What trend in hair color is characterized by darker roots and lighter ends?

The trend characterized by darker roots blending into lighter ends is known as ombre. This hair coloring technique creates a beautiful gradient effect where the color transitions from a darker shade at the roots to a lighter shade at the tips. The gradual fading gives a soft and natural look, making it a popular choice among those seeking a stylish and low-maintenance hair color.

Ombre allows for various color combinations, from subtle hues to bold contrasts, providing versatility for different styles and preferences. As hair grows out, the darker roots can create a more effortless, chic appearance, as it doesn't require frequent touch-ups compared to uniform color applications. This trend not only enhances the overall look of the hair but also adds depth and dimension, highlighting the hair's texture and movement.

In contrast, techniques like highlights involve adding lighter strands throughout the hair rather than creating a gradient effect, and balayage offers a more freehand application that usually doesn't emphasize the transition from darker to lighter in the same way as ombre. Root smudge is a technique applied to blend the demarcation line between colored roots and the rest of the hair, but it does not describe the specific color gradient that ombre captures.