hair Color
NOW THAT YOU KNOW HOW TO ASK FOR THE CUT YOU WANT, IT’S TIME TO FIGURE OUT WHAT COLOR YOU WANT.
And it starts with old faithful... don't fix what isn't broken.
Color decisions are a huge deal if they're not already part of your hair routine, so this is your friendly reminder that just becasue you're entering a new chapter of life, you don't have to enter a new chapter of your hair color.
It's like a first date, but with your hair - you want to make sure you're both on the same page. And with all the color options, tones, and techniques out there, getting on that page can feel as impossible as a 5am Robin Arzon Peloton class. But fear not, we've broken down all of the hair color techniques and tones so you can stop pretending you know what “ombré” means and start feeling empowered during color consultations.
If it is indeed time to switch it up, it's important to talk to your colorist about...
AT-HOME MAInTENANCE
BUDGET
LEVEL OF COMMITMENT
... ANY BURNING QUESTIONS
hair color lingo, explained
Think of single process hair color as a one-and-done deal. This technique involves applying a single shade to your hair, which can create a dramatic transformation or simply add some depth to your current color.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
It's a two-step process that involves lightening your hair before adding color. In this process, the two services are performed consecutively, where the first service is applied, washed, and dried before the second service is executed. To illustrate, a root color may be applied to conceal gray hair, followed by the application of highlights. The result? A gorgeous, multi-dimensional color that is sure to turn heads.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
This formula contains a powerful duo of ammonia and peroxide, which chemically alters the color of your hair. Translation: it's here to stay.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
This level of color is like a beautiful temporary tattoo- it lasts for 12 to 24 shampoos, allowing you to try out a new look without a long-term commitment. It uses peroxide only (no ammonia here!) to help your hair absorb the color.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
A perfect option for our commitment-phobes (impending marriage not withstanding), this level of color acts more like a stain and generally fades after 6-12 shampoos.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
Dimension is all about creating visual interest in your hair. Whether it's through highlights, lowlights, or a combination of both, adding dimension can create a more natural, lived-in look.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
This technique involves applying a sheer, translucent color to your hair to add shine and lock in your new color. It’s like a cherry on top of your hair color sundae.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
Think of toner as an Instagram filter for your hair. It's a semi-permanent color that's applied after bleaching or lightening to achieve the perfect shade without needing multiple color processes. They come in a variety of hues, from icy platinum to warm honey, and help to neutralize any unwanted brassiness.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
A chemical process that occurs when hair color is mixed with developer (usually peroxide). This reaction allows the color to penetrate the hair shaft (did you giggle or are we 12?) and make a lasting change.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
This technique involves lightening select strands of hair to create contrast and movement, adding dimension to your luscious locks. Hello, gorg! There are a few different types, whole head, half head, babylights, and balayage - keep clicking down the line to learn about each one.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
As the name would imply, this technique involves applying highlights throughout your entire head of hair. The large quantity of highlights creates a dramatic effect and can really shift the overall color of your hair.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
This technique involves applying highlights to only the top half of your head (shocking, we know), creating a subtle yet stunning contrast that's perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance style.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
These delicate and subtle highlights are like a sprinkle of fairy dust on your hair, inspired by the natural highlights found in a child's hair. Using super-thin sections, babylights add depth to your hair without overpowering your natural color.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
balayage
Permanent COlor
Looking for a more lived-in, sun-kissed look? This technique involves hand-painting the highlights onto the hair, resulting in a natural-looking gradient of color. The biggest draw? It lets you go way longer between touch-ups than standard highlights.
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
Lowlights are like the yin to highlights' yang. Instead of lightening select strands, lowlights add darker shades to create depth and contrast.
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
balayage
Permanent COlor
lowlights
money piece
contrast
This technique involves highlighting the hair around the face to create a bright, attention-grabbing effect. If you’re wondering why it’s called that, just think of every time you’ve heard someone refer to their face as the “moneymaker” and you’ll have your (mildly douchey) answer.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
balayage
Permanent COlor
lowlights
money piece
contrast
Contrast is the bolder cousin of dimension. It’s all about creating a dramatic, eye-catching effect. Whether you're going for a high-contrast blonde-and-brunette look or adding some pops of color, contrast is the perfect technique to make a statement or break up solid color.
