85 Eye-Catching Two-Tone Hair Color Ideas to Try Now

Out with the boring, in with the exciting! How? Go for two-tone hair! Two-tone hair is a really cool trend in 2024, and it is totally easy to understand why. It allows us to get creative with our hairstyles in a super fun way.

Two-tone hair is a fun and creative way to change your look. It’s a hair color technique that means to dye your hair in two different shades. It is a hairstyle that can give you a unique and dynamic look that’s sure to turn heads.

Two-tone hair it’s a trend that’s here to stay this year also.There are many possibilities when it comes to two-tone hair color. You can go for a subtle look by choosing colors that are only a few shades different, or you can make a bold statement with contrasting colors. Some popular color combinations include blonde and pink, purple and blue, black and silver, or, half blonde half black hair. Imagine the effect of this last style.

One of the best things about two-tone hair is that it can be according to your individual style. Whether you want a bold and daring look, or something more understated and elegant, there’s a two-tone hair color for you.

---

Whether you want natural tones or intense hues, check out all of our two tone hairstyles below for major inspiration!

---

1. Dark on Top Light on Bottom

You’ll often see two-tone hair color ideas that feature a darker bottom with a lighter top. But if you want a look that really stands out, consider flipping the script completely.

Instead of following the usual trend, go against the grain for a hairstyle that feels bold and unforgettable. One striking option is pairing a jet-black top with a blonde bottom for a high-contrast, head-turning finish.

2. Blonde in Front, Brown in Back

On the other hand, you can also combine your colors vertically instead of horizontally for a fresh and modern twist.

For this style, we recommend choosing a lighter shade near the front of your face, since it helps brighten your features and adds a flattering frame.

A great combination to try is keeping brown hair in the back while adding blonde locks in the front for a bold, face-framing contrast.

3. Half and Half

You can also have tons of fun choosing half-and-half shades for your two-tone hair idea. One stunning example is this eye-catching copper and burgundy mix, which feels bold but still wearable.

We especially love how the colors are cleanly divided by the side part, creating a perfectly balanced look that instantly grabs attention.

4. Shadow Roots

I absolutely love this hairstyle! It’s super low maintenance, and the best part is that even when your roots start growing out, you don’t have to rush back to the salon to fix them.

It would honestly be impossible to talk about two-tone hair without mentioning one of the hottest trends of the year: shadow roots.

Whether you choose to let your natural roots grow in or deepen them with hair dye, shadow roots are one of the best go-to options for an effortless, stylish look.

5. Long Hair

If you have long hair, you can have loads of fun experimenting with different tones. For instance, you can color the lower part of your hair in black or dark brown and leave a honey blonde for the top coat. You’ll be edgy and chic, all at the same time!

6. Girly Hair

Nevertheless, if you want a more feminine approach to your two-tone hair, go for it! You can pick two girly colors, such as pink and purple, and go for an irresistible half-and-half look. The idea is amazing for girls with long hair and bangs who want to stand out. A cute way to showcase your charm. Try it out!

7. Ombre Hairstyle

We’re no strangers to ombre hair and the massive influence it has had in the industry for the past few years. Look beautiful like Vanessa Hudgens. An inspired look from a famous Hollywood celebrity.

If you’re into sharp but stylish gradients, we definitely recommend ombre for your two-tone hairstyle idea.

8. Color Melt Hairstyle

As an alternative, you can blend your two shades together for some serious eye candy. Whether you go for platinum and plum like in the photo above or experiment with a completely different color combo, the result is guaranteed to turn heads.

Now imagine styling your hair up like this—absolutely stunning, right? It’s a look that feels bold, elegant, and effortlessly cool. So go ahead and give it a try!

For the best outcome, be sure to work with a professional colorist to achieve the exact results you’re aiming for.

9. Black and White

For as far back as we can remember, black and white has been the ultimate color combo when it comes to contrast. Whether it’s seen in fashion, beauty, or timeless design, it’s a pairing that never fails to make a statement.

