What People Assume About You Based On Your Hair Color

Your hair color is one of the first things people notice about you, and it can significantly influence their perceptions and assumptions. In fact, your hair color can be a determining factor in how often people approach you, whether they think of you as a mature and reliable individual, or even assume you have certain personality traits. And while most people understand that stereotypes are not always accurate, it’s surprising how often hair color is used as a basis for assumptions.

So, if you have been wondering whether the sudden increase in attention or lack thereof could be due to changing the color of your strands, you might be onto something. Here are some common assumptions people tend to make based on hair color, along with where they come from.

Blondes Get More Attention

Often associated with bubbly and open personalities that tend to attract attention, it's no surprise that many women who have rocked several hair colors throughout their lives have noticed they get approached more when wearing a shade of blonde.

With many people holding the unconscious notion that blondes are more extroverted, friendly, and approachable, it's easy to see why they may garner more attention and positive treatment from others.

This belief may be the direct result of being attracted to an actress or a celebrity with blonde hair and a larger-than-life personality, as, historically, the "blonde bombshell" has been a popular character type in cinema, leading to the assumption that all blondes possess similar traits.

In addition, blonde hair is often associated with youth, as many children naturally have blonde or light hair that darkens as they age. This can give off a more carefree and youthful image, which can also contribute to the perception of blondes as more approachable, in stark contrast to the "darkening" that may be associated with maturing. This perceived approachability may increase the attractiveness of blondes, making them more desirable to others, and especially to men who may have difficulties initiating conversations with strangers.

All in all, blondes really seem to have more fun when it comes to receiving attention and being perceived as approachable.

Brunettes Are Taken More Seriously

On the other side of the spectrum, both literally and figuratively, are brunettes.

Often associated with sophistication, professionalism, and maturity, in contrast to blondes, who are associated with youth and fun, brunettes may be perceived as more serious and reliable individuals who evoke a sense of trustworthy authority. This may be because many people with darker hair either naturally have thicker, fuller hair, or the color itself may make their hair appear thicker, which can give off an air of strength and confidence.

In addition, brown hair is often associated with a more natural and down-to-earth look, contributing to the perception of brunettes as grounded and responsible individuals who value authenticity. This perception is further reinforced by many who, after experimenting with different hair colors during their teenage years, eventually return to their natural brown hair as they mature.

Finally, this perception may also stem from societal beauty standards, where brunettes are often portrayed as the "smart" ones in movies and TV shows (think Rory Gilmore, Hermione Granger, Amy Farrah Fowler), often holding a high position in the workplace or being portrayed as independent and level-headed.

While most will understand that this stereotype is not always accurate, it's hard to deny that brunettes are often perceived as more serious individuals.

Redheads Are Mysterious

Is it natural or dyed? This is often the first thought that pops into people's minds when they see someone with red hair. And while many may argue that this has more to do with rarity than anything else (less than 2% of the world's population has naturally red hair), there still seems to be an air of mystery and intrigue surrounding those fiery locks. As a result, redheads may be perceived as more unique and alluring, capturing attention in a different way than blondes or brunettes. 

This perception may also stem from cultural associations with red hair, as it has been linked to mythical creatures such as mermaids (like Ariel in Disney’s The Little Mermaid) and fairies, adding an element of fantasy and fascination to those who carry this hair color with pride. In addition, those rocking red hair may be seen as more passionate and fiery, adding to the perception of them as captivating individuals.

Black Hair Equals Intense Beauty

Black hair is seen as one of the most intense and striking hair colors, and its wearers may be perceived as having a strong and confident presence that evokes admiration and perhaps even a little bit of intimidation in those around them. This may stem from cultural associations with beauty, where many cultures have depicted their goddesses or heroines with flowing black locks, adding to the perception of black-haired individuals as extraordinary beings.

Dyed black hair also has an association with edgy, emo, or alternative lifestyles, especially in teenage and young adult age brackets.

Just like brown hair, black hair is often thicker and fuller, giving off an air of strength and power. Whether natural or dyed, those with black hair may be perceived as intensely beautiful and confident individuals.

Grey Hair Signifies Wisdom

While grey hair isn't associated with youth and vitality, which are two things most of us value, it’s still a hair color that holds significant meaning in our society. Often linked to wisdom, experience, and maturity, those with grey hair may be perceived as more knowledgeable and respected individuals. This perception may stem from cultural associations with age and wisdom, where elders who typically have natural grey or white hair are looked upon with reverence and admiration.

In addition, grey hair is associated with sophistication and elegance, adding to the perception of those who embrace their natural silver locks as distinguished and graceful individuals.

Alternative Hair Colors Point to Rebellion and Immaturity

While many individuals are breaking away from traditional hair colors, choosing instead to dye their hair vibrant shades of blue, pink, green, or purple, these alternative colors still carry certain stereotypes and perceptions. For example, those with bright and unconventional hair colors may be seen as rebellious and non-conformist individuals who are unafraid to stand out from the crowd. Or, they may be perceived as attention-seeking and immature individuals who are trying too hard to be different.

This may be due to the fact that "unnatural" hair colors are typically worn by younger people or teenagers, who may be going through a phase of experimentation and self-expression and are usually not taken as seriously by society. This is why alternative hair colors are often considered quirks that many who wear them will eventually outgrow, and those who don't are automatically considered immature.

Can Changing Your Hair Color Affect Your Psychology?

It's no surprise that our hair can play a significant role in how we perceive ourselves and how others perceive us. But can changing our hair color actually affect our psychology?

According to various studies, the answer is yes. Our hair color can affect our mood, self-esteem, and even behavior, with some respondents stating that some colors cause them to have low self-esteem, leading them to be unproductive.

Additionally, those who dye their hair blonde may experience increased attention, which can boost confidence and social interactions due to the perceived attractiveness associated with this hair color.

On the other hand, brunettes may feel more serious and may subconsciously start to make more mature decisions in many different aspects of their lives, while redheads may embrace their uniqueness and make significant changes in other aspects of their personal style to reflect their newfound sense of self.

Dyeing our hair can be seen as a form of self-expression and control over our appearance or simply a newfound ability to embrace the fluidity of life, which can positively impact our mental well-being. So the belief that "when a woman changes her hair, she is about to change her life" may hold some truth after all.