Thinking About Going Red?
Red is one of the boldest colour choices you can make — and one of the most rewarding when it’s done well. A good red genuinely commands attention, and it can transform your whole image. It’s a leap, but it doesn’t have to be a daunting one. Here’s an honest look at going red, from the team at Wisteria Avenue in Abingdon.
Red isn’t one colour
The first thing to know is that “red” covers a huge spectrum — from deep, dark, sophisticated reds through to bright, vivid, striking shades. That range is good news: it means red can be subtle or it can be a statement, and there’s almost certainly a version of it that suits you. The shade you choose, and just as importantly how it’s applied, completely changes the effect.
Dark red
A dark red is the sophisticated, wearable end of the spectrum. Done well it’s rich and striking without being overpowering, and if you already have darker hair it’s a relatively subtle shift rather than a dramatic change. A full head tint tends to work particularly well for achieving a deep, even dark red.
Lighter and brighter reds
Brighter reds are genuinely eye-catching — but because they’re so striking, going bright all over can be a lot. This is why many clients choose to introduce a vivid red as part of a balayage or ombre instead. Worked through the mid-lengths and ends, a bright red becomes distinctive without being overwhelming — here, less really is more. It also keeps things versatile: a red ombre can still look professional, and it can be worn up or down depending on the occasion. If you’d like to understand those techniques, our guide to the difference between balayage and ombre explains them.
Living with red — the honest bit
One thing worth knowing before you commit: red is one of the faster-fading colours. The molecules are larger and wash out more readily than other shades, so red needs a bit more care to stay vivid — the right products and sensible washing all help. It’s not a reason to avoid red, just something to factor in. Our posts on why red hair colour fades and how to maintain red hair go into this properly.
Book a colour consultation in Abingdon
Red looks fantastic, and if you’re ready for a change you won’t be short of options — from the shade, to whether it’s all-over or worked into a balayage, to the cut that sets it off. The best starting point is a chat. Book in for a free, no-obligation colour consultation, and have a look at our price list to see what’s involved.
