Before you run out and grab the closest cinnamon hair dye, keep in mind that while stylists say gold and copper are universally flattering. you’ll want to be more mindful of tones when playing with truer shades of red: Some shades work better on certain skin and undertones. Unsure where to start? You could always get into color analysis.
Otherwise, colorists have some good beginner advice. “If you like violet lipsticks, blue eyeliners, and blackest-black mascara, you’ll likely look great in blue- and violet-based reds,” says Shvonne Perkins, master colorist and lead educator at Madison Reed. “If you tend to gravitate toward rosier looks with golden tones, brown to neutral shades, and orange hues in red lips, then a more copper-toned red will likely work better for you.”
The same goes for blonder takes on the look. “Generally, people with warm undertones look best with warm blonde shades like honey and golden blonde,” Abby Haliti, French balayage and color expert and owner of NYC’s Abby Haliti Color Studio, previously told Glamour. Warm undertones usually have yellow, peachy, or golden tones in their skin. “Those with cool undertones, like pink or blue, tend to suit cooler blonde shades like platinum or ash blonde,” she says. Other things to consider, Haliti adds, are your eye color and natural hair color.
“For personalized advice, it’s best to consult a professional hairstylist who can assess your skin tone and help you choose the most flattering blonde shade,” she says.
Fortunately, you now have some incredible hair inspiration photos to bring to your colorist. Thank you, Lindsay Lohan! Until then, we’ll be counting down the days until the Freaky Friday sequel.
Danielle Sinay is the associate beauty editor at Glamour. Follow her on Instagram @daniellesinay.