COLOR TECHNIQUES
Think of single process hair color as a one-and-done deal. This technique involves applying a single shade to your hair, which can create a dramatic transformation or simply add some depth to your current color.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
It's a two-step process that involves lightening your hair before adding color. In this process, the two services are performed consecutively, where the first service is applied, washed, and dried before the second service is executed. To illustrate, a root color may be applied to conceal gray hair, followed by the application of highlights. The result? A gorgeous, multi-dimensional color that is sure to turn heads.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
This formula contains a powerful duo of ammonia and peroxide, which chemically alters the color of your hair. Translation: it's here to stay.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
This level of color is like a beautiful temporary tattoo- it lasts for 12 to 24 shampoos, allowing you to try out a new look without a long-term commitment. It uses peroxide only (no ammonia here!) to help your hair absorb the color.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
A perfect option for our commitment-phobes (impending marriage not withstanding), this level of color acts more like a stain and generally fades after 6-12 shampoos.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
Dimension is all about creating visual interest in your hair. Whether it's through highlights, lowlights, or a combination of both, adding dimension can create a more natural, lived-in look.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
This technique involves applying a sheer, translucent color to your hair to add shine and lock in your new color. It’s like a cherry on top of your hair color sundae.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
Think of toner as an Instagram filter for your hair. It's a semi-permanent color that's applied after bleaching or lightening to achieve the perfect shade without needing multiple color processes.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
A chemical process that occurs when hair color is mixed with developer (usually peroxide). This reaction allows the color to penetrate the hair shaft (did you giggle or are we 12?) and make a lasting change.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
This technique involves lightening select strands of hair to create contrast and movement, adding dimension to your luscious locks. Hello, gorg! There are a few different types, whole head, half head, babylights, and balayage - keep clicking down the line to learn about each one.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
As the name would imply, this technique involves applying highlights throughout your entire head of hair. The large quantity of highlights creates a dramatic effect and can really shift the overall color of your hair.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
This technique involves applying highlights to only the top half of your head (shocking, we know), creating a subtle yet stunning contrast that's perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance style.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
These delicate and subtle highlights are like a sprinkle of fairy dust on your hair, inspired by the natural highlights found in a child's hair. Using super-thin sections, babylights add depth to your hair without overpowering your natural color.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
Looking for a more lived-in, sun-kissed look? This technique involves hand-painting the highlights onto the hair, resulting in a natural-looking gradient of color. The biggest draw? It lets you go way longer between touch-ups than standard highlights.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
Lowlights are like the yin to highlights' yang. Instead of lightening select strands, lowlights add darker shades to create depth and contrast.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
This technique involves highlighting the hair around the face to create a bright, attention-grabbing effect. If you’re wondering why it’s called that, just think of every time you’ve heard someone refer to their face as the “moneymaker” and you’ll have your (mildly douchey) answer.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
Contrast is the bolder cousin of dimension. It’s all about creating a dramatic, eye-catching effect. Whether you're going for a high-contrast blonde-and-brunette look or adding some pops of color, contrast is the perfect technique to make a statement or break up solid color.
single process
DEMI PERMANENT COLOR
SEMI PERMANENT COLOR
glaze
double process
dimension
toner
oxidize
highlights
whole head
half head
babylights
Permanent COlor
balayage
lowlights
money piece
contrast
COLOR TECHNIQUES
Starting with an easy one, Tone just refers to the overall hue of your hair. Choosing the right tone can make all the difference in creating a flattering and natural-looking shade.
TONE
WARM TONES
BRASSY
BRONDE
BASE COLOR
ASHY
COOL TONES
Your base color is the starting point for any hair color transformation. Whether you're adding highlights or going for a dramatic new shade, understanding your base color is key to achieving your desired look.
TONE
WARM TONES
BRASSY
BRONDE
BASE COLOR
ASHY
COOL TONES
Cool tones are like the Audrey Hepburn of hair colors. These shades have a blue or violet base, which helps to counteract any unwanted warmth in the hair. Think icy platinum, cool ash blonde, or smoky gray.
TONE
WARM TONES
BRASSY
BRONDE
BASE COLOR
ASHY
COOL TONES
Warm tones are like the Marilyn Monroe of hair colors. These shades have a yellow or red base, which gives hair a sunny, golden glow. Think honey blonde, coppery red, or rich chocolate brown shades that create a warm, inviting effect.
TONE
WARM TONES
BRASSY
BRONDE
BASE COLOR
ASHY
COOL TONES
Heads up- if anyone refers to your hair as “brassy,” you should be offended. When hair is lightened, it can sometimes develop brassy tones, which are yellow or orange in color. But fear not! A good toner can neutralize those hues and leave you with the perfect shade.
TONE
WARM TONES
BRASSY
BRONDE
BASE COLOR
ASHY
COOL TONES
For those who prefer a cooler, more muted look, ashy tones are a great choice. These shades have a gray or silver undertone, which gives hair a smoky, edgy vibe. Think cool ash blonde, smokey lavender, or icy blue.
TONE
WARM TONES
BRASSY
BRONDE
BASE COLOR
ASHY
COOL TONES
If you can't decide between blonde and brunette, you can be both! Bronde is a trendy technique that involves blending warm, caramel-toned highlights with darker shades for a look that's both bright and natural.
