The sultry days of summer are still here, and as we head into another heatwave, it seems like the perfect time to start planning beauty looks for fall. There will still be plenty of time for makeup and nail trends, but changing up your hair color requires a little more thought. Fall is the season of change, so why not go for something dramatic and daring like wild cherry? This is no ordinary red hair. “It’s a bold statement color that’s vibrant and sophisticated,” says Chase Kusero, co-founder of IGK Hair Care.
Red hair made a major comeback last fall, with several variations lasting year-round. Cowboy Copper is a great example. The bright penny shade was one of the top trends of the year and is still going strong, and this season, Wild Cherry is poised to do the same. With deeper, richer, and more enchanting tones, it’s ideal for the season ahead. You may even have noticed one or more of your favorite celebs sporting this look lately. Below, we spoke to hairstylists to find out everything you need to know about Wild Cherry hair, including questions to ask at the salon, how to maintain it, and their top celebrity inspirations for the season.
Selected experts
- Chase Kusero is a celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of IGK Hair Care
- Lauren Mildice is a colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago
What is wild cherry hair?
You may remember the Cherry Cola craze that swept the beauty and fashion worlds last fall. The color was found in everything from lipsticks to handbags and trench coats. However, you can think of Wild Cherry as Cherry Cola’s fresher, younger cousin. “Cherry Cola was a really popular color, and now everyone is gravitating toward Wild Cherry Red to change up their look,” says Maxine Salon colorist Lauren Mildice. She explains that the difference between these two colors is that Wild Cherry Red has a more dominant red pigment.
Versatility is key with this hair color. Rather than a flat, monotonous look, it offers a lot of variety. Although it works well with any skin tone, Kusero points out that it looks especially good on those with medium to dark skin tones.
How to get wild cherry hair in the salon
When deciding on a new hair color, it’s always a good idea to have inspiration on hand. Take some time to research before your appointment and bring along a few pictures of your favorite celebrities wearing the wild cherry shade you want. At the salon, Kusero suggests asking your colorist for a deep burgundy base with a hint of purple undertones.
Wild cherry red combines tonal elements to create a multi-dimensional look. “It features deep reds, burgundy and dark ruby pigments,” says Mildice. She mentions that wild cherry is meant to be more vibrant, reflective and alive than other shades at its core.
How to care for wild cherry hair at home
Red hair is notoriously difficult to maintain. The color tends to fade quickly, so a routine is essential to prolong its life. Color-preserving products, starting with shampoo and conditioner, should be at the top of the list. “Wild cherry red hair doesn’t have as much of a natural base as other variations, so you need to use a reliable shampoo and conditioner duo,” says Mildice.
The expert recommends also adding a heat protectant to your hair care routine when using hot tools, including a blow dryer. “A strong heat protectant will extend the life of your color.” She recommends looking for a product that both protects and straightens your hair.
