Summer is calling — and so is a fresh new color. Whether you're ready for a bold change or just want to brighten things up for the season, our stylists at Oak & Ivory Beauty Co are obsessed with this summer's hottest color trends. Here are the looks we can't stop talking about (and can't wait to create for you).
1. Sun-Kissed Balayage
This one never goes out of style — and for good reason. Sun-kissed balayage mimics the way the sun naturally lightens your hair, with soft, hand-painted highlights concentrated around the face and through the ends. The result is effortlessly gorgeous, low-maintenance color that looks like you just spent a week at the beach.
“Balayage is all about creating dimension that looks natural. I love customizing the placement for each client so it grows out beautifully and doesn't require constant touch-ups.”
— Emily, Owner & Stylist
Best for: Anyone who wants a sun-lit glow without high maintenance. Works beautifully on brunettes, blondes, and everything in between.
2. Rich Copper & Auburn Tones
Copper is having a major moment. From warm, spicy auburn to bright penny copper, red tones are everywhere this summer. This trend adds warmth, depth, and a head-turning richness that catches the light in the most stunning way.
The beauty of copper is how versatile it is. You can go subtle with a copper gloss over your natural color, or go all-in with a vibrant, fiery transformation. Either way, it's giving main character energy.
Best for: Warm and neutral skin tones. If you have green or hazel eyes, copper will make them absolutely pop.
3. Honey Blonde
Think golden, warm, and glowy. Honey blonde is the perfect summer shade for anyone who wants to go lighter without going platinum. It's soft, flattering, and has that “I woke up like this” quality that we all love.
This shade works especially well as a lived-in balayage or with face-framing highlights that brighten your complexion. Pair it with a gloss treatment and your hair will literally shine.
Best for: Light to medium brunettes looking to warm things up, or natural blondes who want added richness and dimension.
4. Strawberry Blonde
Somewhere between blonde and red lives the dreamiest shade of summer: strawberry blonde. It's playful, romantic, and gives off serious summer sunset vibes. This color is softer than a full copper but still has that warm, rosy glow that turns heads.
Strawberry blonde can be achieved as an all-over color or blended through highlights for a more subtle take. It's one of those shades that photographs beautifully and looks amazing in natural light.
Best for: Fair to medium skin tones. It's especially gorgeous on natural blondes and light brunettes.
5. Lived-In Brunette with Caramel Ribbons
Not everyone wants to go lighter — and that's where this trend shines. Lived-in brunette with caramel ribbons adds just enough warmth and movement to dark hair without losing that rich, chocolatey base. The caramel pieces are strategically placed to catch the light and add depth.
“I love creating lived-in color for my brunette clients. It's all about adding dimension that looks natural and grows out seamlessly. You get that fresh, sun-touched look without a drastic change.”
— Kyleigh, Stylist
Best for: Brunettes who want low-maintenance color with a summery twist. Grows out beautifully with minimal upkeep.
6. Bright, Icy Blonde
For the bold blondes out there — icy, bright platinum is still going strong. This is the “go big or go home” shade of summer. Clean, cool, and striking, icy blonde makes a statement and pairs perfectly with tanned, sun-kissed skin.
Fair warning: this shade requires commitment. Regular toning appointments and the right at-home products are essential to keep it looking fresh and preventing brassiness. But if you're willing to put in the work? Absolutely worth it.
Best for: Cool and neutral skin tones. If you're already blonde and want to take it to the next level, this is your sign.
How to Make Your Summer Color Last
No matter which trend you go for, here are a few tips to keep your color looking fresh all summer long:
Ready for Your Summer Transformation?
Whether you're dreaming of sun-kissed balayage, a fiery copper, or a bright icy blonde — our team at Oak & Ivory is ready to make it happen. Every color appointment starts with a consultation so we can find the perfect shade and technique for your hair type, skin tone, and lifestyle.
Ready to switch up your color for summer? Book a color appointment with one of our stylists and let's create your perfect summer look.