Blondes aren’t the only ones who can have a little fun. If you have darker strands and have been bored with your hair color, the problem may be that your color is one dimensional. Highlights aren’t just for those with golden locks, and can give brunettes the added intrigue they’ve been looking for. One of the hottest trends going into 2014 is red highlights, and they look especially striking in hair that is colored a deep, rich hue. When the light hits your locks, it will seem aglow – even on fire.

Eager to get this effect? Here are a few ideas to consider before you hit the salon chair:

For light brunettes
Whether you have a light chestnut or amber brown, you can still rock red highlights. The key is to choose the right shade that won’t clash with your current color, and only enhance it. Look to Jessica Alba, who has sported a warm brunette for years. In an interview with InStyle magazine, Jennifer Aniston’s colorist Michael Canale explained that her highlights provide subtle hints of a wine hue, which bring light and radiance to her natural color without overwhelming it. He noted that you’ll see the truest and brightest color on virgin hair. However, even if you’ve already color treated your hair, you can still achieve this look. It’s best to see a professional as highlighting over already-colored hair will rarely result in the color you saw on the box.

For medium brunettes
If your hair is a slightly deeper shade of chocolate or coffee bean brown, you can go for something more striking. You might consider getting just a few thicker “peekaboo highlights” for a playful but still bold look. Essentially, this requires highlighting the under layer of your hair around your face so that when you pull pieces back, the red pieces peek out from beneath. The best thing about this effect is that you can opt for a brighter, richer shade of red because you’re only coloring small sections of your hair. Plus, it gives you the option of flaunting the fiery highlights or hiding them depending on your mood or the occasion.

For dark brunettes
Lucky you – with such dark, nearly black tresses, you have the freedom to go for a dramatic look with your red highlights. Marie Robinson, whose clients include brunette beauties like Natalie Portman and Anne Hathaway, told Allure magazine that vibrant red ombré highlights are an edgy option that even Salma Hayek has experimented with. She suggested asking your colorist to lift the color on your mid length and ends several shades lighter than your natural color first, and also adding in a few warm brown highlights along with the red ones.