26 Glamorous Dark Brown Hair With Highlights You Can’t Resist

Why I made this post I kept spotting dark brown hair with highlights that look luxurious yet doable. It feels timeless and fresh at the same time, and I wanted to build a guide that reflects real life. I want to help you find a shade that adds depth without looking flat. If you crave color that shines in both daylight and on camera, you are in the right place.

Who it’s for This post speaks to anyone who loves a rich look that travels well. If you want a shade that lasts and grows out softly, this is for you. Busy people, students, and professionals can pull off these looks with minimal fuss. If you like colors that work on many outfits and skin tones, you’ll find options here.

What you’ll get A gallery of 26 ideas that pair a dark brown base with highlights that catch light. Practical tips to pick the right tone for your skin and eye color. Simple care steps to keep shine and prevent brass, plus styling ideas to wear the color every day. You’ll find guidance that helps you pick between different highlight techniques with confidence.

You will learn how to choose between balayage, foils, and babylights in plain language. You will see how subtle changes in the crown or around the face can change the vibe. A small strand test at home helps you picture the final result before a trip to the salon. And I include budget friendly tips so you can get the look without breaking the bank.

Imagine the color in your mind. A deep espresso base with honey highlights catching the sun. Think of a shade that looks rich on cool and warm skin tones alike. We cover techniques, tools, and products that keep the color glossy.

Ready to dive in? Scroll through the ideas and pick your favorites. Bookmark this guide for touch ups and refreshers. Your next hair moment could start with one shade swap away.

1. Sun-Kissed Balayage Delight

Sun-Kissed Balayage Delight

Looking for a color that shines in the sun and stays easy to manage? Sun-kissed balayage on dark brown hair can do that. Balayage is a freehand color technique. A stylist paints lighter shades onto your strands, not all over. This creates a soft blend from roots to ends.

Why it works on dark brown hair

Balayage gives a natural glow with no harsh lines. The shade grows out slowly, so you skip frequent touchups. It adapts to your skin tone and eye color through your chosen hues.

Choosing shades

Caramel and honey tones add warm highlights against deep chocolate bases. For cooler undertones, try taupe-brown blends to keep the look subtle. Ask for more light around the crown to catch it when you move.

Styling tips

Texture helps the highlights pop. Waves, loose curls, or a soft bend in straight hair work nicely. Use a heat protectant before styling to hold color and prevent fade.

Maintenance

Use a color-safe shampoo and a weekly deep conditioner. Trim every 8–12 weeks to keep ends healthy and the blend fresh.

Next steps

Tell your stylist your skin tone and natural base. Ask if a soft freehand balayage fits your lifestyle.

2. Rich Chocolate Layers

If you want more life in dark brown hair with highlights, rich chocolate layers deliver. They add depth and motion without pulling color in too many directions. The result? Locks that look full, soft, and warmly glowing.

Here is why this works: layers create dimension. A dark brown base with lighter chocolate tones around the face frames you beautifully. The contrast makes your features pop and adds a natural shine.

– Face-framing highlights can brighten your complexion. Plant a few lighter pieces along the cheekbones so your skin looks awake.

– Layered cuts give you effortless style options. Go sleek and straight or let curls bounce with movement.

– A touch of styling mousse helps define the layers. Scrunch a small amount into damp hair and lift at the crown.

Next steps for best results: talk to your stylist about the layering technique that fits your face shape. Long, soft layers work well if you want subtle volume, while shorter, chunkier layers boost texture. Rich chocolate tones work especially well when the highlights sit closer to the face.

Care and upkeep tip: use a color-safe shampoo and a heat protectant. Limit heat and you’ll keep the chocolate shades rich longer. This look blends sophistication with a warm glow you can easily maintain.

3. Bold Ombre Glam

Bold Ombre Glam

Here is why this look works for dark brown hair. It creates a bold fade that adds depth and shine.

– Color ideas: Start at the roots with espresso brown and melt to caramel or honey at the ends. You can push lighter toward the tips for a bright result, or keep a softer transition for daily wear.

– Best fits: Long hair shows the color shift best, and soft waves catch the light for a dreamy glow.

– How to wear it: Choose your contrast. A dramatic jump to blonde looks striking, while a bronze shift stays easy to manage.

