If you’ve ever thought about going auburn but weren’t sure how to make it feel fresh, highlights are the secret weapon. From soft honey ribbons to bold copper streaks, auburn hair with highlights adds depth, movement, and that effortlessly expensive-looking dimension.
Whether you prefer subtle warmth or statement-making contrast, these stunning auburn hair with highlights ideas showcase a range of tones and techniques that flatter different skin tones, face shapes, and personal styles, so you can find the perfect match for your next salon upgrade.
Stunning Auburn Hair With Highlights Ideas
Auburn hair is already gorgeous on its own, but when you add highlights? Chef’s kiss. Whether you’re going for sun-kissed vibes or dramatic dimension, these ideas will give you all the inspo you need. Each look has its own personality, so find the one that speaks to your aesthetic and run with it.
1. Rich Auburn Brown Hair with Copper Highlights
This stunning look showcases a deep auburn brown base beautifully enhanced with warm copper and caramel highlights throughout. The dimensional color creates incredible depth and movement, with the lighter tones catching the light to reveal gorgeous red and bronze undertones.
The long, layered cut allows the multi-tonal color to really shine, especially with those soft waves that add texture and volume. Notice how the highlights are strategically placed to create a natural, lived-in effect rather than harsh stripes—this is the magic of expert balayage technique. The warm tones would complement fall wardrobes perfectly and work beautifully with most skin tones, especially those with warm or neutral undertones.
2. Chocolate Brown Auburn Hair with Blonde Highlights
Here’s a gorgeous example of auburn meets blonde in the most sophisticated way possible. This look features a rich chocolate auburn base with honey blonde and caramel highlights painted throughout using balayage technique.
The color gradation is absolutely chef’s kiss—darker at the roots transitioning to lighter, brighter tones through the mid-lengths and ends. The straight, sleek styling really showcases the precise color placement and creates that glossy, healthy shine we all want. This is perfect for someone who wants noticeable dimension without going too bold, offering a professional yet stylish vibe that works for any occasion.
3. Honey Auburn Hair
This is for the girls who want warmth without going full ginger. Honey auburn blends golden blonde highlights with rich auburn base color, creating this buttery, lived-in look that’s perfect for literally any season. The honey tones catch natural light beautifully and add serious dimension without looking overly highlighted.
Best for: Oval and heart-shaped faces—the golden tones draw attention to your cheekbones in the best way.
Styling tips: This look pairs incredibly well with bohemian vibes—think Free People US maxi dresses, layered jewelry, and that effortlessly cool aesthetic. For maintenance, invest in a purple-toning shampoo from Target or Walmart to keep those honey highlights from turning brassy. Use a quality heat protectant spray before styling with your curling iron or flat iron (Best Buy has some great options), and finish with a shine serum to really make those tones pop.
Occasion: Perfect for everyday wear, outdoor festivals, or casual weekend brunches.
4. Copper Highlights On Brown Hair
If you want to ease into auburn territory without fully committing, copper highlights on brown hair are your gateway drug. These warm, orangey-red streaks add just enough fire to your brunette base without completely transforming your look. It’s the hair equivalent of adding hot sauce—enough to make things interesting, but not overwhelming.
Best for: Round and square face shapes benefit from the vertical lines created by strategically placed highlights.
Styling tips: Copper highlights look insanely good with fall-toned wardrobes—think burnt orange sweaters, olive greens, and deep browns. Stores like Dynamite Clothing and Garage Clothing have killer autumn collections that complement this hair perfectly. Maintain the vibrancy with a color-safe shampoo and conditioner, and consider a weekly hair mask to keep your strands healthy. A medium-barrel curling wand creates gorgeous, bouncy waves that show off the dimension.
Occasion: Work-appropriate but still fun—great for that office-to-happy-hour transition.
