Point Of View : Brunette vs. Blonde: What’s the Difference?:

Indonesians, like most people in Southeast Asian countries, mostly have black hair. As an Indonesian, I’m a bit baffled when it comes to distinguishing between blondes and brunettes among Western people, whether male or female. Here in Indonesia, we often refer to tourists or foreigners as "bule". As I look deeper into this topic, I’m quite stunned by some of the facts I’ve come across

If you've ever been unsure about the difference between a brunette and a blonde, you're not alone. With so many shades and styles out there, not to mention, hair dye it can get confusing fast. And while we’re at it, let’s also talk about how these terms apply to men and why hair coloring is becoming such a big trend in Indonesia.


Side-by-side illustration of a brunette woman with brown hair and a blonde woman with golden hair, both smiling, set against a soft beige background


So, What’s a Brunette?
“Brunette” refers to someone with brown or dark brown hair. The word comes from the French term brun, meaning brown. A brunette can range from light brown to deep espresso or even nearly black. Traditionally, people think of the word “brunette” being used for women but guess what? Men can be brunettes too! It’s just less commonly said. Most people simply say, “He has dark hair.”

And What’s a Blonde?
A “blonde” is someone with light yellowish or golden hair. It can vary from platinum blonde (almost white) to darker, more honey-colored shades. Technically, the spelling “blonde” is used for women, while “blond” is used for men but in casual English, especially American English, most people use “blonde” for both.

So yes, you can definitely call someone a blonde guy or a brunette man, and it’s totally correc



" In Indonesia, the word “bule” is commonly used to refer to foreigners, especially Westerners with light skin or hair. Originally, it described albino animals, but over time it became a casual term for Caucasians.
While often used without offense, some foreigners may find it uncomfortable. It's better to use terms like “orang asing” or “wisatawan” in formal settings to show more respect and cultural sensitivity"





What About Hair Dye?
In today’s world, natural color isn’t everything. Many people dye their hair to try new looks, follow trends, or express themselves. A natural brunette can become a platinum blonde, and vice versa. That’s where things get fun and complicated. And speaking of hair dye, let’s talk about something closer to home…

Hair Dyeing Trends in Indonesia:
Just for Style, or Something More?

In Indonesia, especially among young people, dyeing hair has become a popular form of self-expression. From Jakarta to Bali, it’s not uncommon to see bright highlights, ash-gray tones, caramel balayage, or even full-blown platinum blonde looks.

I think I know who I took a selfie with.
The photo was taken during the Youth Engagement Summit held in Kuala Lumpur in November 2009.
Her name is Audrone Pakalnite from Ukraine




But why do Indonesians dye their hair?
Fashion and Fun Just like choosing an outfit, coloring your hair is a way to try something different and feel stylish. It’s a personal makeover that can instantly boost confidence.
Western & Korean Influence

Social media, Korean dramas, Western movies, and influencers have all played a big role in shaping beauty trends including hair. Lighter hair is often associated with global pop culture icons, and many people want to try that aesthetic.


Creative Expression Not everyone who dyes their hair wants to “look Western.” For many Indonesians, it's just about expressing personality and standing out in a crowd.Challenging Traditional Norms In more conservative areas, hair dyeing especially in bright or blonde shades is still seen as rebellious. But in big cities, it’s widely accepted and even celebrated as a fashion statement.


My Opinions
So, whether someone’s naturally blonde or brunette, male or female, or rocking a totally dyed look is just one part of how people express themselves. The terms “blonde” and “brunette” apply to both men and women, and now, thanks to hair dye, it doesn’t even have to match your natural roots!

In Indonesia, the growing trend of hair coloring isn’t just about copying others it’s about exploring personal identity, having fun, and embracing global fashion in your own unique way.

So next time you see someone with light blonde waves or rich brunette curlsnatural or not remember: it’s all part of the colorful world of self-expression.


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"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

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