Millie Bobby Brown Debuts Red Hair at Stranger Things 5 Premiere

At the Stranger Things season five premiere, Millie Bobby Brown turned heads with a dramatic switch to deep red hair, styled in an elegant updo. The change is a vivid example of how celebrity colour shifts can set the tone for wider beauty conversations — from red-hair maintenance to event-ready styling. Here we look at the look, the styling choices, and how to care for newly coloured red hair so it stays glossy and true to tone.

What we saw on the red carpet

Brown’s new shade was immediately striking: a saturated, deep-red tone that reads autumnal and rich under evening light. The hair was swept into a polished updo, revealing clean lines at the hairline and a soft volume at the crown — a classic balance between modern colour and timeless styling that works well for high-profile premieres.

Why red is a standout celebrity colour

Red hair has a long-standing relationship with statement-making celebrity moments. A few reasons the shade resonates on the red carpet:

• Visual impact: Red hues photograph differently from brunettes and blondes, often appearing warmer and more vivid under flash photography.
• Versatility: From copper and auburn to burgundy and cherry, red spans a wide palette that flatters many skin tones.
• Seasonal alignment: Deeper reds read particularly well in autumn and winter wardrobes, aligning with richer fabrics and darker evening looks.

Styling the updo: what makes it work

The updo paired with Brown’s new colour emphasised the face while allowing the shade to catch the light. Key styling elements to note that you can translate to your own occasions:

• Clean parting and hairline: Tidy edges can elevate a colour-forward look, avoiding distraction from frizz or flyaways.
• Soft crown volume: A touch of lift at the crown keeps the silhouette from looking flat and balances strong colour.
• Secure, low bun or twist: For longevity through long events, anchoring the style with pins and a light-hold spray ensures the updo stays elegant.

Practical tips for maintaining red hair

Red dye is notoriously high-maintenance because its pigments fall out more quickly than cooler shades. Whether you’re inspired to try this look or already wear red, these practical steps will help prolong vibrancy and shine:

• Use colour-conscious haircare: Choose sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners formulated for colour; they’re gentler on pigments and extend the life of the shade.
• Wash less frequently: Red fades with repeated washing; aim for 2–3 washes per week and use dry shampoo between washes to maintain freshness.
• Rinse with cool water: Hot water opens the hair cuticle and accelerates pigment loss; cool rinses help seal the strand and lock in colour.
• Protect from heat: Use a heat-protectant spray before styling tools, and keep temperatures moderate to avoid unnecessary colour fading.
• Shield from sunlight: UV exposure breaks down dye molecules — wear a hat in strong sun or use leave-in treatments with UV filters.
• Refresh selectively: Consider glosses or colour-depositing conditioners between dye appointments to revive tone without a full re-dye.

At-home prep for a premiere-ready updo

If you want to recreate the polished updo seen on the carpet, follow these simple steps before an event:

• Start with hair washed the day before or with a lightweight dry shampoo applied to reduce slipperiness.
• Create soft lift at the crown with a volumising mousse or root-lift spray applied at the roots, then blow-dry gently.
• Sweep hair back into a low ponytail, twist into a bun or chignon, and pin securely with hairpins matching your shade.
• Finish with a light-hold hairspray, focusing on taming flyaways while preserving movement.

Takeaway

Millie Bobby Brown’s red-hair debut is a reminder that colour and cut work together: a vivid shade can be both a statement and a canvas for classic styling. If you’re tempted by red, plan for a slightly higher-maintenance routine — protective products, measured washing, and targeted refreshes will keep the tone rich and salon-fresh for longer.