– What you need: Use a color-safe shampoo, a hydrating leave-in, and a heat protector when you style.

– Maintenance tips: Schedule root touch-ups every 6-8 weeks for a defined look, and refresh with a gloss every 6-8 weeks to keep ends bright.

– DIY note: You can get the color done by a pro and then care at home, or use clip-in extensions to test the look without full commitment.

Next steps: Decide how bold you want the fade, then book a color consult or map your shade plan. Your hair can glow with this glam ombre.

4. Golden Brown Highlights

Golden Brown Highlights: The Glow You Want

Want a sunlit lift for your dark hair? Golden brown highlights add warmth. They don’t change your base color much. A warm dark brown base makes the gold tones pop.

Why it works

This look uses light against dark to create contrast. It can make texture appear more visible and hair feel thicker.

How to style it

– Pick highlight thickness. Fine strands give a soft glow. Chunkier pieces add depth and movement.

– Decide on placement. Face-framing highlights brighten your features. Crown highlights lift the overall glow.

– Match your style. Straight hair shows the glow clearly. Soft curls let light dance through every strand.

Maintenance steps

– Use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner. These keep the gold from fading.

– Wash with cool water when possible. Heat and hot water fade color faster.

– Finish with a shine serum to seal the gloss on each strand.

– Protect from sun with a lightweight UV spray to keep the color bright.

Next steps

Bring a few photos to your colorist. Start with a subtle version, then increase if you love the glow. This helps you and your colorist stay on the same page.

5. Ashy Brown Balayage

Want a cooler, modern twist for dark brown hair? Ashy brown balayage adds a chic edge you see in bright light.

What it is and why you want it

Ashy balayage blends soft cool tones into a deep brown base. It shifts from warm to cool with no hard lines. You gain depth and movement with a polished glow.

Nice if you want less warmth and more cool glow. It grows out naturally, so you won’t see harsh regrowth.

Best styles to pair with

– Works with a sleek bob or long layers for a modern vibe.

– Pairs well with straight or wavy hair to show contrast.

How to get it

– Ask for a soft transition from dark brown to cool ash tones.

– Request balayage highlights that sit low on the midshaft so they blend naturally.

– Bring a photo of the shade you want and check a patch before full application.

Care and maintenance

– Use purple shampoo occasionally to keep brass away.

– Wash with cool or lukewarm water; avoid hot drying.

– Use a color-safe conditioner and a heat protectant when styling.

– Schedule maintenance every 6 to 8 weeks to refresh the ash tones.

Is it right for you?

If you have warm skin, this shade can still work. The trick is a gentle ash that flatters your undertone.

Next steps

– Book a color consultation.

– Bring a few pics to show your style.

6. Soft Caramel Highlights

Soft caramel highlights on dark brown hair give warmth without a big color change. Here is why they work for many looks. They add depth and a natural glow that catches light as you move.

For best results, keep the caramel shade close to your base color. Too light can feel flashy. Soft caramel stays subtle and chic. The contrast against dark brown creates a rich, glossy finish. It shines best on waves and curls, where light can dance across each strand.

Face framing pieces brighten your features. A few caramel ribbons near the temples and cheeks can lift your whole look. This style feels cozy in fall and winter, like a warm scarf for your hair.

How to get it:

– Ask for soft caramel foils or a gentle balayage to blend with your base.

– Keep the color one to two levels lighter than your base for a natural glow.

– Choose a glaze or gloss to seal the shade and add shine.

Maintenance tips:

– Use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner.

– Rinse with cool water to lock in moisture and color.

– Use heat protection before styling and schedule gloss touch-ups every six to eight weeks.

This approach is subtle, not loud. It works on most hair textures and is easy to grow out. If you want warmth without a big change, soft caramel highlights are a smart pick.

7. Trendy Copper Accents

Your dark brown base can look hotter with a copper twist. If you want warmth and shine without a big color change, copper accents are worth a look. Here is why they work and how to use them.

– Shade choice: pick warm copper or copper-gold tones. They brighten brown hair and keep a natural feel. Ask for a soft blend so it looks like light peeking from within, not a solid stripe.

– Placement for impact: long hair shows copper best, especially when it peeks through at the ends or through the crown. Curly or wavy textures gain depth and a sun-kissed vibe with careful placement.