If you’re craving a bold transformation, liven up your locks with a black and white two-tone hair idea that’s sleek, striking, and impossible to ignore.

10. Bright Hairstyle

If black and white feels a little too safe for your taste, it might be time to explore the more colorful options out there. When it comes to two-tone hair, you can truly go all out and choose any shades that match your personality and style.

For a bold, vibrant look, try pairing turquoise and magenta, a combo that’s guaranteed to make your locks pop and turn heads everywhere you go.

11. Fiery Style

There’s something truly special about ombre hairstyles inspired by fire. For your two-tone concept, you can work in the velvety red and spicy orange tones that are found in flames. We particularly recommend this version for girls with long hair.

12. Funky Tips

Not all two-tone hair ideas have to be perfectly symmetrical. In fact, many women look amazing when they choose to dye only certain sections of their hair for a more creative, customized effect.

For a bold, high-fashion vibe, try coloring just the tips and even adding contrast to the underlayer of your bangs. It’s a subtle twist that creates a statement-making look without needing a full head transformation.

13. Afro Curls

African-American women can always count on two-tone hair ideas for accentuating their already gorgeous ringlets. If you have naturally curly, dark, and textured hair, you should consider an earth tone for your secondary color.

14. Medium Length Hair

Women with medium-length hair can opt for a natural approach to their two-tone locks. Instead of going for a dramatic transition from one block color to the other, you can choose to ease in your second tone. Colors that belong to the same palette work the best for this version.

15. Messy Bun

Once you’ve got your two-tone hair set up, it’s time to start thinking about hairstyles that will really show off your creative coloring. One style you’ll never get tired of is the classic messy bun.

Not only does it perfectly highlight both shades, but it also gives you a cute, effortless look that feels comfortable enough to wear all day.

16. Ghana Braids

Braids are a wonderful “canvas”, so to speak, for two-toned hair. There are plenty of African braids you can look into for your hairstyle, such as Ghana braids. Leave the top of your natural hair color and blend out to your favorite hue for the extensions.

17. Contrasting Colors

Melanie Martinez shows us that contrast can completely transform your look.

One of the easiest ways to play with contrast is through your hair. Why not experiment with unexpected color combinations? Think blonde strands set against jet black hair for a striking, unforgettable effect.

18. Dark Bangs and Light Hair

We absolutely love the creativity behind this two-tone hair idea.

While achieving a similar look will likely require a professional hairstylist, it’s definitely worth it. Start by focusing on your bangs and the layer beneath your top coat of hair; this is where the magic happens.

19. Highlights

Moreover, you can try out highlights for your two-tone hairstyle. One of the all-time best combos is blonde and brown, but don’t hesitate to test the technique with any shades you like. The higher the contrast, the better the look will turn out.

20. Copper and Ash Blonde Hair

Want an unconventional hair color combination that will make you look fab? Ash blonde and copper hair is for you! You can keep the majority of your locks ash brown and add layers of copper throughout your hair.

21. Box Braids

As with Ghana braids, box braids are glamorous when colored in two tones. Just like with the first braids we talked about, we suggest leaving black for the top portion. After that, go crazy with your favorite colors for the rest of the braids.

22. Rockabilly Hairstyle

The success of your two-tone hairstyle also hinges on the haircut you choose to pair with it.

If you’re a rockabilly girl, why not go bold with black and blonde hair complemented by short, blunt bangs? The result is a look that’s absolutely impossible to resist.

23. Short Hair

Contrary to what some girls may believe, two-tone hair is possible with shorter haircuts. For example, if you have a pixie cut with long bangs, you can bring it to life with a layer of color on top. To get your desired results, use black for the lower portion and a lighter color for the top.

24. Balayage

We’re all for ombre hairstyles, but we’re well aware that the abrupt transition isn’t flattering for all women. If you want a smoother gradient, go for two-tone hair through balayage. The primary color will gracefully slide into the secondary tone.

