Here’s the Exact Formula Colorist Jacob Schwartz Used to Create Charli XCX’s ‘Brat Black’ Hair Color for the 2025 Grammys

02/03/2025

In true Brat fashion, Charli XCX made quite a big splash at the 2025 Grammys red carpet. Not only did she serve one of the most dramatic fashion looks of the night with her grey ruffled Jean Paul Gaultier gown, but she also had us majorly swooning over her deep, inky locks too.

This year’s Grammy Awards marked a big night for the British pop star. In addition to being nominated for a total of seven Grammys for her hit album Brat, — three of which she snagged in the Best Dance Electronic, Best Pop Dance Recording, and Best Recording Package categories — she also gave a highly anticipated performance of “Von Dutch” and “Guess” on-stage.

Naturally, being both a performer and nominee last night, the singer needed a dazzling look for her major moment—and boy did her glam team deliver. Celebrity hairstylist Bryce Scarlett styled gorgeous middle-parted ringlet curls that served full gothic glamour. 

As for her striking dark hair color? Schwarzkopf Professional’s U.S. Hair Color Trend Ambassador Jacob Schwartz expertly crafted her custom shade of “Brat black” using Schwarzkopf Professional’s IGORA VIBRANCE Demi-Permanent Color Line. As the line provides exceptional coverage, depth, and high-impact shine, Schwartz was able to deliver a rich, multidimensional deep brown meets black for the singer that had a healthy, glossy finish.

Image credit: GETTY Images

If you’re curious about how Schwartz created Charli XCX’s rich, glossy black, you’re in luck. Ahead, he shares the exact formula that he used to create her look.

Formula Breakdown:

  • Roots: 20g 1-0 + 20g 4-13 with 13Vol Lotion Activator
  • Ends: 3-0 with 6Vol Gel Activator
  • Processing Time: 20 minutes

If you recreate this look for your clients, or for yourself, be sure to tag @readthetease on Instagram or TikTok.

Sign up for your weekly dose of beauty and brains.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Camille Nzengung

Camille Nzengung is a Features Editor at The Tease, where she covers all things hair. You can find her writing about the best hair products, the coolest hair trends, and all the exciting new hair launches. Send her a pitch: cnzengung@thetease.com.

More from Camille Nzengung

Instagram

We’re a tease, but we always deliver.

Sign up for your weekly dose of beauty and brains.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.