– Care and shine: use a color-protecting gloss to lock in shine. Wash with a color-safe shampoo and cool water. A UV shield helps keep copper from fading in the sun.

– Styling and upkeep: keep a light touch with heat tools and use a heat protectant. Schedule touch-ups every 6–8 weeks to maintain the glow.

Next steps: Next steps: talk to a stylist about copper balayage or copper peeks on a dark brown base. If you DIY, do strand tests first and start small.

8. Ice Blonde Highlights

If you want a bold contrast on dark brown hair, ice blonde highlights can deliver a striking, modern look. This cool-toned shade stands out, making your hair feel chic and fearless.

Ice blonde strands against rich brown create a bright, edgy visual. Pair it with loose waves to let the color catch light and move with every breeze. The result is a glamorous, camera-ready style you can wear anywhere.

Face framing is a big plus. Ice blonde highlights lift the face, making features pop and giving you a fresh, youthful glow. It’s a look that brightens without washing you out.

Maintenance matters. Plan touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks so the contrast stays crisp. Use a purple shampoo 1–2 times a week to keep brassiness away and maintain the cool tone. Rinse with cool water to seal shine and reduce fading.

Extras that help. A clear gloss or color-depositing conditioner adds extra polish between visits. Always protect your hair before heat styling with a spray or serum.

Here is how to get it. Ask your stylist to weave ice blonde pieces around the crown and along the hairline for that bold contrast. If you DIY, choose a foil highlight kit, lift evenly, and follow the directions. Remember, cool tones can fade if you rush.

Next steps: plan your look, pick the right products, and book your color appointment.

9. Rose Gold Glow

1) Why you’ll love rose gold glow

You want a look that feels luxe but easy to care for. Rose gold adds warmth that brightens dark brown hair. Soft pink and gold threads weave through your shade, giving depth and a gentle shimmer. The result is modern and timeless, not loud. You can wear it with any outfit and still look polished.

2) Where to place the highlights

Choose balayage for a seamless blend or foils for brighter hits. Face framing lightening can brighten your eyes and smile. Keep most color at mid lengths and ends for easy touch ups. Ask for a few lighter ribbons around the crown to catch light when you move.

3) How to style it

Let soft waves roll through your lengths to show off the color. A light curling wand creates natural bounce and glow. For a sleek finish, run a straightener with a touch of shine spray. Dry your hair on cool to lock in the color and reduce frizz.

4) Care and upkeep

Use a shine-enhancing spray after washing to boost luster. Hydrating masks keep the pink and gold tones vibrant. If color fades, a gloss treatment can revive the glow. Wear a hat or scarf in strong sun to protect the shade.

5) What to tell your stylist

Ask for rose gold highlights that mix rose and champagne tones. Request placement that starts at the crown and softly fades toward the ends. Mention you want low-maintenance roots and regular gloss touch ups.

6) What to expect

The shade will fade slightly with washing and sun exposure. Plan a refresh every 6 to 8 weeks for best balance. With proper care, your rose gold glow stays bright and flattering.

10. Deep Mahogany Shimmer

If you want hair that looks rich and grown up, deep mahogany is a perfect pick. Here is why it works: it reads dark brown from afar and shows warm depth up close.

– How to get the look Deep mahogany with lighter caramel or auburn highlights adds natural dimension.

– Styling options Straight hair looks polished, while soft curls bring extra shine.

– Caring for the color Use color-safe shampoo and a weekly deep conditioner to keep gloss and moisture.

– Protection tips Shield the shade from sun and chlorine to slow fading.

– Practical tweaks Ask for a gloss every 6 to 8 weeks to refresh shine.

– Who it fits The shade flatters many skin tones and warms cool undertones.

– Highlight balance Lighter caramel and auburn highlights catch light at every angle.

– Best skin tones It works with many skin tones when you balance warmth and depth.

– Salon vs home dye A pro blends tones smoothly, while home kits handle quick touchups.

– Fade control Use a color-safe conditioner and limit heat to slow fading.

Next steps: plan a strand test at a salon to see how deep mahogany looks on you.

This shade adds a rich glow to many hair types.

Keep it balanced with daily hydration and a heat protect spray before styling.

