Learn how to create your own bold colour statement with our Chunky Colour service, featuring two step-by-step tutorials and expert tips from our HAIR BY SCHWARZKOPFPRO artists.
In today’s modern world, hair colour is always evolving as inspirations shift and techniques advance. Dip-dye was once the go-to colour choice for a bold yet low-commitment way to experiment with hair colour. Today, this look has evolved into something soft, modern and more intentional – we call it Chunky Colour.
Rather than focusing solely on the ends, our new Chunky Colour service is built around strategic placements. A wearable form of hair contouring, where chunky highlights create a face-framing effect, enhancing natural features and resulting in a bold colour statement. By offering this exclusive in-salon colour service, you’ll stand out as the go-to hair stylist for clients seeking self-expression through a bold but low-maintenance look.
As part of our HAIR BY SCHWARZKOPFPRO community, leading hair colourists Sofia Geideby and Zito Chung have created their own interpretation of Chunky Colour. Working with bold, expressive colour palettes they showcase how this service can be personalised to all hair types and lengths – giving you inspiration to tailor the technique for your own clients.
Earthy mushroom brown hair colour seamlessly blends into mossy green hues, creating bold, confident tonal contrasts for a vibrant and unapologetically visible result.
LIGHTENER 1
IGORA VARIO BLOND Super Plus
+ IGORA ROYAL Oil Developer 6% | 20 Vol. (1:2)
BASE COLOUR
IGORA ROYAL 4-33
+ E-1 (2:1)
+ IGORA ROYAL Oil Developer 3% | 10 Vol. (1:1)
PRE-TONE
IGORA VIBRANCE 9.5-47
+ 10-57 (2:1)
+ IGORA VIBRANCE Activator Lotion 1.9% | 16 Vol. (1:1)
CHUNKY COLOUR 3
IGORA VIBRANCE 9-42
+ 7-42 (5:1)
+ IGORA VIBRANCE Activator Lotion 1.9% | 16 Vol. (1:1)
CHUNKY COLOUR 4
IGORA VIBRANCE 0-33
+ 0-00 (1:10)
+ IGORA VIBRANCE Activator Lotion 1.9% | 16 Vol. (1:1)
STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 4
STEP 5
STEP 6
“By only pre-lightening specific sections, it keeps the process gentler, which is appreciated by many clients. For those who feel the green is ‘too creative’, the same technique can be softened by choosing a more commercial tone, making it perfect for clients who want something bold yet versatile.”
A rich orange colour palette delivers striking contrast against a deep brunette base, while halo placement frames the face and draws attention to the eyes.
LIGHTENER 1
IGORA VARIO BLOND Plus
+ IGORA ROYAL Oil Developer 3% | 10 Vol. (1:2)
LIGHTENER 2
IGORA VARIO BLOND Plus
+ IGORA ROYAL Oil Developer 6% | 20 Vol. (1:2)
TONER
IGORA VIBRANCE 9,5-98
+ 7-77 (2:1)
+ IGORA VIBRANCE Gel Activator 1.9% | 6 Vol. (1:1)
STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 4
STEP 5
“Depending on how you part or comb the hair, you get different variations in styling and shape, which makes it really exciting. It's not about adding Chunky Colour everywhere, but putting it in the right places to highlight personality and create contrast.”
- Be Bold | Use colour blocks or scattered accents to create visual interest and movement.
- Emphasise Focal Points | Think deliberately about colour placement, e.g. triangle, square, half-head.
- Use Strong Contrast | Improve clarity, depth and dimension by pairing light and dark tones to make the colour stand out.
- Personalise Your Palette | Create your own colour story by considering the mood, intention and overall visual identity.
- Experiment With Colour | Make a statement with unconventional tones, e.g. rusty red or neon pink.
PRO TIP: For curly-haired clients, begin by blow-drying
the hair smooth to help plan your colour placement and
identify sections where the light naturally hits.
Become the go-to stylist for creativity and innovation by visiting the Schwarzkopf Professional eAcademy. Learn more about the Chunky Colour services, discover step-by-step tutorials, product knowledge and more!
Make sure to share your HAIR BY SCHWARZKOPFPRO Chunky Colour-inspired looks via the #schwarzkopfpro hashtag on Instagram and tag @schwarzkopfpro for a chance to get featured.
Master any in-salon service by staying on-trend with the latest tips and tricks and essential product knowledge over on the eAcademy.
Explore our world-class Colour, Backbar, Styling and Visionary seminars; developed to enhance the skills you already have and help you do what you do, better.