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Are Money Pieces Still In Style? The Expert’s Verdict

Yes, money pieces are absolutely still in style, and arguably, they’ve evolved into a classic highlighting technique! What started as a bold, trend-driven look has matured into a versatile way to add brightness and dimension around the face, proving its staying power in the ever-changing world of hair trends.

Understanding the Enduring Appeal of Money Pieces

The beauty of the money piece lies in its adaptability. What began as chunky, high-contrast panels framing the face has softened and diversified into a range of styles to suit different hair colors, textures, and personal preferences. The trend’s ability to evolve is the primary reason behind its continuous popularity. It’s no longer just about a statement; it’s about customizable radiance.

From Trend to Timeless: The Evolution of the Money Piece

Initially, the money piece made waves with its unapologetic boldness. Think early 2000s pop stars and dramatic, contrasting highlights. However, the modern iteration is far more nuanced. We see:

Subtle variations: Baby lights or very fine highlights around the face for a softer, more natural effect.
Color melts and balayage techniques: Seamlessly blending the money piece into the rest of the hair for a sophisticated, sun-kissed look.
Playing with tone: Moving beyond just blonde, incorporating copper, red, or even pastel tones for a modern twist.
Placement adjustments: Varying the width and depth of the highlights based on face shape and hair texture.

This flexibility is what keeps the money piece fresh and relevant. It’s not a rigid style; it’s a technique that can be adapted to flatter individual features and complement current trends.

Money Pieces: Why They Work So Well

Several factors contribute to the money piece’s ongoing appeal:

Instant Brightness: Strategically placed highlights around the face immediately brighten the complexion and add a youthful glow.
Low Maintenance: Depending on the color and technique used, money pieces can be relatively low-maintenance, requiring fewer salon visits than all-over color.
Cost-Effective: Achieving a significant impact with a smaller amount of product makes it a budget-friendly way to update your look.
Customizable: As mentioned, the versatility of the money piece allows it to be tailored to individual preferences and hair types.
Face-Framing: Skillfully applied money pieces can enhance facial features and create a more defined look.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Money Pieces

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about money pieces, covering everything you need to know about this enduring hair trend:

1. What hair colors work best with money pieces?

Money pieces are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to almost any hair color. However, certain combinations tend to be particularly striking:

Brunettes: Caramel, honey, or light brown money pieces create a beautiful contrast and add warmth.
Blondes: Platinum, ash blonde, or golden blonde money pieces enhance the brightness and dimension.
Redheads: Copper, strawberry blonde, or even subtle auburn money pieces can create a stunning, natural-looking effect.
Black Hair: Consider shades of dark caramel or mocha to give the hair a luxurious, dimensional look.

Ultimately, the best color for your money piece will depend on your base color, skin tone, and personal style. A consultation with a skilled colorist is always recommended.

2. How do I choose the right shade for my skin tone?

The key to choosing the perfect money piece shade is to consider your skin’s undertones:

Warm Undertones: Opt for warm shades like gold, caramel, honey, or copper. These colors will enhance your natural warmth and give you a healthy glow.
Cool Undertones: Choose cool shades like ash blonde, platinum, or icy brown. These colors will complement your cool complexion and create a sophisticated look.
Neutral Undertones: You have the most flexibility! Experiment with both warm and cool shades to find what you love.

A general rule of thumb is to go for a shade that’s 2-3 shades lighter than your base color for a natural-looking effect.

3. Are money pieces suitable for all hair types and textures?

Yes, money pieces can work on virtually all hair types and textures. The key is to adjust the technique and placement to suit your specific hair.

Fine Hair: Opt for fine, delicate highlights to avoid overwhelming the hair.
Thick Hair: You can handle bolder, chunkier highlights for a more dramatic effect.
Curly Hair: Balayage or painted highlights are often the best choice for curly hair, as they create a more seamless and natural blend.
Straight Hair: More structured and defined highlights can work well on straight hair.

4. How much do money pieces typically cost?

The cost of money pieces can vary depending on several factors, including:

Location of the Salon: Prices tend to be higher in major cities.
Experience of the Stylist: Highly skilled and experienced stylists often charge more.
Products Used: High-quality products can increase the cost.
Complexity of the Technique: More intricate techniques, such as color melts or balayage, will likely cost more.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $200+ for a money piece service.

5. How often do I need to touch up my money piece?

The frequency of touch-ups depends on the color and contrast of your money piece, as well as how quickly your hair grows. Generally, you can expect to touch up your money piece every 6-8 weeks to maintain its brightness and prevent it from looking grown-out. However, if you opt for a softer, more blended look, you may be able to stretch it out to 10-12 weeks.

6. Can I do a money piece at home?

While it is possible to DIY a money piece at home, it’s generally not recommended, especially if you’re not experienced with hair coloring. Achieving a seamless blend and avoiding damage requires skill and precision. If you’re determined to try it yourself, do thorough research, use high-quality products, and proceed with caution. It is generally advisable to seek professional guidance from a skilled colorist to ensure optimal results and prevent potential damage.

7. What’s the difference between a money piece and face-framing highlights?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle difference. A money piece typically refers to a more distinct and concentrated panel of highlights around the face, creating a bolder statement. Face-framing highlights, on the other hand, can be more subtle and diffused, encompassing a wider range of highlights around the face. Ultimately, both techniques aim to brighten the complexion and enhance facial features.

8. Will a money piece damage my hair?

Like any hair coloring service, a money piece can potentially cause some damage, especially if you’re lightening your hair significantly. However, using high-quality products, proper techniques, and following a good hair care routine can minimize the risk of damage. Ask your stylist about bond-building treatments like Olaplex to protect and strengthen your hair during the coloring process.

9. How can I maintain my money piece at home?

To keep your money piece looking its best, follow these tips:

Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner.
Avoid excessive heat styling.
Protect your hair from the sun with a UV protectant spray.
Use a deep conditioner or hair mask regularly.
Consider using a purple shampoo to neutralize brassiness, especially if you have blonde money pieces.

10. Can money pieces help me grow out my roots?

Yes, strategically placed money pieces can help to blend your roots, making the transition to a new hair color or embracing your natural color much smoother. By adding brightness around the face, the money piece can distract from the contrast between your roots and colored hair.

11. What are some alternative face-framing techniques if I don’t want a money piece?

If you’re not quite sold on the traditional money piece, consider these alternative face-framing techniques:

Baby lights: Very fine, delicate highlights around the face for a subtle glow.
Balayage: Hand-painted highlights that create a soft and natural blend.
Ombre: A gradual transition from dark to light, with the lightest color concentrated around the face.
Contouring highlights: Strategic placement of highlights and lowlights to sculpt and define facial features.

12. Are money pieces considered unprofessional for the workplace?

The appropriateness of money pieces in the workplace depends on the specific industry and company culture. In more creative or casual environments, money pieces are generally accepted. However, in more conservative settings, you may want to opt for a more subtle and blended approach. Consider the overall impression you want to convey and adjust your hair color accordingly.

Conclusion: The Money Piece is Here to Stay

The money piece has proven its staying power by evolving and adapting to meet the changing needs and preferences of hair enthusiasts. Its versatility, ability to brighten the complexion, and relatively low maintenance make it a popular choice for those looking to add dimension and radiance to their hair. So, go ahead, embrace the money piece trend and discover the transformative power of strategically placed highlights!