What Is Color Blocking Hair?

Woman with red and black color blocked hairstyle.

From wardrobe to nails—and everything in between—we’re always looking for ways to spice up our style. And one of 2024’s latest hair trends is sure to fit the bill.

Color blocking is edgy, fun, and the perfect way to infuse your look with personality! Here’s how you can make color blocking work for you.

 

What Is Color Blocking Hair?

Also called block color hair, color blocking is a fresh take on the “chunky highlights” that were popular in the ‘90s and early 2000’s. Color blocking hair involves a bold application of color in sections or panels of hair.

Unlike highlights, which are designed to blend seamlessly with your hair, color blocking is carefully crafted to stand out!

With this trend, you have the freedom to be as creative (or conservative), and as permanent (or lack thereof) as you want. From bold pops of vivid color to a lighter shade of your natural tresses, your only limit is your imagination!

Woman with color blocked black and red hair

Color Blocking Ideas

With highlights and balayage, there are specific methods that your hairstylist will follow. But when it comes to color blocking, anything goes!

Color blocking can mean vibrant colors, pastels, natural shades, or a combination of these. You also have plenty of options when it comes to the placement of your color block.

Looking for a striking, eye-catching style? Color each side of your head a contrasting color, such as black and platinum blonde. If that feels a bit too extreme, try a face framing pop of color at your temple.

For a subtle version of this popular trend, have your stylist give you a “peekaboo” color in the middle of your hair. The color will be hidden when you wear your hair down, but easily revealed with a shake of the head.

Prefer a softer look? Opt for a “dip dye” where color is only deposited on the ends of your hair.

You don’t have to be limited to just one color, either. In fact, some of our favorite looks combine multiple colors.

color blocked braids in orange, blue, and purple

What Are the Best Colors For Color Blocking?

Any color can be color blocked, from caramel and honey tones to lime green and magenta. As with any hair dye, you may have to bleach your hair in order to get to the exact shade you’re looking for.

To help you decide on a color combination, start thinking about which colors look best on you. (If you know your color season, it can help point you in the right direction.)

It also helps to take a long, unflinching look at your wardrobe. You’d hate it if your favorite shirt clashed with your new hair color!

Speaking of clashing colors, talk to your stylist if you’re color blocking your hair with multiple colors. They can help you choose a palette that works well together and coordinates with your skin tone.

Purple, pink, teal, and blonde are the most popular color choices when color blocking hair, but don’t feel limited by this list! Orange, lime green, caramel, and red can look amazing, too—especially with the right haircut to show it off!

Red color blocking in blond hair pulled into a braid

How To Maintain Color Blocked Hair

Maintaining your color blocked hair is much the same as maintaining any other color.

Wash once or twice a week with cold water, using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner. We also recommend a deep conditioner every other week to rehydrate bleached hair and keep your color looking great for longer.

Most people get touch-ups on their color every 4-6 weeks to keep up with their growing hair. However, if you have a peekaboo or dip dye look, you can last longer between salon visits.

Keep in mind that your appointments may take a little longer, since your stylist will have to carefully section out the colored portion of your hair.

Remember, you can always talk to your stylist about the cuts, colors, and styles that are right for your lifestyle and needs. They’ll be more than happy to find a look that checks off all your boxes!

 

Color Your World

Fun color techniques are about more than keeping up with the latest trends; they’re about adding vibrancy and expression to your life.

Whether you’re looking for a subtle peek of color or an eye-catching transformation, our professional stylists are excited to help you achieve the look you want.

Contact us to book an appointment today.

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