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HAIR COLOR CHART: HOW TO MATCH HAIR COLORS TO YOUR SKIN TONE

Navigating hair color charts can be tricky, especially since different brands have variations. However, mastering how these charts work will empower you to choose the ideal hair color like a professional stylist! In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to interpret hair color charts, select the perfect shade for your skin tone. Whether you’re aiming for a classic red, blonde, brunette, black, or something bold and unusual, this guide will help you find the shade that truly stands out.

HOW HAIR COLOR CHARTS WORK

Hair color charts can vary between brands—L’Oréal, for instance, has a different chart than Madison Reed. However, they generally function in a similar way.

These charts categorize hair colors into four main natural shades, further divided into hair color levels (the number on the box) and hair tones (the letters on the box).

For example, consider a brunette hair dye from L’Oréal. The number 6 indicates a mid-brunette shade on their chart, while the letters A and M signify amber and brown tones, respectively.

THE MAIN HAIR COLORS – BLONDE, RED, BROWN AND BLACK

The primary hair colors on most hair color charts are blonde, auburn, brunette, and black. If you’re interested in vibrant, unconventional shades like bright blue or lime green, you’ll need to seek out specific brands that specialize in those colors.

Here are some brands known for their bold hair dyes:

  • Manic Panic: Offers an extensive range of vibrant colors.
  • Garnier: Features a curated selection of high-quality unnatural shades.
  • Got2B: Known for their unique metallic dyes that stand out.
  • Splat: A great choice if you prefer to avoid bleaching your hair beforehand.

HAIR COLOR LEVELS

Most hair dye brands use a scale from 1 to 10, though some may extend to 11 or 12 for variety. When you examine a hair color scale, you’ll notice a gradual transition from the darkest black shades on one end to the lightest blonde shades on the other, with various brown shades in between. By incorporating different tones, you can explore a vast array of colors, including auburns, cool tones, and greys.

It’s important to note that some brands may label black as 10 and blonde as 1, or vice versa. Therefore, when switching between hair color charts, pay close attention—your old shade’s number may not correspond directly to the new one.

Additionally, it’s advisable to only shift by two shades (lighter or darker) in a single dye session. If you’re aiming for a dramatic change, such as transitioning from dark brown to light ash blonde, multiple dye sessions will be necessary for a safe and effective result. For significant changes like this, visiting a salon is recommended. A professional stylist can help prevent damage and achieve the desired color perfectly.

HAIR TONES

Hair color charts include letters that indicate different tones used to create specific shades. These tones can be categorized into three main groups: neutral, cool, and warm.

NEUTRAL TONES

Neutral shades are straightforward and are typically marked with the letter “N,” indicating they are balanced—not too cool or too warm. You might also see neutral tones represented as:

  • Gold
  • Ash

When gold and ash are mixed in equal parts, they cancel each other out.

WARM TONES

Warm tones add richness and depth to hair. These include:

  • Copper
  • Red
  • Mahogany

COOL TONES

Cool tones tend to lighten and brighten hair, and include:

  • Blue
  • Violet
  • Green

Generally, warm shades enhance the color and depth of your hair, while cool shades help achieve a lighter appearance. As you move toward blonde shades, hair often becomes warmer, which is why many blonde dyes incorporate cool tones to counteract unwanted “brassy” effects.

Next, let’s explore some popular combinations of hair levels and tones for each primary hair color.

RED HAIR COLOR CHART

Red hair colors can range widely, with some shades clearly defined as red—such as garnet, cherry, and scarlet. However, darker reds may blend into the brunette category, while very light auburns can resemble dark golden blonde shades. Here are some of the top shades from the red hair color chart:

PLUM

This photo showcases plum hair taken to the extreme! For a more balanced look, consider incorporating auburn and scarlet shades, resulting in a smooth, shiny plum color that will turn heads. Dark purple hair shades have evolved and are now a stylish choice for everyone, not just goths!

