💎 The 2026 Hair Color Trends to Watch (from Brooklyn Stylists)

The new year is bringing a softer, moodier edge to color — think lived-in tones, low-maintenance gloss, and a little main-character energy. As stylists in Brooklyn, we’re seeing guests lean into color that feels expensive but effortless — rich neutrals, glowy blondes, and texture that works with, not against, your natural tone.

Here’s what’s catching our eye (and our color bowls) for 2026:

1. Candlelit Brunette

Forget flat, dark browns — 2026 brunettes are luminous and dimensional. Think candle-glow warmth running through espresso, chestnut, and toffee hues. A subtle face-frame or internal lightening keeps it modern, while a gloss adds that reflective Gem House shine.

💎 Pro tip: Pair with our Opal Treatment to lock in moisture and add light reflection — the difference shows even in candlelight.

A soft-focus blonde created at Gem House Salon in Greenpoint Brooklyn, featuring buttery champagne tones and seamless root shadow blending. The color has a creamy, diffused finish with ultra-fine highlights for that effortless, lived-in glow. Styled in loose, airy waves to reflect the light — the overall effect is natural, luxe, and softly dimensional.

2. Soft-Focus Blonde

The high-contrast blondes of past years are toning down into creamier, blurred blends. Brooklyn blondes are asking for buttery champagne tones, ultra-fine highlights, and root shadows that grow in seamlessly. The look is intentional, but never overdone.

💎 Pro tip: Ask your stylist about a demi-permanent gloss every 6–8 weeks to maintain tone without a full blonding session.

A warm, dimensional bronzed balayage created at Gem House Salon in Greenpoint Brooklyn. The color features soft ribbons of amber, honey, and brunette tones that blend seamlessly for a sunlit, lived-in finish. Styled in loose, polished waves that show off depth and shine — this look is effortless, glossy, and perfectly autumn-ready.

3. Bronzed Balayage

For guests who crave warmth but not brass, bronzed balayage is the answer. It mixes honey and amber ribbons through a brunette base — perfect for adding light without going blonde. This shade plays beautifully with textured cuts and air-dried styling.

💎 Pro tip: A Davines Alchemic Copper or Golden shampoo keeps the richness fresh between appointments.

A soft, dimensional Teddy Bear Brunette created at Gem House Salon in Greenpoint Brooklyn. The hair blends warm chocolate and golden caramel tones with a plush, creamy finish that feels cozy yet elevated. Styled in loose, polished waves to enhance light reflection, this color has that signature Gem House softness and “expensive brunette” glow.

4. Teddy Bear Brunette

The viral brunette shade isn’t going anywhere in 2026 — and for good reason. It’s plush, cozy, and golden-toned, like sunlight on soft fur. The color combines warm chocolate and caramel ribbons with a creamy gloss finish.

💎 Pro tip: Ask for micro-highlights or lowlights to add subtle movement and dimension, and finish with a gloss for that “soft focus” shine.

A creamy Buttercream Blonde created at Gem House Salon in Greenpoint Brooklyn. The hair features neutral-golden tones blended seamlessly for a smooth, luminous finish. Styled with a soft bend to catch the light, this blonde feels balanced, healthy, and effortless — the perfect mix of warmth and polish that defines modern Brooklyn blonding.

5. Buttercream Blonde

Think neutral-gold, creamy beige tones that feel luxe and natural — not icy, not brassy, just beautifully balanced. It’s the evolution of clean blonde, bringing warmth and softness back into the mix.

💎 Pro tip: Protect this shade with a sulfate-free shampoo and a nourishing mask like Davines MINU or OI to maintain that buttery finish.

Brooklyn Hair Color = Personality, Not Perfection

At Gem House Salon in Greenpoint Brooklyn, we believe your color should reflect you — not a fleeting trend. Our stylists customize every formula, placement, and gloss to your lifestyle, texture, and tone so you always walk out with something uniquely yours.

Ready to find your 2026 shade?
✨ Book a color consultation or gloss refresh with one of our Brooklyn stylists.