If you’re an avid follower of hair trends, you may have started noticing a technique called “hair colour blocking” explode in popularity recently. But what exactly does this trendy term mean?

As per experts in the field like Becky B Hair Salon, hair color blocking refers to a coloring technique that creates sharp contrasts by “blocking” out sections of hair in different colors. Let’s explore the ins and outs of this eye-catching look!
The Inspiration Behind the Trend
Hair color blocking takes its inspiration from the color blocking trends seen in fashion and graphic design. Color blocking uses blocks of solid, bold colors juxtaposed next to each other for dramatic effect.
In apparel, color blocking gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. The style saw a major revival in the 2010s. Graphic designers have also embraced vivid color blocking.
Hair stylists adapted the color blocking concept for a bold, statement-making approach to hair color.
How It Works
Hair color blocking involves sectioning the hair into defined blocks and coloring each block a different hue. Here are some key techniques used:
- Hair is sectioned cleanly into zones, usually with foil
- Different vivid, saturated shades are applied to each zone
- Shades with high contrast are chosen to make the color changes obvious
- Colors typically meet with sharp edges rather than blended
- Most often positioned on the underneath sections rather than all over
It creates almost a paint-by-numbers effect on the hair.
Major Color Blocking Styles
Color blocking doesn’t have to be overly complicated. Some popular looks include:
- Color halves – Hair divided into just two colors like red and black.
- Color quadrants – Four block colors like peach, green, lilac, blue.
- Peekaboo blocks – Hidden color blocks underneath top layer.
- Geometric shapes – Triangles, lines, circles in contrast colors.
- Ombre meets color blocks – Ombre bottom with blocks on top section.
Let your creativity run wild combining colors and patterns!
The Pros of Color Blocked Hair
What are the advantages of hair color blocking?
- Makes a bold fashion statement. It stands out!
- Allows you to mix multiple hair color trends at once.
- Less commitment than all-over vivid coloring.
- Creates fun dimension, shape and textures.
- Highlights and complements different face features.
- Looks super striking when hair is pulled up.
Things to Consider Beforehand
Before color blocking your strands, keep in mind:
- It works best on light or pre-lightened hair. Dark hair is harder to get vibrant results.
- Your natural base color will influence the tone. Test strands first.
- It’s a major change! Make sure you’re comfortable with a head-turning look.
- Requires very frequent touch-ups as color blocks fade quickly.
- Growing out the look takes patience and transition styling.
Conclusion
Ready to make a brightly-colored statement? When considering hair color blocking, also factor in the skill level required to achieve the precision it demands. Color blocking’s defined lines and sections require a very steady and experienced hand. Seek out stylists who have specialized training and expertise in the technique. They’ll have the right tools, foils, and hand-eye coordination to “paint” the color blocks accurately. Don’t attempt color blocking without the proper skills as the defined edges can quickly turn to a blotchy or imprecise mess.
You’ll also want to map out a detailed maintenance plan when opting for color blocked hair. As the vivid hues fade at different rates, the distinct color blocking effect will diminish without diligent upkeep. Be prepared to book frequent gloss and touch-up appointments to keep the blocks looking sharp. Consistent maintenance is crucial for longevity of the look. So make sure you’re truly dedicated before embarking on this high-maintenance journey.

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