SHADE of the SEASON

Cancel that half head of highlights and ditch the ombré because rich chocolate brown is officially summer’s hottest hair colour

When the weather warms up, we often take it as a sign that it’s time to lighten up our locks. The first hint of summer sees us heading to the hairdresser for an extra helping of beachy blonde highlights. But this year, we’re planning to side-step the traditional golden refresh because rich chocolate brown is the shade of the season.

From Cate Blanchett to Emma Stone, the A-list has already been embracing more natural brown tones. ‘Super-glossy, glass-like brunette tones have been seen on red carpets of late,’ explains colour specialist Katie Mulcahy. ‘I’ve seen a shift from softer, sun-kissed balayage styles to more dramatic, icy chocolate brown shades.’

But what do you do when you don’t have a glam squad on speed-dial? Here are all the ingredients you need for

2019’s most indulgent colour trend.

SET THE TONE

There’s more than one way to become (or go back to) brunette. For those who don’t want a dramatic change, the ‘dirty brunette’ trend sees stylists using neutral beige toner to mellow out balayage or ombré hair. Then there’s this season’s ‘chocolate cake hair’, where thin caramel undertones are used to add depth and richness to dark brunette shades. Or an icy chocolate block colour works well for sharp bobs and long, straight hair.

LOCK IN COLOUR

You’ve set the tone, but how do you maintain it in between salon sessions, especially with those first greys coming through? Plantur 39’s new Colour Brown Phyto-caffeine Shampoo and Colour Conditioner are the perfect duo for a rich brunette colour. The shampoo helps develop a deeper brown, bolder shade with each wash, building up colour intensity and concealing greys and roots, while the conditioner works to lock in and intensify the colour, adding gloss and shine.

GO FOR GLOSS

The secret to this season’s hot chocolate shade is a high gloss finish. On top of using a colourintensifying shampoo, experts recommend a gloss-boosting argan oil for those who have dry or frizzy hair, or a weekly coconut oil treatment for locks prone to breakage. Using a hairbrush with natural bristles will also distribute the oils in your hair, making it glossier. Katie adds: ‘If you’re lucky enough to have natural brunette locks, you may find that you lack the high shine and richness that colouring can provide. By using a shampoo and conditioner for brunette hair, this will add vibrance and depth, keeping it looking glossy and nourished.’

BANISH BREAKAGE

With its blend of caffeine, zinc salts and natural phytoactive ingredients, Plantur 39’s Colour Brown Phyto-caffeine Shampoo activates hair roots to help prevent menopausal hair loss. It’s ideal for women looking for thicker, softer, shinier hair. Plantur 39 Colour Brown products are available at Boots. For more information, visit plantur39.co.uk and facebook.com/plantur39uk