Right now, there’s a hair trend I’m fully in love with. Imagine your favorite childhood teddy bear (you know, the one that’s squishy, cozy, and smells like hugs) but in hair color form. That’s Teddy Bear Brunette.
It’s rich, warm, and so dimensional that it feels like a soft hug for your face. And the best part? This color is everywhere, from my Pinterest board to actual celebrities rocking it on red carpets.
If you’re ready to level up your brunette game, keep reading—I’ve got all the juicy details, celeb inspo, and pro tips to help you nail the look.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Table of Contents
So, What Is Teddy Bear Brunette?
In a nutshell, it’s the love child of a rich brunette and a sun-kissed balayage.
Think neutral-to-warm tones with caramel and honey highlights that make your hair look like it’s glowing from within. It’s not too dark, not too light—it’s just right. (Goldilocks would approve.)
The vibe? Effortless, low-maintenance, and universally flattering. It’s basically your hair’s version of wearing a chic oversized sweater: cozy, but still totally put-together.
Why Is Everyone Going Teddy Bear Brunette?
Truth be told, this shade is having a moment and here’s why:
1. Celeb-Approved Chicness
Some of our favorite stars are giving major teddy bear vibes with their brunette locks.
Daisy Edgar-Jones is the poster child for this look. Her natural, sun-kissed blend screams “I woke up like this” (but, like, in the glam way).
Halle Berry, the OG trendsetter, proves that Teddy Bear Brunette is timeless and modern—just like her.
And of course, Hailey Bieber. Need I say more? She’s the queen of “clean girl aesthetic,” and this shade fits her vibe like a glove.
2. It’s Like a PSL for Your Hair
Warm, toasty, and full of golden tones—it’s perfect for cozy seasons and for brightening up spring. Who doesn’t want a shade that screams “cozy glam” all year long?
Expert Insights
“Teddy Bear Brunette is a rich color that’s defined by soft neutral tones and golden undertones.”
Min Kim, celebrity colorist and L’Oréal Professionnel Global Ambassador
3. Minimal Effort, Maximum Impact
Raise your hand if you’re a low-maintenance queen.
Teddy Bear Brunette is practically built for you. The root regrowth is forgiving, the highlights add natural dimension, and the upkeep is refreshingly chill.
How to Nail This Look: Tips From the Pros
1. Know What to Ask For
When you hit the salon, tell your stylist:
- You want a rich, neutral-to-warm brunette base with soft caramel or honey highlights.
- Emphasize blended, seamless balayage—no harsh lines here. Teddy Bear Brunette is all about subtlety.
Pro Tip: Ask for a gloss or toner to keep things shiny and smooth. You’ll leave the salon with hair that looks like it belongs in a shampoo commercial.
2. Play With Texture
This shade really shines (literally) when paired with soft waves or loose curls. It gives your hair that “I just walked off the beach, but make it winter” vibe.
Hot tip: Curl away from your face for a lifted look—it’s basically an instant facelift.
3. Invest in the Right Products
To keep your Teddy Bear Brunette from fading, you’ll need:
1. Sulfate-Free, Color-Safe Shampoo
My Pick: Pureology Hydrate Shampoo
Listen, I’ve been through a lot of shampoos, and this one? Chef’s kiss. Not only is it sulfate-free (a must for keeping those caramel tones bright), but it also smells like a spa day in a bottle. Plus, it’s super hydrating without weighing your hair down. Bye-bye, dullness.
2. Weekly Deep-Conditioning Treatment
My Pick: Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask
Okay, full disclosure: I’m an Olaplex stan. This mask is magic in a bottle—it gives your hair that silky, glossy finish that makes you want to swish it around like you’re in a rom-com montage. Bonus points for strengthening those highlighted strands, so they stay soft and shiny like a teddy bear’s fur.
3. Heat Protectant Spray
My Pick: GHD Bodyguard Heat Protect Spray
This spray has saved my hair more times than I can count. It’s lightweight, smells amazing, and makes me feel like a pro even when I’m just curling my hair in my pajamas. Protecting those caramel highlights from heat damage is non-negotiable, and this does it so well.
Is Teddy Bear Brunette Right for You?
In short—yes! If you want a hair color that feels cozy yet chic, warm yet modern, this trend is calling your name.
Whether you’re lounging in your favorite sweater or hitting brunch with the girls, Teddy Bear Brunette is the ultimate “I’m effortlessly fabulous” shade.
So grab your stylist, your Pinterest inspo pics, and maybe a hot cocoa for good measure. Your teddy-bear-chic glow-up is waiting.
Found your perfect shade? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @coloredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair color stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.
Our Research & Review Process
To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.
We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.
Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.
This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.
As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!
