This luminous Suede Blonde by salon owner, educator and Wella Professionals Top Artist Nikki Clifford (@nikkiclifford_hair) is a masterclass in tonal restraint and shine. Built on a softly diffused balayage foundation, the look balances clean brightness through the mids and ends with a muted, mocha-toned root shadow for depth, longevity and a seamless grow-out.
Using Wella Professionals BlondorPlex for controlled lift and Wella Professionals Color Touch for both the root shadow and toning, Nikki kept the blonde reflective and refined without pushing it too bright or too cool. Scroll for the exact formulas and steps.
The Formulas
- Formula A (lightener)
- Wella Professionals BlondorPlex Multi Blonde Dust-Free Powder Lightener + developer
- Formula B (root shadow)
- Wella Professionals Color Touch 7/97 Medium Blonde/Cendre Brown + developer
- Formula C (toner)
- Color Touch 9/97 Very Light Blonde/Cendre Brown + developer
Steps
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Begin with a balayage application using Formula A, lifting select sections to create soft, even brightness through the mids and ends while maintaining a diffused blend at the root.
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Rinse, towel-dry and apply Formula B at the root area to establish a mocha-toned shadow. Melt slightly into the lighter sections to maintain a seamless transition without visible demarcation.
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Apply Formula C through the mids and ends to refine tone, soften warmth and enhance shine, keeping the blonde luminous and suede-like rather than overly bright.
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Rinse, condition and style as desired to showcase the reflective finish and tonal depth.
