39 Stunning Brown Hair Color Ideas to Inspire Your Next Look

Because not all brown hair is created equal.

brunette
(Image credit: Getty)

How come blondes always get fun hair descriptors like "ashy" or "strawberry" or "bleach-blond"? It seems that brunettes always get the catch-all "brown" label, while other shade ranges get down to specifics. But no more! Knowing exactly the shade of brunette you want is completely necessary when you're looking to dye your locks. Having a reference pic is one of the most essential tenets before any dye job, and we want to make sure you're prepared. Chestnut and chocolate are not created equal, and if you're looking to get one but accidentally get the other, you might be sorely disappointed.

Luckily, we're seeing a lot more celebs rocking the brunette look, which means we have a lot more cut-out options to bring to our favorite colorists. Whether you want a new all-over color, some highlights to liven your look, or are aiming for that super subtle undertone, these celeb looks have it all. From detailed highlights to ridiculously flattering balayages, these 39 very different, yet incredibly pretty, hair color ideas for brunettes will convince you that no brown shade is created equal. Here, your very own flipbook of gorgeous brown hair colors to peruse before you book your next salon visit.