Fall is a difficult time for beauty lovers. When the temperatures finally begin to drop, the first thing we want to do is change our hair color to a shade that’s seasonally inspired. Coppery pumpkin and golden blondes are nice, but nothing says fall quite like brunette shades. The latest topping the list at salons is chocolate cherry—a dark and luxurious shade that’s as delicious as it sounds.
Unlike some of the season’s other buzzy looks, chocolate cherry blends two popular color trends. “Think of it as the gorgeous midway point between rich brown and cherry red,” says Tai Simon, celebrity hairstylist and colorist. With fall just beginning, it’s likely just the start of this gorgeous color trend—keep scrolling to see how to get the look and keep it looking vibrant all season.
Featured Experts
- Tai Simon is a celebrity hairstylist and colorist
- Marie Nino is a NYC-based hair stylist and colorist
What is chocolate cherry hair?
“Chocolate cherry hair is a rich brunette shade infused with just the right touch of red,” says Marie Nino, professional hairstylist and colorist. Instead of flat or subdued, the look embraces varying colors to create a multi-dimensional hue. Espresso browns and deep burgundy hair colors have been trending lately, and this shade borrows elements from both. Nino explains it blends dark chocolate and cherry tones to create a uniquely luscious shade.
What to ask for at the salon to get the chocolate cherry look
Balance is key when opting for a blended hair color. During your appointment, Nino suggests asking for a brunette base with soft cherry or red undertones. The final result should be a chocolate color that feels infused with red as opposed to accented with the shade. Some brands even offer pre-blended formulas in warm hues that cut out the guesswork.
With that in mind, you’ll want to ensure you select the color that best complements your complexion. “You can have your stylist customize the mix of warm chocolate brown and red tones to perfectly suit your skin tone,” says Nino. She adds that bringing a reference photo is always a good idea to ensure you’re on the same page. “Photos ensure that your stylist understands the exact shade and depth you’re after,” she notes.
How to maintain chocolate cherry hair
If you’re knowledgeable about hair colors, you know brunette shades are typically low-maintenance while reds require a lot of upkeep. Since chocolate cherry is a blend, you need to have a good washing routine in place to keep your new shade from fading. “Color-preserving shampoos and conditioners should be incorporated into your routine to ensure your color stays as vibrant and healthy as possible,” says Simon. Nino notes that adding sulfate-free products and decreasing the frequency of washes can also protect your shade from fading.
Most people tend to use hot tools more regularly come autumn. “When heat styling, make sure to use a heat protectant spray to avoid damage and maintain your color,” says Nino. The pro also shares that limiting sun exposure and opting for a shower filter will help safeguard your strands against UV rays and harsh minerals, which can dull colors. “For the ultimate boost, schedule gloss treatments every four to six weeks to add shine and refresh your hair for a fresh-from-the-salon look,” she says.
Products to maintain chocolate cherry hair
Chocolate cherry hair looks we love
