You know what they say, “when a woman changes her hairstyle, she is about to change her life”. We can certainly think of times when that’s been true (we’re looking at you, 2008 post-breakup platinum with bangs), but in the case of TikTok’s latest hair trend, we think it’s more about refreshing the get ready for summer and go back to that age-old rule: when the sun hits, lighten your hair color.
And the shadow that settles this summer? Californian brunette. Sounds good, right? So where does this come from?
Well, it looks like the commotion started after a video, shared on TikTok by salon Hollywood Hills Treehouse Studio, which received over four million TikTok views, showcased the new summer hair trend to a “YES resounding from users. The video was captioned, “let’s call it, California Brunette?” and has garnered over 755,000 likes and 1,500 comments to date.
TikTok content
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“This is EXACTLY what I wanted,” wrote one user, while another commented, “This is one of the most beautiful hair colors I’ve seen.” Some were a little more direct with their comments: “wow,” said one, and others left comments to the effect, “I want this!”
Users were also quick to post their own versions of the hair color, presumably wasting no time rushing to the salon to request it.
TikTok content
This content can also be viewed on the site from which it originated.
TikTok content
This content can also be viewed on the site from which it originated.
So why is she called the California brunette? Well, just like spending a summer in sunny Southern California (yes, please) would subtly lighten your locks – something that’s more noticeable in blonde or lighter shades of brown hair – this particular look involves highlighting brown hair to give a natural, sun-kissed look. Plus, it adds natural texture and depth to the hair and thus will make thinner hair look fuller and hide a host of sins when it comes to flyaways or split ends.
Instagram content
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Jordan Jones, Color Stylist at Taylor Taylor London, tells GLAMOR: “California brunette is the new summer hair trend that uses warm highlights on a light brown or brown base to give a dreamy sunny look. Highlighting hair with color just a few shades lighter than your base color is the best way to give a natural, sun-lightened effect.
So what do you ask for when you go to the salon, in case your colorist isn’t up to date with TikTok lingo?
“Ask for balayage or freehand highlights that start lower, as well as face-framing highlights to lighten the face and give an effortless look,” advises Jordan. “This option is perfect if you want a subtle, lighter color for the summer, without going completely blonde, as it lets a lot of the dark brown/blonde base color show through.”
Basically, it’s great news for anyone who won’t be able to spend time in the California sun all summer to achieve the same look (that is, everyone). See you at the living room.
