I'm Not So Secretly Obsessed With Copper Hair—Here's My Inspiration Board
A while back, I professed my deep and undying love for red hair. I also professed that I was considering whether or not I should officially take the leap and book the appointment that would transition my "bronde" color over to an eye-catching shade of red. Spoiler: I haven't yet. (I'm just not the kind of person who does things spontaneously. Changing my hair color requires a lot of time, research, and overthinking on my part.)
Even though I haven't made the switch, my obsession with red hair has progressed even further. These days, I'm looking past the soft, muted shades of red and focusing all of my attention on simmering shades of copper. I've even made an inspiration board of sorts, featuring some of my favorite copper-haired celebrities. Keep scrolling to see my 15 favorite examples of copper hair.
This photo of Emma Roberts, which was taken on the 2017 Academy Awards red carpet, has been sitting in my Saved folder for years. I never get tired of her vibrant color (which is accentuated by the perfect Old Hollywood hairstyle).
Gigi Hadid was the latest celebrity to convince me that red hair is in my future (and it was this picture in particular). Her long locks led me to coin a new term. Here it is: cool-girl copper.
Rihanna styled her fiery shade of copper hair with an eye-grazing fringe and feathered ends.
SZA's hair color verges on the edge of true red, but I think it still counts as copper.
Karen Gillan's brushed-out copper curls are full of movement, dimension, and vibrancy.
Sophie Turner's copper lengths are proof that there's no other hair color (at least not in my humble opinion) that looks more glamorous on a red carpet or otherwise.
This inspiration board wouldn't be complete without Isla Fisher. I've been admiring her copper hair since 2009. (Yes, I'm talking about the year Confessions of a Shopaholic came out.)
Obviously, I love the color of Rachel McAdams's hair here, but I also love her undone waves.
Personally, I think this orangey-copper color suits Nicole Kidman better than any other shade of red (except for the fiery-red color she had in Practical Magic—that was next-level).
Another Old Hollywood influence, Emma Stone's shoulder-grazing lob is all about volume and dimension. (Actually, it looks like there are some deeper auburn lowlights dispersed without.)
Recently, Jessica Chastain debuted this vivid copper color that's so vivid it looks lit-from-within. All I can say is, Jessica, if you're reading this, please keep it forever.
Keke Palmer's structural lob has a bright-orange undertone to it. It's unexpected, and I like it.
Cheryl Blossom wouldn't be Cheryl Blossom without Madelaine Petsch's long copper locks.
There are three things I want to point out about Kate Bosworth's look. The first, and most relevant, is her copper updo. The second is her berry lip. The third is her petal-pink eye shadow. It all comes together to look modern and classic. (I know that's an oxymoron, but it's true.)
If I started my inspiration board with Emma Roberts, it's only right to end it with Julianne Hough. These two give me the same energy thanks to their similar shades of copper hair, washes of bright lipstick, and nearly indistinguishable Old Hollywood hairstyles.
5 Copper-Hair Necessities to Shop Now
This is one of nine shampoos and conditioners recommended for fade-proof color. It protects hair from fading while adding extra brightness to copper colors.
This conditioner doubles as a gloss for copper hair. Convenient, right?
To me, copper hair is all about a simmering, lit-from-within vibrancy. Bring that out with a shine-enhancing product, like this one from Color Wow.
This color-depositing conditioner from Overtone will help you maintain your copper color from home.
Next, check out four reasons you'll probably want to start washing your hair with rice water.
Kaitlyn McLintock is an Associate Beauty Editor at Who What Wear. Although she covers a wide range of topics across a variety of categories, she specializes in celebrity interviews and skincare and wellness content. Having lived in Los Angeles and Austin, Texas, she recently relocated back to her home state of Michigan where she works remotely. Prior to Who What Wear, she freelanced for a variety of industry-leading digital publications, including InStyle, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Hello Giggles, and Coveteur. Before that, she held a long-term internship and subsequent contributor position at Byrdie. When she's not writing, researching, or testing the latest and greatest beauty products, she's working her way through an ever-growing book collection, swimming in the Great Lakes, or spending time with family.
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