Ask for a strand test first.

This look shines in any season.

Have fun with it.

Deep mahogany shimmer isn’t just a color; it’s an experience. With soft curls or sleek strands, this hair turns heads and exudes luxury. Remember, a touch of care keeps your highlights dazzling!

11. Subtle Face-Framing Highlights

You want brightness without a full color change. Face-framing highlights create a soft halo around your face, making features pop. On dark brown hair, pick warm caramel or honey tones. They blend cleanly and add just enough shine when light hits from the side.

Placement matters. Ask your stylist to keep the foils near the cheekbones and along the temples. Think thin ribbons that blend into your base shade. The goal is a natural glow, not obvious stripes.

Shade options

– Soft caramel and honey blends that lift your color without shouting

– Creamy beige tones to keep the look subtle and youthful

Placement tips

– Start around the outer third of your face, close to the cheeks

– Use narrow foils so the effect stays soft

Care and maintenance

– Schedule touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks

– Use color-safe shampoo and cool water to wash

– Apply heat protection before styling to keep color lively

– gloss or light glaze between visits for extra shine

Style ideas

– Loose waves that let the light dance on the highlights

– Sleek straight with a gentle bend to reveal the color at the ends

Next steps: talk with your colorist about a small test strand to see how the shades sit on your hair.

12. Luxurious Platinum Flecks

Want a touch of luxe on dark brown hair? Platinum flecks give a chic, modern twist that stands out in a crowd. You get depth plus bright pops that catch the light from every angle.

– What platinum flecks do Placing cool flecks on dark brown hair adds a luxe contrast. The silver tones lift depth and catch light from every angle. It feels chic and fresh.

– Where to place them You can scatter flecks through the length for a random artful look or group them in ribbons near the crown for drama. Mid-length cuts show the contrast best, but any length can work with thoughtful placement.

– Maintenance and care To keep platinum bright, use a violet shampoo weekly to cut brass. Schedule color touch-ups every 4 to 8 weeks and choose color-safe, sulfate-free shampoos. Protect with a heat shield and sunlight exposure.

– Styling tips and longevity Let natural waves shine with a light sea salt spray. For straight styles, always use a heat protectant and a cool finish to lock in shine. These steps help flecks stay vivid longer.

– Who it suits If you love bold contrast, this look fits you. Cool skin tones make platinum pop against dark brown. If your base runs warm, opt for precise placement to balance tones.

Next steps: talk with your stylist about sample placements and a color plan that fits your routine.

Platinum flecks on dark brown hair are the chic secret to elevating your look! They add depth and light, creating a stunning contrast that captures attention from every angle. Embrace the luxe vibe!

13. Warm Honey Accents

If you want dark brown hair that looks softer and inviting, warm honey accents are your answer. They add light without dulling the base shade. Honey highlights blend with your depth and stay true to color.

Warm honey accents for dark brown hair

These tones sit where light hits best. They skim the mid-lengths and ends, then brighten around the face. You can scatter honey accents across lengths or keep a few panels for a gentle glow. This style works in loose waves, so the honey shines as you move.

Here is why it fits many looks:

– For short to medium hair, a few face-framing streaks wake up your features.

– For long hair, balayage or soft foils give a smooth, sun-kissed finish.

– For every length, keep the base dark and let honey speak.

How to wear it at home:

– Use a wide curling wand to create soft waves.

– Brush gently to blend colors and avoid harsh line ends.

– Finish with a shine spray to boost healthy glow.

Care and upkeep:

– Use a color-safe, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.

– Deep condition weekly to keep the ends smooth.

– Trim every 6–8 weeks to prevent split ends and keep the color fresh.

With warm honey accents, your dark brown hair gains warmth.

14. Chic Twists with Highlights

Here is why chic twists with highlights work for dark brown hair. You want a look that feels polished but not stiff. This twist style makes your hair move and glow at the same time.

The magic is the contrast. Dark base with light pieces catches the eye as you move. You can add highlights in random spots or keep a few face-framing strands. It works well with curly or straight textures and stays easy to wear.

How to pull it off

– Prep with a heat protectant so your hair stays smooth and safe.

– Create twists. Small twists for drama, larger twists for a casual vibe.