25. Blonde and Red Hair

Cherry red and sunny blonde? Yes, please!

Few two-tone combinations are as eye-catching as blonde and red. Start by applying a candy red undercoat, then brighten the top with blonde pieces scattered throughout for a vibrant, attention-grabbing effect.

26. Light Hairstyle

Many two-tone hairstyles feature bold, contrasting colors, but sometimes, lighter combinations can create a stunning effect.

If you have an olive or dark skin tone, try a platinum and dark honey two-tone hairstyle; the result is absolutely fabulous and flattering.

27. Partial Two Tone

Alternatively, you can use the same colorway but with a different technique. Instead of separating the platinum and copper into two distinct coats, you can use one of the tones for a smaller area of your hair. It’s yet another cool idea for girls with bangs!

28. Platinum and Silver Hair

You can also pair platinum with shades from a similar palette, such as ash blonde, brown, silver, or gray.

By placing the darker tone in the back, you create a look that emphasizes the platinum on top and toward the front, adding depth and dimension to your hairstyle.

29. Mermaid Hair

Have you always been fascinated by the idea of mermaids? You can now look like one with your hairstyle! Mermaid hair has been trending and uses, what else, sea-inspired colors. Pick indigo and turquoise for a two-tone mermaid hairstyle.

30. Platinum and Red Hairstyle

Returning to platinum, consider pairing it with a rich wine red hair color.

These two exciting tones complement each other glamorously, creating a dramatic hairstyle that’s impossible not to love.

31. Pink and Black Hair

Try a striking half-and-half style, jet black on one side, cotton candy pink on the other. The clash of dark and playful hues creates a deliciously striking contrast that’s impossible to ignore and totally unforgettable.

32. Brown Hair

Some girls want to keep their natural hair color as part of their two-tone hairstyle. If you have brown hair, for instance, you can choose a brighter hue for the second tone. Turquoise looks astounding, but you can also try out teal, blue, pink, green, or orange.

33. Black and Purple Hair

Natural brunettes should seriously consider adding a vivid mauve or purple tone to create a striking two-tone effect. This can be achieved through highlights, ombre, or balayage, each offering its own unique way to blend color seamlessly.

The combination creates a beautiful, eye-catching contrast that enhances the richness of darker hair. Even better, this versatile look tends to complement any eye color and skin tone, making it a flattering choice for almost everyone.

34. Undercut

We’re delighted to see that undercuts are becoming more and more popular among women. If you love rocking short and edgy hairstyles, you can consider mixing in two tones for yours. Use a darker shade forthe undercut part and a lighter one for the rest of your hair.

35. Subtle Style

If you don’t want a flashy hairstyle, you can choose a more elegant, subtle look with two-tone hair. This keeps the style refined while still adding interest.

For this approach, maintain your natural hair color and add a second shade that blends in smoothly to complement it.

36. Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks are already a super cool hairstyle, but adding two tones can take them to the next level. The contrast brings extra depth and personality without changing the style itself.

This idea works especially well for girls considering extensions, since you can add color while protecting your natural hair from damage.

37. Peekaboos

We’ve talked all about the benefits of peekaboo highlights in the past. In a nutshell, they’re a fun, creative, and playful way to spice up your hairstyle. For two-tone hair, you can use the peekaboo method for an undercoat you can conceal or reveal at your leisure.

38. Brunette

Brunettes don’t have to go through much effort to achieve a flattering two-tone hairstyle. Since black hair is naturally rich, it creates the perfect base for a soft transition.

You can blend into a warm, intense chocolate brown for a look that adds depth while staying natural and elegant.

39. Dark Accents in Blonde Hair

Sometimes, all you need is a splash of contrast to create a more eye-catching hairstyle. Even a full blonde look can feel fresh with a few dark accents placed throughout.

The effect is especially flattering on women with long hair, and it looks even better when paired with side-swept bangs for added dimension.

