Emma Stone is widely recognized for her signature red hair in movies like Easy A, La La Land, and Crazy, Stupid, Love. However, many are surprised to learn that the Oscar-winning actress is actually a natural blond. Just like fellow actress Amy Adams, who also has blond roots, Stone looks remarkably different without her trademark red hair.
Although red has become her most iconic shade, Stone occasionally returns to her natural blond hair. Each time she does, the transformation is striking. While red highlights her porcelain skin and green eyes, the softer blond hue gives her a more youthful, glowing appearance. Some fans even prefer the blond look, saying it complements her natural pinkish undertones better. One Reddit user noted, “Unpopular opinion, but she looks worst as a redhead because she has a very pinkish/reddish undertone and it brings it out too much. I honestly prefer her most as a blond.”
Hair color experts agree that skin undertones play a key role in choosing the most flattering hair color. In Stone’s case, blond tones help tone down redness in her complexion, making her facial features appear softer and more balanced. The effect is subtle but impactful, often giving her an almost ethereal look.
Still, Stone is one of the few who can truly pull off a rich coppery red. The warm red shade brightens her skin and enhances her striking green eyes. In an interview with Vogue U.K., Stone admitted she sometimes prefers red hair over her natural blond.
Her longtime colorist, Tracey Cunningham, shared insights with Refinery29 about why red suits Stone so well. “One of the biggest reasons why Emma’s hair looks so incredible is because she looks like a redhead,” Cunningham explained. She also revealed that many of Stone’s family members are natural redheads, which may contribute to how well the shade complements her features.
Cunningham also offered some advice for those looking to switch up their hair color. She stressed that hair coloring should be personalized. “No two hair colors are the same and have different starting points,” she said. For anyone hoping to replicate Stone’s iconic red, the method needs to be tailored to the individual. She also cautioned against making extreme color changes too quickly. “Drastically flip-flopping your color to different ends of the color spectrum is the worst thing you can do for your hair,” she warned, urging people to take gradual steps and watch for signs of hair damage.
Whether blond or red, Emma Stone proves that the right color—done well—can bring out the best in anyone’s natural beauty.
