Pantone's 2026 Color of the Year, 'Cloud Dancer,' is a soft, neutral shade that colour expert Siobhan Haug finds too specific for widespread client appeal. She notes that achieving the look requires very particular hair conditions, limiting its practicality for most salon visits.
Haug, a Schwarzkopf Professional Ambassador, found more relevant inspiration in Pinterest's 2026 Palette, which focuses on emotion and how people want to feel. This approach, she believes, translates better into desirable, intentional hair colours that offer clients confidence and solutions.
For darker hair bases, 'Plum Noir' emerges as a sophisticated option. This shade, a blend between dark brown and soft black, reveals subtle violet and plum undertones in natural light. Its strength lies in its depth and nuanced tone, offering a rich, understated effect that feels special without being overtly bold.
The trend of 'Cool Mattes' addresses a common client frustration: unwanted warmth. These tones act as a shield against brassy or coppery results, particularly for brunettes or those with lifted hair. The matte finish absorbs light, creating a velvety, sophisticated appearance that enhances soft, seamless balayage transitions.
'Persimmon Copper' offers a vibrant yet wearable alternative. This energetic shade can be integrated into warmer palettes for a modern auburn, or used to soften brighter reds. Maintaining its vibrancy is key, requiring sulphate-free products, reduced washing, and pigmented maintenance treatments. Bespoke in-salon colour care masks can also help preserve the shade's intensity.
These alternative shades offer salons a more client-focused approach to colour trends. They provide practical, wearable options that align with how clients wish to express themselves, moving beyond restrictive, aspirational shades.