DARK AUBURN

Dark auburn encompasses shades that fall between classic auburn and chestnut brown. It’s a natural and flattering hair color, particularly suited for pale complexions. If you’re looking to experiment with red hair without going for a vibrant hue, dark auburn is an excellent choice!

GARNET

A bit lighter than scarlet yet equally intense, garnet hair colors are big and bold, perfect for making a statement. They stand out without resembling a conventional hair color. Garnet also pairs beautifully with plum, creating a striking and eye-catching combination.

AMARETTO

This amaretto balayage beautifully illustrates how the amaretto hair color combines brunette, cherry, and auburn tones to create a warm and rich hue. If you enjoy espresso, chocolate, and chestnut brunette shades, this is definitely a color to consider!

AUBURN

This ombre auburn hair color style is perfect for fall, showcasing beautiful autumnal shades. If you’re seeking a natural red hair color from the hair color chart, this is an excellent choice. It also pairs nicely with sandy blonde highlights for added dimension.

SCARLET

Scarlet is a vibrant, true red with dark undertones. If you’re seeking a similar shade but with more violet or plum hints, consider garnet, dark auburn, or plum. This hair color also shines beautifully when it catches the light!

GOLDEN

This golden auburn style looks stunning on various complexions. It enhances the warmth in naturally warm skin tones while providing a striking contrast for those with cool skin tones. It’s a versatile choice that flatters many!

APRICOT

Apricot is a softer shade than copper but not as natural as auburn. It pairs beautifully with a blend of blonde tones, as demonstrated in the photo. If you have very dark hair naturally, achieving this color may require several visits to the salon.

COPPER

This picture showcases copper hair colors at their most vibrant, with a brassy finish that can be quite appealing! However, if you prefer a subtler look, you can tone it down by using a brunette dye to neutralize the intensity slightly.

GINGER

This blend of ginger is truly stunning, featuring hints of copper, gold, strawberry, and even a touch of blonde. The key to achieving classic ginger hair is to start with a natural base color and then incorporate these additional shades as highlights for a vibrant, multidimensional effect.

STRAWBERRY

Strawberry hair color can vary significantly from one brand to another. This particular shade leans toward a pastel and more artificial look, while other strawberry dyes may be softer, smoother, and have more auburn undertones. There are plenty of options available for you to explore!

BLONDE HAIR COLOR CHART

You can choose a blonde shade that either complements or modifies your natural skin tone. If you have a warm skin tone (indicated by green veins at your wrist), consider warm shades like caramel, honey, beige, or vanilla. Conversely, if you have a cool skin tone (indicated by blue or pink veins), opt for cool shades such as smokey blonde, silver, ash, or champagne. 

Alternatively, you can experiment with the opposite tones to balance out a skin tone that feels too warm or too cool.

CHAMPAGNE BLONDE

Champagne is usually the warmest among the very pale blonde shades, featuring subtle golden undertones that enhance its silver hue. If you have a warm skin complexion and are considering a very light blonde, this color will be most flattering for you on the hair color chart.

ASH BLONDE

Ash blonde has a cool, ashen tone, as the name suggests. Despite its lightness, it shares many similarities with smoky blonde shades, just appearing lighter overall. This shade works well when paired with silvers and other smoky cool tones, creating a sophisticated look.

SILVER BLONDE

Slightly warmer than ash blonde, silver blonde is a very pale hair color that looks especially stunning when straight and glossy. While it is predominantly a cool shade, it features a hint of warmth that adds depth, as you can see in the photo.

SANDY BLONDE

Inspired by sand, this blonde shade is neutral-warm and pairs beautifully with darker, smoky, and brunette tones to create a dimensional look. It can be styled both tousled and messy, reminiscent of a day at the beach, or smooth and sleek for a polished appearance.

VANILLA BLONDE

Let’s go one shade lighter! Vanilla blonde is incredibly popular right now, and for good reason. This sweet shade features just a hint of warmth, resulting in a soft and inviting blonde hue that’s both fresh and vibrant.

