2026 Hair Color Trends: Low-Contrast Blondes & Brunettes With Eric Vaughn

2026 hair color trends are getting softer, richer and more tone-on-tone. Kenra Professional Artistic Director Eric Vaughn (@realericvaughn) joins BTC Senior Editor Lauren Freas to break down how low-contrast color is changing the way stylists approach blondes and brunettes. In this conversation, Eric shares how he creates dimensional color without relying on extreme contrast or over-lightening the hair.You’ll learn: - Why monochromatic and tone-on-tone hair color is trending for 2026 - How Eric approaches soft base shifts, highlights and lowlights - Why fine slices help create subtle dimension - How to keep compromised blondes looking brighter without pushing the lift - Why brunettes don’t always need to be lifted to a Level 9 or 10 - How Eric uses zone toning to correct uneven warmth - Tips for maintaining shine and condition after a chemical service - What Eric predicts will happen with dimensional color in 2027 Eric also breaks down the Kenra Professional color and care products he uses behind the chair. ▶️ Watch the full conversation for the techniques, formulas and trend insight you can take straight back to the salon.