Instagram/TaylorSwift

Instagram/TaylorSwift

The Color: A True ’90s Chocolate Mocha Brunette

Why This Brunette Feels So Iconic

Taylor’s brunette in Opalite isn’t flat or overly cool. It is warm, dimensional and reflective, the kind of brown that catches the light and looks even better in motion. Think mocha, cocoa, and soft espresso tones blended together for a glossy finish that looks incredible on film and real life.



When you think about Taylor’s description of the video: time-traveling back to the ’90s with friends, creativity, and curiosity leading the way, the hair makes perfect sense. The hair mirrors that energy, it feels intentional but relaxed. Nostalgic but modern. Polished but not overdone.

How We’d Create This Mocha Brunette with Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Color

To achieve this depth and shine, we love working with Schwarzkopf Professional IGORA Royal or IGORA Color10.  The key here is a deposit-rich formula that enhances warmth and depth without pushing red.

Schwarzkopf Professional Formula  (Always adjust based on starting level and undertone)

For a natural to light brunette base (Level 6–7):

• IGORA Royal 6-0 (Natural Dark Blonde / Brown Base)
• IGORA Royal 6-63 (Chocolate / Gold Brown)
• Optional: Add a small amount of 5-1 (Ash) if the hair pulls warm
• Developer: IGORA ROYAL Oil Developer 3% / 10 vol
• Mix Ratio: 1:1
• Processing: 30–35 minutes

This creates a soft chocolate brunette  with just enough mocha warmth to feel rich, glossy and dimensional.

For darker bases (Level 4–5):
Lean more into 5-0 + 5-63, keeping the developer low so you’re building richness rather than lift.



Pro tip: Finish with a clear or neutral gloss to seal the cuticle and amplify shine.  That glassy, reflective finish is key a huge part of what makes this color feel so luxe.

                        Hair By: @Terratierstudio

The Cut: Soft ’90s Structure with Movement

The color set the tone, but the cut bring this look to life.

To really capture the Opalite vibe, the haircut needs softness and movement without looking overly layered or “done”.

How to Style It

1. Prep damp hair with a lightweight blow-dry cream or smoothing lotion, like Balm d’Or by Oribe.
2. Blow-dry using a medium round brush, focusing on lift at the crown. We love Ergo brushes for this, they smooth the hair cuticle while creating natural volume.
3. Add soft bends with a 1” curling iron, alternating direction and leaving the ends slightly out.
4. Break everything up with your fingers and finish with a dry texture spray. Skip anything too heavy or with a strong hold. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray is perfect here!
5. Finis with a soft shine spray to highlight the richness of the brunette. Davines This is a Shimmering Mist is beautiful for this step!

Think cool girl energy. Not over-styled perfection.

Why This Look Feels So Well Right Now

Taylor described creating Opalite as “a school group project but for adults — and it isn’t mandatory,” filled with new friends, metaphors, and fashion choices. That same ease is exactly why this hair moment resonates.

The chocolate brunette, the soft fringe, the movement — it all feels:

• Nostalgic but current
• Artistic without trying too hard
• Timeless instead of trendy

Final Takeaway: Is the Mocha Chocolate Brunette Right for You?

Taylor Swift’s Opalite hair is more than just a color, it’s a mood. A reminder that some of the best ideas (and the best hair) happen when inspiration strikes when you least expect it.



If you’re craving a brunette refresh that feels rich, confident, and effortlessly iconic, this mocha chocolate moment might be your sign.

Ready to time-travel back to the ’90s with a modern twist? We’d love to create it with you!