The present invention provides a modular bumper shell comprising an attachment member adapted for attachment to an energy-absorbing vehicle bumper substructure, and at least one outer member affixed to and at least partially covering the attachment member. The outer member is at least partially visible to an observer following vehicle assembly. The present invention also provides a method of assembling a modular bumper shell by providing an attachment member adapted for attachment to an energy-absorbing vehicle bumper substructure, providing at least one outer member, and attaching the outer member to the attachment member. The present invention further provides a method of changing the appearance of a vehicle bumper by providing a modular bumper shell including at least one outer member attached to an attachment member, and then replacing the outer member with a modified outer member.