If you want to add a pop of pizzazz to your straight hair, an ombre could be just the flash you’re looking for. We spoke with Siobhan Jones, British L’Oréal Professionnel color ambassador from Headmasters UK, to discuss what ombre straight hair can say about you and share our three favorite types of ombre color combinations.
What’s so great about ombre?
Ombre may have been around for a while, but there’s a reason this hair color trend is still making its mark in today’s fashion world. The best thing about ombre hair is that it doesn’t put you in a box. There are endless ways to make it jive with your own personal style!
“Ombre is a really flexible color technique,” Jones says. “It can be made super subtle with some sun-kissed effect ends or dialed up to the extremes with lights going high in the hair or using a contrasting color on the ends.”
If that’s got you convinced to take the plunge, you’ve overcome half the battle.
Choosing Your Ombre Straight Hair Color
When choosing any hair color, two heads are better than one. That is why you should always get a second opinion at the salon from a professional.
“During your consultation, your stylist will talk about the right technique to use and the intensity of the color transition,” Jones explains.
Keep an open dialogue about your daily wardrobe, makeup choices, and even your favorite colors. They may have seen unlikely color combination requests come through the door that you might not even think about. They will also know which tones can flatter your features, which may be crucial in some cases. For instance, some shades for a warm skin tone may not suit those with a cool skin tone.
Eye-Catching Contrasts
Nothing says daring more than a good color contrast. Pair a delicate shade with another of deeper intensity, such as this faint lavender purple blunted with a stark teal blue.
If you want to go more dramatic, play with uneven color distribution, like painting your ombre ends as a noticeable thin line rather than a thicker band.
Smooth Color Gradients
This can be a monochromatic transition of just one shade, from lighter to darker or vice versa. Alternatively, opt for a softer color switch like a rose gold-inspired champagne with metallic ash pink end. Try a lavender to purple transition!
A Natural Approach
Sun-kissed balayage seems to be all the rage, so why not change it up with a soft, natural ombre? You can make things interesting by placing a brown base against blonde ends, but we also love something as subtle as lightening a dark espresso brown into ever-so-slightly warmer cacao. A ginger ombre can also bring more pop to warm colors than a hand-painted balayage. No matter your color transition, make sure you're using a salon quality hair care system to maintain your shade. We love Redken Color Magnetics Shampoo and Conditioner.
Note: If you’re short on time, definitely consider a lightening service, which can lift your natural hair color for brighter tones in just 45 minutes!
We say there’s always a way to completely reinvent your look with straight ombre hair!
For personalized ombre color recommendations, use our salon locator to book an appointment with a stylist near you.
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