TONE
WARM TONES
BRASSY
BRONDE
BASE COLOR
ASHY
COOL TONES
COLOR TONES EXPLAINED
PRO TIPS, TRICKS, & TIMELINES
from a stylist who’s seen it all
Prepare for a Slow Build
Here’s the cold, hard truth about color: your color won’t be perfect after the first visit. Hair can only handle so much change at once, and the best stylists know that a slow transition will actually save your hair health. We recommend starting the process about 9-12 months out from the big day so you can inch towards that color change at a safe pace.
If you don't have a colorist, here's how to find one you love:
- Ask your friends/family for recommendations (particularly the ones who have a similar hair color and texture to you.)
- Read the reviews. See what themes and feedback are coming up consistently from a colorist’s clients.
- Stalk their Instagram or TikTok. This ain’t your first rodeo — get in there and see their client’s results for yourself. (The whole *focus on hair that’s similar to yours* thing applies here too!)
- Set up a consultation before committing. We know it feels like an extra step and you’re busy planning a wedding, but you don’t want to commit until you know they're “the one.” 😉
— FROM THE KNOCK-YOUR-SOCKS-OFF WEDDING STYLES TO THE ZEBRA-STRIPED COLOR EMERGENCIES (LET’S MAKE SURE YOU DON’T END UP LIKE THE LATTER.)
own your root
A PSA for all the natural brunettes: blondes do not have more fun. In fact, switching to a blonde base just because it’s all over Pinterest is not only less fun, it can be less flattering. If it’s the dimension you’re dying over, talk to your colorist about lowlights and highlights to break up the brown and rock it (mostly) au naturale.
Pro tip: If you want to add a little something to your natural color opt for a Gloss (glazer/toner) to add some extra shine or even slightly deepen your color for a richer look.
when should i color my hair?
As a general rule of thumb (or head), two weeks is just the right amount of time to adjust to any changes and ensure that your locks are their most alluring on your big day. Just remember to plan ahead, collaborate with your colorist, and trust in the journey towards your dreamy wedding day color.
SINGLE OR DOUBLE PROCESS- DARKER SHADE:
lived in highlights
ALL OVER HIGHLIGHTs
SINGLE OR DOUBLE PROCESS- VIBRANT SHADES / POPS OF COLOR:
Try to squeeze this in 1-2 weeks before the big day. Darker colors fade with each shampoo, so scheduling your appointment as close to the date as possible ensures your color is at its peak.
Aim for 3-4 weeks before the big day. This time frame ensures that your hair color is still fresh and vibrant, without being overly bright around the roots or face.
1-2 Weeks before to ensure yout highlights are fresh and close to the root.
Same notes as above- lowlights and temporary color options (particularly anything heavily saturated) fade with every wash, so it’s best to choose a permanent option if you want a long-lasting effect. Make sure your final appointment is 1-2 weeks before the wedding day.
Just like your final cut, the timing of your final color will depend on your overall hair goals and routine. So, one more time with feeling: ask your stylist! But in the meantime, here’s a handy-dandy timeline to give you a general overview:
REDHEADS
Demi-permanent, single-process dye is the best option for covering grays in red hair. They allow the gray to seamlessly blend into your natural shade, allowing for a softer grow-out.
Remember that time we said blondes don’t actually have more fun? Well, it doesn’t apply to covering grays- it is in fact, way more fun (and easier) as a blonde. Highlights, lowlights, and babylights can all camouflage gray hairs, creating a natural and blended look. By selecting specific gray strands and weaving them into a foil, your stylist can create a customized look just for you.
BRUNETTES
For those with dark hair, single-process permanent color is usually the way to go. The contrast between light gray strands and dark hair can make things a more challenging and you may have to go to the salon more . So, a solid color is a more reliable option. But if your up for a change then blending grays with highlights or lowlights might do the trick!
BLONDES
3
2
1
HOW TO HANDLE GRAY HAIR
We all know gray hair is one part of the beautiful process of getting older, and we love this new era of embracing one's age (thank you, 'And Just Like That!). But if the idea of walking down the aisle with gray streaks in your hair feels less than chic, we've got you covered (get, like covering grays? We think we're funny).
Hairstyling Hacks-
Not ready to commit to covering up your grays?
Changing your style can make a big difference in disguising those pesky strands. It all depends on where the grays are growing in but switching up your part may be a quick and simple (but very temporary) fix to cover any specific spots that are causing you grief, while face-framing bangs can also do wonders for concealing gray hairs at the hairline.
Just remember: whatever you do, don't pull your gray hairs out. As Samantha Jones once said, if you pluck it, six more will come to its funeral.