– Place the highlights. Mix random specks with 1-2 face-framing strands for balance.

– Set with a light hold spray. Keep shine without stiffness.

Care and reality check

To keep hair healthy, trim regularly and use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. Avoid styles that pull tight at your scalp. This look shines in dim or bright light and moves with you all night.

Next steps

Try this on your next night out. Bring a photo of your color mix to your stylist. Take a quick selfie to see how the twists hold through the evening.

15. Dramatic Half-Up Style

Want a bold, polished look that still feels playful? The dramatic half-up style is for you. It shines on dark brown hair with highlights because light catches the pulled section and frames your face.

What you’ll love

– It blends elegance with a hint of fun.

– It fits casual get-togethers and dressy events.

– It makes your highlights pop.

Here is why it works: pulling the top half shows color while the bottom flows. You can keep it sleek or add curls for depth.

How to do it

1) Create texture: run a flat iron for a smooth look or curl the lower half for romantic waves.

2) Clip or tie the top section: use a clear elastic or a chic clip to hold the half up.

3) Crown lift: gently tease the crown for lift, then smooth the top to avoid frizz.

4) Define the face frame: let a few highlight strands fall around your cheekbones to brighten your skin.

5) Set the style: spray lightly to keep shape without weighing down the hair.

Extras to elevate

– Add a hair accessory like a jeweled barrette or metallic clip.

– Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and keep the look longer.

With this approach, you get a bold look that holds up through the day.

A dramatic half-up style isn’t just a hairstyle; it’s a statement! Show off those stunning highlights while keeping your look playful and polished for any occasion.

16. Color Melt Technique

Color Melt Overview

Struggling with hair that looks flat or has obvious lines between dark roots and light ends? Color melt can fix that. It blends several tones into one smooth gradient, so the base shade fades into the highlight colors without sharp breaks. You get depth and a natural glow, like sunlight moving through your strands.

Here’s how it works and how you can use it.

– What it is: a mix of shades that flow from dark to light, not a single stripe. The colors meet in the middle to form a gradual shift.

– Why it fits you: warm or cool tones can work. It adapts to your skin tone. It adds movement, especially with waves.

– How to get it: talk to a stylist about your base shade, pick 2-3 highlight tones, and ask for soft blending at the midlengths and ends.

– How to style: define the texture with loose waves so the colors show. Use a heat protectant, a sea-salt spray, and a light leave-in conditioner for shine.

– How to care: use color-protect products, wash with cool water, and schedule touch-ups every 6-12 weeks to keep the transition smooth.

If you want a dreamy, luxe look that still feels real, color melt is for you.

17. Spicy Burgundy Highlights

Spicy Burgundy Highlights on Dark Brown Hair

You want color that pops on dark brown hair without a full dye. Spicy burgundy highlights give that pop with a touch of class. This shade catches light and adds a warm glow from day to night.

Here is why it works: burgundy blends red and plum tones that show up in sun and indoors. The contrast with dark brown creates depth you can see from across the room. Curling helps too, since waves catch the color and bounce light.

Let’s break it down: for best effect, choose burgundy with a hint of red or plum that fits your skin tone. Ask your stylist for a balayage or sliced foil so the color sits softly on the ends and near the crown. That approach keeps a natural look while giving you visible impact.

Next steps for care: use color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Wash with cool water and avoid heavy heat most days. Touch up every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the shade even and bright.

If you want a DIY option, start with a few easy foils around the crown or a peek-a-boo under layers. A pro helps place the first set of highlights, and you can build from there.

18. Textured Pixie with Highlights

Want a pixie cut that feels soft and chic? A textured pixie with highlights can add depth to a dark brown base. It looks modern, but it stays easy to care for.

Here is why it works:

Light hits at different angles, making the hair look fuller. The contrast between dark roots and bright strands adds movement and dimension.

– Choose highlight shades that pop on dark brown, like honey, caramel, or bronze.

– Place highlights around the crown and along the fringe for the most impact.

– Texturize with a spray for volume. Scrunch sections while damp or use a diffuser on low heat to keep the lift.

– Finish with a light brush or finger comb to keep the look soft and natural.

Next steps:

Keep the cut tapered and ask for a soft, movable fringe. Use a color-safe shampoo and a heat protectant to keep shade and texture intact.

