Think Chunky Highlights are a Crime? Let’s Change Your Mind.

Okay, I need to confess something. When my client first asked me for “chunky highlights,” my brain immediately flashed to a very specific image: *NSYNC-era Justin Timberlake and frosted tips. I had a momentary panic. But then she showed me a Pinterest board, and I got it. The Y2K hair trend is back, baby, but it’s had a serious glow-up.

Gone are the days of uniform, skunk-like stripes from root to tip. The 2024 version of chunky highlights is all about strategic placement, modern color blending, and serious attitude. It’s less “pop-punk circa 2003” and more “effortlessly cool French girl who just woke up like this.” As a colorist, I’m honestly loving this nostalgic return—when it’s done right.

So, let’s break down how to ask for this trend without your stylist having a minor heart attack.

The Modern “Chunk”: It’s All About Placement

The key to avoiding a dated look is ditching the all-over cap highlight technique and focusing on intentional, face-flattering pieces.

• The Money Piece: This is the star of the show. We’re talking about those two thicker, brighter sections that frame your face. They brighten up your complexion and create a gorgeous contrast, especially on darker bases like deep brown or black.
• Less is More: Instead of a full head of chunky stripes, we’re now adding just a few strategic “blocks” of color around the face and maybe a few in the layers underneath for a peek-a-boo effect. This keeps it looking modern and cool, not overdone.
• The Base is Key: The contrast between your base color and the highlight is what makes it “chunky.” For a subtle look, keep the contrast low (e.g., caramel highlights on dark blonde hair). For a high-drama, statement look, go for high contrast (e.g., platinum chunks on jet black hair).

How to Get This Look: Salon Talk 101

Walking into a salon and saying “chunky highlights” might still strike fear into your stylist’s heart. Here’s how to articulate what you want like a pro:

• Say This: “I’d love a modern take on chunky highlights. I’m thinking a strong ‘money piece’ around my face with a few brighter pieces throughout, but keeping my root color mostly intact so it feels blended and grown-out.”
• Bring Pictures! This is non-negotiable. Search for terms like “modern chunky highlights,” “block highlights,” or “Y2K hair trend 2024” to find the right inspiration.

The Honest Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Major Impact: It’s a bold, fashion-forward statement that instantly adds dimension.
• Lower Maintenance: Unlike traditional fine highlights, this look grows out more gracefully. The thicker, more blended grow-out can actually look intentional and cool.
• Perfect for the Bold: If you love changing up your look and standing out, this is a fantastic way to do it.

Cons:

• Can Be Damaging: Any lightening process involves bleach. Thicker highlights mean more bleach on those specific sections, so deep conditioning is a must. I always recommend a bond-building treatment like Olaplex No. 3 to my clients.
• The Dated Danger Zone: If not done with a modern eye, it can very quickly look… well, dated.
• Hard to Reverse: Those chunks are lightened, so if you change your mind, you’re looking at color correction or dyeing your hair back to dark, which can be a process.

Maintaining the Vibe

To keep your chunks looking fresh and not fried, your hair care game needs to be strong.

• Color-Safe Shampoo: Use a sulfate-free formula to prevent your bright pieces from turning brassy. Redken Color Extend Magnetics is a salon favorite.
• Purple or Blue Shampoo: This is your secret weapon! If your highlights are blonde, use a purple shampoo like Fanola No Yellow once a week to neutralize brassiness. For brighter, platinum chunks, it’s essential.
• Deep Conditioning: Weekly masks are non-negotiable. Try Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask to keep those lightened pieces soft and strong.

So, are you brave enough to try the trend? What’s your take on the return of chunky highlights—iconic or a hard pass?

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