Introducing bronde - the perfect blend of blonde and brunette. It's the shade your clients still can't get enough of, so here's how to create it according to the experts.
"Bronde is perfect for darker haired clients who want to try out a lighter colour," says colourist to the A-list set, Jack Howard. "It can be warm, neutral or cool."
Picture credit: Jon Wilsdon, TONI&GUY
"For years, anyone who was born with mousey hair has fought against it, either going blonde or switching all the way to brunette," he continues. "Dark brunettes struggling with orange-toned highlights or too-light pieces against their skin can now appear healthy and natural."
One thing to note, because Bronde can be interpreted in so many different ways, it's essential to conduct a thorough consultation beforehand. Why not use reference pictures of celebrities such as these?
How to Create Bronde
"The key to the perfect shade of bronde is to lighten hair by freehand painting pieces making sure that the colour is softer near the mid-section and thicker towards the ends and is even all the way through," says Jack.
"Just make sure you don’t have too much of a contrast between the roots and the highlighted ends or you’ll end up looking like you’ve had a dip-dye – this look is fresher and low on up-keep. This colour is great for people who don’t want to completely take the plunge and go either way (full blonde or full brunette) and great for natural brunettes who want a little bit of lightness. I’ve found that most celebrities sporting bronde are within two shades of their natural colour."
Brondes are low contrast colours meaning the dark and the light pieces are not miles apart. Rachel Valentine advises: "When choosing the lowlights and the toners, they’re usually around two levels difference."
The aim is for the colour to feel like it’s just always been part of their hair, not something that’s been painted on. "I love using reverse balayage for guests who have too much contrast between their roots and their lighter ends—it’s a great way to bring everything together," says Joshua Wise,from The Hair Movement. "Matching the tones to their natural colour is another key to getting that flawless, natural look."
How High Maintenance is Bronde?
Bronde can be a relatively low-maintenance option, thanks to its subtle contrast. "However, if you’re lifting over tinted hair, the colour may fade lighter over time, so regular toning appointments are essential to keep the shade looking rich and polished," advises Elle Foreman, Tribe Salons, Clapham Junction.
But becuase the fade is really natural, you'll never see a harsh regrowth line. "Some of my guests come back after four, six, or even eight months, and their colour still looks great," comments Joshua Wise, Senior Stylist at The Hair Movement, Sidcup. "I usually suggest popping in around the four-month mark for a gloss or toner refresh to keep it shiny and vibrant, but a full colour can often wait a bit longer depending on how it’s wearing."