Italian Plum is that beautiful deep blue-purple shade which is always a much loved option in fashion and manicures for the winter months. This winter it’s taking hair colourists by storm as well!
Fruit colours always offer great inspiration in the world of hairdressing and italian plum is no exception. In recent seasons we’ve seen cherry, grape and black cherry, in quick succession. It’s been a journey of deep shades that this year has led to this really juicy option.
It’s an arrival that the Pantone Color Institute had already anticipated – last February, in fact. In the Pantone® Fashion Color Trend Report for the Autumn/Winter 2024/2025 edition of New York Fashion Week, it cited Italian Plum – “a dark and deep purple, full of magical energy”. For Italians, the direct reference is to Ramasin plums. These come from Saluzzo, Piedmont, and their skin intertwines in sumptuous hues of blue and purple.
All-round trend
Further confirming the ongoing fascination with plum is none other than Chanel. It has included Oiseau de Nuit in its nail collection for this winter – a reinterpretation of the Maison’s own version of Italian Plum.
Colour Versatility
In hairdressing, it is a colour that suits almost everyone. However, those with a soft golden or amber complexion may find the the depth of the nuance can harden their features a little too much.
Plum hair adapts very well to a natural brown base, taking care to perform the bleaching at the right intensity to allow the pigments to emerge vivid and full. On a blonde base this step is not necessary, as after the application the colour will probably fade, acquiring less deep and more pink tones.
No limits in cutting and styling
As for its application, plum works well on all lengths: on short hair it is best only to use it to add a few highlights, while from medium length on down the choice is yours – from just a few strands of hair through to a full head.
It’s easy to maintain by using coloured shampoos and reflecting masks. Plum hair can stay shiny, vibrant and bright for a long time.