Chunky Highlights On Short Hair: The Bold Hair Trend That’s Taking The World By Storm

Kody Berge I 12 May 2025

Chunky highlights on short hair have taken the hair world by storm lately, and it's easy to see why. If you're looking for a bold yet versatile way to elevate your hairstyle, this trend might just be your next obsession. It’s not just about adding color; it’s about making a statement that screams confidence and style. Whether you're rocking a pixie cut, bob, or any other short hairstyle, chunky highlights can transform your look in ways you never imagined.

Now, let's be real here. Chunky highlights are not your typical subtle streaks of color. They’re bold, they’re daring, and they’re designed to catch every eye in the room. This trend is all about creating a striking contrast between your natural hair color and the highlights, giving your short hair an edgy and modern vibe. It’s the perfect way to experiment with color without going fully committed to a drastic change.

But before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let’s talk about why chunky highlights on short hair have become such a big deal. It’s not just about the aesthetics; it’s also about how versatile and low-maintenance this trend can be. If you’re someone who loves experimenting with their look but doesn’t want to spend hours in the salon, chunky highlights might just be the answer to all your hair prayers.

What Exactly Are Chunky Highlights?

Chunky highlights are essentially larger, more noticeable sections of highlighted hair compared to traditional highlights. Instead of blending seamlessly with your natural hair color, chunky highlights are meant to stand out and create a dramatic contrast. Think of them as bold stripes of color that add dimension and texture to your hairstyle.

When it comes to short hair, chunky highlights can make a huge impact. Since there’s less hair to work with, the highlights become even more prominent, adding depth and interest to your overall look. Plus, they’re super versatile, meaning you can customize the colors and placement to suit your personal style.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes chunky highlights so unique:

They’re bolder and more noticeable than traditional highlights.
They create a striking contrast between your natural hair color and the highlights.
They’re perfect for adding dimension and texture to short hairstyles.
They can be customized to suit your individual style and preferences.

Why Should You Try Chunky Highlights on Short Hair?

If you’ve been hesitant about trying chunky highlights, let me break it down for you. This trend is not just about making a statement; it’s about embracing your individuality and having fun with your hair. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to your daily routine or want to try something new for a special occasion, chunky highlights on short hair are a great way to do it.

One of the best things about chunky highlights is how versatile they are. You can go for classic blonde tones if you want to keep things timeless, or you can experiment with bold colors like rose gold, burgundy, or even pastel shades. The possibilities are endless, and the best part is that you can always adjust the intensity of the highlights to suit your mood.

Benefits of Chunky Highlights

Let’s talk about the benefits of going chunky with your highlights. First and foremost, they’re a great way to add dimension and texture to your short hair without committing to a full color change. Plus, they’re relatively low-maintenance compared to other hair trends, meaning you won’t have to visit the salon every few weeks for touch-ups.

Here are some of the top benefits of chunky highlights:

They add depth and interest to short hairstyles.
They’re versatile and can be customized to suit your style.
They’re low-maintenance and don’t require frequent salon visits.
They’re a great way to experiment with color without going fully committed.

How to Choose the Right Chunky Highlights for Your Short Hair

When it comes to chunky highlights, choosing the right colors and placement is key. The last thing you want is to end up with highlights that don’t complement your skin tone or hairstyle. So, how do you make sure you’re making the right choice? Start by considering your natural hair color and skin tone.

If you have warm skin tones, go for golden or caramel highlights to enhance your natural glow. For cooler skin tones, platinum blonde or ash tones can give you that chic, sophisticated look. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to try bold colors like copper, rose gold, or even pastel shades.

Tips for Choosing Chunky Highlights

Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect chunky highlights for your short hair:

Consider your natural hair color and skin tone when selecting highlight colors.
Think about the overall vibe you want to achieve—do you want a bold, edgy look, or something more subtle and classic?
Talk to your stylist about the best placement for the highlights to ensure they complement your hairstyle.

Chunky Highlights vs. Balayage: What’s the Difference?