40. Pastel Tones

There’s no doubt that pastel shades draw attention and plenty of admiration. Pair them with a two-tone coloring technique for a spectacular, head-turning hairstyle you can feel proud of.

Pick your favorite pastels and go!

41. Ginger and Purple Hair

If you want a two-tone hair idea that stands out and isn’t seen on every other girl, consider experimenting with unusual, bold colors. It’s a simple way to create a more personal and eye-catching style.

You can also work with your natural shade, especially if you’re a redhead. Add a touch of bright purple for a fantastic contrast that really pops.

42. Braids

Want a neat look for the day at school or at work? It’s easy; all you have to do is braid your two-tone hair! We suggest exploring braiding techniques that will make your two distinct colors stand out. French braids, fishtails, and Dutch braids are all great examples.

43. Highlights and Lowlights

A harmonious combination of highlights and lowlights can be the perfect idea for your two-tone hairstyle. Blonde and reddish brown, for example, go amazingly well together. We recommend the blend as a feminine look you can rock all year round.

44. Emo Hairstyle

Plenty of scenes and emo hairstyles for girls involve mixing two hair colors in an unconventional way. If you love wearing long bangs swept to the side and shorter layers on long hair, upgrade your emo hairstyle with two tones.

45. Faux Hawk

Some hairstyles are the perfect foundation for playing around with colors. The faux hawk, for instance, becomes even more attention-grabbing with two tones. It’s one look you can’t miss out on if you have long braids.

46. Black and Blue Hair

Black and blue make a striking, mysterious combination, just like black and purple. Together, they create a deep, dimensional look that feels bold without being overwhelming.

For a result similar to the photo, ask your stylist about a contouring coloring technique to place the tones in a way that enhances depth and shape.

47. Artsy Hairstyle

If you’re an artist or have an artistic soul, this is a hairstyle worth checking out. It combines eccentric, expressive colors with a bold overall look.

What makes it stand out even more is the equally artsy haircut that complements the creative coloring.

48. Pigtails

Half-and-half colored hairstyles look absolutely brilliant with pigtails. Thanks to the way pigtail braids are styled, each color gets a chance to stand out beautifully on its own.

You can also try boxer braids for a trendy, flattering twist on two-tone pigtails.

49. Silver and Gray Hair

Gray, silver, and ash tones are still strong hair trend favorites. Instead of choosing just one for a solid color, try blending two for a more dynamic look.

A mainly silver base, for example, can really shine with a darker gray section for added depth and contrast.

50. Aqua Hair

Finally, here’s a cute yet edgy hair idea that really brings out your colorful side. Aqua hair usually blends shades of turquoise and navy blue, living up to its name.

Find the best way to combine them, and you’ll end up with a truly head-turning hairstyle.

51. Purple Peekaboo Hair

This two-toned hairstyle works beautifully for women with medium brown natural hair. A soft, lighter purple peekaboo layer adds a playful pop of color without overpowering the base.

She lightly curled her hair to reveal the hidden tones, helping the peekaboo effect stand out and making the style look even more eye-catching.

52. Balayage

Another beautiful option is this purple and brown two-toned look. The purple is layered over light brown hair, creating a soft yet striking contrast.

She chose a light purple shade that blends seamlessly with the base, giving the style a smooth, natural finish.

53. Red and Black Split Dye

Red and black are always a winning color combo. In this look, one side is deep black while the other is a fiery red, creating a bold two-toned style.

Add your favorite type of bangs to complete the look, as they pull the whole style together perfectly.

54. Neon Pink Money Piece

Next up is a classic money-piece hairstyle with a bold hot pink touch. She kept a deep black base and added a chunky pink section in the front for contrast.

Most people part their hair down the middle to help show off the money piece and make the color stand out even more.

55. Modern Short Hair

This next look is a short and sassy blunt bob with a bold two-tone finish. She paired a rich burnt-red shade with a deep black base for striking contrast.

Wear it straight for a sleek, polished style, or add a few curls to give it a completely different vibe.

