Move over platinum and ice blonde, there’s a new cool kid in town. For Spring/Summer 2024, the hottest hair trend is all about a softer, more flattering shade: Chantilly Blonde. Coined by none other than Beyoncé’s hairstylist, Rita Hazan, this hue is taking the celebrity world and social media by storm. But what exactly is it, and why is it having such a moment?
Chantilly 101: A Buttery Embrace
Chantilly Blonde is a creamy blonde with a touch of warmth. Imagine the delicate, golden color of Chantilly lace — that’s the inspiration. It’s a departure from the stark, cool tones of platinum blonde, offering a more versatile and universally flattering option.
Think of it as a bridge between cool and warm blondes. It typically falls within level 8 or 9 on the hair color level scale, which means it’s a light to medium blonde shade. It has a subtle yellow undertone that adds richness and dimension, making hair appear shinier and healthier. This buttery blonde is bright enough to be undeniably blonde but toned down enough to avoid that harsh, washed-out look.
Why the Hype?
Chantilly Blonde’s popularity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, it’s a refreshingly approachable blonde. Unlike platinum, which can be high-maintenance and unforgiving on some skin tones, Chantilly offers a softer, more natural-looking result. This makes it ideal for those who want to go blonde for the first time or who are looking for a less dramatic change.
Secondly, celebrities like Beyoncé and Zendaya have been rocking the look, further propelling it into the spotlight. Celebrity hairstylist Rita Hazan explains that the shade complements Beyoncé’s skin tone perfectly, highlighting her natural beauty. Seeing such influential figures embracing Chantilly Blonde has no doubt inspired countless fans to follow suit.
Finally, the versatility of the shade is another reason for its rise. Chantilly Blonde can be adapted to suit various hair types and styles. It looks stunning on long, flowing locks, adding a touch of sun-kissed glamour. But it can also be equally striking on shorter cuts, like bobs or pixies, where the rich dimension of the color truly shines.
Who Can Rock Chantilly Blonde?
The good news is that Chantilly Blonde is a surprisingly versatile shade. While it might not be the most ideal choice for very fair skin tones, it can flatter a wide range of complexions, from light to olive to deeper tones. The key lies in finding the right balance of warmth and coolness within the Chantilly spectrum to best complement your skin’s undertones.
A skilled colorist can help you achieve the perfect shade of Chantilly Blonde for your unique coloring. They can also advise on adding highlights or lowlights to create further dimension and personalize the look. Some colorists might even use a blue shampoo instead of a purple shampoo for certain variations of Chantilly Blonde, to achieve the desired level of coolness.
Maintaining the Dream
Of course, with any blonde hair, maintaining the vibrancy and health of your locks is crucial. Here are some tips for keeping your Chantilly Blonde looking its best:
- Use a purple shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for blonde hair. These products help neutralize brassiness and maintain the cool, buttery tones. Some colorists might recommend a blue shampoo instead, depending on the specific shade of Chantilly Blonde achieved.
- Deep condition your hair regularly to keep it hydrated and prevent breakage, which can be a concern with any blonde shade.
- Minimize heat styling as much as possible. When heat styling is necessary, use a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage.
- Be mindful of sun exposure, as UV rays can fade your hair color. Consider using a hair product with SPF protection.
With a little care and attention, you can keep your Chantilly Blonde looking fresh and fabulous all season long. So, if you’re considering a blonde update, this soft, flattering shade might be the perfect way to add a touch of summer sunshine to your hair.
