Burnt copper and tawny bronde: The hair colours set to take hold this autumn

A change in seasons.

The transition from summer to autumn brings a host of changes. Mornings become brisk, leaves start to turn and the days become that bit more cosy. It also signals a shift in wardrobe, where mini dresses and linen shorts are slowly replaced by transeasonal staples, like a good knit or warm scarf.

For more haircare reviews, check out our Beauty section.

Another way to lean into the change of seasons is through your hairstyle. While some might prefer a high-impact refresh, there’s also a range of options for those who gravitate more towards subtlety, like a shift in tone or some low-stakes highlights. For some autumnal inspiration, we asked three Melbourne hairdressers for the colours they’re predicting to take hold this season.

Shades of red

Cola Copper 

all

According to Alexandra Newman, the founder and creative director at Salon Spaghetti, copper is having a moment. Rather than brighter, orange shades (though if that’s your thing, go for it), Alexandra is forecasting cool-toned deep reds and coppers this autumn.

“The key here is dimension: working from a deeper natural base into brighter ends and face-framing pieces, mimicking how hair would naturally lift. It feels glossy, expensive, and a little moodier for the cooler months.”

If you already have a natural variation of these shades, her advice is to ask for a demi-permanent colour applied on freshly washed hair for a glossy, multi-dimensional finish. However, if your hair is darker, ask for a ‘base break’ balayage (hair painting). “[This will] create softness and movement before layering in the rich cola copper tones.”

Burnt Copper

On a slightly different note, Edwards and Co founder Jaye Edwards makes the case for an Emma Stone-inspired burnt copper, blending rich auburn and smouldering red tones. “It’s the ultimate autumn girl hair colour,” he says.

“Copper is notoriously known as the most high-maintenance colour, so I recommend incorporating the Original Minerals Clean.tone Copper Colour treatment into your at home routine to keep your colour fresh.”

Levels of blonde

Cool, ashy tones

Coming into autumn, Tara-Lee Mitchell, owner and stylist at Mitch salon in Melbourne, predicts a cool change. “Think more ash, beige and champagne tones. Think muted,” she says. “Ask your hairdresser for a slightly more icy toner when you’re at the salon.” To maintain the colour at home, she suggests using a toning shampoo or conditioner.

Tawny bronde

For any blondes who went lighter in summer and are looking to soften their locks, Alexandra suggests trying out tawny bronde. It’s less bleached and tiered, and transitions are made to feel more seamless, with less contrast between light and dark shades. Picture soft, blended tones, with a big focus on shine.

If you already have blonde hair, her advice is to ask for a ‘zone tone’ to soften and rebalance over-processed summer blondes. However, if you’re starting fresh, request fine, diffused highlights with minimal root stretch an a tawny-toned gloss. “Overall, it’s about enhancing what’s already there. Less overhaul, more refinement.”

Sunset tones

However, for those determined to hold onto their light blonde locks, Jaye’s also a fan of a golden hour blonde. Rather than a high-impact colour, it adds a soft warmth, perfect for autumn.

Multi-dimensional brown

Lavish Brunette

Brunette hair has famously been cast with the same figurative brush, but contrary to popular belief, it comes in a vast array of shades and tones. There’s suede, mocha, chestnut, even sparkly. This autumn, though, Jaye’s eyes are on lavish, multi-dimensional tones. “Think espresso, melted chocolate and warm toffee ribbons layered with subtle highlights to create depth, shine and an expensive looking, light-catching finish.”

For at-home styling, he recommends the Original Minerals Dry Queen Brunette dry shampoo. “This adds life to your blowout with volume and a brunette tint.”

For more hair inspiration, try this.