If you’re looking to make a statement with your hair this year, there’s a purr-fect new trend that’s turning heads and sparking conversations. Say hello to calico hair—an artful blend of vibrant hues that mimics the iconic tri-colored fur of a calico cat. Playful, daring, and downright mesmerizing, this look is your ticket to showcasing your individuality.
What is Calico Hair?
Inspired by the unique and eye-catching fur pattern of calico cats, this hair trend incorporates a harmonious blend of black or brown, blonde, and various shades of orange or red. The result? A dynamic, multi-tonal look that feels fresh, edgy, and undeniably cool. Unlike traditional ombre or balayage styles, calico hair is all about embracing contrast and celebrating a patchwork of colors.
See the before and after!
Image provided by @abbyjane.hair
Image provided by @abbyjane.hair
How to achieve the Calico Look
Achieving calico hair requires the expertise of a skilled colorist. Here’s the process described by International Institute of Cosmetology student Abby @abbyjane.hair.
- Consultation: Discuss your desired look with your stylist. Bring inspiration photos and talk about how bold or subtle you’d like the color contrasts to be.
- Sectioning: All of the sectioning follow pie wedges from the center point on the top of her head down to the end of her hairline all around except for on the sides. Labeled the two sections above the ear where client wanted peekaboo colors. There’s 11 sections in the wheel plus the the two on the sides so 13 total. I just mapped out the colors so it was fairly well balanced but there wasn’t any of the same colors touching or in the same spot on both sides of her head. In this case client didn’t want it to be symmetrical.
- Color Application: The stylist will strategically place black or brown, blonde, and orange/red tones throughout your hair, often using techniques like color blocking to achieve a patchwork effect. All of the sectioning is just pie wedges from the center point on the top of her head down to the end of her hairline all around except for on the sides. Color Tip: try not to place the black and blonde next to each other as much as possible to keep colors from bleeding into each other.
- Maintenance Plan: Multi-colored hair requires some upkeep to keep the shades vibrant. Your stylist may recommend touch-ups every 6-8 weeks and color-safe hair products to protect your new look.
Image provided by @abbyjane.hair
Image provided by @abbyjane.hair
Who Should Try Calico Hair?
Calico hair is versatile enough to suit a wide range of styles and preferences. It’s ideal for anyone who loves experimenting with bold looks and isn’t afraid to stand out. Whether you’re transitioning from a more natural look or are a seasoned hair color enthusiast, calico hair offers a fresh, on-trend option.
To see other hair trends or school related posts visit our blog at https://www.studyhair.com/blog/ or our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/studyhair
“The International Institute of Cosmetology is an accredited, family owned cosmetology school with campuses in Wethersfield and Plainville, Connecticut. IIC was started in 2002 by Carmelo Gugliotti and his sons with the underlying desire to bring International beauty trends into the Northeast. IIC has grown to be the Leader in Beauty Education, specializing in Hair, Skin, Makeup and Advanced Education. #studyhair #iCANatIIC”