Thinking of Going Darker for Winter? Here’s What to Know
Ever thought “Should I go darker for winter?”
As the days get shorter and the layers start piling on, there’s one question we hear a lot in the salon:
“Should I go darker for winter?”
And if you’re blonde, the idea of trading in your golden glow for something richer can feel equal parts exciting and terrifying. But don’t worry — going darker isn’t about losing your identity. It’s about adding dimension, shine, and a new seasonal vibe… all while keeping the door open to return to your blonde bestie self come summer.
Here’s what you need to know — and how we do it at Esstudio.
Why Winter is the Perfect Time to Go Darker
Just like we swap singlets for cosy knits and reach for deeper lipsticks, hair colour can shift with the season too. Winter is the perfect excuse to lean into richer, moodier tones that warm up your complexion, boost shine, and require a little less maintenance — especially when your hair’s spending more time tucked under a beanie.
For blondes, it might mean transitioning to a deeper honey or darker beige — something soft but striking. For brunettes, it could be embracing an espresso glaze or deep chocolate tone with added depth and dimension.
No matter your starting point, winter is the ideal time to give your hair a well-earned break from bleach, heat, and the summer sun. Going darker helps restore strength, lock in moisture, and bring back that glossy, healthy feel. It's the ultimate seasonal reset — and the perfect chance to try something new while giving your strands some TLC.
Trending Winter Shades We’re Loving
Here’s a peak at the tones turning heads this season:
Mushroom Blonde: Not quite brunette, not quite blonde — it’s a cool-toned, smoky beige that gives blondes a deeper, moodier vibe without going full dark.
Dark blonde (think hailey bieber): The best of both worlds. This warm blend is ideal for easing into something richer without losing that tonal pop of colour.
Chocolate with Caramel Ribbons: For those who want luxe dimension, we layer warm caramel tones into deep brunette bases for a colour that glows even on gloomy days.
Espresso Glaze: Super shiny, super chic — think dark, glossy espresso that adds instant sophistication and polish.
Not sure which tone will suit you best? Don’t stress — we’ll help you nail it. Book a consult at Esstudio and we’ll find the shade that makes you feel amazing.
What to Expect When Going Darker (Especially from Blonde)
At Esstudio, we never just slap on a colour and hope for the best. We take the time to understand your hair history, what tone will suit your skin, and most importantly — where you want your hair to go next.
Here’s the process in a nutshell:
We fill the hair first – Blonde hair is porous and needs underlying pigments added back in before going dark, so the colour holds and doesn’t turn murky or green.
We customise the tone – Want warm honey? Cool espresso? We custom mix to suit your complexion and make those eyes pop.
We protect your hair – We use bond builders and nourishing products to keep your hair strong and glossy.
Want to Go Light Again Later? We Plan Ahead.
This part matters: Going darker is easy. Going lighter again takes a bit more planning — but we’ve got you. At Esstudio we offer a ‘No commitment colour transformation’ & keep in mind transitioning back to light as warm months approach. Keeping it extra exciting for everyone…
Here’s how we keep your blonde comeback smooth:
We use semi or demi-permanent colours we also offer glosses and colour smudges where possible — they all fade softly with every wash and leaves the door open to lift back up when you’re ready.
We avoid heavy permanent dyes — unless you’re really committing, we won’t throw anything on your hair that’ll make going lighter a nightmare later.
We create a roadmap — Think of it as a seasonal strategy: darker, glossier tones now; bright, buttery blondes when the sun’s back out.
Esstudio’s Signature Colour Approach
Our colour work is all about depth, tone, and light reflection — nothing flat, nothing basic. We hand-blend your colour for you, using techniques like root smudging, balayage, glossing and lowlighting to create a luxe, dimensional result.
It’s the kind of colour that looks good in every light, grows out softly, and feels like you, just elevated.
So… Should You Do It?
If you’ve been flirting with the idea of going darker this winter, take this as your sign. You can still be blonde at heart — just with a deeper, moodier twist for the season.
Come in for a colour consult and we’ll talk tones, longevity, and your return-to-blonde plan.
Because at Esstudio, we don’t just do colour — we craft your whole colour journey.
