The world of hair fashion is currently, in large part, dominated by the hot new trend, Ombre hair. Ombré, from the similar French word, translates literally to “shade or shadow.” As the translation suggests, this hair colouring technique involves a gradual blending of multiple colours, ranging from a light to dark gradient. The success of this trend is attributable to a wide variety of aspects, such as the series of A-list celebrities who have managed to brand it as their own, and the fact that the trend itself requires very little upkeep and is easy to maintain, ensuring its longevity. Not to mention the fact that it serves as a stunning, and vibrant means of self-expression.
Ombre hair is a rend somewhat young in its existence. Originally, the term’s original usage referred to the unique and innovative printing block of the 19th century which allowed for gradient colour patterns to be printed on textiles. Today the term mostly refers to a unique and innovative hairstyle that was popularized in 2007. The equal parts stunning and powerful Gisele Bündchen was the first to catch media attention to the trend, by sporting what would quickly become one of the largest modern phenomena in hair fashion.
In Gisele’s case, her hair was dyed a subtle and smooth fade, ranging from light tones in the tips of her hair to darker brown oak colors in her roots. Blink and you missed it, it was hard to deny the subtlety of Gisele’s hairstyle which appeared to be kissed by the sun itself. Ombré hairstyles have since made rounds across many of the most fashionable ladies in Hollywood. From Gwyneth Paltro, to Rashida Jones, to Jessica Biel, as well as a growing amount of everyday adopters, it is hard to deny that the trend has taken off in a major way.
Luckily, the large amount of variety within the style ensures that, while it is trendy, it is not tacky. Severe or subtle gradients from what can only be described as an endless stream of color combinations ensure that the ombré is both a statement to the trend, and a statement to the individual who wears it.
For those looking to adopt the hairstyle without the use of a stylist, we’ve got you sorted:
To begin, it’s recommended that you pull inspiration from an already existing ombré hairstyle. Find one you like, and gather photos as a reference. If you want to fuel the creative in you, consider gathering more than one style, and split the difference between the two.
It’s important to purchase a hair dye that’ll work well for your hair. Your hair is unique, so treat it as such, and search for the product that works best for you. It’s important to note however, that this works best when your hair is currently void of any severe dyes, as a drastic change to an already darkened head of hair may require some hair stripping at the hands of a stylist in order to produce the optimal result
Leave your roots for last when performing the next step. Since the heat from your head speeds up the process of lightening, flush around 75-85% of the hair lightening product, without contacting your roots. Once you’ve followed the specific packaging instructions for how long to leave the hair product in (half an hour on average, producing a brassy’ tone), you may now introduce the remaining product to your roots.
Next, when attempting to dye your hair it’s important to reach every root on your scalp. Move your hair around to ensure this is done correctly, and consider getting a friend to help you target each area. Follow instructions on when to remove the dye, and then wash and dry your hair. For more ideas check out this post > 60+ Awesome Ombre Hair Color Ideas To Try At Home!
And that’s it! Equipped with your new, hopefully stunning Ombre hair you’re all set to announce yourself as a member of this trend, and sporter of your hot, new head of hair.