From the Podium to the Pavement: Get the Alysa Liu “Chunky Stripe” Look at Assort Tokyo
If you were watching the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, you likely caught more than just a gold-medal performance from Team USA’s Alysa Liu. You caught a glimpse of the hair trend currently taking Tokyo (and the world) by storm: Horizontal Chunky Stripes.
At Assort Tokyo, we’ve seen a massive surge in guests asking for this bold, graphic, and unapologetically cool color design. Whether you call it “raccoon tails,” “zebra banding,” or the “Alysa Liu effect,” this look is all about high-contrast precision.
What is the “Chunky Stripe” Design?
Unlike traditional ombré or balayage that aims for a seamless melt, this technique celebrates definition. It involves horizontal sections of alternating colors—usually a natural base paired with a vibrant pop or a high-lift blonde.
As seen in our recent gallery above, we’ve been busy customizing this look for every aesthetic:
The Classic Alysa: Bright striped bands against a dark base.
The Cyber-Punk: Neon pink or deep magenta stripes on jet black.
The Muted Grunge: Soft colors or charcoal grey variations for a hazy, dimensional feel.
Why Choose Assort Tokyo for This Look?
This isn’t a “DIY” project. Achieving perfectly straight, clean horizontal lines requires an expert hand and a deep understanding of hair movement.
Precision Sectioning: If the sections aren’t perfectly mapped out, the stripes will look like accidental “bleed” rather than intentional design. Our stylists use specific blocking techniques to ensure the bands stay crisp even when you move.
Custom Color Science: We tailor the saturation levels so that the bold colors don’t bleed into the lighter ones during the washing process—a common pitfall with high-contrast styles.
Modern Cutting: Notice that many of these looks are paired with hush cuts, wolf cuts, or shags. The internal layers of these cuts allow the stripes to “peak-a-boo” through, creating a dynamic 3D effect.
Ready to Earn Your Style Gold Medal?
The Alysa Liu-inspired stripe is more than a trend; it’s a statement of individuality. Whether you want a subtle two-tone fringe or a full-head transformation, our team is ready to map out your perfect pattern.
Stylist Tip: To keep those stripes looking sharp, we recommend a sulfate-free color-protecting shampoo and cold-water rinses to prevent the darker tones from migrating into the lighter bands!
Want something similar? Consider booking in with one of our talented and creative stylists for a haircut and color service today 
🏅 Book your spot here: https://app2.bireki.jp/p/reserve/11714/assort_tokyo_en
📍Address:
B1F Rihei Building, 2-10-28 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0061