The Basics Color Matching for Extensions

Choosing the right color should feel easy and natural. Your extensions should blend seamlessly with your hair — not just in color, but in tone and dimension. Use this guide to find your perfect match.

Black / Brunette Shades

Black extensions typically fall into two categories: true black and natural black.

Brunette shades depend heavily on warm vs cool undertones.

Tips for matching black shades:

  • Match the mid-length of your hair, not the roots.

  • True black hair is rare — most “black” hair is actually natural black.

  • When unsure, choose the softer black tone.

Brunette shades depend heavily on warm vs cool undertones.

Tips for matching:

  • Chocolate tones = warm undertone

  • Ash tones = cool undertone

  • Neutral brown works for most blends

  • Extensions don’t need to match highlights exactly — they should match the dominant base color

Blonde Shades

Blonde matching is mostly about tone, not just lightness.

Tips for matching:

  • Platinum = very cool tone

  • Beige = neutral tone

  • Golden = warm tone

  • Ash blonde cancels yellow tones

When in doubt, choose a slightly lighter blonde — it blends more naturally.

Red & Auburn Shades

Red shades vary between copper, auburn, and strawberry tones.

Tips for matching:

  • Auburn = red + brown

  • Copper = brighter orange-red

  • Strawberry = soft red-blonde blend

These shades should match the overall warmth of your hair, not individual strands.

Little Vixen Pro Matching Tips

  • Always match extensions to the ends of your hair

  • Natural lighting gives the most accurate color comparison

  • If you’re between two shades, choose the lighter option

  • Blended tones often look more natural than exact matches 

Still unsure? We’re happy to help you color match.
Send us a photo of your hair in natural lighting to info@littlevixenhair.com and we’ll recommend the perfect shade.