Copper hair ideas

Copper never really goes out of style. The reason it works? It bridges the gap between statement and soft, giving, if done right, your skin a natural glow and hair a subtle richness that catches the light.

Blue Tit London’s Colour Director, Declan Haworth, says it’s one of his favourite tones for autumn.

“Copper always brings something special,” he explains. “It enhances texture, adds warmth and gives life to even the simplest haircut. You can go as bright or as understated as you want – it’s endlessly adaptable.”

Here’s some copper hair ideas straight out of our salons, that will hopefully inspire you this autumn…

Copper red

A bright, true copper red, clean and vivid. The finish is sleek and luminous, giving that freshly-glossed salon shine that catches the light beautifully. Look by Aimee at Blue Tit Leyton

Golden copper balayage

A rich, glossy golden copper blend with warm undertones and natural dimension. The light catches honey and amber notes, giving a smooth, fluid shine. Ideal for anyone wanting depth without harsh contrast. Colour by Aimee at Blue Tit Leyton

Rust copper

A rusted copper tone with soft red and bronze hues. It’s slightly deeper, more textured, and looks natural with tousled movement. Perfect for shorter cuts that need definition and warmth. Look by Ricky, Blue Tit Blackheath

Rose copper

A peachy rose copper, softer and more muted. There’s a blush warmth to it – almost a copper-pink hybrid. It feels delicate and modern, especially on lighter skin tones. look by Aimee, Blue Tit Leyton

Strawberry blonde/copper blonde

A strawberry blonde shade with copper-gold reflections. The lightest of the bunch, leaning towards warm golden blonde with a subtle rose tint. It’s sunlit, soft and luscious

Amber copper blonde

A soft amber copper blonde – a delicate mix of light copper and golden blonde tones. It’s subtle, luminous, and feels very natural, catching light beautifully through the mid-lengths and ends

How do I know if copper hair will suit me?

There’s a copper shade for everyone – whether you’re drawn to a bright, golden copper or a deep auburn tone. Finding your perfect copper shade lies in matching the tone to your complexion (and personality).

That’s where a good consultation comes in. When considering copper hair ideas take into account…
Warm coppers lean golden and bright, think pumpkin spice and autumn glow. These shades pop against cooler or fairer skin tones.

Cool coppers have violet or mahogany undertones that feel deeper and moodier, perfect for olive or darker skin.
Declan explains,

“Your stylist will explain which tones will suit your complexion and then cater it to want you’re trying to achieve. Cooler coppers feel darker and richer, while warmer ones are lighter and more vibrant. I often add a violet undertone to lighter coppers because it gives a really natural finish.”

If you’re unsure where to start, book a colour consultation at your local Blue Tit salon. Your stylist will help you choose the perfect balance of tone and depth for your skin and lifestyle.

Does copper hair colour fade fast?

Copper hair is known for its shine but also for fading faster than cooler shades. So how to keep copper hair vibrant, the trick is all in aftercare.

How to care for copper hair?

• Use a sulphate-free, colour-safe shampoo like Oway Colour Protection to keep pigments sealed.
• Wash less often and use lukewarm water to avoid stripping the colour.
• Use Oway’s Hmelt drops
• Schedule regular glossing treatments to top up tone and shine.

Stylist Top Tip: Declan recommends Oway’s HNectar Glossing Treatment, a hydrating colour service that combines the benefits of a treatment and a pigment boost. He goes on to add,

“It’s perfect for those who’ve had lightening services like balayage or highlights as well as copper,” he says. “It nourishes and refreshes the colour without commitment.” As well as Hmelt drops, he says. “We can create your very own bespoke pigmented conditioner, tailor-made to your shade, so you can keep the colour refreshed at home with no more effort than just applying your conditioner as usual”

Copper hair for every style and texture

Copper isn’t just for one type of hair. It enhances curls, adds dimension to waves and brings warmth to straight, sleek styles. It’s especially striking on textured and curly hair, where the light catches different tones throughout the shape.

“For my curly clients, copper can be an amazing option,” says Declan. “It brings out the depth in the curl pattern and looks beautiful on darker skin tones.”

Not all hair dye is equal – sustainable colouring with Oway

Every copper transformation at Blue Tit London starts with Oway, our go-to sustainable, botanical haircare and colour brand.

Made with biodynamic ingredients and essential oils, Oway’s colour formulas are free from ammonia and packed with natural nourishment. The result? A copper that’s rich, reflective and kind to both your hair and the planet.

Choosing Oway means your colour experience supports a circular, eco-conscious salon system from refill bottles to ethically sourced pigments.

Ready to Go Copper? Here’s What to Ask Your Colourist

Before your appointment, think about what kind of copper you’re after and go armed with inspo pics. A few questions to guide your consultation:
What shade will suit my skin tone best?

Do I need to lighten my hair first?

How often should I come in for a gloss or refresh?

What’s the best at-home care to keep the colour vibrant?

Your stylist will tailor the tone, technique and maintenance plan to you – so you can keep that glow going well into winter.

If you liked this you might like our Autumn Hair Trends roundup or if you’re not sold on copper, check out our Balayage vs Highlights inspo.