Let’s face it – the past year (or two) kind of put a lot of things on the backburner. Summer holidays, parties, and, (sigh), even Christmas – it’s fair to say our social lives have taken a bit of a hit. All that has meant one thing for sure – getting glammed up has decidedly not been top of our to-do list. And, whilst we’ve loved the makeup-free life, the putting off of hair washing for yet another day, and the endless rotation of comfy clothes – it’s time for a change.
Yep – we’re calling it: glam is back. And this time, we’re going all out (for Christmas, at least – January is still up for debate). We’re talking festive manis, killer makeup looks, and of course – the obligatory pre-Christmas blow dry. Really, is there anything better than the salon-fresh-feeling of a perfect blow dry, and the seemingly impossible effortless-yet-put-together look it manages to achieve? We think not. Plus, of course – who doesn’t love the in-salon hair-wash-head-massage combo (that’s your pre-Christmas de-stressing sorted, too).
We’ve put together a list of our fave blow dry styles that we’ll definitely be asking our hairdressers for soon. So, if you’re ready to get back to glam and you need a little inspo: we’ve got you covered.
By Beth Ryan
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1 The Hollywood blow dryThis is definitely a style for when you want something majorly glam (it involves a *lot* of hairspray and styling so isn’t ideal for your every-day chilling or WFH). Inspired by the Hollywood starlets of the 1920s and 60s – this style is achieved using a hairdryer (duh) for lots of volume, and curling tongs to achieve sleek waves. It’s worn with a side-parting for that classic red carpet look.
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2 Sleek & straightIf you’re not a fan of curls, a super straight blow-dry is the perfect alternative. It’s super chic and screams *fashion* (model-esque sleek hair is definitely having a moment right now) – plus, it’s low-maintenance and is one of the longest lasting styles. Any parting will work – but a centre-part is very 2021.
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3 Natural curlsA blow-dry can create a whole new style, but it can also enhance your natural hair. If you hair is naturally curly, this style will add definition and shine. Your stylist will use a diffuser attachment and curl-specific products to create perfect natural curls. If your hair is on the straighter or wavier side, you can also ask for tongs to be used to recreate a similar look (Shakira – is that you?)
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4 Soft curlsOpt for these soft waves when you want that aforementioned ‘effortlessly-put-together’ look – as they add sleekness and style without looking too done-up. Perf for Christmas day or that pub night out that you totally didn’t spend ages getting ready for. On longer hair, ask for volume at the roots and some soft curls through the mid-lengths and ends. On shorter hair, opt for a curl from the root to create a modern-day Marilyn style.
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5 Mermaid wavesIf you a) spent the year scrolling through TikTok, or b) watched love island this year – you’ll have likely come across this style already. Mermaid waves are created using either a specialised mermaid-waver tool or a standard straightener – and the result is a sleek look with lots of movement (kind of like a grown-up version of the classic beach wave). We can definitely see what the hype is about.
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6 The un-done blow dryThe messy, un-done blow dry is perfect for more of a natural, edgier look. With this style, texture makes all the difference, so your stylist might add some product to reach the desired result. They’ll add a tonne of volume with the hairdryer, and may use tongs to create a tousled yet natural look. It’s basically an upgrade on the bed hair we’ve all been rocking this year, which seems appropriate, really.
With Treatwell, you can book hair online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
What types of blow dry styles can you choose for a glam look?
You can choose from Hollywood blow dry, sleek & straight, natural curls, soft curls, mermaid waves, and the un-done blow dry. Each offers a different finish, from majorly glam waves to effortless, tousled volume, so you can match your style to any occasion.
How do you get a Hollywood blow dry look for your hair?
A Hollywood blow dry is achieved using a hairdryer for volume and curling tongs for sleek waves, finished with a side-parting. This style is inspired by Hollywood starlets and requires a lot of hairspray and styling for a classic red carpet effect.
Can a blow dry enhance your natural curls?
Yes, a blow dry can add definition and shine to natural curls with a diffuser and curl-specific products. If you have straighter hair, your stylist can use tongs to create a similar curly look for added volume and movement.
What makes the ‘un-done’ blow dry different from other styles?
The un-done blow dry focuses on creating natural volume and texture for an edgier, lived-in look. Your stylist will use product and possibly tongs to achieve a tousled effect, making it an upgrade on relaxed, ‘bed hair’ styles while still looking polished.
How can you book a blow dry appointment easily?
You can book a blow dry online at your favorite salons through Treatwell, enjoying a simple and hassle-free experience. This allows you to discover amazing salons in your area and book appointments on the go.
