'Dark Velvet' Hair Is The Cozy, Dramatic Winter Look Of 2024

Velvety aesthetics are having a moment. Creamy, soft-focus makeup is replacing the outdated glowy skin trend; we're seeing velvet-inspired manicures like  the amber velvet nail trend; and even '00s-style velvet athleisure sets are staging a comeback. It's no wonder why — velvet vibes are perfect for winter, both in look and comfort. And now, the velvet look is even making waves in the hairstyling arena thanks to the dark velvet hair trend.

Dark velvet hair isn't so much a color as a palette of deep, textured tones. Instead of aiming for a bright, glossy shine, dark velvet hair embraces the understated look of matte and semi-matte finishes, evoking the luxe, alluring softness of its fabric namesake. Beginning with the dye job and carrying through to daily maintenance, getting the velvet effect is all about that softness. If you want to try the style yourself, mattifying hairsprays and texturizers are your new best friends — use them in a pinch to control oiliness and maintain a velvety look.

Best of all, this emphasis on texture over color makes the dark velvet hair trend an incredibly versatile style, with shades and variations to suit every skin tone and aesthetic. From warm reds and browns to cool blues and blacks, there are many different ways to rock this moody, dramatic trend.

Burgundy is a classic velvet hue, so it should come as no surprise that it's a great choice for achieving the dark velvet hair trend. If you have a yellow-skewing skin tone, a warm burgundy shade with brown undertones will look particularly good on you. And against cooler complexions like ivory, olive, or ebony, a burgundy with violet undertones will work like a charm. When in doubt, ask your colorist for their professional opinion to find your perfect shade.

Who said brown hair was boring? Rich earth tones take on a new vibrance when paired with the dark velvet hair trend. Think about opulent hues like mahogany, cocoa, and caramel. The soft, matte effect of velvety hair gives these shades a mysterious depth, elevating your brown locks from the everyday to something intense and romantic.

If you've never considered blue hair, it may be time to think again. Mystical blue hues go perfectly with the dark velvet hair trend, and there's a color option for every skin complexion. Dark shades of velvety blue like navy, indigo, and denim look especially good on darker skin tones; meanwhile, medium skin tones often look good with slightly brighter variations like cobalt, and people with paler skin tones should consider blue hues with green undertones, such as teal.

In hair as in fashion, black pairs oh-so stylishly with the inviting plushness of velvet. While some black hair dyes can be too stark, velvety texture softens its edge. This classic combo screams timeless luxury, whether you're going for the minimalist clean-girl vibe or a sassy it-girl aesthetic. Black velvet hair also looks good with any hairstyle, from long, intricate curls to a short and playful bob. And as for timing, velvety black is ideal for cold winter months, when the weather is grayer and our wardrobe calls for a dark, dramatic accompaniment.

Want a take on the dark velvet hair fad that stands out from the crowd that little bit extra? Plum shades are regal and eye-catching, and they carry just enough moody vibes to make them ideal for winter. Mattifying your purple hair for that velvet finish makes it look touchably soft, giving the whole look a powerful yet feminine air. As with other bold shades, you can consider your skin tone — plum with cool blue undertones will look amazing on lighter skin tones, while warmer, redder hues of plum look particularly striking on richer, olive-leaning complexions. That said, don't be afraid to try any shade you like. It's your hair, after all.