Try “Babydoll Brunette” for a Sweet Spring Hair Refresh

While it was the winter of Babygirl, it’s the spring of Babydoll. “Babydoll brunette,” to be more specific.

Though the shade has been spotted on the gorgeous heads of It Girls like Daisy Edgar Jones, Eileen Kelly, and Devon Lee Carlson, we first got wind of the moniker when celebrity colorist and Schwarzkopf Professional’s U.S. Hair Color Trend Ambassador Jacob Schwartz named it his favorite spring hair trend in an Instagram Q&A earlier this month.

“It’s not too in-your-face, but it’s undeniably striking,” the artist tells Byrdie. “There’s a warmth to it that feels universally flattering—like a color you can truly make your own.”

Which is to say… it’s exactly the color you want to step into this spring. Ahead, everything to know about the timeless yet contemporary shade—including exactly how your colorist can whip it up for your darling locks.

What Is Babydoll Brunette?

A deep, luxurious brown with a soft, sun-kissed glow, babydoll brunette “is a blend of elegance and youthfulness” according to Schwartz.

“It’s the kind of brunette that doesn’t scream for attention, but instead draws you in with its radiance, like a soft, vintage-inspired dream girl come to life in a modern context,” he tells Byrdie. “Think about the way light reflects off your hair, giving it that ethereal, glossy look without it being too flashy.”

The Trend

Schwartz says that there’s something about this warm, glossy brunette that seems to really resonate right now. Perhaps its that it’s approachable and transitional. Or that it “feels like you’ve just stepped out of a dream”?

“We’re moving away from extremes and embracing that balanced, natural beauty again, and Babydoll Brunette fits perfectly into this mood,” he says. “I think it’s trending because it reflects where we’re at culturally—looking for authenticity, warmth, and those easy, natural vibes. And, let’s face it, who doesn’t want hair that looks like it belongs in a vintage magazine, but still feels fresh and relevant?”

How to Get Babydoll Brunette

One extremely good thing about having a Schwarzkopf ambassador spotting the trends: he knows exactly what products will get you there.

“For the glossiness of this shade specifically, I recommend using Schwarzkopf Professional’s Igora Vibrance in 0-00, a perfect clear toner that enhances shine without ever looking overpowering,” Schwartz explains.

Part of the charm of Babydoll Brunette is the subtle highlights that are placed throughout the hair to offer depth and dimension. For these, he grabs Schwarzkopf Professional’s Igora Vario Blond Super Plus, making sure to add the bright pieces in places you would expect the sun to hit naturally. The vision is a few expertly blended pieces around the face, leading into slightly lighter ends.

“When asking your colorist for this hue, I always recommend showing a picture of the color you are trying to achieve. I like to describe this look as a glowy, soft brown shade with strategically placed highlights for added dimension that looks naturally effortless,” Schwartz adds. “When working with color that can be as deep as some of these brunette shades, it’s important to make sure that your colorist expertly matches your hair color to your skin’s undertone.”

How to Maintain Babydoll Brunette

As for maintenance, keep things simple with a good shampoo and conditioner that will keep your hair at its baseline best. Schwartz loves Olaplex No. 4  Bond Maintenance Shampoo and No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner for colored hair.

After stepping out of the shower, you can toss on your favorite silk babydoll and sit in front of your vanity to dry your locks for the full glamorous, vintage effect. Make sure to engage in plenty of hair tosses and eye bats while styling, and for ever after.