Take a guess at what ribbon highlights look like– and you’d probably be right. They’re cascading ribbons of hair that are highlighted in a different color than the base color. Because the highlights are gently painted on, they still blend well with the natural color, so don’t worry—chunky, starkly contrasting highlights of the 1990s and 2000s are not back. Ribbon highlights are distinctly different shades than the base color, but they’re done in a way that flows well and adds depth and movement to the hair. The ribbon highlight effect is especially beautiful when worn with waves that the ribbons can tumble down. (Check out this wavy hair tutorial.) Ribbon highlights are a great highlighting technique for summer, as they usually add warmth to the overall look. Or for those new to the highlighting game, they can be done subtly with ombré effects and babylights. If you’re looking for new hair color inspiration to bring to your stylist, look no further than ribbon highlights—they’re as pretty as they sound.
Face-Framing Ribbons
For a halo effect that will brighten your face, go with a few subtle ribbon highlights toward the front of your hair.
Irish Coffee
A dark base with cascading ribbons in lighter shades of brunette and bronde make for creamy color.
Cool Brunette with Bronde Babylight Ribbons
This color job is full of trends—cool-tone colors and subtle babylight ribbons.
Coppery Ribbons
These caramel-y, coppery ribbons are gorgeous if your hair has a natural red undertone.
Rich Brunette with a Touch of Caramel
This rich, chocolate-y brunette is lightened up with a few caramel ribbons that start midway down the strands.
Root Beer
No, not the soft drink you used to sip as a kid. This trendy hair color mixes dark brunette with warm, red-tone ribbons that remind us of cinnamon.
Ribbons in Shades of Blonde
These highlights have both light and dark blonde, which creates an overall bronde effect.
Ombré Ribbons
These ribbons have an ombré effect, moving from a light, caramel brown to an almost-platinum blonde.
Golden Blonde Ribbons
These shiny, golden blonde ribbon highlights are perfect for welcoming warm weather.
