Go Richer. Keep Your Glow.

You’ve enjoyed your blonde through summer. Now you’re picturing something deeper: a soft brunette, warmer dimension, or a richer shade that feels right for fall. Before you choose a color from a photo, take a moment to plan the change.

At Taylor Stevens Salon in Geneva Commons, your color consultation starts with your hair today and the result you want. Going darker is a personal choice, and the best plan makes sense for your look, your routine, and what you may want next.

1. Decide how much change you want.

“Brunette” can mean many things. Do you want to feel noticeably darker, or simply soften the brightness of your blonde? Would you like some lighter pieces around your face? Are you drawn to warmth, or do you prefer a more neutral look?

Bring two or three inspiration photos and point out the details you love. It helps to include a photo of a shade you don’t want, too. That gives your stylist a clearer picture than a color name alone.

2. Share your full color history.

Tell us about previous highlights, balayage, all-over color, at-home color, and other chemical services. Let your stylist know what you remember using and when. Even an older color change is worth mentioning.

Your starting shade and hair condition help guide the recommendation. Ask your stylist to explain the steps your change would involve, how much appointment time to allow, and the expected cost before you begin.

3. Consider dimension alongside depth.

A darker result doesn’t have to mean one uniform shade. Lowlights add darker sections, while all-over color creates a more consistent overall change. A gloss may be part of a plan to adjust tone or refresh shine. Your stylist can explain which approach fits your starting point.

Look at your inspiration photos in terms of placement: where is the depth, and where is the brightness? That conversation can help you decide whether you want a substantial change or a smaller step.

4. Mention your spring plans now.

If you expect to want blonde again in March or April, say so before choosing your fall shade. Ask what returning to a lighter look could involve. You don’t need to commit to a future appointment now, but sharing that goal helps your stylist plan with you.

5. Choose upkeep you can follow.

Ask when to return, what the maintenance visit would include, and which home-care steps matter most. Share how often you want to visit and how you usually style your hair.

Before buying products, ask what each recommendation is meant to do and how to use it. Explore our Aveda care guide, or replenish your routine through Taylor Stevens’ online Aveda store between visits.

A few questions to bring to your appointment.

• Can we keep some brightness while adding depth?
• Which parts of my inspiration photo are realistic for my hair today?
• What would maintenance look like?
• What should I consider if I want to go lighter again?

Further reading: Aveda’s hair color guide.