Standing at 5ft 10, the half African-American, half Korean model, Chanel Iman has graced catwalks and covers from all over the world including Vogue, i-D and Elle. Named after the eponymous fashion house, the Victoria’s Secret model began her career at 13 years old before winning the 2006 Ford Supermodel of the World contest. Tai Walker, head of colour at Mahogany Hairdressing, London dissects the look of one of the most prominent black models.
The look:
Moving away from a block, black tone, this graduated colour style really livens up Chanel’s hair and gives it a modern feel. It’s a great choice for first time colour too – a minimal change for a brilliant effect. The subtly lighter toned ends make her natural colour look intensely rich and healthy too.
The palette:
Chanel’s colour palette is antique copper gold merged into a naturally cool, dark espresso brown. There has been quite a lot of lift at the tips – and at Mahogany we would use Schwarzkopf Essensity colour to achieve a similar permanent result. It’s especially good for lifting on darker base shades and also kind to hair, thanks to organic essences.
The technique:
The balayage technique is still going strong here – where highlights are painted on by hand in a sweeping motion for a more strategic colour placement and a more natural grown-out effect. To achieve the highlights on the longer lengths, panels of colour can also be placed internally with veils of the natural base being left to fall over the coloured areas.
Alternative:
The technique is great, but I think the colour could be richer and more daring. The hair has been too heavily straightened and would look more elegant styled in accordance with Chanel’s hair texture. Some sexy waves would show off the unusual colour and make it look more natural.