This style suits busy days and those who love a bold but simple update. If you want subtler brightness, ask for fewer highlights that blend with your natural color.

Take your time choosing the right shade and bring a photo to your stylist. Then enjoy a chic, easy daily look too.

19. Sleek Low Bun with Highlights

You want a look that feels polished but doable. A sleek low bun with highlights delivers that. It reads formal and chic, yet remains simple enough for a busy morning. The highlights catch the light and frame your face with a soft glow. This style makes color look intentional, not overdone.

How to pull it off

– Prep your hair with a light smoothing serum to tame flyaways.

– Pick a few highlighted strands around your face to brighten your features.

– Gather hair at the nape and twist into a neat low bun.

– Secure with two pins and a small elastic.

– Finish with a light mist of shine spray for a sleek finish.

Tips you can use

– Keep the bun low for a clean, mature vibe.

– Let the face-framing highlights do the talking.

– If you need extra hold, add a touch of lightweight hairspray.

When to wear it: formal events, office days, date nights. Why it works: it shows color, stays neat, and makes you feel confident. It adapts to many hair types and outfits.

Variations and tweaks

– For a tighter formal vibe, add extra pins in a cross pattern and smooth with a fine comb.

– For a softer mood, pull out a few wispy strands around the face and the bun.

Keep handy: smoothing serum, a few extra pins, and a light shine spray.

Give it a try this week soon.

20. Flirty Braided Crown

Want a flirty crown braid that shines with dark brown hair and highlighted streaks? This look works for festivals, weddings, or any day you want to feel extra pretty. The highlights catch light and create a soft halo as you move.

Here is why it works

It frames your face. It stays in place with pins. It adds depth to your color.

What you’ll need

– Texturizing spray

– Heat protectant (if you plan to curl)

– Clear elastic bands

– Small bobby pins

– Light-hold hairspray

How to create your flirty braided crown

1) Prep your hair. Shake in texture and apply heat protectant.

2) Take two small front sections near your temples. Braid each into a thin plait.

3) Cross the braids along the top of your head to form a crown. Pin them behind your ears. Tuck the ends under the pins.

4) Loosen a few sections of the crown to soften the look. Let a couple of face-framing strands fall loose.

5) Finish with a light spray to hold everything in place without stiffness. Tip: for longer hair, try two French braids that wrap into a crown instead of the two simple braids.

Finish, hold, and touch-ups

– Add a touch of shine spray for a healthy glow.

– Repin any loose bits as you move.

– If you want more grip, add a light mist of hairspray at the roots.

Style ideas and care

– Choose soft pastel highlights for a dreamy halo or brighter streaks for a party-ready pop.

– Pair with loose waves around the face to boost romance.

– This style works with updos or worn as a loose, boho crown on busy days.

A flirty braided crown is your ticket to feeling fabulous! With dark brown hair and highlights, you’ll shine like a goddess at any event. Embrace the glamour and let your hair do the talking!

21. Messy Bun with Subtle Highlights

If you want a look that feels easy but still looks polished, try a messy bun with subtle highlights. It suits dark brown hair with highlights and catches light in just the right places. This style gives you texture without yelling for attention.

Here is why it works: the bun stays put on busy days, yet a few loose strands frame your face softly. Subtle highlights brighten the hair, making even a casual twist look intentional. It’s versatile enough for work, errands, or a night out.

Next steps to pull it off:

– What you need: a texturizing spray, a few bobby pins, a light-hold hairspray, and a small hair tie.

– Step 1: spray through damp or dry hair to add grip and texture.

– Step 2: gather hair at the nape or a touch higher. Create a loose bun.

– Step 3: let highlighted strands fall around your face to frame it.

– Step 4: pin the bun in place with a few pins. Don’t tighten too much.

– Step 5: mist with light hold spray to keep it in place.

Here’s how to tailor it: place the bun higher for a confident look, or lower it for a relaxed vibe. Let more or fewer face-framing pieces show to suit your face shape. Use dry shampoo between washes to maintain volume and texture. Keep heat styling minimal to preserve the subtle highlights.

This trend stays fresh with soft, sun-kissed strands and a natural shine. It’s a practical, stylish option that you can wear anywhere.

