The Deal

• $115 for a haircut and choice of ombre, sombre, color-melt, or baylage highlights using olaplex color ($257 value)

Ombre Hair Coloring: The Lighter Side of Dark Roots

The ombre color trend has traveled from its Hollywood roots to the roots of clients across the country. Help your hairstyle graduate with Groupon’s introduction to ombre highlights.

Judging from recent red-carpet strolls, it might appear that A-listers from Keira Knightley to Drew Barrymore had forgotten to visit their colorists. Of course, like any element of a movie star’s appearance, the style isn’t accidental. It’s known as ombre hair coloring, taken from the French for “shadow” or “shade.” When done carefully, the gradual, gradient shadings of ombre coloring can imbue hair with a casually edgy aesthetic.

Though the ombre style is suited to complexions of all shades, only careful consultation with a professional stylist can determine which colors will flatter your look or career as a chameleon herder. For example, those with darker skin can shoot for deep reds and coppers, while fairer tones can experiment with blondes and caramel colors. Daredevils of all skin types can turn to unnatural hues such as pink and blue for a more dramatic effect.

After selecting your desired colors, the stylist will paint the darker shade onto the roots, and gradually transition to lighter hues towards the tips. Be forewarned that although the ombre look is similar to that of grown-out highlights, previously color-treated hair will often need at least some color correction to achieve the desired effect. Similarly, complex color combinations can require more frequent touch-ups to maintain this seemingly low-maintenance look. Color-treated shampoos and conditioners can help you get the most mileage out of ombre tresses, as can regular coats of gloss.