Ecaille is the latest hair trend this year, showing off the perfect combination of soft, natural-looking hues that is created by using the balayage technique. The mixture often blends shades like blondes, caramels, chocolates and chestnuts. Together, the “bronde” hair gives clients a more subtle hair color, much better than 2014’s harsh ombre.
Besides looking better, ecaille elevates the beauty of the original hair color of a person, adding highlights that makes it even better, as if the individual just visited a JCPenney Salon that very day.
1. When asking for this style, tell the stylist “lighter ombre”
Since technically the ecaille is ombre’s much lighter and softer ombre, hair stylists will understand the clients better if it used as reference style. Explain to the hair colorist that instead of leaving two shades separate, mix it on the hair and soften it up a bit. Also, don’t forget to remind the hair stylist that the color of the roots should be connected from top to bottom to have a more graduated look.
2. Bring in a photo of a celebrity with this hairstyle to avoid unnecessary mixups
For first timers and even pro hair color clients, it is best to have a photo of the desired look so that the hairstylist will not get confused and to provide a better communication with the colorist. The photo will also let the hairstylist learn if the client wishes to stay subtle or bold in terms of color saturation and application.
3. This trend looks good on both blonde and brunette individuals
The “bronde” look can help brunettes be playful with their hair color, adding lightness through the use of highlights. As it doesn’t totally change their looks, it’s a safe style for them to don and will even let them break faux pas hair rule that brunettes should stay dark.
For blondes, this trend can allow them to add a mysterious shade to their “always a ray of sunshine” look because there is no need to change up their roots. Adding darker highlights like honey caramel will not change their natural shade and besides, it can add more life and depth to their hairstyle.
4. Use good hair conditioner to make the hair look better
Using a good conditioner and making it a point to practice conditioning on a daily basis, even on fine hair, can make the look even better. Hair conditioners maintain the natural shine of the locks and they keep the hair looking healthy. Furthermore, it acts as a sort of protection from the harsh pollution and stress the hair encounters on a daily basis.
5. The tortoiseshell look can fit even lazy ladies
Like it’s sister hair trend, it doesn’t need monthly touch ups, making it one of the lowest hair maintenance styles out there. Ecaille has the tendency to grow out gracefully and it is the very reason why lazy girls will love it. It’s low maintenance, less expensive and provides sophistication to their look.
How to Achieve this Hottest Trend
1. Identifying hair base color
Make sure that hair is closest to its natural hue. If hair is still untouched, no need to retouch.
2. Formulating of suitable hair color
This is best done by checking first if the client has a warm or cold hue to make sure that the look will be closest to their natural hair color. For virgin hair, select three to four colors that are two to three shades lighter or darker than the identified base. If hair has been previously colored, try to soften color by trying to reach the same level of lightness as current hair color.
3. Placing and applying hair dye
Begin at the nape area, doing a balayage treatment with the darkest of the two colors or applying the dye on the surface and not saturating the sections of hair. Repeat the pattern to the lowest part of the head or occipital. Once coloring at the occipital starts, change pattern to medium hue, light hue and dark hue. Repeat until about an inch on top of the ears.
From the ears, change pattern again, this time following a medium, light, and dark then medium and light hue. Repeat the pattern until color reaches the round of the head. From the top, do not use the darker shade; just alternate between medium and light hues.
4. Punctuating the lighter shade
Using the lightest shade, possibly a blonde hue, start applying the dye on the bangs area or customized highlighting. Making the look delicate or bolder will depend on how the lighter shade is applied.
5. Toning and finishing the hairstyle
Shampoo the hair then begin toning process on pre-lightened sections. On hair that has been previously colored, use lightest shade as toner. Do not punctuate the lightest hue on the hair and make a new toner for that section.