Crack the code on the colour blocking technique

Most Wanted 2023 ‘Colour Expert’ finalist, Jordanna Cobella, has mastered the art of colour blocking. Find out how to nail the technique

In an evolution from the money piece, we’ve seen a bigger, bolder transition into colour blocking. Blended front pieces have transitioned to pops of colour that fame the face while adding extra interest. Wella Professionals UK and Ireland colour trends ambassador, Jordanna Cobella, is renowned for her striking, stunning colour blocking looks, so we asked her how to master the look.

“It has influence from Japanese street fashion, as well as two-tone colour interior trends. It’s also an evolution of the ‘skunk’ hair trend from the ‘90s. Colour blocking is a great way to reignite your creativity and artistry as a colourist; get creative with placement and sectioning so that the colour can be worn as either a hidden panel or a visible panel, depending on how the hair is styled. A bold panel pop at the front of the hair could be a nice, low-commitment introduction to a colour change for any client.

Formulas to know

By using a neutral palette with a combination of buttermilk blondes and vintage browns, it helps keeps the overall look ‘90s and fashion-focused, rather than too vibrant and festival looking. A technique that I’ve been using is adding a spot of pink /65 to my blonde formulas and a dot of copper /43 to my brunettes. This adds interest to the undertone reflection when the light hits the colour. I always lighten the ends with a low-level lightener first, in back-to-back slices in foil. Once a level eight is achieved I lighten the roots, ensuring brush work and sectioning is super clean for optimum results.

If you have a client who is bored of highlights, you could introduce this technique as an alice band of colour behind the front piece. For mid-length or bob clients, it could be a hidden panel on the underneath. Alternatively, you could use chunkier highlights as a nod to the ‘slice lights’ of the ‘90s. Also, a grey or white ‘wisdom streak’ works to disguise any client’s natural grey hairs.

Colour blocking is a super versatile technique, and can express individuality and identity. It’s a chance for clients (and colourists!) to have fun and experiment with different types of looks and personalities. I think it is so refreshing to see it being used for grey clients too!”