By Jia Lissa 
Burgundy hair has always held a certain allure, a rich, deep hue that has seen its star rise and fall cyclically throughout fashion history. From its prominent surge in the 1990s, when it was simply known as "burgundy," to its more evocative iterations like "mulled wine," "red velvet," and "cranberry," the shade has consistently captivated. Now, in 2026, burgundy’s cooler cousin to auburn has been rebranded with its most contemporary and fashion-forward moniker yet: cherry cola. This sophisticated evolution of a beloved classic is sweeping across the beauty landscape, offering a vibrant yet wearable statement for those seeking a distinctive change.
The Rise of Cherry Cola: From Nostalgia to Trendsetting
The "cherry cola" hair color represents a nuanced take on the traditional burgundy. It is characterized by a deep brunette base that is infused with cool red undertones. These undertones can manifest subtly, revealing themselves in specific lighting, or boldly, making a statement from every angle. This versatility is a key factor in its burgeoning popularity.
Elizabeth Hiserodt, a colorist at Cutler Salon in New York City, explains the appeal of this trend: "Cherry cola is a great color if you want something vibrant but not too extreme." This sentiment is echoed by Michelle Hong, a colorist and the founder and creative director of NYC The Team. Hong notes that, compared to other more avant-garde hair colors, "it feels more wearable and timeless. It complements many skin tones, works beautifully with darker bases, and doesn’t require lightening the hair first, making it a luxurious, lower-damage way to make a statement."
The burgeoning popularity of cherry cola hair is not merely anecdotal. Pinterest’s Beauty Trend Report for 2026 highlights a staggering 788% year-over-year increase in searches for "cherry cola brunette hair." This meteoric rise in online interest underscores a collective desire for noticeable yet sophisticated transformations in personal style. The trend’s traction is further evidenced by its adoption by numerous celebrities and street-style influencers, solidifying its status as a significant beauty movement.
Understanding the "Cherry Cola" Spectrum
It’s crucial to understand that "cherry cola" is not a monolithic shade. The resulting color can vary significantly, ranging from a deep brunette with a mere hint of burgundy sheen to a more pronounced, cool-toned dark red. The final outcome is heavily influenced by the individual’s starting hair color, their hair history, and the professional’s technique.
Colorists like Hong emphasize the importance of a thorough consultation. "Discussing your starting color and hair history with your colorist is essential, since both influence how the burgundy hue will take and how evenly it will develop," she advises. Beyond the technical aspects, personal complexion and style preferences play a role, but a skilled colorist will also assess the hair’s condition to determine the most suitable and least damaging approach to achieving the desired cherry cola shade.
Achieving the Cherry Cola Look: Professional Precision
The nuanced nature of cherry cola hair necessitates professional expertise. Writer Sable Yong, who sports a muted version of the trend, worked closely with colorist Elizabeth Hiserodt. Hiserodt explains the intricate process: "Because her hair is naturally dark, thick, and strong, it needs extra help for the red to show. I pre-lightened Yong’s hair with color – not bleach – before depositing the red. Pre-lightening with color lifts it a level or two, exposing some undertones, which are reddish-orange. Sable wanted a controlled red and didn’t want to use bleach, so it helps with more intensity but not extreme vibrancy." This example illustrates how a professional can tailor the technique to achieve specific aesthetic goals while prioritizing hair health.
For those prioritizing a more low-maintenance approach, Mauricio Bermudez, a colorist at Suite Caroline in New York City, suggests incorporating lighter strands. "Your colorist can add lighter strands through the mid-lengths and ends before applying the cherry cola dye, leaving your roots closer to their natural color," he explains. This technique creates a more lived-in, dimensional effect. Conversely, for a bolder statement, Bermudez notes, "if you’re looking to go all-in on the trend, your colorist can apply a base bump to lighten the hair ever so slightly before applying the cherry cola tone all over."
The At-Home Dilemma: Risks and Alternatives
The allure of achieving cherry cola hair at home is understandable, especially with the availability of vibrant box dyes like L’Oréal Paris Féria in Burgundy Blush. However, all three colorists consulted for this article strongly advise caution, particularly when using permanent dyes.
"You most likely won’t get the same results as a box promises," states Hiserodt. She elaborates that box dyes lack the personalized assessment of a professional. "The color on the packaging doesn’t account for your existing shade, previous color treatments, or how your hair absorbs pigment the way a professional colorist will." A professional can meticulously balance the red, violet, and brown tones to achieve the desired cherry cola effect, avoiding unexpected bright reds or purples.
