For the second year running, smoked suede hair has us itching for a fall refresh.
Smoked suede hair first hit our radar last July, when SNL comedian Chloe Fineman was searching for the perfect shade for someone with “cool summer” features, ultimately tapping Méche Salon colorist and Schwarzkopf Professional hair color trend ambassador Jacob Schwartz for the job. The result: a rich, glossy, and multidimensional deep brown with cool lowlights and soft blends for added movement and a natural look.
Think of smoked suede brunette as a dark, almost coffee-like hair color. It strikes “that perfect balance of rich and cool, with just the right amount of depth and dimension,” Schwartz told Glamour last year. “It’s a modern brunette that feels soft, smoky, and luxe.”
Why call it smoked? The cool tones give it that finish: “There’s this subtle ashiness layered into the warmth, which gives it a very refined, expensive finish,” says Schwartz. “Think seamless lowlights, muted brunette tones, and that silky suede texture that moves with the light.”
One year later, we turned to Schwartz for an update on the look for fall 2026. Here’s everything you need to know to find the right shade of smoked suede hair for you directly from Schwartz—plus some additional expert insight.
What’s so great about smoked suede hair?
“Smoked suede brunette brings in richness and depth while still feeling soft and wearable,” says Schwartz. “The cool, smoky tones keep the color from feeling too flat and give it that beautiful reflective quality.”
For fall 2026, specifically, Schwartz says his clients are looking for richer, darker tones without sacrificing shine, softness, and movement. “Smoked suede brunette hits that sweet spot,” he says. “It’s deeper and moodier for the season, but the tonal variation keeps it from looking flat or too dark. It’s really part of this bigger movement toward customized, low-maintenance color that enhances your natural features rather than competing with them.”