5. Reddish Brown Hair With Highlights
This is the sweet spot between brunette and redhead. Reddish brown hair with caramel or golden highlights gives you that multi-tonal richness that looks expensive and high-maintenance (even though it’s totally not). The red base keeps things interesting while the highlights prevent it from looking too flat or one-dimensional.
Best for: Literally any face shape—this is one of those universally flattering combos.
Styling tips: The key to keeping this look fresh is regular toning appointments and quality at-home care. Grab a color-depositing conditioner to extend your salon visits. This color looks phenomenal with both casual and dressy outfits—pair with Nike athleisure for daytime or elevate with Hugo Boss blazers for evening events. Long layers work particularly well with this color, as they showcase the interplay between the red and highlighted tones.
Occasion: Versatile enough for everything from yoga class to date night.
6. Brown Hair With Red Highlights
Similar to reddish brown but with more contrast, this look features a solid brown base punctuated by vibrant red highlights. It’s bolder, edgier, and definitely makes a statement. Think of it as the rebellious cousin of the previous style.
Best for: Those with oval or long face shapes who can handle the drama.
Styling tips: This look begs for texture—whether that’s natural curls, beach waves, or a messy updo. Invest in a texturizing spray and a good diffuser attachment for your blow dryer. Fashion-wise, this hair color pairs beautifully with edgier brands like Diesel or statement pieces from Pinko. Don’t forget a heat protectant before styling, and consider a gloss treatment every few weeks to maintain that vibrant shine. Check Groupon for deals on salon gloss treatments if you’re on a budget.
Occasion: Concerts, nights out, or anytime you want to feel like the main character.
7. Auburn Brunette Hair
The perfect marriage of auburn and brunette, this look features a predominantly brown base with auburn tones woven throughout. It’s sophisticated, natural-looking, and incredibly easy to maintain compared to more dramatic color jobs.
Best for: All face shapes, but especially flattering on those with warm undertones in their skin.
Styling tips: This color is low-key gorgeous and works with pretty much any style aesthetic. Medium-length cuts with subtle layers really showcase the color variation. For styling products, a lightweight mousse adds body without weighing down your hair, and a ceramic flat iron helps create that sleek, polished finish. Pair with classic pieces from retailers like Target for a put-together everyday look, or dress it up with pieces from Free People UK for special occasions.
Occasion: Perfect for professional settings or any time you want polished elegance.
8. Chocolate Brown With Auburn Balayage
Chocolate brown as your base with auburn balayage painted through? This is the move for maximum dimension with minimum maintenance. The hand-painted technique means your roots blend seamlessly as they grow, and the auburn tones add warmth to what could otherwise be a flat brown.
Best for: Heart and diamond face shapes—the color placement can be customized to frame your features perfectly.
Styling tips: Balayage thrives on movement, so embrace waves, curls, or even a messy braid. You’ll want a quality sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner set to preserve the color (Walmart and Target both carry great options at various price points). A round brush and blow dryer are essential for creating volume that shows off the balayage. Style-wise, this works with literally everything—from casual Garage Clothing basics to dressed-up evening wear.
Occasion: Incredibly versatile—works for everything from casual Fridays to weddings.
9. Auburn Copper Hair
Going full auburn copper is a vibe. This look features rich auburn as the dominant color with copper highlights adding extra fire and brightness. It’s bold, it’s warm, and it’s absolutely stunning in natural sunlight.
Best for: Oval and long faces can really pull off this dramatic, all-over color.
Styling tips: With color this vibrant, you need to protect your investment. Color-safe products are non-negotiable, and a weekly deep conditioning treatment will keep your hair healthy and shiny. Consider purchasing a salon-quality hair dryer with ionic technology (check Best Buy for sales) to reduce heat damage and enhance shine. This hair color looks phenomenal with jewel tones and rich fabrics—think emerald greens, deep purples, and luxurious textures from brands like Hugo Boss or Diesel.
Occasion: When you want to stand out and own your boldness.
