Everything you need to know about 2025’s most underrated shade
If platinum was the statement shade of the early 2020s, 2025 is all about the switch to soft, smoky neutrals. Enter mushroom brown: an earthy, ashy brunette tone that’s less obvious than blonde, less warm than chestnut, and way cooler (in every sense) than your average brunette. It’s moody but wearable. Chic but low-key. And unlike trend colors that scream for attention, mushroom brown whispers—and still gets noticed.
Sitting somewhere between taupe, ash brown and soft grey, it flatters a wide range of skin tones and has that elusive 'effortlessly polished' look. Even better? It grows out like a dream, meaning fewer trips to the salon and more time enjoying that naturally luxe vibe.
Below, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about mushroom brown hair: what the shade actually is, how to wear it (light, dark, or ashy), who it suits best, and how to style and maintain it.
Whether you’re planning a full-color transformation or just want a tonal update that feels fresh but timeless, this neutral powerhouse might be your perfect match.
What is mushroom brown hair?
Mushroom brown hair is a cool-toned brunette shade that blends brown, ash, and grey hues to create an understated, dimensional color. It gets its name from, you guessed it, the subtle tones found in portobello mushrooms: soft greys, neutral browns, and a dash of muted undertones.
The mushroom brown hair color trend first gained traction in Asia and Europe, where minimalistic, naturally blended shades have long been favoured over high-contrast dye jobs. Now, it’s making waves globally as more people swap warm balayage for something cooler and lower maintenance.
What makes ashy mushroom brown hair so appealing is its versatility. It’s softer than jet black, more muted than rich chocolate or chestnut, and more natural-looking than icy blonde. This makes it ideal for anyone looking to tone down their color without going too dark or too warm.
It’s also ideal for transitioning between seasons, or as a base for subtle highlights or lowlights that add extra depth without the upkeep of frequent salon visits.
Variations of mushroom brown hair
The beauty of this shade lies in its ability to adapt to different tones, lighting, and base colors. No matter if you want something barely-there or boldly dimensional, there’s a mushroom tone for you.
Light mushroom brown hair |
Dark mushroom brown hair |
Ashy mushroom brown hair |
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Light mushroom brown leans toward smoky taupe and soft greige. It’s often achieved by blending light brown bases with ashy tones—perfect for adding a modern, neutral twist to blonde or lighter brunette hair. Under natural light, this shade gives off a sun-kissed glow with a muted, earthy undertone, while artificial light brings out its beige-silver depth. |
For something deeper, dark mushroom brown adds richness without going too warm or too black. It typically combines medium to dark brown with cool charcoal or ash lowlights. The result? A sophisticated, velvety brown that shifts subtly in the light—appearing more espresso indoors and cooler-toned in daylight. |
Ashy mushroom brown is the coolest variation of the trio—think grey-leaning, matte brunette with minimal warmth. It’s particularly flattering on neutral or paler skin tones and tends to look super sleek and modern. This version often requires a toner to keep brassy tones at bay, maintaining its soft, smoky finish. |
Each version of mushroom brown hair has its own feel, but all share the same appeal: wearable, low-maintenance color that looks natural—just with a little extra polish.
Celebs spotted with mushroom brown hair
Hailey Bieber
Source: Byrdie
Known for her ever-evolving hair color, Hailey recently made the switch from golden blonde to a soft mushroom brown. The dusky tones paired perfectly with her minimalist aesthetic, proving just how chic this shade can look.
Jessica Alba
Source: Well+Good
Jessica’s version of mushroom brown leans slightly warmer, but still plays in that ash-toned neutral space. It’s a great example of how the trend can work for warmer skin tones and more classic beauty styles.
Lily Collins
Source: Pinterest
Lily’s darker, mushroomy brunette is proof this color doesn’t have to be super light to be striking. The slightly shadowy tones frame her features and suit her timeless, vintage-inspired looks.
Dua Lipa
Source: Alphacoders
Never one to shy away from a statement style, Dua’s take on mushroom brown has shown up in glossy, straight cuts and edgy blunt bobs. It brings depth and dimension while keeping things cool-toned and fashion-forward.
JLO
Source: Popsugar
No other than Jennifer Lopez has also been spotted with a much darker hairstyle reminiscent of the mushroom brown hair-color trend, featuring subtle, silvery highlights.
Kate Middleton
Source: Woman & Home
Kate Middleton’s take on mushroom brown hair is the picture of modern royalty: polished and quietly chic. Her cool-toned brunette base, woven with caramel highlights, brings a soft glow that’s fit for garden parties and state dinners alike.
