From balayage to ombré to peekaboo hints of blue, Cory’s Hair Studio & Day Spa can help you kick your color up a notch

Corys 5 920
The hairstylists at Cory’s Hair Studio & Day Spa keep abreast of all the hair color trends.

By Laura Briedis

When Pantone chose classic blue as the 2020 color of the year, you knew it would be popping up everywhere in clothing, wall paint, fabrics and even home exterior siding. But it’s also popping up in an even more unexpected place. Hair.

This dreamy hue that invokes a sense of calm can add some fun to your hairstyle.

As part of the latest shades from the Matrix SoColor Cult vibrant hair color line, there are three playful shades of blue from Admiral Navy to Retro Blue to Aqua Bay.

Along with the trending blue, other fantasy colors range from pinks to purples.And they are not just for those in their teens and 20s. “I have clients in their 60s who like these bright colors,” says Corinne Calabro, owner of Cory’s Hair Studio & Day Spa. “Oftentimes I add just a peekaboo strand of color, such as a couple blue strands in the bangs or purple strands just around the face to frame it. We also can add these bright hair colors by attaching tape-in hair extensions on your scalp.”

Along with the trending blue, other fantasy colors range from pinks to purples.

As the local beauty trendsetters, the hairstylists at Cory’s Hair Studio & Day Spa stay abreast of all the hair coloring techniques.

Three of Cory’s hairstylists attended the Matrix Destination 2020 hair show in Orlando, Florida, earlier this year, where they report fantasy hair color was all the rage. Just look at Grammy-winning artist Billie Eilish, who sported neon green hair at the awards ceremony.

“Fantasy color adds some fun to your style and is more mainstream today and not avant-garde anymore,” says Corinne.

And when you want to change your color, Matrix has a Color Eraser to remove the pigment.

As the local beauty trendsetters, the hairstylists at Cory’s Hair Studio & Day Spa stay abreast of all the hair coloring techniques.

Balayage vs. Ombré
If you feel like hairstylists are speaking a foreign language when trying to explain different hair coloring techniques, well, they are—sort of.

Both of these hair coloring techniques are words derived from the French language. Balayage is “to paint” or “to sweep,” while ombré means “shadow” or “shade.”

“Our hairstylists are versed in all hair coloring techniques,” says Corinne. “We explain to our clients how each technique works and the end result of each.”

An ombré is a two-toned graduated hair color effect that is typically darker on the top and lighter on the bottom. It is more dramatic and can feature any hair color combo. From your natural brunette color at your roots fading to a lighter blonde or black hair transitioning to red, the options are endless. The upside? You don’t have to touch it up so often if the top is your natural hair color or a darker color.

An ombré is a two-toned graduated hair color effect that is typically darker on the top and lighter on the bottom.

On the other hand, balayage is a hand-painting technique that produces a more natural, dimensional effect. The stylist paints pieces of color from the roots that become more saturated at the ends. This highlighting technique is perfect for those who want a more sun-kissed look and want to frame the face.

In simple terms, think of balayage as more of vertical hair color, and ombré as a more horizontal effect.

Balayage is a hand-painting technique that produces a more natural, dimensional effect.

For those looking for more subtle hair color, fall is the perfect time to tone down the blonde and add some honey browns and rich reds to your hair. Plus, if you are a natural brunette, you can add some cinnamon ombré pieces for a fabulous fall look.

“Usually every fall when the leaves start to change colors, people are inspired to get new hair color,” notes Corinne. “Not every color looks good on everyone, so we consult with each client to find the perfect hue for their skin tone and to best capture their personality.”

Cory’s Hair Studio & Day Spa is located at 7216 Pearl Road in Middleburg Heights. The salon is open seven days a week. For an appointment, call 440-888-8864 or visit CorysHairStudio.biz.