Searches for “mocha hair” have reached 119,000 in the past month, up 82% year on year, as warm, glossy brunette shades become one of the biggest hair colour trends of summer.
The trend sits between rich chocolate brown, soft espresso and creamy caramel tones, creating a multidimensional brunette shade that looks expensive without feeling too high-maintenance.
According to Danielle Louise, beauty expert on Fresha, the world’s leading beauty and wellness booking platform, mocha hair is taking off because it offers a softer alternative to flat block brunette and a more wearable option than high-contrast balayage.
Danielle said:
“Mocha hair is popular because it gives brunette hair depth, shine and softness without looking overdone.
It is not just one brown shade. The best mocha hair has a mix of warm brunette, coffee, caramel and soft golden tones running through it, so the hair catches the light rather than looking flat.
It is also a brilliant summer colour because it feels glossy and expensive, but it does not require the same level of upkeep as bright blonde or heavy highlights.”
How to achieve mocha hair
Danielle says the best way to achieve mocha hair is to ask for a rich brunette base with soft, warm dimension.
She said:
“The key words to use in the salon are ‘soft mocha brunette’, ‘warm chocolate’, ‘espresso brown’ and ‘subtle caramel dimension’.
You do not want chunky highlights or obvious stripes. Mocha hair should look blended, glossy and tonal. The lighter pieces should be placed where the sun would naturally hit the hair, usually around the face, through the mid-lengths and softly on the ends.”
For darker brunettes, Danielle recommends a gloss or toner to add warmth and shine without a dramatic colour change.
For anyone with naturally dark hair, you may not need a full colour transformation. A warm gloss can make the hair look richer, healthier and more reflective.
That is one of the reasons mocha hair works so well. It can be adapted for almost every brunette base.”
The summer mistake that can ruin mocha hair
Danielle warns that hot weather, UV exposure, chlorine and hard water can quickly change the tone of mocha hair if it is not protected.
She said:
“The biggest summer mistake is assuming brunette hair does not need the same level of protection as blonde hair.
Mocha tones can fade, turn brassy or lose their expensive glossy finish when exposed to too much sun, chlorine or heat styling.
If you are going on holiday, swimming regularly or spending a lot of time in the sun, you need to treat your colour like you would your skin. Protect it before exposure, rinse it after swimming and keep it hydrated.”
Lesser-known tips for keeping mocha hair glossy in hot weather
Danielle recommends:
- Using a UV-protective hair mist when spending time outdoors
- Rinsing hair with fresh water before and after swimming
- Avoiding excessive heat styling on already sun-exposed hair
- Booking a gloss treatment between colour appointments
- Switching to colour-safe shampoo and conditioner
- Using a hydrating mask once a week during summer
- Avoiding purple shampoo unless advised by a professional, as it can dull warm brunette tones
Danielle added:
“A lot of people reach for purple shampoo when they see warmth in their hair, but mocha hair is meant to have warmth. If you over-tone it, you can lose the softness and richness that makes the colour look expensive.
The goal is not to make brunette hair ashy. The goal is to keep it glossy, warm and balanced.”
Who does mocha hair suit?
Danielle says mocha hair is one of the most adaptable brunette trends because it can be tailored to different skin tones.
“Cooler skin tones may suit a softer milk-chocolate mocha, while warmer skin tones can carry richer caramel and espresso shades.
The important thing is getting the balance right. Too much red can make the colour look harsh, while too much ash can make it look flat. A good colourist will adapt the mocha tone to your complexion, natural base and maintenance level.”