Who suits mushroom brown hair?
Skin tones it flatters
Mushroom brown is famously flexible, but it looks especially striking on those with neutral, olive, or pink undertones. Its ashy base helps counteract redness in the skin and enhances natural glow. If golden or honey hues tend to wash you out, mushroom brown might be your go-to shade!
Best eye color pairings
This shade loves contrast. Hazel and green eyes pop beautifully against smoky brunette tones, while grey or blue eyes create a moody, monochrome effect that’s effortlessly editorial. Dark brown eyes also pair well, since mushroom brown enhances depth without overpowering your features.
The overall vibe
This is a color for the minimalists, the low-maintenance luxe lovers, and the inconspicuously confident. Think: lived-in polish and the kind of hair color that gives off tasteful, not try-hard.
Get the look
Thinking about going mushroom brown? Here’s how to bring it to life in the salon chair—or your bathroom mirror.
What to ask your stylist
Ask for a cool, neutral brunette base with soft, smoky dimension. Techniques like balayage, root smudge, or low lighting can create depth without harsh contrast. A toner or gloss at the end will help lock in those ash tones and give your strands a soft-focus finish.
Show reference photos under different lighting—natural and artificial—so you’re both aligned on tone. Mention whether you prefer light, dark, or ashy versions of mushroom brown, and ask how the shade will play with your base color and skin tone.
Root cover & at-home refresh
To keep things looking fresh between appointments, root coverage powders are a game changer. They disguise regrowth in seconds and help blend your natural base with cooler tones—ideal if you’re easing into brunette territory.
For color maintenance, at-home glosses or purple-tinted shampoos can help neutralise brassiness and extend the life of your tone. Use once a week or as needed to keep the mushroom hue intact without over-depositing color.
Maintenance tips
Mushroom brown may be low-maintenance compared to other colors, but it still deserves a little care to keep it looking its best.
Stay cool
This shade is prone to warm fade over time, especially if you’re starting from a lighter or warmer base. Use color-safe shampoos and toning conditioners designed to neutralise brassiness. Look for formulas that contain blue or purple pigments; they’re specifically designed to keep ash and taupe tones in check.
Shine without the sizzle
Styling tools that minimise heat damage, like the Tyme Iron Pro, are your best friend. Not only do they protect your hair, but they also help enhance the reflective quality of your color—bringing out that multidimensional finish. Aim for gentle heat settings and always use a thermal protectant.
Stretch your appointments
To avoid too-frequent trips to the salon, space out touch-ups with the help of root blending products and glosses. Stick to hydrating, anti-fade formulas that nourish while preserving your tone. Weekly deep-conditioning masks can also help prevent dullness and maintain color clarity.
Together, these small steps go a long way in keeping your mushroom brown hair looking polished, rich, and true to tone.
Quick styling tips for mushroom brown hair
The right hairstyle can take mushroom brown from subtle to statement. Loose waves help show off the dimensional tones in the color, perfect for capturing those taupe and ash undertones. A glossy low ponytail or a sleek blunt bob gives it a polished, modern edge.
To enhance the natural movement and catch the light just right, try a lightweight texturising spray or a smoothing oil through the ends. These add body and shine without weighing your hair down.
For heat styling, reach for tools that help lock in shine and prevent color fade. A ceramic iron or blow brush can smooth flyaways and amplify tone, while minimising heat damage—especially important for preserving that smoky finish.
Mushroom brown hair extensions to match your new look
If you’ve already embraced mushroom brown, hair extensions can be the *chef’s kiss* finishing touch—adding volume, length, or extra depth to your new shade.
Most professional and clip-in extensions can be color-matched by salons like The Lauren Ashtyn Collection to your exact tone, whether you’ve gone light and ashy or deep and smoky. Look for options with cool or neutral undertones to maintain that flawless blend.
They’re especially useful if your natural hair is fine or slow to grow, or if you want a fuller look without committing to permanent layers. For special occasions or just everyday polish, mushroom brown extensions keep things full and flattering.
Mushroom brown: The coolest neutral in the room
Mushroom brown is the understated shade that quietly turns heads. Chic, versatile, and surprisingly low-maintenance, it’s the ultimate way to refresh your look without going overboard. Ready to try it? Take this inspo to your next salon visit—and check out the LifeTYME blog for more hair color and styling tips.
