which old money brunette shades are popular this year?

This year’s old money brunette trend offers a range of sophisticated shades that cater to various skin tones and personal preferences. These hues combine depth, warmth, and subtle highlights to create a luxurious, multidimensional look. Let’s explore the most popular variations of this elegant hair color trend.

Chocolate chestnut

Chocolate chestnut is a rich, warm brown that evokes the color of polished wood. This shade is perfect for those who want to add depth to their natural brunette hair without going too dark. It’s a versatile color that complements many skin tones, especially those with warm undertones.

What makes chocolate chestnut stand out? It’s the subtle interplay of light and dark tones that create a sense of movement and dimension in your hair. This shade often incorporates very fine, slightly lighter streaks that mimic the effect of natural sunlight on brown hair.

Caramel-kissed mahogany

For a more dramatic take on the old money brunette trend, consider caramel-kissed mahogany. This shade combines the deep, reddish-brown tones of mahogany with subtle caramel highlights. The result is a striking yet sophisticated color that’s perfect for making a statement.

The caramel highlights in this shade are strategically placed to frame the face and add warmth to the overall color. They’re not chunky or obvious, but rather blend seamlessly with the mahogany base for a natural, sun-kissed effect.

Honey-infused espresso

If you prefer a darker brunette shade but still want some warmth and dimension, honey-infused espresso might be the perfect choice. This color starts with a deep, rich espresso base and incorporates very subtle honey-toned highlights.

The key to achieving this look is in the placement of the highlights. They’re typically concentrated around the face and through the ends of the hair, creating a gentle gradient effect. This technique adds brightness to your features while maintaining the overall dark, luxurious look of the espresso base.

Golden walnut

Golden walnut is a medium brown shade with warm, golden undertones. This color is particularly flattering for those with olive or golden skin tones, as it enhances the natural warmth in your complexion.

What sets golden walnut apart from other brunette shades? It’s the perfect balance of brown and gold tones that creates a luminous effect. Your hair will seem to glow from within, especially in natural light.

To maintain the vibrancy of this color, consider the following hair care tips:

• Use a color-depositing conditioner once a week
• Avoid washing your hair with hot water, as it can strip the color
• Apply a UV-protectant spray before sun exposure
• Use a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove product buildup
• Schedule regular touch-ups with your stylist to maintain the golden tones

Toasted hazelnut

Rounding out our list of popular old money brunette shades is toasted hazelnut. This is a neutral brown shade that sits right in the middle of the brunette spectrum – not too light, not too dark. It’s characterized by its balance of cool and warm tones, making it suitable for a wide range of skin tones.

Toasted hazelnut gets its name from the multidimensional color of roasted hazelnuts. It combines ashy brown tones with subtle warm highlights, creating a nuanced color that looks different in various lighting conditions.

One of the benefits of this shade is its low-maintenance nature. The mix of cool and warm tones means that as your hair grows out, the roots blend more seamlessly with the colored portions of your hair. This can extend the time between salon visits, making it a practical choice for busy women.

Each of these old money brunette shades offers its own unique take on the trend. Whether you prefer rich, dark tones or lighter, warmer hues, there’s an option that can work for you. The key is to choose a shade that complements your skin tone and matches your personal style. Your hairstylist can help you determine which of these colors will work best for you, taking into account your natural hair color, skin tone, and maintenance preferences.

How can you achieve the old money brunette look?

Achieving the old money brunette look requires careful planning and expert execution. This sophisticated hair color trend isn’t something you can easily replicate at home with a box dye. Let’s explore the steps you need to take to get this luxurious, multidimensional brunette shade.

The journey to your perfect old money brunette starts with a professional consultation. A skilled colorist can assess your current hair color, texture, and condition to determine the best approach for achieving your desired look.

Consultation with a colorist

During your consultation, be prepared to discuss your hair history, including any previous color treatments or chemical processes. Your colorist will want to know about your lifestyle, hair care routine, and how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to.

Bring photos of the old money brunette shades you like. Visual references help your colorist understand your expectations and can spark a productive conversation about what’s achievable for your hair.

Choosing the right shade for your skin tone

The perfect old money brunette shade should complement your skin tone, making you look fresh and radiant. Your colorist will consider your undertones when recommending a shade.