56. Razored Teal Peekaboo Hair

Next up is another short, funky two-toned style. She added a pop of teal underneath her dark black hair, creating a cool hidden contrast that stands out.

If teal isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it for your favorite color to make the look your own.

57. Neutral Hairstyle

Another option for two-toned hair is this dark base with chunky blonde highlights. It’s a classic style that never goes out of fashion and always adds bold contrast.

Add thin side bangs and wear it straight to bring out the highlights and get the most from this look.

58. Lilac to Blonde Ombre Hair

If you’re looking for a lovely lilac two-toned style, this one is definitely worth trying. She kept her hair at a mid-length cut with face-framing layers for a soft, flattering shape.

Add the lilac tone on top and wear it pin-straight to highlight the color and show off the layers.

59. Sandy Blonde Money Piece

Next up is a beautiful two-toned hairstyle with a dark base and a bright sandy blonde money piece in the front for contrast.

She styled her long hair with a middle part and soft waves, helping the front color stand out even more.

60. Soft Purple

Next up is a mid-length style for dark hair with a soft purple tone blended throughout. The color adds a subtle, even glow that looks effortlessly stylish.

She parted it on the side and kept it straight for a sleek, polished finish.

61. Blonde Hair

Here is one of the most popular two-toned hairstyles. She kept her hair just past her shoulders and added a beautiful blonde tone for a soft, blended look.

Wear it wavy, straight, or with curls to bring out the color dimension and make the style your own.

62. Face-Framing Hair

Next up is a beautiful two-toned style with most of the hair in a rich burnt orange shade and bright blonde bangs for bold contrast.

She styled her long hair in spiral curls, which helps show off the fresh color and adds extra volume.

63. Shaggy Hair

Shaggy hairstyles are right on trend in women’s hair right now. This look takes the cut even further with a fresh two-toned twist that adds extra depth.

Keep most of your hair a dark orange and add a few pops of blonde to bring the texture to life and make the style stand out.

64. Bob

After your next bob haircut, if you feel like it needs a little extra flair, try this feminine two-toned style. She kept the top section light and bright and added a pink hue to the tips.

The contrast at the ends gives the cut a playful pop of color without overpowering the look.

65. Honey Blonde Tips

This next look is one of the prettiest two-toned hairstyles on the list. She kept her hair long, just past the shoulders, with an even blend of blonde highlights throughout.

She wore it straight for a clean finish, but soft waves can add texture and enhance the color dimension even more.

66. Blonde Balayage

A balayage is always a great choice when thinking about a two-toned look. She kept her hair extra long with a light brown base for a soft, natural foundation.

Plenty of sandy blonde was added throughout, and the colors blend together flawlessly for a smooth, sun-kissed finish.

67. Dark Hair with a Pop of Sandy Blonde

This next hairstyle features an edgy black and blonde combination for a bold two-toned look. The contrast between the shades creates a striking, high-impact style.

She added plenty of layers and curls to build volume, giving the hair a full, dynamic finish.

68. Beautiful Two-Tone Hair Color

A blunt bob is one of the cutest, most timeless hairstyles, and it flatters women of all ages. She elevated the look by adding ashy silver on one side and a soft rose pink tone on the other.

Finish it with spiral curls to show off the color contrast and add extra texture.

69. Dark Hair and Ash Blonde

Dark hair and ash blonde blend beautifully together for a soft, dimensional look. She kept her hair extra long with a light blonde hue and added ashy blonde tones throughout for depth.

Add thin bangs and spiral curls to complete the style and highlight the color contrast.

70. Black and Pink Split Dye Hair

Up next is a bold split-dye style for women with extra-long hair. She parted it right down the center, keeping one side dark black and coloring the other a vibrant purple-pink shade.

Add in loose waves to show off the contrast and bring the whole look together.

71. Dark Brown and Copper Blonde Hair

Here’s another beautiful fall-inspired two-toned look. She kept her hair cut right around the shoulders with a middle part for a clean, balanced style.

