Two tone hair coloring, also known as dual tone or split dye, has become an increasingly popular hair trend in recent years. The technique involves dyeing the hair two different colors, usually with a stark contrast between them. Celebrities like Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Halsey have all rocked two tone tresses, helping to skyrocket the style’s popularity. But is it still in vogue or on its way out? Let’s take a deep dive into the current state of two tone hair!
The Rise of Two Tone Hair
Two tone hair first started gaining traction in the late 2010s as an evolution of ombré and dip dye styles. It gave a fresh spin on highlighted hair by concentrating blocks of color in specific sections rather than subtly transitioning from light to dark. As more celebrities began experimenting with high contrast two tones, it developed into a full blown trend.
In 2019, Billie Eilish kicked off the craze for neon green roots when she dyed the top of her signature jet black hair. Other stars like Halsey and Dua Lipa started playing with bright pinks and blues on their ends. Not only did it make a bold fashion statement, but strategically placed blocks of color had a slimming effect on round face shapes. Two tone hair gave a striking look while also being flattering.
As the style gained critical mass, people expanded beyond neon brights to more natural hair colors. Blondes did half black, half platinum. Brunettes tried chocolate brown and caramel. The ombré fade was ditched for an edgier demarcation line between shades. It evolved from a novelty hair trend into a versatile technique for modern color customization.
The Hottest Two Tone Hair Color Combinations
Now that two tone coloring has infiltrated mainstream hair trends, what are the most popular color pairings? Here are some of the hottest mixes:
| Color 1 | Color 2 |
|---|---|
| Platinum Blonde | Jet Black |
| Strawberry Blonde | Chocolate Brown |
| Honey Blonde | Caramel Brown |
| Electric Blue | Black |
These pairings demonstrate the diversity of options two tone coloring offers. You can create severe contrast with light and dark shades or blend analogous hues like strawberry and chocolate. Vibrant brights next to neutrals also make a statement. The placement of the colors allows for creativity too. Some people do a standard split down the middle while others zig zag panels throughout the hair.
Celebrity Inspiration
Looking to the hottest Hollywood hairstyles provides endless inspiration for your own two tone look. Here are some celebrity hair colors leading the dual tone trend:
| Celebrity | Color Combo |
|---|---|
| Billie Eilish | Neon Green Roots + Black |
| Halsey | Electric Blue Ends + Black |
| Kylie Jenner | Ice Blonde + Chocolate Brown |
| Dua Lipa | Cotton Candy Pink Ends + Black |
Billie Eilish and Halsey in particular have turned their two tone hair into iconic signature styles. Kylie Jenner changes up her color combinations but often sticks to the split dye technique. No matter your natural hair color or complexion, you can find a celebrity inspiration photo to show your colorist.
The Best Hair Types for Two Tones
Can anyone rock split dye hair or do certain hair types lend themselves better to the look? Here are the best hair types and textures for two tone coloring:
- Straight – Sleek, shiny straight hair can really show off a crisp line between colors. The contrast pops more compared to textured hair.
- Medium to Thick – Two tones look best on hair with some density and weight. Fine, limp hair tends to look stringy with harsh lines of demarcation.
- Virgin Hair – Hair that hasn’t been chemically treated absorbs vivid tones better. Pre-lightened or permed hair should opt for soft pastels.
As long as your stylist preps hair properly and uses conditioning treatments, any hair type can handle two tones. Just know that high-contrast shades photograph better on smooth, healthy hair with lots of body.
Maintenance for Two Tone Hair
One of the trickiest aspects of split dye hair is keeping it looking fresh between salon visits. Here are some tips for maintaining vivid color and clean lines:
- Use sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo to prevent fading.
- Wash hair less frequently (every 2-3 days) to preserve dye.
- Apply conditioning hair masks or oils to hydrate dyed strands.
- Get a touch up every 4-6 weeks to combat new growth.
- Use semi-permanent dye to refresh color between salon appointments.
- Consider getting balayage between solid colors for a lower maintenance grow out.
With the proper at-home care, you can keep your two tone hair looking bold and beautiful for 4-8 weeks. Book enough salon visits for your colorist to retouch growth and redo any faded pieces.
Pros and Cons of Two Tone Hair
Before committing to split dye, consider the advantages and disadvantages:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
The upkeep is the biggest drawback to two tone hair. Make sure you’re committed before taking the plunge! For those wanting a head-turning look, the payoff is worth it.
How Long Will Two Tone Hair Stay on Trend?
Two tone hair has dominated trend forecasts for the past two years. But like all hair trends, it will eventually fade from popularity. However, fade doesn’t mean disappear completely. Here are predictions for how long split dye will stick around:
- Will remain hot through 2023
- Will evolve from high contrast to soft shades
- Should last longer than unicorn rainbow hair
- Will always have niche popularity even if mainstream trend fades
At the height of its popularity, expect to continue seeing two tone hair everywhere in 2023. As the trend matures, more subtle and natural color combinations will likely emerge. It has already far surpassed the lifespan of flash in the pan unicorn hair. Two tone’s versatility means it has staying power, even if not quite as ubiquitous years down the road. It will join balayage and ombré as a standard coloring technique.
The Future of Two Tone Hair
What does the future hold for split dye hair? Here are some predictions:
- More special effects like hand-painted designs and abstract shapes
- Rainbow and multi-colored designs beyond two shades
- Pastel tones for a soft look
- Natural but well-defined highlighted placement
- Combination with bolder cuts like bixies, mullets, shags
Expect to see artists exploring even more creative techniques beyond basic two tones. Now that the trend is established, people will start having more fun with shapes, patterns, and vivid colors. The evolution from bold to pastel to rainbow reflects how most hair color trends progress over time. Pairing two tone coloring with edgy modern cuts also feels like a natural next step.
As fun as rainbow hair is, two tone’s sophistication gives it more longevity. The chic contrast has celebrity appeal beyond the avant garde. And its ability to subtly enhance facial features makes it wearable for everyday. Whether it stays center stage or settles into a supporting trend role, two tone hair color will continue making a statement.
Conclusion
Two tone hair has secured its spot as one of the most popular coloring techniques. While newer trends will rise up to take its place in the spotlight, the versatility of split dye means it will never completely fade away. As long as people want to make a statement with their hair, two tones offer an eye-catching option. It allows for creativity in colors and placement for a customized look.
Maintenance is the biggest consideration before taking the two tone plunge. But the unique ability for self-expression and face framing benefits can outweigh the frequent salon visits. As long as you come prepared with examples, ideas, and realistic expectations, a skilled colorist can create the dual tone style of your dreams.
So don’t be afraid to give this fun, modern trend a try. Two tone hair is firmly rooted as a new classic coloring technique that flatters all ages. Whether you opt for severe contrast or soft blends, you’re sure to turn heads in this hot style!