Cool skin tones often look best with ashier brunettes, while warm skin tones can pull off golden or reddish-brown hues beautifully. If you have neutral undertones, you’re in luck – most brunette shades will suit you well.

A quick way to determine your undertones is to look at the veins on your wrist:

• Blue or purple veins indicate cool undertones
• Green veins suggest warm undertones
• A mix of both points to neutral undertones

Remember, these are just guidelines. Your colorist’s expertise will be crucial in selecting the most flattering shade for you.

Balayage vs. traditional highlighting techniques

The old money brunette look often involves subtle highlights to create dimension and movement. Your colorist might suggest either balayage or traditional foil highlights to achieve this effect.

Balayage is a freehand painting technique that creates a soft, natural-looking gradient. It’s ideal for the old money brunette look because it mimics the way hair naturally lightens in the sun. The result is low-maintenance and grows out beautifully.

Traditional foil highlights, on the other hand, can create more precise, uniform lightening. This technique might be preferred if you want a more structured, defined highlight pattern.

Your colorist might even combine both techniques for a truly customized result. The choice between balayage and foil highlights (or a combination of both) will depend on your desired outcome and hair type.

Color-protecting hair care routine

Once you’ve achieved your perfect old money brunette, it’s crucial to maintain it with a proper hair care routine. Using the right products can help your color last longer and keep your hair healthy.

Start by switching to a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner. These products are gentler on your hair and won’t strip away your new color. Look for formulas specifically designed for brunette hair, as they often contain ingredients that help maintain richness and prevent brassiness.

Incorporate a weekly deep conditioning treatment into your routine. This will help keep your hair moisturized and prevent the dryness that can sometimes occur after coloring.

Heat styling can fade your color faster, so try to limit your use of hot tools. When you do use them, always apply a heat protectant first. And don’t forget about UV protection – the sun can fade your color too, so consider using products with UV filters or wearing a hat when you’re out in strong sunlight.

Regular touch-ups and maintenance

Even with the best care, your old money brunette will need regular maintenance to stay looking fresh. How often you’ll need touch-ups depends on several factors, including how fast your hair grows, how light or dark your natural color is compared to your new shade, and how well you maintain your color at home.

On average, you might need to visit the salon every 6-8 weeks for root touch-ups and to refresh your highlights. However, some women can stretch this to 10-12 weeks with proper at-home care.

Between salon visits, you can use color-depositing conditioners or glosses to maintain your brunette’s vibrancy. These products temporarily deposit color onto your hair, helping to keep it rich and shiny.

If you notice your color starting to look brassy or dull, ask your colorist about a gloss treatment. This quick, in-salon service can revive your color and add shine without the commitment of a full color service.

Achieving and maintaining the old money brunette look requires some effort, but the results are worth it. This timeless, sophisticated color can elevate your overall look and boost your confidence. With the right colorist, products, and care routine, you can enjoy beautiful, rich brunette hair that exudes elegance and style.

What are the best styling techniques for old money brunette hair?

Old money brunette hair exudes sophistication and timeless elegance. To truly showcase this luxurious color, you’ll want to style it in ways that highlight its depth and dimension. Let’s explore some of the best styling techniques that complement this rich, multifaceted hue.

Voluminous blowouts

A voluminous blowout is a go-to style for many women with old money brunette hair. This technique creates a polished, yet effortless look that’s perfect for both casual and formal occasions. To achieve this style:

1. Start with damp hair and apply a heat protectant.
2. Use a round brush to lift the roots as you blow-dry.
3. Direct the airflow downward on the hair shaft to create shine.
4. Once dry, set your style with large velcro rollers for added volume.
5. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the bounce without stiffness.

The key to a great blowout is to focus on creating volume at the roots while keeping the ends smooth and sleek. This contrast in texture helps to showcase the various tones in your brunette hair.

Soft, bouncy curls

Soft, bouncy curls can add a romantic touch to your old money brunette look. This style works particularly well for highlighting the different shades in your hair, as the curves of the curls catch the light in interesting ways.

To create this style, you have a few options. You can use a curling iron, hot rollers, or even achieve heat-free curls overnight with foam rollers or braids. Whichever method you choose, the goal is to create loose, natural-looking curls rather than tight ringlets.