One side features a rich copper shade while the other stays dark, creating a warm, eye-catching contrast that pairs perfectly for the season.

72. Blue and Purple

Blue and purple blend perfectly in the same color palette, creating a soft yet bold two-toned look. She added a bright blue shade on top and a lovely pink hue underneath for contrast.

She wore it straight for a sleek finish, but curls can help show off the color layers even more.

73. Bright Orange Money Piece

Bright orange and black make a bold two-toned combination you can wear all year, though they really shine in the fall. The contrast creates a warm, eye-catching finish that stands out.

She chose a short cut and added orange to the front using a money-piece style, giving the look a bright pop of color around the face.

74. Pink and Purple

At some point, almost everyone has thought about adding pink and purple tones to their hair. Now is the perfect time to try it since it’s a major trend right now.

She kept one side purple and the other hot pink, creating a bright, playful contrast that looks so pretty.

75. Pink Hair with Blonde Highlights

Here’s another take on the pink and blonde combination. This time, she kept the base pink and added soft blonde highlights for a unique twist.

Wear it straight or add a few curls to bring out the color contrast and make the style stand out.

76. Green Hairstyle

Black and green are a classic two-toned pairing that always stands out. She added a few pops of green in the front to frame the face while keeping the rest of the hair dark and short.

The subtle placement of color gives the style a fresh, bold touch without overwhelming the look.

77. Mid-Part Style

Mid-length hair is so versatile because you can style it in many different ways. Here, she kept the base a beautiful light blonde and added a few blue highlights with a fresh money piece.

The pop of color in the front gives the style a modern, eye-catching finish that looks amazing.

78. Peach and Pink

Two-toned hairstyles come in so many unique styles and color combinations to match any personality. In this look, she kept her hair a soft, rosy gold for a warm, glowing base.

She added hot pink to one side of her curtain bangs, creating a fun, eye-catching accent that looks amazing.

79. Messy Hairstyle

Messy styles will always stay in style thanks to their low-maintenance, effortless feel. She kept most of her hair dark and added a bright blonde section in the front for contrast.

Style it with messy curls to create a relaxed, carefree look you’ll love.

80. Chunky Two-Toned Highlights

Next up is a chunky two-toned style with thick sections of brown and orange evenly blended throughout. The bold placement creates a striking, high-contrast look.

Keep it straight like she did for a sleek finish, or add a few curls to switch up the vibe.

81. Double Knots

If you’re looking for a fresh new way to style your two-toned hair, try this double knot look. She used funky hot pink and orange tones to make the style stand out.

She twisted her long hair into two big knots on top, creating a playful, eye-catching finish that looks beautiful.

82. Black Hair with Blonde Streaks

Black hair with blonde streaks is one of the original two-toned styles. It gives an edgy yet feminine look that never goes out of fashion.

She kept her hair extra long and straight, which helps the blonde streaks stand out even more.

83. Dark Hair with Red Highlights

Next up is a dark, shoulder-length two-toned style that feels rich and bold. She kept most of her hair a deep red and added subtle black streaks for contrast.

Wear it straight and curl the ends slightly to add shape and movement to the look.

84. Black and Purple Underneath

Peekaboo styles are always a fun choice when you want to add a funky, fresh color. She kept most of her hair dark and added pops of purple underneath for a subtle surprise.

Ask your stylist to include side bangs to complete the look and match the vibe.

85. Thick Hair

Next up is a lovely two-toned style for long hair. She chose the classic dark base with blonde highlights for a timeless, beautiful look.

Add soft beach waves to bring out the dimension and get the most out of this style.

Two Tone Hair Color FAQS

So, What Is YOUR Hair Motivation?

To conclude, the possibilities are limitless if you go for two tone hair. Although similar or complementary colors are popular approaches, you can let your imagination run free with your hues. Pick your favorite two tone hair colors or what you feel would flatter your features the best.

When you’re done, make sure you tell us what your two tone choice was in the comments!