10. Light Auburn With Blonde Highlights
For a softer, more romantic take on auburn, try light auburn with blonde highlights. This combination creates a sun-kissed, almost strawberry blonde effect that’s feminine and fresh. The blonde pieces lighten up the auburn base without washing it out completely.
Best for: Round and oval faces—the lighter tones have a brightening effect that’s super flattering.
Styling tips: This delicate color needs gentle care. Use a purple or blue toning shampoo weekly to prevent brassiness in the blonde sections. Loose, romantic waves created with a large-barrel curling iron showcase the color beautifully. Fashion-wise, this pairs perfectly with soft, romantic pieces from Free People US—flowy dresses, delicate jewelry, and that effortlessly pretty aesthetic. Don’t forget a UV-protectant spray if you spend time outdoors, as both blonde and auburn can fade in the sun.
Occasion: Spring and summer events, outdoor parties, or romantic date nights.
11. Dark Auburn With Burgundy Lowlights
If you’re into moody, dramatic hair, dark auburn with burgundy lowlights is calling your name. This deeper take on auburn features rich, wine-inspired tones that add depth and mystery to your look. It’s sultry, sophisticated, and perfect for fall and winter.
Best for: Square and oval faces—the deeper tones create beautiful contrast.
Styling tips: Dark colors can sometimes look flat, so adding texture through layers or waves is key. A color-depositing burgundy shampoo (check Groupon for beauty supply deals) helps maintain the richness between salon visits. This hair color pairs beautifully with darker, moodier fashion choices—think black leather, deep reds, and rich textures from brands like Diesel or Pinko. A shine spray is your best friend for keeping darker colors looking vibrant rather than dull.
Occasion: Evening events, fall gatherings, or anytime you want to channel serious elegance.
12. Natural Auburn With Caramel Ribbons
This is auburn hair for the low-maintenance queen. Natural auburn base with strategically placed caramel ribbon highlights creates dimension that looks almost like it was kissed by the sun. It’s subtle enough to grow out gracefully but noticeable enough to elevate your whole look.
Best for: All face shapes—the customizable placement makes it universally flattering.
Styling tips: The beauty of this look is its versatility. You can wear it straight, wavy, or curly and it looks amazing every time. Invest in a quality leave-in conditioner and a heat protectant spray from Target or Walmart for everyday styling. A simple straightener or curling wand is all you need tool-wise. Fashion-wise, this natural-looking color works with absolutely everything—from Nike workout gear to Dynamite Clothing basics to dressed-up pieces.
Occasion: Literally any and all occasions—this is your everyday workhorse color.
What Color Highlights Go With Auburn Hair?
So you’ve decided auburn is your color, but now you’re staring at a color wheel like it’s a final exam you didn’t study for. What highlights actually work with auburn? Let me break it down based on what actual people are saying online.
Blonde highlights are probably the most popular choice, and for good reason. According to discussions on hair forums, golden blonde or honey blonde highlights add brightness and dimension without clashing with auburn’s warm tones. One user mentioned that her stylist recommended staying within 2-3 shades lighter than her auburn base for the most natural look. The blonde catches light beautifully and creates that expensive, multi-dimensional effect we all want.
Copper and bronze highlights are the chef’s kiss for auburn hair. Multiple forum users agree that these tones blend seamlessly with auburn while adding extra warmth and vibrancy. One commenter noted that copper highlights on her auburn base made her hair look “like a sunset,” which honestly sounds amazing. These warm metallic tones enhance the red undertones in auburn without overpowering them.
Caramel highlights get tons of love online too. They’re warm enough to complement auburn but different enough to create visible dimension. Several Reddit users mentioned that caramel highlights are perfect if you want something noticeable but not dramatic—kind of like auburn’s more subtle sibling.