22. Elegant Side Braid

You want a look that feels polished without trying too hard. The elegant side braid with highlights gives you that balance. It makes your hair shine without weighing you down.

What you’ll need

– Brush or wide-tooth comb

– Small clear elastic

– Bobby pins

– Light hold hairspray

– Optional: a touch of shine serum

The highlights in your hair will pop against the braid, creating depth and contrast. A side braid sits nicely on one shoulder, so you stay comfy from day to night.

Steps to pull it off

1. Gather hair to the side, just behind your ear. Keep it smooth at the crown for a sleek frame.

2. Pick your braid. Traditional braids look clean, while a fishtail braid adds texture.

3. Start at the top and braid downward to the ends. Don’t pull too tight; a gentle loosen keeps it soft.

4. Secure the end with a clear elastic. Tuck the short end under the last few stitches if you want a neat finish.

5. Pin any loose strands with discreet bobby pins. A few well-placed pins keep the look steady.

Finishing touches

Spray lightly to hold the shape without dulling the hair color. A tiny drop of shine serum on the unbraided sections brings out the highlights. If you want more lift, tease the crown before braiding.

Why this works

It suits many face shapes and necklines. It works for day events or evening gatherings. It’s quick enough for busy mornings and elegant enough for upscale moments.

Next steps

Practice a few times to find your preferred side and braid type. Adjust tension to keep the look relaxed or more defined. Your elegant side braid is ready to shine.

23. Curly Updo with Highlights

Want a hair look that shines at a wedding or prom and sticks with you all night? A curly updo with highlights adds drama, depth, and easy elegance.

Here is why it works. The curly texture boosts volume and movement. Highlights catch the light and bring out every curl twist. Face-framing wisps soften the look and frame your features.

Next steps to get it right:

– Prep first. Wash, dry, and apply a lightweight leave-in. Add a curl cream to define coils.

– Build the updo. Gather hair into a loose pony or twist. Roll and pin the curls into a soft bun or chignon. Leave some wisps around your face for a romantic frame.

– Place the highlights. Choose caramel or honey tones. Lightly sweep highlights around the crown and near the front to brighten your complexion.

– Secure and set. Use a strong-hold hairspray to lock the shape. A tiny mist at the ends helps control flyaways without stiffness.

– Finish with polish. Smooth any frizz with a shine spray. Add a small sparkly pin or barrette if you like.

Tips you can use tonight: keep extra pins in your clutch for quick touch-ups. If your curls fall, redo a few twists and re-pin. This look is perfect for photos and long events, yet easy to adapt to your hair length and texture.

24. Bold Stacked Bob

Bold Stacked Bob

If you want a bold look that stays easy to manage, try a stacked bob. This cut stacks short layers behind the crown and adds lift.

Highlights lift the style. Let light hit the top layers and the ends. Use bright slices with subtle ribbons near the face to add depth.

Here is how you can wear it:

– Sleek and sharp: run a flat iron through the ends for a clean line.

– Soft waves: use a curling wand to create gentle bends for texture.

– Quick updo: pull the front pieces back for a modern breeze.

Care and upkeep are simple. Get trims every 6 to 8 weeks to hold the shape. A light leave-in spray helps control frizz and keeps shine. Hydrate weekly with a mask for bounce.

What to tell your stylist:

– Ask for 2 to 3 stacked layers with a short crown and a slightly longer front.

– Keep length around chin level in the front to frame your face.

– Add color with a dark brown base and caramel or honey highlights on the top layers.

Yes, this cut can be grown into longer styles later. It offers a bold vibe that fits real life.

Next steps? Book a consult and bring a photo of the look you want.

25. Glossy Straight Locks

Glossy Straight Locks with Highlights

If you want a look that feels clean and upscale, this is your go-to. Glossy straight hair catches light and makes color pop. The result is a smooth, polished vibe that works for any event.

Here is why it clicks with many people. Straight strands reflect all the light, so the shine looks like a glassy glow. Highlights add depth without adding bulk. They frame your face and keep the style lively but easy to manage.

Next steps to get the look:

– Prep your hair: start with a moisturizing shampoo and a heat protectant spray. This keeps color bright and hair strong.

