Which Hair Color Is Best for Highlights?

Written By Ryan Russo

If you are thinking about adding highlights to your hair, you are not alone. Highlights are one of the most popular ways to add dimension, brightness, and movement to your style. But before you book your appointment, you might be wondering which hair color works best for highlights.

The truth is that almost every hair color can be enhanced with highlights. The key is choosing the right shade and technique for your natural color and skin tone. Here is a guide to help you decide what works best.

Blonde Hair

Blonde is one of the most flexible base colors for highlights. You can go lighter with icy platinum ribbons or add depth with honey and caramel tones. Highlights on blonde hair can create a sunlit glow or add texture and movement without changing your base color too much.

Best highlight shades for blondes:

  • Platinum or icy blonde

  • Golden or warm blonde

  • Champagne tones

  • Soft beige or creamy highlights

Brown Hair

Brunettes can make a big impact with highlights. Adding lighter tones can break up the depth of dark hair and bring warmth to the overall look. Whether you want subtle dimension or high-contrast color, highlights on brown hair always deliver.

Best highlight shades for brunettes:

  • Caramel

  • Toffee or honey

  • Chestnut

  • Light golden brown

  • Face-framing lighter pieces

Black Hair

Highlights on black hair can be bold and beautiful. Lighter pieces stand out more against a dark base, so the effect is often more dramatic. If you want a softer look, consider deep browns or reds. If you are ready to go bolder, try auburn or even cool-toned ash.

Best highlight shades for black hair:

  • Mocha

  • Auburn

  • Cool espresso

  • Soft copper

  • Ash brown

Red Hair

Red hair looks incredible with highlights that enhance its warmth. Whether you are a natural redhead or color-treated, the right highlights can bring out golden, copper, or strawberry tones. Keep it subtle for a natural look or go vibrant for something more eye-catching.

Best highlight shades for red hair:

  • Rose gold

  • Copper

  • Strawberry blonde

  • Golden blonde

  • Warm amber

Final Thoughts

Every hair color can benefit from highlights when done thoughtfully. The best option depends on your starting color, your desired level of contrast, and the overall look you want to achieve. At Soultuary Salon, our stylists work with you to find the perfect match for your hair tone and personal style.

Ready to explore your highlight options?
Book your consultation with one of our experienced colorists and let us help you find the highlight combination that brings your hair to life.

Ryan Russo
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