Trying to imagine new ways to revamp your dark hair can get tricky when you don't want to go blonde or aren't really into bright colour transformations. Recently we've been casting our net further afield and have discovered all manner of amazing hair trends from all over the world — including a look in Brazil that brunettes will love.
Down in the land of Gisele waves, Brazilian women are asking for "illuminated brunette," or as they call it in Portuguese: " morenas iluminadas." The colour technique is all the rave in São Paulo, where local hairstylist João Bosco 's Salon 1838 is located. He says almost half of his clients are now asking for the colour — which is quickly becoming his most-requested style after blonde. And it's not just at his salon: On Instagram, the hashtag #MorenasIluminadas has more than 192k posts.
Bosco achieves the look by hand-painting one-inch strands all over the head just three shades lighter than the client's natural colour. He sweeps the colour from the ends up, teasing the hair around the midlengths so there is no line of demarcation. He then smudges the roots with a toner that matches the client's base so it all blends together into dreamy perfection.
The best part? It's super low maintenance and the grow-out is seamless (since you're painting on top of your natural base colour). Bosco tells us the colour typically lasts six months. "I've even had clients who come just once a year," he says.
If you're looking for a way to change up your dark hair before 2019, we've rounded up all the inspiration you need, ahead. Take them to your stylist, or just book a flight to Brazil in time for New Year's.
Bosco says more and more of his clients are chopping their long hair to their shoulders, and this colour is perfect for brightening up those face-framing layers. As your hair grows out, you won't have to worry about keeping up with colour appointments.
@joboscoMorenas iluminadas is especially great for those with curls. The technique will bring extra atenção (attention) to your gorgeous natural definition, with less damage than all-over bleach.
@jothacunhaAlthough you won't have to visit the salon as often for a touchup, aftercare is important to keep the colour looking bright and healthy for as long as possible. Bosco suggests doing an in-salon moisturising treatment every 20 days and, at home, using the Pantene Intense Rescue Shots, a Brazil drugstore favourite that will finally be available in the US starting next month. (Bosco is a spokesperson for the brand.)
@joboscoBosco says the brighter colour can range from golden to copper, depending on the client. Ask your stylist for a shade that will best complement your natural hair colour, like these beautiful toffee highlights.
@petermenezesThis side-by-side photo perfectly depicts the dramatic difference the colour technique can make. It's like a sun-kissed Rio glow, but for your hair.
@rapunzel_nessaGoodbye dull hair, hello radiant Instagram-worthy strands. How dreamy is this?
Travel and accommodations were provided by Pantene for the purpose of writing this story.
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