The Copper Hair Trend Is Huge–Here's How to Maintain It, According to Colorists

When I sniff out a sprinkling of a new hair trend, I am all over it, keenly looking to see if it'll take off imminently. And that's exactly what happened when I noticed more people dyeing their hair copper at the tail end of the A/W season. The trend was cemented with Kendall Jenner's hair color switch last month and I think it is certified as one of the hottest hues of the year. But if you're thinking of taking your hair copper, I have two words for you: color fade. This hue requires a lot of upkeep but in a different capacity than bleaching your hair blonde. For redheads, it's all about topping up the vibrancy which will be naturally lost when washing, styling, and exposing it to the elements rather than diligently fending off warmth (as with blondes) as this is what makes copper hair look super vivacious.

"Copper is the perfect trend for spring and summer, as it has the warmth and shine of a red shade, but it is lighter and more delicate against the skin," says Siobhan Haug, International Colour Director at Toni&Guy. "So, it makes it the ideal choice for this time of year when your makeup, clothes, and hair all want an injection of summer sunshine." If you're worried about whether copper will suit your skin tone, you're in luck—there's a copper intensity for everybody.

"The great thing about coppers is that you can add a little extra warmth or coolness to reflect every skin tone," notes Siobhan. "There's a whole spectrum to choose from, there isn't only one shade of copper. Think copper brown, rustic copper, lighter auburn or peach."

If you're unsure about the vibrancy or hue you want to go for, make sure you book a consultation with your colorist as they'll guide you not only on the maintenance level but also what will suit your skin and eye color uniquely. "Copper is suitable for all," says Matthew Evans, freelance stylist at Blushes. "It helps to make eyes pop with pale skin tones and gives a warm glow to those with more olive tones to their skin. It's the color that can really be as muted or as vibrant as you want it to be."

Not quite ready to make a full switch? You can dip your toe into the trend too. "If you want to try the trend but aren't totally sure you want it all over, try complementing shades of copper round the face, or a few highlights to add dimension and interest," says Karen Perry, co-owner of Room 97 Creative. "And don't worry if it starts to fade—it looks just as gorgeous when it's a muted peach or paler rustic version."

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This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.