– Dry and section: towel dry, then blow-dry to remove moisture. Create small sections so the flat iron can do its job evenly.

– Straighten with care: run the flat iron from roots to tips in slow, straight passes. Don’t rush—even, controlled moves keep the finish sleek.

– Add the shine: warm a drop of shine serum between your palms and swipe lightly over mid-lengths to ends. Avoid the roots to keep lift.

– Choose highlights that suit you: subtle tones blend with your base color, while brighter ribbons offer bold contrast. Face-framing pieces can wake up the look.

– Maintain the gloss: trim every 6–8 weeks, and limit washing to keep color and luster. A silk pillowcase helps reduce frizz and keep hair smooth.

– Quick fixes: if your hair looks flat, add a touch more serum at the ends and brush with a boar-bristle brush for extra polish.

This style is a reliable, glam choice that stays easy to wear day-to-day.

26. Glamorous Loose Waves

Want a look that feels easy but reads chic? Glamorous loose waves on dark brown hair with highlights can do it. The soft curls catch light and lift your color. It works for any event, from lunch with friends to a night out.

Why this style shines

– The waves add depth to your base shade and make highlights glow.

– The texture looks natural, not overdone.

– It suits most hair lengths and is easy to tweak for your vibe.

How to get the look

– Prep first. Use a heat protectant and comb through to remove tangles.

– Create the waves. Take 1-inch sections and wrap them around a curling wand. Hold 6–8 seconds, then release.

– Vary the direction. Alternate curling away from and toward your face for a relaxed pattern.

– Set and soften. Let the curls cool, then gently blend with your fingers for a softer bounce.

– Finish lightly. Use a small amount of spray or serum to keep shine without stiffness.

Choosing the right highlights

Aim for shades just a couple of tones lighter than your dark brown base. That sun-kissed contrast looks natural and helps the waves pop in sunlight and indoor lighting.

Care and maintenance

Keep the shine with a lightweight conditioner and a dab of smoothing serum. A silk pillowcase helps waves last longer. If a section settles flat, a quick touch-up curl refresh is all you need.

Next steps

Play with parting your hair to change the frame of your face. Add a few face-framing pieces if you want more definition on one side.

Conclusion

There you have it—26 stunning hairstyles featuring glamorous dark brown hair with highlights that are sure to inspire your next look. Whether you’re in the mood for something bold or subtle, these highlighted hair ideas offer a perfect blend of elegance and style.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different techniques and shades to find your ideal look! Hair is one of the most powerful ways to express yourself, so embrace the beauty of dark brown hair with highlights and let your personality shine through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Highlight Techniques for Dark Brown Hair?

When it comes to dark brown hair, techniques like balayage, ombre, and color melt can create stunning effects. Balayage offers a natural sun-kissed look, while ombre provides a bold contrast. Color melt blends various shades seamlessly, eliminating harsh lines. Choose the technique that suits your style and maintenance preferences!

How Can I Choose the Right Highlights for My Dark Brown Hair?

Selecting the perfect highlights involves considering your skin tone and personal style. For instance, golden brown highlights are great for warm skin tones, while ash brown balayage suits cooler complexions. If you want something bold, try ice blonde or copper accents. Consult with a stylist to find the most flattering options!

How Do Highlights Affect Hair Health?

While highlights can enhance your look, they do require some care. Using high-quality color-safe shampoos and conditioners can help maintain your hair’s health and vibrancy. Regular deep conditioning treatments are also beneficial. Remember, with the right care, you can keep your highlighted dark brown hair looking luxurious and healthy!

What Hairstyles Pair Well with Dark Brown Hair and Highlights?

There are so many fabulous hairstyles to showcase your dark brown hair with highlights! Consider glamorous loose waves for a relaxed look, or a dramatic half-up style for something polished. Messy buns with subtle highlights offer an effortless vibe, while chic twists can elevate any event. Choose a style that aligns with the occasion and your mood!

Are Highlights Suitable for All Hair Types?

Absolutely! Highlights can be tailored to any hair type, whether straight, wavy, or curly. However, the technique and colors may vary based on your hair’s texture and condition. For instance, thinner hair might benefit from subtle highlights to add dimension, while thicker hair can handle bolder colors. Consult your stylist to customize the perfect highlights for your unique hair!