BEIGE BLONDE

This is another beautiful balayage featuring beige blonde tones. Beige is a versatile neutral color that can be adjusted by incorporating honey or ash tones for added depth. It’s a great choice year-round, allowing for changing highlights that can adapt to the seasons.

HONEY BLONDE

This honey blonde hairstyle with babylights is absolutely stunning. The super light shades beautifully reflect light, giving the hair a luminous quality. However, if you have very thin hair, this look can create a slightly translucent effect, so keep that in mind!

GOLDEN BLONDE

Golden blonde is a warm, sun-kissed shade that exudes a vibrant glow. However, it can easily turn brassy without proper care, so it’s essential to follow your stylist’s recommendations for shampoo and conditioner. If you find this shade a bit too dark, consider exploring similar options like honey blonde or sunflower blonde for a lighter alternative.

CARAMEL BLONDE

This stunning caramel blonde balayage features hints of honey along with darker brunette tones underneath. It’s a moderately warm hair color, yet it also incorporates a mix of cooler tones for added depth. Caramel blonde is an excellent choice for those with warm skin tones.

COPPER BLONDE

This is another dark shade of blonde, but here we’re embracing warmth rather than coolness. Copper blonde sits perfectly on the line between ginger and blonde, showcasing beautiful autumnal hues. The combination of gold and copper creates a rich, vibrant look that’s perfect for fall!

SMOKY BLONDE

This brunette transitions into a stunning smoky blonde shade, creating a lovely cool hair tone. It’s ideal for enhancing a pale complexion or balancing out an overly warm one. You can blend it into a brunette like this or explore even paler cool shades of blonde, with ash being a particularly great option.

BROWN HAIR COLOR CHART

Besides black, brown is one of the most accessible hair colors. It typically requires minimal bleaching, making it easy to achieve at home with DIY hair dye kits. Here are some of the top brown hair colors, ranging from light bronde to smoky and espresso shades:

ESPRESSO

Espresso is one of the darkest brown shades available—any darker, and your hair would transition into black with brown highlights. This rich color has depth, so it’s ideal to incorporate different shades for dimension and interest. Adding subtle highlights or lowlights can enhance the overall look and make it truly stand out!

DARK CHOCOLATE

If you’re seeking a darker chocolate brown shade to complement or contrast with your skin, dark chocolate is a fantastic choice. Alternatively, you can use plain chocolate as a base and add dark lowlights of espresso and smoky brown to create depth and richness in your hair color. This combination provides a beautiful, multidimensional effect!

CHOCOLATE

This chocolate hair color radiates warmth, reminiscent of sweet, smooth milk chocolate with honey vanilla highlights. It’s a delightful choice, especially for those with warm skin tones. And don’t worry—dark chocolate also has its place on our list, offering a richer, deeper option for those seeking a bolder look!

GOLDEN BROWN

This photo beautifully illustrates how golden-brown hair colors shimmer with blonde highlights when they catch the sunlight! It’s a stunning shade on the brown hair color chart. However, be mindful that it can become brassy if not cared for properly, so using the right products when washing is essential to maintain its vibrancy.

CINNAMON

Those highlights on those curls showcase a classic cinnamon hair shade! The combination with a simple, muted brown base really allows the warmer tones to stand out. The styling cleverly resembles cinnamon spice sticks, adding a playful and delightful touch to the overall look!

SMOKY BROWN

Brown but with a cool twist! Smoky brown is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a hair color that balances your skin tone. It looks stunning as a solid shade or can be blended with ash highlights and gray tones for added dimension. You might even consider incorporating soft black for a deeper contrast.

CARAMEL

Caramel brown is rich and smooth, with less red undertone than chestnut. Instead, it incorporates hints of neutral golds and beige, resulting in those beautiful caramel hues. The photo above introduces extra red notes, taking the color in a fresh direction and adding warmth and vibrancy.

