GUIDE TO SOMBRÉ HAIR

Even if you haven’t heard of sombré, you’ve probably seen this super-luxe new colour on red carpets, or around the well-heeled areas of West London. But what is it, exactly?

Sombré is the chic, low-maintenance way to refresh your look this summer. It gives you all the depth, dimension, and natural-looking brightness of balayage - but with a softer, subtler impact.

What is sombré hair?

Sombré, a portmanteau of ‘soft’ and ‘ombré,’ is a gentle, natural-looking take on classic ombré colour featuring a seamless, gradual lightening from your mid-lengths to the ends of your hair. Unlike the high contrast and drama featured in ombré hair colouring, sombré blends softly into your base shade, making the transition barely noticeable.

Who does sombré hair suit?

This premium-looking colouring technique is remarkably versatile - but it does have its limitations.

• Works on nearly all hair colours and skin tones: Sombré works beautifully on brunettes, blondes, redheads, and even greys, thanks to its subtle tonal shift and ability to blend gently and seamlessly into your base colour.
• Hair length and texture: It’s ideal for medium length to long hair with soft layers to enhance the blend of colour. People with short hairstyles can try this look, but shorter lengths tend to lack the length needed for proper colour gradient flow.
• Hair density: Sombré colouring works best on mid-to-thick, healthy hair - though fine or thin hair can look fuller with face‑framing soft tones. 
• Natural texture: Soft waves or loose curls beautifully show off the subtle colour gradient; straighter hair still looks sleek but subtly toned.

What’s the difference between sombré, ombré and balayage?

While sombré, ombré, and balayage are often mentioned together, they refer to different colouring techniques and finishes. Here’s a simple way to differentiate between them:

• Ombré: A bold, dramatic fade from dark to light, starting at your roots
• Sombré: A softer, more natural-looking version of ombré
• Balayage: Hand-painted highlights for a sunlit, blended effect

Should I get sombré hair?

The choice to try sombré should be between you and your stylist - but you might find it especially suitable if the following apply to you:

You want effortless, sun-kissed dimension: Sombré adds multi-tonal, luminous depth without needing regular visits to your colourist.

You need a low-maintenance colour: It’s perfect for refreshing your current colour with minimal commitment or upkeep, and is especially suited to people seeking a low-maintenance option. Regrowth blends naturally with no stark, obvious root line.

You want to move away from drying lightening treatments: As sombré involves only lightening the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair, the technique is kinder to hair than a full head of foils or heavy bleaching.

Sombré hair colour ideas and inspiration

Honey blonde sombré

Soft, golden honey tones melt into a darker blonde or light brunette base, creating a warm, sun-kissed effect. This look flatters warmer skin tones and adds natural-looking dimension without harsh, unflattering contrasts.

To keep your colour’s warmth looking fresh, use our honey blonde toner to revitalise and care for honey blonde tones.

Coffee brunette sombré

A deep espresso base subtly transitions into creamy mocha ends, offering a rich, low-maintenance style. It's perfect for brunettes wanting depth and shine with a hint of lightness.

Golden caramel sombré

Ideal for blondes looking for a gentle colour refresh, this look blends dark roots with ribbons of golden caramel through your mid-lengths and ends. The result is a glowing, beachy finish that brightens your complexion and brings touchable warmth.

Ashy beige blonde sombré

Ashy beige tones soften a medium-brown base without going overly light. It’s ideal for those who want a modern, muted blonde that still feels natural and low-key.

Use our champagne blonde toner to keep your ash beige colour looking fresh in between salon visits and to avoid any brassiness.

Chocolate to toffee sombré

Starting with a rich chocolate base, this look gently fades into soft toffee-coloured ends for a sweet, multi-dimensional blend. It works especially well on wavy or layered styles, adding delicious-looking texture and movement.

Caring for sombré hair

It’s easy to look after sombré hair in between salon visits - ensure you’ve got the right products to hand to keep your new colour looking glossy and cared for.

• Use a colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner: Colour-protecting haircare is a must. Our PRO Colour Revive range is expertly-formulated to strengthen your hair, and protect against colour fade.
• Invest in toners to revitalise your blonde: If you’ve gone for blonde sombré, our range of toners for blonde hair are a must-have to beat brassiness and refresh your blonde tones.
• Deep condition regularly: Any kind of colouring can stress your hair, so looking after your mid-lengths and ends is vital. Prevent dryness by using a deep conditioner as often as you feel you need to. Our Detox & Repair Masque nourishes hair for immediate revitalisation and a surge of moisture.
• Minimise heat styling: Air‑dry your hair where possible, and always apply heat protector before styling or using your hairdryer.