Some may think black hair is a bit too intense to pull off, and if you’re one of those people, may we introduce: espresso. According to colorist Kat Collett (per Bustle): “I think the brunette that will reign this winter season would be the deep espresso tones that keep coming in strong.” The darkest, deepest brown — but not quite black — shade is on-trend for 2024, spotted on celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Simone Ashley, and Meghan Markle. And if you’re not quite ready to commit to totally dark hair from root to tip, consider John Frieda salons creative director Nicola Clarke’s description of jet brunette, a shade similar to expresso: “It’s dark at the roots, and then the mid-lengths and ends feature pieces of a flatter, ashier brunette, two or three shades lighter than the root” (per Vogue).
Whether you choose your inky espresso locks to lean a solid brunette or a more dimensional jet brunette, know that you’re already ahead of the curve by choosing dark brown shade. Colorist Kadi Lee says (per Vogue), “Depending on the season [espresso hair] can look deep and striking, or glossy and regal.” Espresso can also be more low-maintenance than other shades, sometimes only requiring regular glosses rather than full-color processes.