After curling, gently run your fingers through your hair to break up the curls and create a more relaxed look. A light misting of flexible-hold hairspray will help your curls last throughout the day without looking crunchy or stiff.

Sleek, polished straight styles

For a more modern take on the old money brunette style, consider a sleek, straight look. This smooth style allows the richness of your hair color to take center stage. Here’s how to achieve this polished look:

• Begin with freshly washed and conditioned hair
• Apply a smoothing serum to damp hair
• Use a paddle brush and blow-dryer to straighten your hair
• Follow up with a flat iron for extra smoothness
• Finish with a shine spray for added gloss

Remember, the key to this style is healthy-looking hair. Regular deep conditioning treatments can help maintain the smoothness and shine that make this style so striking.

Effortless messy buns

The effortless messy bun is a versatile style that works well with old money brunette hair. It’s casual enough for everyday wear but can also be dressed up for more formal occasions. The slightly undone nature of this style allows different tones in your hair to peek through, creating visual interest.

To create a messy bun:

1. Start with day-old hair or add some dry shampoo for grip.
2. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, but don’t pull it all the way through on the last loop.
3. Wrap the loose ends around the base of the bun and secure with bobby pins.
4. Gently tug at sections of the bun to loosen it and create a more relaxed look.
5. Pull out a few face-framing pieces for a softer effect.

This style works particularly well if you have balayage or highlights, as the loose strands and textured bun will showcase the various shades in your hair.

Classic updos

For special occasions, a classic updo can be the perfect way to show off your old money brunette hair. Styles like French twists, chignons, or intricate braided updos all work beautifully with this rich hair color.

These styles often involve smoothing the hair and then pinning it up in various configurations. The smooth surface of the hair in these styles creates a perfect canvas to display the depth and richness of your brunette shade.

To add extra interest to your updo, consider incorporating some braided elements or leaving a few loose, curled strands around your face. These details can help to showcase the different tones in your hair and add a touch of softness to the overall look.

Regardless of which styling technique you choose, the key is to keep your hair looking healthy and well-maintained. Regular trims, deep conditioning treatments, and proper heat protection will help your old money brunette hair look its best, no matter how you style it.

Experiment with these different techniques to find the styles that work best for your hair texture and face shape. With the right styling, your old money brunette hair will always look chic, sophisticated, and effortlessly elegant.

How can you maintain your old money brunette color?

Maintaining your old money brunette color requires dedication and the right care routine. The rich, multidimensional hues that make this style so appealing can fade or become dull without proper attention. Let’s explore some effective strategies to keep your hair looking its best.

Using color-safe shampoo and conditioner

The foundation of any color maintenance routine starts with your daily cleansing and conditioning products. Color-safe shampoos and conditioners are specifically formulated to be gentle on dyed hair, helping to preserve the vibrancy and depth of your brunette shade.

What makes these products different? They typically contain lower levels of sulfates or are sulfate-free, which means they won’t strip away the color molecules from your hair. Additionally, they often include ingredients that help seal the hair cuticle, locking in color and moisture.

When selecting your products, look for those labeled “color-safe” or “color-preserving.” Some brands even offer lines specifically for brunette hair, which can help counteract brassiness and enhance the rich tones of your color.

Incorporating weekly hair masks

Think of hair masks as an intensive treatment for your colored locks. These deep-conditioning products can help nourish your hair, keeping it healthy and vibrant. For old money brunette hair, consider using a mask once a week to maintain the luster and depth of your color.

There are various types of masks available, each serving a different purpose:

• Moisturizing masks: These help combat dryness, which can make your color look dull.
• Protein treatments: They strengthen hair, reducing breakage and helping your color last longer.
• Color-depositing masks: These contain pigments that refresh your brunette shade between salon visits.

Apply your chosen mask to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Leave it on for the recommended time (usually 5-20 minutes) before rinsing thoroughly with cool water to seal the cuticle.

Limiting heat styling

While heat styling tools can create beautiful looks, they can also be detrimental to your hair color. Excessive heat can open up the hair cuticle, allowing color molecules to escape and leading to faster fading.

