The arrival of fall might as well be a signal for a quick refresh—new manicures, lipstick shades and of course gorgeous new hair looks. If you’re not in the zone to completely overhaul your signature hair color, opting for one of the best fall highlight colors is the next best thing. Instead of swapping out your beloved shade, you can amplify it, adding dimension and depth to the overall color. Like this season’s top hair colors, the highlight shades have something to offer for everyone. For those looking for a subtle lift, soft golden blonde streaks give the appearance of sun-kissed strands. It’s perfect for transitioning your summer color without leaving it behind. However, if you are ready to rock a deeper hue, caramel ribbons and rust-toned copper highlights can take your color to a new level. Ahead, two experts share the best highlight colors for fall and how to get the look.
Featured experts
- Dimitris Giannetos is a celebrity hairstylist
- Sara Botsford is a hairstylist and Redken Artistic Ambassador
The 7 Best Hair Highlight Colors for Fall 2025
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Rusted Copper
Copper is so much more versatile than most people think. Instead of punchy and bright, a deep rust shade can bring intensity and dimension to dark brown hair. "Copper ribbons will pop against a brunette base and give it a rich and vibrant look," says hairstylist and Redken Artistic Ambassador, Sara Botsford. Auburn shades tend to fade fast, but she notes that shifting your routine can be the difference between a dull and a lively color. "Limit your heat styling and be sure to use color-safe wash day products like Redken's Color Extend Magnetics ($27).
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Warm Brunette
Brunette is easily the most quintessential fall hair color. Adding warm highlights makes it feel even more seasonally-appropriate. "The colors meld together seamlessly, adding dimension without going too light," says celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos. It's effortless and almost undetectable but has a sunlit warmth and glow.
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Honey Brown
According to Botsford, this highlight shade pairs best with medium to dark brunette bases. "It's a great way to add richness and lift the color," she says. The key is getting the right blend of shades. "A sun-kissed look is the ultimate goal, so ask your colorist for a brown balayage with subtle golden-brown ribbons," she adds. The combination creates a honeyed hue that's warm and exudes shine.
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Cowboy Copper
If you're looking for a statement-making hair color, cowboy copper is an excellent choice. The trendy hue is made from an expert blend of vibrant shades and comes alive with copper highlights. To get the look, Giannetos recommends asking your colorist for a dimensional copper balayage. "You want a color with ribbons of fiery tones so it catches the light and feels modern, not flat," he says. While red is notoriously tricky to maintain, he says regular in-salon glosses and avoiding purple shampoo will ensure your color stays vivid and shiny.
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Golden Blonde Money Pieces
Money piece highlights from the 2000s are in their 2.0 era. But this time around, they're softer and much more diffused. Positioned to frame the face and enhance warm-toned brunettes, they are a fresh way to spruce up your natural color. "Think golden blonde highlights that look natural and bright," says Botsford.
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Caramel
Achieving this melted caramel effect is all about precision. Botsford recommends opting for precisily placed caramel balayage. "The ribbons should appear to be woven throughout the base color in order to create a seamless and soft blend," she says. However, the starting shade is just as important. This look embraces deep tones and, therefore, works best on dark brunettes and espresso brown hair.