CHESTNUT

Chestnut is a mid-brown shade infused with rich tones, featuring a healthy dose of red that adds vibrant warmth—just like chestnuts roasting over a fire! This hair color beautifully accentuates the warmth in your skin tone, making it a radiant choice for many.

AMBER BROWN

Amber brown enhances the red tones in the hair, resulting in a beautiful hue that’s too dark to be classified as ginger. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to gradually transition from brunette to auburn, and it’s especially lovely in the fall!

BRONDE

Bronde can either be a solid color that sits between honey blonde and amber brown or a gradient, as shown in this photo. The blend of blonde and brunette shades works harmoniously, offering endless combinations and styles to explore with these versatile colors!

BLACK HAIR COLOR CHART

Black is far from just “black and white”—there are many shades of black hair dye on the color chart! While not everyone may pull them off, these shades are definitely worth exploring. Here are our top 7 favorite black hair colors:

SOFT BLACK

A blend of jet black and espresso brown shades, accented with gentle mini gray highlights, creates the ideal “soft black” hair color. This shade is much less harsh than other black options, offering a more natural appearance. The warmer tones in soft black complement a variety of skin tones, making it a versatile choice for many!

MAROON BLACK

Maroon is a rich blend of brown, cherry, and plum, making it a unique shade that doesn’t easily fit into any single category. It resembles a redder, muddier brown, infused with an intense darkness underneath. This color offers depth and warmth, making it a striking choice for those looking for something distinctive!

BROWN BLACK

Brown-black sits somewhere between espresso and soft black, making it a versatile shade that keeps everyone guessing! It’s softer than harsh black tones, providing a more natural look. This color is perfect for transitioning into warmer months while maintaining depth and richness.

CHERRY BLACK

This photo showcases a light cherry black, where the cherry hue is prominent while the black serves as a subtle base. You can certainly opt for a stronger black shade to enhance this look. It’s a great choice for the fall and winter seasons, offering a rich, warm vibe.

PLUM BLACK

Plum black hair colors contrast with blue-black shades by introducing warmth, making them an excellent choice for warm skin tones. A hint of purple gives rise to the plum black shade. If you’re looking for a redder variation, consider exploring cherry black hair instead!

BLUE BLACK

Blue-black hair colors introduce an artificial blue hue, giving your locks a slightly inky appearance. These shades can vary from very dark blue to pure black, which only reveals a blue tint when exposed to direct sunlight. This color offers a unique and striking look that stands out beautifully!

BLACKEST BLACK

Blackest black can shine brilliantly when styled and glossy, but it should not be mistaken for highlights. This shade is a solid, neutral black color, while other black hues feature tints or softer undertones that complement various skin tones. Blackest black creates a striking contrast, making it a bold choice for those seeking a dramatic look.

MATCHING HAIR COLORS TO YOUR SKIN TONE

If you’re unsure where to start with your hair color, the first step is to identify your skin tone: fair, medium, olive/warm, or deep and rich. Then, decide whether you want your hair color to complement your skin or create a balance. The right choice can brighten or darken your complexion with contrasting shades.

FAIR SKIN HAIR COLOR

For fair skin tones, especially those with warm undertones, ash blonde is a great option. Choose a soft, mellow blonde base with ash highlights to cool it down. If you’re considering red, light and natural auburn shades work well—think of Emma Stone as a reference.

Light ash brown is another good choice for those wanting to transition to brunette, while dark shades like chocolate or espresso can create a harsh contrast, especially for cool skin tones. Instead, opt for light ash brown or smoky brown. A muted or soft black shade will also suit fair complexions best.

MEDIUM SKIN HAIR COLOR

For medium skin tones, light beige blonde feels very natural, giving you a sun-kissed glow. If you prefer more contrast, opt for darker shades rather than lighter ones. Caramel brown works wonderfully, particularly for warm skin tones.

When it comes to red hair, deeper shades like cherry red and scarlet can be fantastic choices. For black hair, go for warmer shades to complement your skin tone, or choose a blue undertone for balance.