If you must use heat styling tools, follow these tips to minimize damage:

1. Always use a heat protectant product before styling.
2. Set your tools to the lowest effective temperature for your hair type.
3. Try to limit heat styling to 2-3 times per week.
4. Consider air-drying your hair whenever possible.

On days when you skip the heat, try heatless styling methods like braids or twists to create waves, or use rollers for volume without the damage.

Protecting hair from sun damage

Just as the sun can damage your skin, it can also fade your hair color. UV rays can break down the color molecules in your hair, leading to a loss of vibrancy and potential brassiness in your brunette shade.

To shield your hair from sun damage:

1. Wear a hat or scarf when spending extended time outdoors.
2. Use hair products that contain UV filters.
3. Apply a leave-in conditioner with SPF before sun exposure.
4. Rinse your hair with cool water after swimming to remove chlorine or salt water.

Remember, sun protection for your hair is important year-round, not just during summer months.

Scheduling regular salon visits

Even with the best at-home care, your old money brunette color will need professional attention to stay fresh and vibrant. Regular salon visits allow your stylist to touch up your roots, refresh your overall color, and address any issues like brassiness or fading.

How often should you visit the salon? This depends on several factors:

• Your natural hair color and how quickly it grows
• The specific shade of brunette you’ve chosen
• How well you maintain your color at home
• Your desired level of upkeep

On average, most women find they need to visit the salon every 6-8 weeks to maintain their old money brunette color. However, you might be able to extend this to 10-12 weeks with proper care and by using color-depositing products at home.

During your salon visits, don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns or changes you’ve noticed in your hair color. Your stylist can adjust your color formula or recommend treatments to keep your brunette looking rich and dimensional.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your old money brunette color looking fresh and luxurious for longer periods. Remember, the key to beautiful color is healthy hair, so focus on nourishing and protecting your locks in addition to preserving the color itself. With the right care routine, your brunette shade will continue to turn heads and exude that timeless, sophisticated charm.

Elevate Your Look with Timeless Brunette Elegance

The old money brunette trend offers a sophisticated and versatile hair color option that can enhance your natural beauty. By choosing the right shade for your skin tone and maintaining it with proper care, you can achieve a luxurious look that exudes confidence and style. From rich chocolate chestnut to warm golden walnut, these multidimensional brunette hues provide depth and movement that catch the light beautifully.

Styling your old money brunette hair allows you to showcase its rich tones and subtle highlights. Whether you opt for voluminous blowouts, soft curls, or sleek updos, the key is to keep your hair healthy and well-maintained. With the right combination of professional treatments and at-home care, including color-safe products and protective measures against heat and sun damage, you can enjoy your stunning brunette color for months to come. This timeless look is more than just a trend – it’s a statement of elegance that can become your signature style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is old money brunette hair?
A: Old money brunette hair is a sophisticated color trend featuring rich, deep brown shades with subtle highlights that create a multidimensional, luxurious look.

Q: How do I choose the right old money brunette shade for my skin tone?
A: Consider your undertones: cool skin tones often suit ashier brunettes, while warm skin tones complement golden or reddish-brown hues. Neutral undertones can work with most brunette shades.

Q: What’s the difference between balayage and traditional highlights for old money brunette hair?
A: Balayage is a freehand painting technique creating a soft, natural gradient, while traditional foil highlights offer more precise, uniform lightening. Both can achieve the old money brunette look.

Q: How often should I use a hair mask to maintain my old money brunette color?
A: Incorporate a hair mask into your routine once a week to keep your hair healthy and maintain the vibrancy of your color.

Q: Can I still use heat styling tools with old money brunette hair?
A: Yes, but limit heat styling to 2-3 times per week, always use a heat protectant, and set tools to the lowest effective temperature to minimize color fading.

Q: How can I protect my old money brunette hair from sun damage?
A: Wear a hat or scarf outdoors, use hair products with UV filters, apply leave-in conditioner with SPF, and rinse your hair after swimming in chlorinated or salt water.

Q: How often should I visit the salon to maintain my old money brunette color?
A: On average, salon visits every 6-8 weeks are recommended, but this can vary based on your natural hair color, growth rate, and at-home maintenance routine.

Q: What are some popular old money brunette shades?
A: Popular shades include chocolate chestnut, caramel-kissed mahogany, honey-infused espresso, golden walnut, and toasted hazelnut.