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Yesterday marked the first day the pumpkin spice latte was available at Starbucks for fall 2024, and with it comes the cascade of all the other autumnal things we love. If you’re looking for a hair color that’s deeply on trend for fall, look no further than honeycomb copper. “It’s a fun, vibrant color that mirrors the fall leaves, making it seasonally appropriate and eye-catching,” says celebrity colorist and IGK Hair Care co-founder Chase Kusero.
Celebrity colorist and founder of the eponymous salon Rita Hazan describes the color as “an incredibly rich and vibrant ginger” perfect for fall. “It emulates the same exact vibes as a warm pumpkin spiced latte—it’s just so cozy,” she adds. The shade provides a seamless transition from summer to fall. “It has those golden hues that are reminiscent of sunshine while also staying true to an auburn hue that gives all the fall vibes,” says celebrity extensionist Priscilla Valles.
What is the honeycomb copper hair color?
“This is a copper gold with brighter pops of the same tone to illuminate the sparkle in the tone and avoid one flat color,” explains celebrity colorist Cherise Wilson. “Elements of light golden honey are the supporting character in this redhead dream look.” Celebrity colorist George Papanikolas says the shade marries the rich earthiness of copper with the soft warmth of honey to create a striking, vibrant blend.
“This trend can come in many different shades and offers warm, rich colors that are perfect for the fall season,” says Vice President Color Development for R+COLOR Richy Kandasamy. “It’s a great transition color for anyone looking to add a bit of summer warmth into their hair before the colder months.”
Who would look good with honeycomb copper hair?
“This look is for anyone wanting to spice things up and add some fun warmth to their hair,” says celebrity colorist Adara Forletta. “Whether your skin tone leans more warm or cool, your colorist can tailor the tone that will perfectly suit you. So no one should be afraid of trying this look!” However, Kusero notes that “This trend looks exceptional on those with fair to medium skin tones, especially with green or blue eyes.” Madison Reed master colorist and lead educator Shvonne Perkins says this shade is easier to attain for blondes or light, super-highlighted medium brunettes because “if your hair is darker, this might mean pre-highlighting is a necessary first step.”
What to ask for in the salon to get the honeycomb copper look
Perkins says you need to be specific when seeking this color at the salon, that you’re “looking for a copper blonde rather than a copper brunette (ala cowboy copper) or a true copper red.” Since the base “is a deep, luxurious copper, infused with golden honey highlights that add dimension and brightness,” Papanikolas says you should ask for a permanent color to get the copper base. “Then do a balayage highlight application strategically placing highlights to frame the face, crown and natural part,” he adds. “The result is a multi-dimensional, glowing color that captures the light beautifully, giving the hair a warm, sun-kissed effect.” He notes that finishing with a sheer warm toner, like Matrix Tonal Control, will help blend the look.
Once the all over copper base color is in place, you can have fun with different highlight approaches, says Wilson. Strategically placed soft hand-painted highlights give a couple of levels of lift for a softer look. For a funkier vibe, Wilson recommends chunky ribbons or blonde slices. To tie it all together she recommends a copper-gold gloss on top, no matter what option you go with.
Forletta notes that the all over base color will require a bit more maintenance. For a lower maintenance way to get the look, she recommends adding “some coppery highlights and lowlights to your natural hair color for depth and dimension.” If you want to try the look without fully committing, Perkins recommends the new Madison Reed ColorWonder Demi-Permanent Hair Color in “That’s So Fire” ($34).