Espresso Brown Hair Color. 6 On-Trend Ways To Wear It.

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Move over blondes and redheads, there’s a new brunette hair hue in town and it’s taking the internet by storm! Introducing espresso brown hair color, the rich, dark brown shade that is trending all over social media.

Whether you have brunette hair and are looking to add some dimension or you’re starting with a blank canvas and want to go for a complete transformation, espresso hair color could be the perfect shade for you.

This rich, dark shade is on-trend for Autumn and Winter, and there are so many ways to wear it! Read on to see our six favorite espresso hair color ideas.

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6 on-trend espresso brown hair ideas

There are so many ways to wear Espresso Brown Hair! Here are our six favorite on-trend espresso hair color ideas.

#1. Espresso brown with caramel highlights

This is a great option for those with dark brown hair who are looking to add some dimension. The caramel highlights will help to create depth and contrast, while the espresso brown will give your hair a rich, chocolatey finish.

#2. Glossy Ebony lowlights

If you want your espresso hair color to have a little more shine, ask your stylist for a glossy ebony hue like this one. The key to making espresso hair color look shiny and healthy is using high-quality color-safe hair products. At-home treatments like masks and oils will also help keep your strands looking lustrous. 

#3. Dimensional brunette balayage  

For a more subtle take on espresso hair, try a dimensional brunette balayage like this one. To get the look, your stylist will start with a dark brown base and hand paint lighter brown or dark ashy blonde highlights throughout. This is a great option if you’re starting to feel like your current hair color is a little too flat. 

#4. Espresso Ombré

If you’re looking for something truly dramatic, go for a sassy ombré like this one. To achieve the look, your stylist will fade your dark brown espresso base into a lighter shade at the ends of your hair. Just make sure you’re using plenty of conditioner to prevent damage from all that dyeing! 

#5.Deep Espresso Pixie Cut

Not ready for commitment? No problem! You can still rock espresso hair color with a short cut like this deep brunette pixie. To style, just add a little pomade or wax to give your hair some texture and hold.  

#6 Bold Espresso Brown Lob

Ready to make the big chop? Go for a bold brown lob like this one! This shoulder-length cut looks great with espresso hair, and it’s easy to style too. Just blow dry with a round brush and add some waves with a curling iron or wand. 

What color is espresso?

Espresso is a rich, dark brown color that is reminiscent of the popular coffee drink. As a hair color it’s a deep, chocolate brown shade with subtle hints of red and purple. 

It’s a darker color than ash brown and a richer shade than chocolate brown, making it the perfect choice for those looking to add some depth and dimension to their hair.

Espresso hair color is perfect for any season, but it’s especially popular in Autumn and Winter.

The great thing about espresso hair is that it works well on any complexion. Whether you have fair skin and want to contrast with darker hair or olive skin and want to enhance your natural warmth, this color will compliment you.

And because it’s not as drastic as a full-on black hue, it’s perfect for those who want to try something new but aren’t ready for a major change. 

Is espresso brown hair color cool or warm?

There’s no denying that espresso is a versatile color. It can be used to create rich, warm tones or deep, cool shades. But what about espresso brown? Is it cool or warm?

Well, experts say it’s a cool color but that all depends on how you wear it.

If you have a cool skin tone, you might want to go for a darker espresso shade with cooler undertones.

On the other hand, if you have a warm skin tone, you might want to opt for a lighter espresso shade with warmer undertones. This will create a bit more contrast and help to make your features pop.

If you’re not sure what color your skin tones are, use our handy checklist below!

If you have cool undertones:

  • Your skin tone is pink or pale.
  • You blush easily!
  • Jewel and pastel colours are so your thing.
  • The colour yellow washes you out and does not look good on you.
  • You have blue not green veins in your wrist.
  • Pearls and silver jewellery look awesome on you.

If you have warm undertones:

  • You have red or golden tones in your natural hair.
  • Your skin tone is golden, tan or olive.
  • You might have freckles.
  • You have green not blue veins in your wrist.
  • You suit bright or rich shades better.
  • Gold jewellery looks awesome on you.
cool or warm undertones infographic
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Will Espresso Brown hair color suit me?

