You may be asking yourself, what is the hottest hair color for 2023? There are a few hair colors that have been trending this year, like expensive brunette or dream doll blonde, but none have trotted onto the scene quite like cowgirl copper (or cowboy copper, or cowperson copper if you will). Inspired by the rich, caramel hues associated with Western leather, the hair color is an equally rich and buttery caramel tone that falls midway between brunette and a full-blown redhead. We’ve even seen the color become a popular TikTok filter!
“I think it's a beautiful shade,” says pro colorist Angela Carroll, who has experience transforming her clients into cowgirl copper hotties at Cutler Salon in New York City. Carroll isn’t gatekeeping her cowgirl copper cocktail, either. Keep scrolling for her tips and tricks to nailing the hair color trend of 2023.
What is cowgirl copper?
Like we mentioned earlier, cowgirl copper—sometimes known as cowboy copper— is a blend caramel, brunette, red and even a hint of blonde that create lots of warmth and depth. It makes a statement, but is still wearable! And unlike previous red hair colors that trends we’ve seen take off, this shade nixes any bright orange tones. The shade also coincides with the popularity of Western fashion we’re seeing among our favorite celebrities and designers—think: cowboy boots and denim vests.
How to Get Cowgirl Copper Hair
Now, before you even get started on your own cowgirl or cowboy copper transformation you should book a consultation with a professional colorist, so they can work out a “recipe” that works with your skin tone and eye color. Carroll shares her very own cowgirl copper recipe that uses a combination of Redken Shades EQ Copper Blondes.
If you’re not already familiar with Redken Shades EQ Hair Gloss (available in participating salons), here’s a cheat sheet:
- Demi-permanent color that glazes, refreshes, and corrects your current color without over-processing or drying out your strands.
- Ammonia-free formula that provides results in just 20 minutes.
- Will gradually fade within four to six weeks—which means no harsh lines or visible roots as your hair grows out.
- Leaves your hair looking and feeling healthier than before your appointment!
To get her signature cowgirl copper Carroll used 09CR Summer Sunshine for depth at the root, 010AA Butternut for the base, and 07AA Turmeric with a touch of 09CR for the ends—the result: rich, warm, coppery red. Hair.com senior social media manager and model Leah Gay is left with an intense shine that may look luxe, but maintaining this look is easier than you think with the help of Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo and Condtioner (or try the new Lightweight Liquid Conditioner if you have fine hair).
The beauty of taking this approach to achieve your copper cowgirl or cowboy hair dress is that Redken Shades EQ won’t leave your strands damaged like bleach and you can test the waters of a brand new hue without too much commitment. That means you can move on to the next hair color trend of your choice or TikTok’s!
Interested in trying cowgirl copper hair color for yourself? Discover everything you need to keep the shade looking healthy and lustrous at Hair.com.
