Trending: Cowgirl Copper Hair Colour

Cowgirl copper is the new shade in town, and it’s turning heads for all the right reasons. Whether you’ve spotted it on your social feed or heard whispers in the salon, cowboy (or cowgirl) copper is making its mark. In this blog Laura Elliott, Head of Education here at Neäl & Wølf, shares what to ask your hairdresser to get the viral tone and how to maintain it all year round.

1. What is cowboy copper?

Cowboy copper is a true warm copper tone, incorporating a blend of deep copper and red hues with rich brunette undertones to create the perfect autumnal and wearable copper colour. It’s different to traditional orange copper shades, as cowgirl copper is more muted and doesn’t have the pop of brightness. The shade is all about adding traditional rustic luxury to your look.

2. Is there a difference between cowboy copper and cowgirl copper?

No - cowgirl copper and cowboy copper are both interchangeable names for the same trend. They both relate to a warm blend of copper and brunette tones that create a sun-kissed, earthy glow. Whichever term you use is up to you - in our salons, we usually use both!

3. Why is the shade named after cowboys and cowgirls?

The name cowboy copper relates to the rustic aesthetic of the American West. Think sun-drenched desert landscapes, burnished leather, red rock, and gorgeous golden hour sunsets. The trend taps into the effortlessly cool, outdoorsy charm, alongside bold, independent empowerment, that’s related to cowboy and cowgirl culture.

4. How do you get cowgirl copper hair?

To get the look, it's always best to consult a professional and take reference pictures for your stylists to work off. Each client’s starting point is totally different and therefore they will each require a different colour formula to achieve a similar outcome, this is why reference pictures or mood boards are super important.

Colour trends are not a ‘one size fits all’, and whilst it’s good to have a general idea of the colour you’d like when booking a salon appointment, it’s best to be open minded should your hairdresser suggest a variation of the desired tone.

Neäl & Wølf salons can recommend our new GLAZE colour, 5CB. GLAZE is a True Demi Toner which leaves your hair with a super shiny gloss, reflecting the sun for a stunning cowgirl-esque finish. Find out more: GLAZE Demi Toner

5. How do you maintain the cowboy copper hair colour?

Any variation of copper can be high maintenance and fades quickly compared to darker colours, such as rich brunettes or jet blacks. 

Coppers, especially in the summer months when exposed to UV rays, will require toning every six to eight weeks depending on the intensity of the copper colour and your previous hair colour. This is something to bear in mind when switching up your colour. 

To help condition your copper hair in between salon appointments and maintain its vibrancy, we recommend using a hair treatment like our HYDRATE Moisture Mask. This colour-safe mask is designed to keep your hair nourished, using key ingredients like shea butter, betaine and glycerin to retain and restore moisture.

6. What is the best shampoo for cowboy copper hair?

To maintain the richness and vibrancy of cowboy copper, it’s essential to use a colour-safe, sulphate-free shampoo. Choose a high quality product that is formulated to keep hair looking and feeling in the best condition, like our HYDRATE Moisture Shampoo. This solution deeply nourishes and hydrates hair, leaving it soft, shiny and manageable - just massage through hair, rinse and repeat with our HYDRATE Moisture Conditioner.

7. What skin tone does copper hair look good on?

Certain hair tones sit differently depending on the tone of your skin, but the beauty of copper is that there are a multitude of wearable undertones for each person. Cowboy copper sits beautifully on deeper skin tones, whilst olive skin tones will want to incorporate a slightly more golden caramel hue, and cooler skin tones will look best with a bit more red. For more information on selecting the right hair colour for you, read our blog: What Hair Colour Suits Me? A Guide to Choosing the Right Shade

8. What colour does cowboy copper fade to?

As with most copper-based tones, cowboy copper can gradually fade into softer shades of warm auburn or golden brown, depending on your base colour and how well it’s maintained. Without the proper care, the copper tones may lose vibrancy over time, so incorporating colour-preserving products and regular salon treatments can help prolong its depth and warmth.

9. What are the best hairstyles for cowgirl copper hair?

Cowgirl copper pairs beautifully with a variety of styles that enhance its rich tones and natural dimension. Below, we’ve listed a few of our favourite looks:

Loose waves

Soft, flowing waves like beach waves or Hollywood waves bring out the depth and multi-dimension of the cowgirl shade.

Braids

Braided styles, especially fishtail or Dutch braids, add a playful, modern Western edge to your look.

Sleek ponytail

This simple style adds a twist that’s both chic and sophisticated.

Layered bob

Layered bobs create a bold, fashion-forward look that radiates confidence, whilst showing off the dimension of the cowgirl copper shade.

10. What is the cowgirl copper hair colour formula?

There are a variety of hair colour formulas that salons can use to create your style. Below are some professional colour formulas you can take with you as your hair inspiration pic!

@headsabove (first image below) used Neal & Wolf Colour: 88/34 + 9.33 + 0/11, 10% Vol. Styled using Miracle Rapid Blow Dry Mist, Velvet Nourishing Hair Oil & Control Flexible Hair Spray. 

@hairbymilliescott (bottom left) used Neal & Wolf Colour 7.0 + 7.4 (roots) and 7.4 + 88.34 on the lengths & ends.

For more colour inspiration, follow us on Instagram @nealandwolf.

*Please note: the formulas are guides/inspiration. The end result will depend on the hair's natural depth, percentage of white, texture, porosity, density, previous colour, hair condition and level of lift achieved.

With its warm, earthy tones and effortless glamour, this shade has become one of the most sought-after hair trends. Are you counting down the days to your next salon appointment ready to transform your tresses into the stunning cowgirl copper colour? We're here for you! Get in touch with your local salon today and discuss our new 5CB GLAZE colour: Find your Neäl & Wølf salon