Burgundy or deep red lowlights (yes, lowlights!) add depth and richness. On Quora, a professional colorist explained that darker tones underneath auburn create a “3D effect” that makes the auburn pop even more. It’s like adding shadows to make the highlights stand out.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Highlight Color | Best For | Vibe | Maintenance Level |
| Golden Blonde | Brightening, sun-kissed look | Fresh, youthful | Medium (requires toning) |
| Copper/Bronze | Enhancing warmth | Bold, vibrant | Low-Medium |
| Caramel | Natural dimension | Subtle, sophisticated | Low |
| Burgundy (lowlights) | Adding depth | Moody, dramatic | Low |
What to avoid? Based on hairdresser input online, ash or cool-toned highlights generally clash with auburn’s warmth. One stylist put it bluntly: “Cool grays and auburns mix like oil and water.” Stick with warm tones and you’ll be golden—literally.
Shopping & Essentials for Auburn Hair With Highlights
Let’s talk about what you actually need to achieve and maintain these gorgeous auburn looks, because showing up to the salon unprepared is so last year.
Color Products: First things first—if you’re DIY-ing this at home, you’ll need quality hair color. Brands like L’Oréal, Revlon, and Clairol offer auburn and highlight kits available at Target, Walmart, or beauty supply stores. Professional-grade products like Wella or Schwarzkopf can be found at specialty retailers or online. Budget-friendly options start around $8-12, while premium salon brands run $20-40.
Maintenance Must-Haves:
- Color-safe shampoo and conditioner: Absolutely non-negotiable. Look for sulfate-free formulas that won’t strip your color. Budget options at Target run $6-10, while premium brands can hit $25-35.
- Toning shampoo: Purple or blue shampoo for blonde highlights, color-depositing shampoo for maintaining auburn richness. Available at drugstores and beauty retailers, $8-20.
- Deep conditioning treatment: Weekly masks keep color-treated hair healthy and shiny. Grab these at Walmart ($8-15 for drugstore, $20-40 for salon quality).
- Heat protectant spray: Essential if you use any hot tools. Available everywhere from $7-25 depending on brand.
Styling Tools: Hit up Best Buy or similar electronics retailers for quality hair tools:
- Blow dryer with ionic technology: $30-150 depending on features
- Flat iron or curling wand: $25-200 (ceramic or titanium plates are worth the investment)
- Round brush set: $15-40 for quality brushes that won’t damage hair
Fashion & Accessories: Auburn hair looks incredible with the right outfits. Stock up on:
- Fall-toned pieces from Dynamite Clothing and Garage Clothing (think burnt orange, olive, cream)
- Statement jewelry that complements warm tones (gold > silver typically)
- Scarves and accessories in complementary colors from Free People US or Free People UK
- Classic basics from Nike for casual days
- Elevated pieces from Hugo Boss, Diesel, or Pinko for dressier occasions
Budget-Friendly Shopping Tips: Check Groupon regularly for deals on salon services—you can often find discounted color treatments, glossing services, and styling appointments. For products, wait for sales at major retailers like Target and Walmart, which typically run promotions every few weeks. Best Buy also has frequent sales on hair tools, especially around Black Friday and back-to-school season.
Where to Splurge vs. Save:
- Splurge on: Initial color treatment (go to a professional for complicated highlighting), quality styling tools that last years, color-safe shampoo/conditioner
- Save on: Styling products like hairspray or mousse (drugstore works fine), hair accessories, at-home glossing treatments
Final Thoughts
Listen, if you’ve made it this far, you’re clearly serious about this auburn highlight journey, and I’m here for it. These looks are genuinely stunning, versatile, and way less intimidating than you might think. Whether you’re going full copper goddess or keeping it subtle with caramel ribbons, auburn hair with highlights is one of those moves that just works.
Here’s my advice: screenshot your top three favorites from this list (we both know you’re already doing it), make a separate folder for the image prompts so your stylist has crystal-clear references, and start building your product arsenal before your appointment. Trust me, nothing’s worse than getting gorgeous new hair and then not having the right shampoo to maintain it.