OLIVE SKIN HAIR COLOR

For olive complexions, very light blonde shades can often appear too artificial. Instead, consider a honey blonde with highlights for a softer look. Strong natural auburn is also a great option; darker auburn shades will contrast beautifully with your skin tone.

Most brunette shades work well, but a rich coffee brown—somewhere between espresso and chocolate—is particularly flattering. For black hair, dark shades with blue undertones will make your hair pop.

DEEP SKIN HAIR COLOR

For those with deep, rich skin tones, don’t shy away from blonde! Start with the darkest blonde shades or bronde, and consider adding dark ash notes to contrast with warmer skin tones.

An auburn-brown mix is also very flattering. A medium brown shade with autumnal highlights—like soft auburn, gold, and caramel blonde—looks stunning.

Cool dark brown is another excellent choice, especially if you want to balance an overly warm complexion. Opt for dark brown hair with cool undertones, like beige or ash, to achieve this.

Finally, don’t hesitate to go for the darkest black available! Jet black hair colors frame the face beautifully and create the perfect contrast to highlight your features.

CONCLUSION

Choosing the right hair color can significantly enhance your overall appearance. By understanding your skin tone and using a hair color chart, you can select hues that complement your natural beauty. Remember, hair color is a personal expression, so experiment and find what makes you feel confident. Ultimately, the best hair color is the one that makes you feel great about yourself.

18 BEST OUTDOOR CONCERT OUTFITS THAT ROCK YOUR OUTING

The countdown is on. Your favorite artists are taking the stage, and you’ve got a golden ticket. But before you dive into the crowd, there’s one crucial question: What to wear? It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling confident and ready to rock out. From indie folk to electric EDM, we’ve curated a playlist of outfit inspiration to match every musical vibe. Get ready to turn heads and dance the night away in style with your own impressive outfits.

STYLISH ROMPERS

Add a unique flair to your outdoor concert outfit with a chic romper, dungarees, overalls, or a jumpsuit. Opt for colorful rompers for a stylish and comfy look that stands out.

A MIDI DRESS, SNEAKERS, AND A DENIM JACKET

For an outdoor concert outfit summer where it might be a bit windy, a midi dress is a charming choice! This polka dot option is lovely, but a floral or animal print dress would be equally cute. Pair it with classic white sneakers to keep your feet comfy, and bring along a denim jacket for when it gets chilly. It’s the perfect balance of feminine, practical, and casual!

MINI SKIRTS

Mini skirts are a great choice for outdoor concerts, offering a fun and flirty look that’s perfect for warm weather. Pair them with a breezy top and comfortable sneakers for a stylish yet practical outfit. Add a light jacket or cardigan for when the temperature drops, and you’re all set for an enjoyable time.

FEMININE TOP

This outfit is perfect for a summer concert: a cute, airy crop top (great for dressing up at work too) and comfy flat sandals. For outdoor events, shorts are a smart choice to avoid any wardrobe mishaps while sitting on a blanket. Comfortable shoes are essential since you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, and don’t forget your sunglasses—Ray Bans are my favorite! This look is great for a country concert if you want to skip the cowboy boots. For a bit more edge, try adding a black leather jacket and swapping the sandals for sneakers.

CASUAL TEES

Basic t-shirts are perfect for outdoor concerts. They’re easy to wear and always look stylish, giving you a timeless and simple look. A well-fitting t-shirt can make any outfit stand out while keeping things effortless and chic.

AN ALL DENIM OUTFIT, THE CLASSY WAY! 

Here’s a great mix of girly and tomboy styles—with a hint of denim! I love this jumper because it’s lightweight and super soft, unlike regular denim. It’s perfect for a date, showing off your figure while being cool and comfy. It’s also a cute choice for a music festival if you want something different from the usual crop top and underwear look you see on Instagram.

