Last fall, I tried to be a “natural brunette” again. Thought I’d be low-maintenance, chill, just a simple girl with simple hair. But two weeks in, I was bored to tears.
Enter: Merlot. Rich, sultry, and a little mysterious — this deep red wine shade was the makeover moment I didn’t know I needed. And let me tell you, heads turned. Compliments flew. I felt like the boldest version of myself… without going full fire-engine red.
So what is Merlot hair, exactly? Think a luxurious red-wine hue that blends deep burgundy with violet and berry undertones. It’s moody, it’s sexy, and it flatters a huge range of skin tones. Plus, it’s super customizable — from subtle tints to full-blown drama.
And because one shade just isn’t enough (hello, options), I’ve rounded up 12 trending Merlot hair ideas for every vibe — from soft and romantic to edgy and bold. Ready to sip the shade of the season?
1. Classic All-Over Merlot
This is the one-and-done stunner. A solid Merlot shade from roots to ends gives off serious glam with minimal upkeep.
It’s perfect if you’re covering greys, going for a big change, or just want a rich, cohesive color that looks chef’s kiss in both sleek styles and soft waves.
2. Merlot Balayage on Dark Hair
Calling all brunettes: this is your moment.
A Merlot balayage adds that pop of red-wine richness without a full commitment. The soft blend keeps your natural roots intact while giving depth and dimension — especially on layered cuts. It’s giving mysterious but approachable, you know?
3. Merlot Money Piece
Want to make a statement without going all-in? Try a Merlot money piece — just a face-framing flash of color against your darker base.
It’s playful, low-maintenance, and works beautifully on both curls and sleek strands. Bonus: it looks amazing in a messy updo.
4. Merlot with Black Base
Black roots melting into Merlot ends = drama, but make it wearable. This high-contrast blend brings that vampy, midnight glam energy.
It’s especially stunning on long, glossy hair, so if you’ve got the length (or the extensions), this one’s for you.
5. Soft Merlot Highlights on Brown Hair
Subtle, but make it spicy. Soft Merlot highlights woven through brunette hair create that “did she or didn’t she” effect.
They shimmer in sunlight and glow indoors — basically, you’ll look like you have your own personal ring light.
6. Merlot and Violet Blend
If you love a cool-toned fantasy hair moment but want something grown-up enough for the office (or the PTA), this one’s your girl.
The mix of wine and violet tones is vibrant without being loud. It’s a conversation starter and a confidence booster.
7. Curly Merlot Magic
Textured girls, this is your time to shine. Merlot on curls brings out insane depth and dimension.
The color plays so well with coils, ringlets, and waves — each twist of hair catches a different tone. It’s like a red wine swirl in hair form.
8. Deep Merlot Ombre
Want a low-maintenance option that still turns heads? Go for a deep Merlot ombre.
With dark roots gradually fading into wine-drenched ends, it grows out like a dream and adds major movement to medium or long hair.
9. Rose-Merlot Blend
This softer take on Merlot leans rosier — think a pinch of blush stirred into your red wine. It’s dreamy on fair to warm skin tones and pairs beautifully with tousled waves or a bouncy bob. Sweet, but with a little spice.
10. Merlot on Short Hair
Pixie cut? Jaw-length bob? Don’t sleep on Merlot.
This bold shade gives short styles that “I woke up like this, but make it editorial” edge. Add a spritz of texture spray and a smirk, and you’re golden.
11. Merlot Melt with Copper Tones
For all my red-lovers who want warmth with their wine, the Merlot-Copper melt is a must.
These fiery tones bring dimension and vibrancy, especially on medium to tan complexions. It’s autumn in a hair color, basically.
12. Merlot Color with Gloss Finish
Want that glass hair effect? A high-gloss Merlot tone is the answer. This isn’t about placement — it’s about shine. Ask your colorist for a glaze or gloss treatment to get that liquid, luxe look. Bonus: it helps the color last longer, too.
You can also check more of the lastest Merlot hair color looks over on our Merlot Pinterest board for ideas and inspiration.
Pro Tips: How to Keep Merlot Hair Vibrant
- Use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo
- Rinse with cool water (yes, your shower might get chilly — but your hair will thank you)
- Limit heat styling or always use a heat protectant
- Try a color-depositing conditioner between salon visits
- Ask for a toner refresh every 4–6 weeks to keep that richness on point
Merlot Hair Is Here to Stay
Whether you’re ready to dive head-first into a wine-red transformation or just want to flirt with a few berry highlights, Merlot hair is bold, beautiful, and so customizable. There’s truly a shade and style for every mood.
So go ahead — save your fave, show your stylist, and start living your best red-wine fantasy.
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!