Now, you might be wondering how chunky highlights differ from balayage. While both techniques involve adding highlights to your hair, they’re quite different in terms of style and application. Balayage is all about creating a soft, natural gradient of color, whereas chunky highlights are bold and intentional.

With balayage, the highlights are applied by hand and blended seamlessly into your natural hair color, creating a subtle ombre effect. Chunky highlights, on the other hand, are applied in larger sections and designed to stand out. Think of balayage as a gentle fade and chunky highlights as a bold statement.

Which One Is Right for You?

Deciding between chunky highlights and balayage depends on your personal style and preferences. If you’re someone who loves bold, eye-catching looks, chunky highlights are the way to go. But if you prefer a more natural, effortless vibe, balayage might be the better option.

How to Maintain Chunky Highlights on Short Hair

Maintaining chunky highlights on short hair is easier than you might think. Since the highlights are more prominent on shorter hairstyles, they tend to grow out slower than on longer hair. This means you won’t have to visit the salon as often for touch-ups, making them a great option for those who want a low-maintenance look.

To keep your chunky highlights looking fresh and vibrant, make sure to use color-safe shampoos and conditioners. These products are designed to protect your hair color and prevent fading. You should also avoid using hot tools too often, as excessive heat can damage your hair and cause the color to fade faster.

Tips for Maintaining Chunky Highlights

Here are some tips to help you maintain your chunky highlights:

Use color-safe shampoos and conditioners to protect your hair color.
Avoid using hot tools too often to prevent damage and fading.
Get regular trims to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends.
Visit your stylist every 6-8 weeks for touch-ups if needed.

Chunky Highlights on Short Hair: Celebrity Inspirations

When it comes to chunky highlights, there are plenty of celebrity inspirations to draw from. Stars like Chrissy Teigen, Emma Watson, and Zendaya have all rocked this trend in their own unique ways, proving that chunky highlights can work for any style or personality.

Chrissy Teigen, for example, has embraced bold blonde chunky highlights on her short hair, creating a striking contrast that makes her look instantly recognizable. Emma Watson, on the other hand, has opted for more subtle caramel highlights that add warmth and depth to her natural hair color. And Zendaya? Well, she’s all about experimenting with bold, eye-catching colors like rose gold and copper.

How to Get the Celebrity Look

If you’re inspired by these celebrity styles, here’s how you can achieve the look:

Talk to your stylist about incorporating bold or subtle chunky highlights into your hairstyle.
Consider adding a pop of color to your highlights for an extra edgy touch.
Experiment with different placements and patterns to find what works best for you.

Common Myths About Chunky Highlights

There are a few common myths about chunky highlights that might be holding you back from trying this trend. Let’s debunk them one by one:

Myth #1: Chunky highlights are only for blonde hair. Wrong! Chunky highlights can work with any hair color, from brunette to redhead. It’s all about finding the right shades and placement to complement your natural hair color.

Myth #2: Chunky highlights require frequent touch-ups. Not true! Since chunky highlights are more prominent on short hair, they tend to grow out slower than traditional highlights. This means you won’t have to visit the salon as often for touch-ups.

Myth #3: Chunky highlights are too bold for everyday wear. Think again! With the right colors and placement, chunky highlights can be both bold and versatile, making them perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Inner Boldness with Chunky Highlights

Chunky highlights on short hair are more than just a trend—they’re a way to express your individuality and have fun with your hair. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to your daily routine or want to try something new for a special occasion, chunky highlights are a great way to do it.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your stylist and start experimenting with chunky highlights today. And don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below. Who knows? You might just inspire someone else to take the leap and try this bold trend for themselves.

What Exactly Are Chunky Highlights?
Why Should You Try Chunky Highlights on Short Hair?
How to Choose the Right Chunky Highlights for Your Short Hair
Chunky Highlights vs. Balayage: What’s the Difference?
How to Maintain Chunky Highlights on Short Hair
Chunky Highlights on Short Hair: Celebrity Inspirations
Common Myths About Chunky Highlights

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