Karachi: 16 days in 2024, Dua Lipa graced the cover of Rolling Stone with her long, dark red locks. Thus began a new Cherry Cola hair launch. In a familiar throwback to the ’90s—think Shakira’s iconic red mane in her 1999 MTV Unplugged performance of Ojos Así—this rich, sultry shade, like its namesake drink, is spreading across all social media platforms and winning hearts and strands of trendsetters around the world.
You may have noticed this luscious trend on TikTok, where beauty experts are sporting gorgeous cherry red locks. Inspired by the depth of a fizzy cherry cola, this hair color combines deep blacks with hints of red, burgundy and even purple undertones for a look that is both bold and delectable.
Cherry Cola hair is definitely not new and has seen a major resurgence in the past year alone. But it seems that the timeless style that has graced the heads of icons throughout the ages will remain in style in 2024. From Megan Thee Stallion to Keke Palmer, the Cherry Cola trend has made its mark on the red carpet and beyond, proving its enduring appeal.
Dua’s debut into the redhead era on Instagram easily signals a seismic shift in the beauty zeitgeist. With her bold new look setting the stage for the release of her next album, it’s clear that Cherry Cola hair is more than just a passing trend: it’s a statement of self-expression and empowerment.
In January, Zendaya rocked the Fendi Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2024 show in Paris with her new cherry cola locks. Featuring deep mauve red and pinot noir shades, the actress’ latest fashion statement came just days after she debuted her chic micro bangs at the Schiaparelli Fashion Week show.
Earlier, when the calendar was changed to 2023, Pakistani celebrities also took the red train. After a brief break from the social media spotlight, singer Aima Baig made a triumphant return to Instagram with a beautiful mane of cherry cola hair that perfectly complemented her chic ensemble. Based on the singer’s recent IG posts, she’s back with her red locks after a brief stint with brunettes and blondes.
What sets Cherry Cola hair apart from other hair color trends? First of all, the deep, rich notes provide a refreshing break from the usual spring and summer fare. While others may opt for bright blondes or sunny brunettes, Cherry Cola lovers prefer a darker, more dramatic palette reminiscent of the grunge-inspired aesthetic of the ’90s and early 2000s.
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Of course, it wasn’t that long ago that Katrina Kaif wore the trendy crimson red to the 68th Cannes event, leaving behind her signature brunette locks. Katrina’s transformation into a fiery redhead wasn’t just a bizarre decision; Rather, it was director Abhishek Kapoor’s vision for his character in the film adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic Great Expectations.
For the film, titled Fitoor, the actor turned to none other than Daniel Galvin, London’s most respected hair expert, known for his impeccable work with celebrities like pop icon Madonna and the late Princess Diana. While fan reactions to the actor’s 2015 makeover bordered on horror, it’s no wonder that nearly a decade later, with the return of ’90s fashion, Cherry Cola hair is in the spotlight.