Hong expresses particular concern about applying permanent color over pre-existing color treatments. This can lead to uneven results, as permanent dyes are incapable of lifting or correcting existing color. What might seem like a budget-friendly at-home experiment could easily escalate into a costly and extensive color-correction appointment.
For those intent on a DIY approach, Bermudez suggests exploring semi-permanent dark reds. Products like Manic Panic Semi-Permanent Hair Color Cream in Infra Red or Pulp Riot Semi-Permanent Color in Pyro can offer a nuanced red effect on darker hair. However, even with these options, he advocates for professional guidance. "If you’re on a budget, there are always junior colorists and apprentices at great local salons who could use a model in their chair," he suggests.
A significant factor contributing to the colorists’ insistence on professional application is the persistent nature of deep red tones. "Deep reds have staying power," Bermudez warns. "It’s not the easiest to pivot out of, unless you’re open to going even darker, like a rich chocolate brown." This means that a misstep at home can have long-lasting consequences.
Maintaining the Cherry Cola Hue: A Commitment to Color Care
While achieving cherry cola hair can be challenging, maintaining its vibrancy requires a dedicated care routine. Red tones, though rich, are notoriously prone to fading. Hiserodt recommends a crucial post-appointment step: "I always ask the client not to wash their hair after the color appointment for at least two days. Give the color time to settle before washing."
The less frequently hair is washed, the better for color longevity. When it is time to cleanse, using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner is paramount. Products like the Best of Beauty Award-winning Biolage Professional Hair Spa Color Last Shampoo and Conditioner are specifically formulated to protect color-treated hair.
Minimizing heat styling is also essential. High temperatures from tools like flat irons and curling wands can accelerate color fading. When heat styling is necessary, applying a heat protectant is non-negotiable.
To refresh the tone between salon visits, Hong suggests using a color-depositing conditioner or gloss. However, she stresses the importance of careful selection to avoid unwanted warm or purple undertones. Keracolor Color + Clenditioner in Merlot and IGK Color Depositing Gloss Mask in Williams-Burgundy are highlighted as effective options that also provide softening benefits.
Bermudez emphasizes the role of deep conditioning treatments in maintaining the reflective shine characteristic of cherry cola hair. He recommends a weekly application of a nourishing oil, such as the Iles Formula Vitamin Treatment Oil, applied overnight and shampooed out in the morning.
Salon gloss treatments every four to six weeks are generally advised by Hong to maintain vibrancy, with the frequency depending on individual fading rates and desired intensity. Root maintenance is a more personalized matter, dictated by the natural hair color and the contrast with the dyed lengths.
Ultimately, embracing the cherry cola trend involves a conscious decision about commitment. While the name evokes a playful beverage, the undertaking of achieving and maintaining this rich, persistent pigment is a serious one. The beauty of this trend, however, lies not only in its stunning visual appeal but also in the enduring nature of its rich burgundy tones, ensuring that even as trends evolve, this captivating hue will remain a stylish statement for the foreseeable future.
Cherry Cola Hair Inspiration
The versatility of the cherry cola hair trend is evident in its widespread adoption across diverse styles and individuals. From subtle, deep undertones to more pronounced, vibrant reds, the shade offers a spectrum of possibilities.
One notable example is the nuanced interpretation seen on writer Sable Yong, where the color appears as a deep, rich brunette with subtle, alluring red undertones that catch the light. This sophisticated take demonstrates that cherry cola doesn’t necessitate a dramatic shift from one’s natural color but rather an enhancement of depth and dimension.
Celebrities have also embraced the trend, showcasing various interpretations. Jenna Ortega has been seen sporting a version of the cherry cola hue that leans towards a cooler, more intense red, perfectly complementing her striking features. Ashley Park has also showcased the trend, often with a vibrant, almost jewel-toned cherry cola that adds a touch of glamour to her red carpet appearances.
The trend extends beyond Hollywood. Street-style photographs reveal a range of individuals embracing the cherry cola aesthetic. From those with naturally darker hair who opt for a subtle infusion of red to those who undergo a more significant transformation, the shade proves adaptable. Models like Raye have been photographed with a striking cherry cola that highlights their bold personal style.
The appeal of cherry cola hair is further amplified by its ability to pair seamlessly with a variety of fashion choices. Whether it’s a classic trench coat, a chic lace dress, or a casual denim ensemble, the rich red-brown hue acts as a sophisticated accessory. This adaptability makes it a compelling choice for individuals looking to elevate their everyday style or make a memorable impact on special occasions.
The visual inspiration provided by these diverse interpretations underscores the "cherry cola" hair color’s status as a significant and enduring trend, offering a blend of classic elegance and contemporary flair.
