#MoneyPiece
Money piece highlights—two bright, face-framing streaks starting at the hairline—became the defining hair trend of 2020-2022. The technique offered maximum impact with minimal commitment and cost.
The Technique
Money pieces involve:
- Two front sections (1-2 inches wide, starting at part)
- Lightened 2-4 shades brighter than base color
- Face-framing placement (flanking the face)
- Quick process (30-60 minutes vs. 3+ hours for full highlights)
Why “Money Piece”?
The name allegedly comes from:
- High-impact, low-cost (brightens face for $50-$150 vs. $300+ full highlights)
- “Money shot” in photography (the face-framing glow photographs beautifully)
Popularity Boom (2020-2022)
Pandemic factors accelerated the trend:
- Low maintenance (grow-out wasn’t harsh)
- Zoom-friendly (brightened face on video calls)
- DIY-able (at-home bleach kits for brave souls)
Celebrity Examples
- Beyoncé (2020, blonde money pieces on dark hair)
- Dua Lipa (2021, platinum pieces with black base)
- Hailey Bieber (2022, subtle caramel pieces)
Variations
- Chunky money pieces (2-3 inches wide, bold ’00s throwback)
- Subtle money pieces (barely-there brightening)
- Colored money pieces (pink, purple, blue for edgy looks)
Styling Tips
Money pieces look best:
- Tucked behind ears (shows off contrast)
- With curtain bangs (complements face-framing)
- Toned regularly (purple shampoo prevents brassiness)
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