Ready to freshen up your look this August? The hottest hair trend of 2025 brings back serious ’90s vibes with a modern twist. Chunky highlights are making a spectacular comeback, transforming summer hairstyles with bold dimension and eye-catching contrast that’s perfect for these late summer days.
Why chunky highlights are having their 2025 moment
Unlike the subtle balayage and lived-in color that dominated recent years, chunky highlights embrace boldness with wider, more defined sections of color. “What we’re seeing in 2025 is a refined version of what made the ’90s so exciting,” explains celebrity colorist Jamie Reynolds. “The modern chunky highlight creates statement contrast while maintaining sophisticated color blending techniques.”
This revival isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a perfect way to add visual volume and dimension to hair during these hot August days when many are looking for a refreshing style update before fall arrives. The trend has exploded across social media, with TikTok and Instagram showcasing endless variations.
How 2025’s version differs from the original ’90s look
While the ’90s gave us stark, sometimes harsh contrasts (think Christina Aguilera’s platinum streaks against dark hair), 2025’s interpretation is more refined. Today’s chunky highlights feature:
- Sophisticated color combinations like caramels, honey blondes, and chocolate browns
- Strategic placement that frames and flatters the face
- Softer blending techniques at the roots
- Dimensional depth rather than flat, single-process contrast
“The key difference is how we’re placing the color,” notes color specialist Maya Chen. “We’re creating face-framing chunks that brighten the complexion while maintaining depth elsewhere, giving a more three-dimensional effect that’s perfect for late summer styling.”
Celebrity inspiration fueling the trend
This revival has been championed by influential trendsetters. Kylie Jenner’s face-framing blonde pieces against her darker base have inspired countless recreations. Jennifer Lopez recently debuted her own take with caramel-toned chunky highlights that warm her complexion, while Dua Lipa has embraced bolder contrasting sections in her shorter bob.
Best chunky highlight variations for late summer 2025
As August heat continues, these variations offer both style and practicality:
- Money piece highlights: Bold face-framing sections that brighten your complexion
- Ribbon highlights: Thicker strands of color woven through the hair
- Contrast underlayers: Bright pieces beneath darker top layers for a peek-a-boo effect
- Skunk stripes: For the bold, dramatic two-tone sections for maximum impact
These styles pair perfectly with holographic nail trends and other ’90s-inspired beauty looks making waves this season.
Maintenance tips for long-lasting chunky highlights
To keep your chunky highlights vibrant through the transition from summer to fall, proper maintenance is essential. Use color-protecting shampoos and conditioners, and consider a weekly toning mask to prevent brassiness, especially important for those enjoying pool days in August’s final weeks.
“Heat protection is non-negotiable,” emphasizes stylist Carlos Rodriguez. “The contrast in chunky highlights means any damage will be more noticeable.” This advice aligns well with other summer beauty trends like heat-resistant makeup that many are embracing.
Who does this trend work best for?
The versatility of chunky highlights makes them suitable for various hair types and colors. They add dimension to fine hair, define curl patterns in textured hair, and can be adapted for any seasonal palette.
For those transitioning to gray, strategic chunky highlights can incorporate silver tones for a striking, intentional look that embraces natural changes while maintaining style impact.
Ready to try the trend?
If you’re considering chunky highlights, late August is the perfect time to refresh your look before fall. Take inspiration images to your stylist showing exactly what level of contrast you’re comfortable with. Whether you go bold with dramatic pieces or subtle with just a few face-framing highlights, this versatile trend offers a perfect blend of nostalgic fun and contemporary style for these final weeks of summer 2025.