Where hair colour is concerned, copper was rarely considered one for the wallflowers. Much like the vibrancy of a buttercup blonde (and the polar opposite of a French Girl highlight) it’s a bold hue that commands attention. But according to Sofia Richie’s hairdresser George Curran and L’Oréal Professionnel’s 2026 Colour Trophy trend forecast, Cowboy Copper is riding back into salons with a completely different vibe in tow. Vivid orange tones? Out! A cherry red tinge? Nay! Turns out this new generation of copper isn’t all about standing out – in an overt way, at least.
This is not Cowboy Copper’s first rodeo. Sadie Sink and Emma Stone have been just two of the celebrities responsible for bringing it back into the spotlight – a copper that blends tones of cinnamon, chestnut and delicate auburn tones to create something richer and more natural leaning. The vibrancy of a more traditional copper is still there, but it’s more sophisticated. ‘Clients still love warmth, but they want elegance over intensity,’ says Curran. ‘Cowboy Copper feels luxurious because it’s soft, multi-dimensional and catches the light beautifully thanks to its tonal variation.’
That ability to catch the light is exactly what makes the shade feel so modern. Instead of flat, box dye looking colour, today’s copper is a masterclass in variation – think a myriad of glossy tones across a spectrum of reds. It’s this that allows for the signature healthy looking shine embodied by Faye Marsay.
It makes sense. We’re still the era of effortlessness, says Curran. Of clean girl make-up and beachy hair textures. Hair colour is no different. ‘There’s no doubt the rise of “quiet luxury” has influenced everything from fashion to skincare, and hair is following suit,’ explains Curran. ‘Clients are moving away from obvious colour, heavy contouring, oversized lash extensions and overfilled features in favour of healthier skin, softer make-up and hair that looks naturally beautiful. The focus is no longer on how much you’ve had done. It’s on looking effortlessly polished.’ Copper chasers don’t necessarily want traditionally fiery tones as a rule – instead, their looking for a more subtle take on the hue.
There’s also a reason the trend feels perfectly timed. After several weeks dominated by expensive blondes, clients are craving warmth again – especially as we move into late summer. It’s a shade that peps up tired skin, too – the blend of cinnamon and soft auburn brings a healthy glow to the complexion.
Texture also plays a part. Like every luxury colour trend emerging for 2026, Cowboy Copper is less about dramatic styling and more about healthy condition. Glossy finishes allow light to reflect naturally through the hair while braids amplify the myriad of tones – look to Keke Palmer for proof.
Whether you’re after a subtle refresh or a full-on colour change, Cowboy Copper could be just the ticket.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism.
