Fall Hair Color Trends to Try This Season

It’s officially Fall. Pumpkin spice is in the air. So, everything you’ve been doing this summer with fashion and hair is in for a change. 

But what to do? Our artists at Three-13 get asked this question a lot, so we’ve pulled together some thoughts about trending hair colors in 2026 to inspire your look for fall, winter and the holiday season.

And the answer on seasonal hair color is refreshing. This season's color trends aren't about retreating into one flat, dark shade. 

Colorists are looking at warmth, gloss, and dimensions, with an emphasis on healthy-looking hair. Fall hair color ideas are ones that will make your skin glow even when daylight is in short supply. 

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1. How to Choose Your Fall Hair Color

If you’re thinking of a new look for fall, it can be beneficial to both you and your colorist to spend some time researching and planning. Consider the shades you think could work for you, and get your colorist’s thoughts. Consider your styling routine, and how often you can return for maintenance. And think about your feelings going into the season: are you ready to go bold, or would you prefer to ease into fall with a fresh look that still reflects your current character?

Now, on to the latest in color:

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2. Red, in every flavor

If one color owns this season, it's red. Stylists covering fall 2026 point to warm shades as the clear standout, from cowgirl copper and red cinnamon to golden-hour auburn. Spiced auburn (a mix of red, copper, brown, and a touch of gold) is a natural fit for falling leaves and pumpkin everything.

As the weather gets colder, the reds go even deeper. Wine red and burgundy are the winter evolution, especially gorgeous against dark coats and cream turtlenecks. 

But one fair warning: reds fade faster than any other color, so plan on sulfate-free shampoo and a gloss between visits.

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3. Espresso and "expensive" brunette

Dark hair just feels right when the days get shorter. For brunettes’ hair color ideas, looks are glossy and reflective rather than flat.

Think midnight espresso, which feels softer and more modern than true black. It's an ideal pick if you want a low-maintenance switch, since a single-process color or gloss often does the job.

Want something subtler? Try blurred brunette, where caramel and espresso tones melt together so seamlessly you can't tell where one ends and the next begins 

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4. Blonde hair color ideas: warm and soft

Blondes aren't left out with fall colors. They’re soft and rich. Instead of stark platinum, colorists are leaning into honey, butter, and golden tones that read as natural and lit-from-within. For an easy transition, ask your stylist for a deeper golden gloss over your summer highlights, rather than a full color change.

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5. Want something bolder? Icy blonde can give you an edge.

If warm isn't your thing, cool blonde can play an interesting counterpoint. Icy and beige-leaning blondes look striking against fall's deeper wardrobe tones, and they suit cool skin undertones beautifully. (But plan on more toner appointments to keep yellow at bay.)

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6. Dimension is the overall key

Across every shade family, the common thread is dimension. Highlights are softer and more intentional, woven in to mimic natural sun-lightening, and roots are kept close to your natural color. The payoff: color that grows out gracefully and looks great longer.

Whether you go full-on copper or just warm up your blonde a few shades, this is the season to play. Bring a few photos, chat in depth with your colorist about upkeep, and enjoy walking out with hair that feels as cozy as your favorite sweater.