Whether you’re a salon regular home colouring for the first time, or you’re a DIY pro looking for some shade inspiration, we’re breaking things down for you this month as we take a look ahead at the Schwarzkopf LIVE shades that are making waves this summer. Deputy editor Valerie Loftus is selecting her faves and filling us in on her own colour journey!

Remember, if you’re trying any colour on your hair, make sure you do an allergy test 48 hours before. Details on how to do this can be found in the Instruction Leaflet that comes with your colour!

2020 Home Colour Trend Watch

Two-tone time

Don’t think half-and-half hair could work? Combos we’re definitely going to see more of are light on the top, and dark on the bottom, or pitch-black dye paired with neon roots. It’s a little bit retro (the platinum/brown combo definitely evokes the 1980s) and a little bit futuristic all at the same time, and made for those who love standing out from the crowd.

Try it with… Schwarzkopf LIVE Ultra Brights in 100 Grapefruit Burst

Be your own fantasy

Speaking of neon – you’re going to be seeing a LOT more where that came from as the year goes on. ‘Fantasy hair’ is all the rage for 2020, taking pointers from iconic sci-fi films like The Fifth Element. The natural look is not the point here, so go as bright as you dare. This might also be the coolest way to style out your roots until the salons open again. Just saying…

Try it with… Schwarzkopf LIVE Ultra Brights in 092 Pillar Box Red

Go streaking

Whoever started it, face-framing streaks are all over Instagram right now, harking back to the chunky highlights of the 90s. We did say we’d never go back there, but how can we resist when it looks this good? Think of it as an easy, wearable way to dip your toe into dramatic hair – your streaks can be anything from blonde, to silver-grey, to pastel, and the upkeep is super minimal, too.

Try it with…   LIVE Ultra Brights in P120 Lilac Crush

Blue is the coolest colour

Because Pantone said so. 2020’s colour of the year is Classic Blue, a calming shade of azure that looks amazing on walls, clothes, and yep, hair. Blue strands were seen all over the spring catwalks earlier this year, running the gamut from icy pastels, to deeper, denim-inspired hues, to glossy blue-black. Whichever shade you choose, you’ll be on the right track.

Try it with… Schwarzkopf LIVE Pretty Pastels in P121 Denim Steel

Au-burning up

So far, the hair colour trends for 2020 have been far from subtle. But for those looking for a slightly less extravagant change, consider taking a walk on the warmer side. Rich shades of terracotta and plum will add a vibrancy to your look that’s perfect for summer, even if we won’t be spending too much time outside. A well-deserved pick-me-up.

Try it with… Schwarzkopf LIVE Colour + Moisture in M08 Cranberry Bliss

Valerie’s Schwarzkopf LIVE Colour Story

After a few years as a highlighted blonde I was ready to give my hair a break from the bleach, and decided to have a little fun to ease the transition back to my darker roots. I’ve always loved the dip-dye hair trend and wanted to go for it with a really loud, bold colour. I was drawn to Schwarzkopf LIVE because the shades jump off the shelf – I went for Shocking Pink, the perfect shade of fuchsia. One quick, easy application later and I had the pink hair of my teenage dreams (14-year-old emo Valerie would have been very proud).

I’m pretty low-maintenance when it comes to my hair, and loved how the colour stayed vibrant even after multiple washes. The pink made me feel more ‘me’, as if it had been my natural shade all along. It was almost like a cool bag or piece of jewellery in the way it elevated my outfits and makeup looks, and I’ve never been complimented more in my life. It even faded out beautifully to a chic-looking rose gold shade!

I wouldn’t say I was perceived all too differently with bright hair, but that being said, I work in an industry that pretty much encourages experimentation with fashion and makeup. I definitely want to try some more colours now that I won’t be heading to the salon for a while – why not? My attitude has always been ‘hair grows’. Dye it, cut it, shave it… As long as you’re happy, it’s all good.

LIVE is available nationwide at selected Dunnes Stores

For tips, tricks and how-to guides, follow @livecolourhair on Instagram

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• hair colour
• hair dye