Stacey Solomon’s warm brunette is autumn’s colour of the moment: how to get chai latte hair

Stacy Solomon’s move from high-maintenance blonde to rich, glossy bronde this year has sparked interest in softer, warmer hair colour this autumn, and hairdressers say the trend is only just getting started.

Annabelle Taurua, beauty expert at Fresha, says the colour people are searching for is chai latte hair.

“The switch is exactly what we’re seeing in salons right now. People are moving away from bleach-heavy blondes towards warm, dimensional brunettes that look healthy and feel easier to live with. Chai latte hair is a great choice for anyone who wants a softer, more expensive-looking colour this autumn.”

What chai latte hair is

Chai latte hair is a warm, creamy light brown that sits somewhere between mocha and caramel.

“Think of the colour of a latte with a dash of cinnamon,” Annabelle explains. “It’s a soft, milky brown with subtle golden and spiced tones running through it, so it looks rich and glossy rather than flat. Because it’s blended rather than stripy, it feels natural but still polished, which is a big part of why it’s catching on.”

“It’s also a really flattering shade. The warmth brings life to the complexion and the dimension means it looks different in different lights, which is exactly what people want from this darker shade.”

Why it is having a moment this autumn

Annabelle says the timing is no coincidence.

“Every autumn we see clients move away from icy blondes and towards warmer, cosier shades, and chai latte hair fits the season perfectly. Think spiced drinks, knitwear and golden-hour light. Warm tones also look brighter in the lower light of autumn and winter, so the colour looks glossy rather than dull.”

There’s a practical side too. After a summer of sun, salt water and lightener, many clients want to give their hair a break.

“A softly blended brunette is much kinder to the hair and grows out beautifully, so it suits anyone who wants a polished finish without the constant upkeep”

How to get the look at the salon

Annabelle recommends booking a colour consultation and bringing a few reference photos.

“Ask for a warm, milky light brown with soft golden-beige tones, blended with fine babylights or a soft balayage to add dimension. A root smudge helps the colour grow out seamlessly, and a gloss to finish is what gives it that glassy, latte-smooth shine.”

She says that if you’re currently blonde, your colourist will probably need to add depth first, so be realistic about timing. However, if you’re starting from a darker shade, they may need to lift gently to get the creamy tone.

It’s also important to mention your colour history, including any box dye, so they can plan properly.

How to keep it looking fresh

“Use a sulphate-free shampoo and a colour-protecting mask, and book a gloss every six to eight weeks to keep the tone warm and shiny,” says Annabelle. “Because the colour is so blended, you can often stretch the time between full appointments, which is another reason it’s proving so popular.”