If you’re still unsure if it’s the right color for you, you can take out quiz! just answer a few quick questions to find the right hair color for you!

Which Hair Color Suits You?

Can I dye my hair espresso at home?

You sure can! There are a load of off-the-shelf hair dyes that will give you an espresso shade. We recommend going for a product that is specifically designed for dark hair, as this will help to avoid any unwanted red or orange tones.

And if you’re looking for a more long-lasting option, consider a permanent hair color. Just keep in mind that at-home hair color can be tricky, so it’s always best to consult with a professional stylist before you start. 

Which is the best espresso brown hair dye?

If you’re planning on dying your hair espresso brown at home, here are a few of our favorite products to try.

Best espresso hair dyes at a glance.

Hair dyeLooks likeBuy it now
John Frieda Precision Foam Color, 4PBN Dark Cool Espresso Brown
John Frieda Precision Foam Permanent Hair Colour in 4PBN Dark Cool Espresso Brown
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Schwarzkopf Simply Color Permanent Hair Color, 4.0 Intense Espresso
Schwarzkopf Simply Color Permanent Hair Color, 4.0 Intense Espresso
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L'Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 40 Espresso
L'Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Permanent Hair Color, 40 Espresso, Pack of 1, Hair Dye
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Overtone Haircare Semi-Permanent Color Depositing Conditioner with Shea Butter & Coconut Oil, Espresso Brown
OVERTONE Haircare Semi-Permanent Color Depositing Conditioner with Shea Butter & Coconut Oil, Espresso Brown, Cruelty-Free, 8 oz
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L'Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Permanent Hair Color, 5AB Mocha Ashe Brown
L'Oreal Paris Excellence Creme Permanent Triple Care Hair Color, 5AB Mocha Ashe Brown, Gray Coverage For Up to 8 Weeks, All Hair Types, Pack of 1
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Clairol Nice'n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 4W Dark Mocha Brown Hair Color
Clairol Nice'n Easy Permanent Hair Dye, 4W Dark Mocha Brown Hair Color, Pack of 1
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Watch and learn: How to dye your hair espresso at home.

Can I dye my hair using coffee?

If you’re thinking about going espresso brown, you may be wondering if actual espresso coffee can dye your hair!

While it’s true that coffee can temporarily darken hair, it’s not actually a permanent solution.

However, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to experiment with your look, coffee may be worth a try. Just brew a pot of strong coffee and let it cool.

Then, apply it to your hair and allow it to sit for 30 minutes before rinsing it out. You may not end up with the exact shade you were hoping for, but you’ll definitely notice a difference.

And who knows? You might just find that you like your new look.

How to care for espresso hair.

If you’re thinking about making the switch to espresso hair, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, this color does require commitment. Because it’s such a rich shade, espresso hair will require touch-ups every 4-6 weeks to keep up the intense color.

Second, be sure to use shampoo and conditioner formulated for colored hair to prevent your color from fading too quickly.

Third, be careful with using heat styling tools, as they can cause damage to your hair. If you do use them, be sure to use a heat protectant spray first.

Finally, consider using an at-home treatment or mask once a week to keep your espresso hair looking shiny and healthy.

With just a little bit of care, you can rock this color like a pro!

Parting words.

Espresso hair color is such a versatile shade, and there’s definitely an option here for everyone! So if you’re looking for something new this season, don’t be afraid to go bold with espresso.

Found your perfect espresso hair shade? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @colouredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair dye success stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.

This article was written by:

  • Nicola Freeman, Creative Director & Content Lead
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    Creative Director & Content Lead

    With over two decades of passionate hair dyeing experience, I've experimented with nearly every shade imaginable. My journey began long before blogging; as an award-winning copywriter in London and New York, I shaped narratives for iconic brands. However, when friends sought advice during lockdown for at-home hair dyeing, I realized my true calling. Beyond being your hair color expert, I'm a mom of two girls, wife to artist Tony, and an avid soccer player!