The 'intensely shiny' neutral hair colour that's about to take over, according to experts

Continuing the theme of cool and neutral hues, "charcoal brown" is the latest colour trend joining the ranks – and it promises both a statement finish and glossy shine.

If 2023 was the year of warm and coppery shades, this year is proving to be the era of neutrals, with the 2024 hair trends welcoming everything from crystal clear blonde (a creamy alternative to platinum that enhances natural greys) to subtle taupe brown. Now, we're welcoming in an ultra-dark and oh-so-flattering take on brunette: charcoal.

This latest must-have colour sits firmly towards the deeper end of the brunette colour spectrum and offers a stylish alternative for those seeking to ditch reddish undertones or elevate their dark brown strands with a gleaming, healthy shine...

What is the charcoal hair trend?

Tom Smith, trend forecaster, artist in residence at Billi Currie and International Creative Colour Director for Evo Hair describes charcoal's undertone as "neutral rather than warm or cool," adding that it's "as deep as a brunette can be without appearing cold or black. This shade makes it easy to get intensely shiny and glossy hair."

Like crystal and syrup honey blonde, this colour hinges on that coveted reflective, healthy shine – making it a chic option for anyone seeking to elevate and update their brunette hair or those looking to undergo a big transformation (i.e. from a much lighter colour to dark brown). It's also especially apt for summer, as the sunny days will only help to accentuate that glossy radiance.

How to request charcoal hair at the salon

To request it from your go-to hairdresser, Smith recommends you "Ask for a deep brown with a neutral undertone; this is not black or chocolate brown but sits in between and has a balance of warm and cool tones."

How to maintain charcoal brown hair

"If your natural colour is quite deep, the maintenance of the shade is very minimal," says Smith. "If your natural colour is lighter, you will certainly need to visit the salon every month to six weeks to maintain the new growth."

To help extend your colour in between appointments or to prolong the time until your next salon trip, especially if your hair is prone to fading with red tones, Smith recommends using a colour-boosting treatment – like Evo Fabuloso in the shade Cool Brown – as this will "help to retain the shine and tone for as long as possible."

For those looking for a style to match their new brunette shade, we've rounded five celebrity looks to replicate below.

5 ways to style charcoal brunette hair

1. Ultra long charcoal hair

Complete with a reflective shine, Demi Moore's long, dark brunette hair proves just how luxe and chic a similar charcoal hue can look.

2. Charcoal pixie cut

If you're already sporting a dark brunette hue, or are looking to give your brown hair a shiny refresh, why not also consider a trendy pixie cut like Viola Davis'.

3. Sleek charcoal updo

Another way to debut this neutral brunette shade is in a sleek updo, as Bridgerton's Simone Ashley's glossy brunette hairstyle demonstrates.

4. Charcoal bob

If you have a bob hairstyle, Katy Perry's shiny, ultra-dark brunette hair looks so chic in this textured cut. 

5. Charcoal 'bell-bottom' bob

Combining two summer trends in one, Mindy Kaling's brunette bell-bottom bob serves as excellent hair inspiration.