CROP TOPS

Crop tops are a key piece for a trendy and girly look. They’re perfect for creating stylish and modern outfits for outdoor concerts. You can turn any ordinary outfit into something special with a crop top, which comes in lots of colors and patterns for a cute and fabulous look.

BLOUSE WITH RAW EDGE JEANS 

A blouse and raw edge jeans combo offers a casual yet stylish look, perfect for an outdoor concert. The raw edge detail on the jeans adds a touch of edge to the feminine blouse, creating a balanced outfit. To complete the look, consider adding layered necklaces and comfortable footwear like sneakers or ankle boots.

DENIM JEANS

For a great outdoor concert look, choose well-fitting jeans to create stylish yet simple outfits. Opt for jeans from ethical brands that use eco-friendly and sustainable concerts methods.

BLACK CAMISOLE 

This is my favorite outfit for almost anything, so it’s perfect for any concert too! Whether it’s a rock show, country gig, or a free park concert, you’ll always look great. The slinky camisole is classic and feminine, while the Wedgie jeans add a bit of rocker style.

DENIM JACKETS

A denim jacket goes with almost anything and is perfect for an outdoor concert. It adds a stylish touch to any outfit, making it look great. A classic denim jacket can make your outfit stand out and give it a unique and charming look.

STRIPED TEE, JEAN SKIRT, LEATHER JACKET, SNEAKERS

If you live in Chicago, you know that free in the park are a highlight of summer! This outfit is perfect for a “concert in the park” date—cute, super casual, and comfy. If skirts aren’t your thing, you can swap it for my favorite jean shorts linked above.

CAMISOLE, RAW HEM JEANS, ESPADRILLES, DENIM JACKET

A camisole adds a touch of femininity while raw hem jeans bring in a casual edge. Complete the look with comfortable espadrilles and a denim jacket for a touch of warmth and style. This ensemble strikes the perfect balance between chic and laid-back, making it an ideal summer rock concert outfit that ensures you’ll be both comfortable and fashionable as you enjoy the music.

UNIQUE BLOUSES

Why not combine a lovely blouse with denim jeans for a stylish outdoor concert outfit? This look often features shorts or knee-length bottoms paired with a standout blouse or a collared shirt.

STRIPED TEE, HAIR SCARF, WHITE DENIM SKIRT

A striped tee paired with a hair scarf and a white denim skirt creates a fresh and stylish concert look. The striped tee adds a classic touch, while the hair scarf adds a playful and chic element. The white denim skirt keeps the outfit casual and cool, perfect for enjoying a concert in comfort and style.

LEATHER JACKETS

Leather jackets are iconic in modern fashion, adding a bold, glamorous, and versatile touch to any outfit—no motorcycle required. Throw on a stylish leather jacket for a chic, modern look at an outdoor concert. Opt for faux leather made from animal-free materials because no animal should suffer for a great outfit. While leather jackets are typically associated with cooler weather, they can be incorporated into a summer country concert outfit by pairing them with lighter fabrics like denim shorts and a flowy tank top.

CLASSIC WHITE TANK, SKINNY JEANS, AND HEELS

A classic white tank and skinny jeans combo is a timeless choice for an outdoor concert. The clean lines of the tank pair perfectly with the sleek silhouette of skinny jeans, creating a polished yet effortless look. Add a pair of statement heels to elevate the outfit and inject a dose of glamour into the casual vibe. This ensemble is both comfortable and stylish, making it ideal for dancing the night away.

ORIGINAL SUNGLASSES

Remember to add classic eyewear to complete your festival look. Sunglasses are a must for any outdoor concert outfit and can elevate your style. Choose eco-friendly and affordable sunglasses that offer great sun protection—they’re the perfect accessory for a chic and effortless summer vibe.

CONCLUSION

From bohemian vibes to edgy rockstar chic, there’s an outdoor concert outfit for everyone. Remember, the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable while rocking out to your favorite tunes. Experiment with different styles, accessories, and layers to create a look that truly reflects your personality. So, get ready to shine brighter than the stage lights and let your outfit be the star of the show!