In the last few years, one of the most eye-catching and attention-grabbing hairstyles that have been sweeping salons and Instagram feeds in droves is the money piece. If you’ve been wondering what a money piece is, then you have come to the right place for all that information on the popular hairstyle, from what it is to how to do it, and why it’s become a ‘must try’ look for most people.

How is a Money Piece Made?

1. You may wonder: What is the money piece process like in the salon? The technique is pretty simple, but it requires finesse to get it just right. This is a simplified version of how a stylist builds a money piece in most salons:

1. Sectioning the Hair
First, the stylist will section the hair to create separation on the sides around the face. This front section is where the money piece will be placed. Sections usually run from the top of the forehead to the temples and sometimes down the sides to further enhance the area.

2. Applying Lightener to the Front Sections
Following this, lighteners or hair dyes shall be applied to the face-framing pieces. One can do this by either applying foils or balayage. The idea here is to lighten these pieces from the rest of your hair. The lightener can be of various intensities depending on the desired look, but generally speaking, it’s a few shades lighter than your natural color.

3. Blending and Toning
After the lightener has been applied, the stylist will let it process before rinsing it out. Next is to blend the front pieces that received the lightener into your other hair. While it might be lighter, the front pieces should still blend with the natural or base color of the rest of your hair. Finally, your stylist will apply a toner to make the color balanced, to seamlessly blend into the other hair.

Why is everyone so obsessed with the money piece?

1. You must be asking yourself what a money piece is and why it has become so popular. This hairstyle trend has indeed gained so much attention for several reasons. Here are some of the primary reasons why many people love the money piece trend:

1. Instant Face Framing Effect
The main appeal of the money piece is how it frames your face. The lightened strands draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones, creating a lifted illusion. This face-framing highlight is flattering for all face shapes and may even create a more youthful effect.

2. Low Maintenance
It is much easier to maintain compared to full highlights or color changes. Since only the front strands are colored, touch-ups are needed less frequently, and the grow-out process is much smoother. This is ideal for people who want to add color without the commitment of a full-color overhaul.

3. Customizable to Your Style
This technique is versatile enough to complement anyone with blonde, brunette, or even red hair. You can have soft highlights for a more natural look or bright platinum blonde or vivid pastel shades for a bolder impact. That’s why the beauty of the money piece is that it can be customized to fit any color palette, thus making it versatile for everyone.

4. Gives Dimension to Your Hair
The money piece gives dimension to your hairstyle and adds visual interest because of the contrast between the lighter face-framing pieces and the darker sections of hair. It makes the hair look fuller and bigger, especially for long or layered hairstyles, which will showcase the texture and movement in style.

Types of Money Pieces: What Is a Money Piece for Different Hair Colors?

1. One of the things that make money pieces awesome is their versatility with different hair colors. So, what is a money piece for various hair shades? Let’s take a look at how this technique can work for different hair colors:

1. Blonde Money Piece
The money piece is usually pretty dramatic for blondes because of the stark contrast between the lightened pieces and the darker roots. Platinum blonde or buttery golden highlights are popular choices for this style, as they bring brightness to the face without overpowering it.

2. Brunette Money Piece
Brunettes can also carry off the money piece. In darker hair, some common highlights that people go for are shades like caramel, honey blonde, or soft copper. The lighter pieces help to give facial features brightness and add warmth and dimension to the overall hairstyle.

3. Redhead Money Piece
Redheads can try out lovely auburn or copper tones in their money piece. A red money piece can be bold and fiery or more subtle with just a few lighter streaks to brighten up the face. It particularly works well with natural red shades or color-treated reds.

4. Black Hair Money Piece
Black hair holders can also pull off a money piece, especially if the hue is bold platinum blonde or soft brown. It’s sure to be a striking statement, especially if done on lightened front pieces against dark and glossy locks.

How to Style a Money Piece

Once you get your money piece, you might wonder what it is in terms of styling. The great news is that styling a money piece is super easy, and the highlighted strands usually require minimal effort to look their best.

1. Loose Waves or Curls
For a relaxed, tousled look, try your hair loose with curls or waves. Lightened front pieces will stand out naturally to give the beachy, effortless vibe. Apply some curves with a curling iron or wand on the middle to the end cut to be smooth and sleek.

2. Sleek and Straight
If you want a more refined appearance, sleek, straight hair can equally highlight the money piece. Use a flat iron to make your hair lay flat and ensure that the front pieces remain crisp and well-defined. A straight look removes all distractions and highlights the lightened sections of the hair.

3. Braided Styles
Braids are another fantastic way to show off a money piece. Whether it’s a simple braid or a more elaborate French braid, the lighter front pieces will weave into the look, adding that one pop of brightness that makes the style stand out.

How to Maintain Your Money Piece

You would want your money piece to look fresh after getting it, right? Then what’s a care routine for a money piece? Here are a few tips:

1. Use Color-Safe Shampoo
Prevent the money piece from fading too fast by using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner. They were designed to help preserve hair color, as well as maintain it for a healthy, vibrant color.

2. Don’t Damage it with Heat
Excessive heat styling can cause damage to color-treated hair. Use heat protectant sprays and try to limit the use of hot tools to keep your money piece looking bright and healthy.

3. Touch Up Your Roots Regularly
Since the money piece aims at the front parts of your hair, get your roots done if needed to be done. In such a case, as your hair grows out, you can well notice the difference, so get regular salon visits to maintain this look.

Conclusion: What Is a Money Piece and Should You Try It?

If you’ve been asking, what is a money piece, the answer is simple: it’s a bold and eye-catching hair color technique that brightens the front strands of your hair, drawing attention to your face. Whether you’re looking to enhance your facial features, add dimension to your hair, or simply try something new, the money piece is a versatile and flattering hairstyle for all hair colors.