A High Ponytail For Long Hair: Maximum Impact With Minimal Styling

The high ponytail, one of the signature looks of the nineties, is back. Popping up in pop culture, it has taken over the runways of the world's most famous designers. Let's take a look at this super-graphic must-have style for long hair!

The most minimalist of all XXL hairstyles

The high ponytail might look simple, but don't be fooled. This is not the scruffy version we wore as kids. Today, the high ponytail is slicked back from the brow (even wet-looking) and super smooth behind. It's a chic version of the look that was the nineties pop stars' go-to do. Its appearance on Dior's spring/summer catwalk was proof that is back and in a big way!

The secret of the high ponytail: thick long hair

According to Delphine Courteille, hairstylist at L'Oréal Professionnel, this style requires as much length, as thickness. Otherwise, the contrast between the slicked-down front section and the smooth volume at the back will lack balance. There is good news, though – it's a universal style: 'All hair colours can wear it, and round-shaped faces have nothing to fear from it.'

A minimalistic hairstyle with a lot of variations!

This 'simple and effective' high ponytail has many advantages: you can play around with textures, colours, and even accessories. Want a wet-look effect at the front? Why not! And why not try dip-dye and ombré hair colorations, creating the very on-trend two-tone effect. Of course, you could also experiment with hair jewellery, a popular choice with both today's pop stars and backstage haute-couture hair stylists!

Article originally posted on: http://magazine.au.lorealprofessionnel.com

Sideswept hair: Curtain bangs redux

Remember when curtains bangs à la Brigitte Bardot were top of the trends when it came to hairstyles? If however, like us, you weren't around for the 60s parted-fringe sensation, now's your chance to hop on the bangs bus and try out the retro take on sideswept hair with a chic pair of curtains!

Left, right or bang in the middle?

Ever fuss over whether to style your hair to the left or right, and which is your "good" side? Well, now you can forget all that, as curtain bangs offer a balanced solution – right down the middle. But instead of giving you a rather strict centre part, the subtle curve of the bangs is just as flattering as a side-swept style, without having to pick sides and (we won't tell if you won't) without you even needing real bangs in the first place...

The key to the look? It's all about forward thinking.

How to style curtain bangs

Celebrities like Bardot (and her modern-day counterparts Alexa Chung and Hailey Baldwin) committed to the curtain bangs by getting their hair cut so that the shortest part of the fringe fell right at the center of the face, tapering down in length to form an inverted V shape. But even those who don't want to snip can work the faux curtain version. Here's how:

Step one.

Wash and condition hair with smoothing products to prevent frizz. The offers a variety of smoothing formulae for different hair types and concerns.

Step two.

Dry the front section of hair over your forehead. When half-dry, apply a small amount of from Dual Stylers.

Step three.

Comb the hair into two sections, separate at the centre, then finish drying using the concentrator nozzle on your blowdryer.

Step four.

Tuck the ends of the two sections behind your ears, allowing the lengths to drop slightly to form a curve. Close your eyes and finish with a spritz of , and secure the ends behind your ears with bobby pins if needed.

Now that's a hairstyle truly fit for a curtain call... Applause!

Article originally posted on: http://magazine.au.lorealprofessionnel.com

The bob with a side-swept fringe

Not much effort is needed to change the appearance of your face. A classic bob with a straight fringe compared with one with a side parting and fringe are very different looks. But it's not a one-or-the-other decision: they both come from the same cut!

Swept to one side, a fringed bob brings softness

Contour some softness and curves into your clean-cut fringed bob. For this, the parting should be moved to one side, with the fringe sweeping to the opposite side. This creates the effect of a rounded bob, gracefully and subtly surrounding the face.

Length and body: the all-in-one bob

According to Denis Holbecq, hair stylist ambassador for L'Oréal Professionnel, the side-swept bob is 'the right length to elongate a long face and give it some character, but also to balance out a triangular face'. Clearly no matter what the face shape, this cut brings a sophisticated shape to hair.

The side-swept fringed bob: a relaxed yet posh look!

This cut is a celebrity favourite. Not just for its relaxed yet chic appeal, but also for its easy maintenance. Perfect for today's hustle and bustle when a hair faux-pas is absolutely not on the agenda!

Article originally posted on: http://magazine.au.lorealprofessionnel.com

Finger waves: 3 ways to wear this look

Ready to let your finger wave flag fly? Check out these three 'dos which will help you rock this look!

What are finger waves?

Finger waves are 'S' shaped waves that adorn a lot of retro hairstyles. They originally appeared in the 1920s, but have since re-emerged as a popular way to bring some Va Va Voom to a range of looks, for both short and long hair. The easiest way to achieve them is to comb a curling gel like in damp hair to encourage the natural texture of your locks. Once you've sculpted the hair into the signature S shapes with a comb or thick barrelled curling wand, use a strong hold spray like to lock that look into place.

Flowing Finger Waves

You don't need to have the traditional 1920s flapper bob to be able to rock finger waves. Those with longer locks can now sport this style, by leaving the waves to flow free and elegantly frame the face. Brush your hair through with a loose comb (or your fingers!) before spritzing with hair spray, to make sure the style doesn't look too strict. From here, the waves can easily be lightly pinned back into a half up or full updo, the possibilities are endless! Try experimenting with a centre or side part to change up this look.

Finger Wave Fringe

One large finger wave along your fringe is a fantastic way to showcase this style. Make sure you curl all your hair in the same direction so that when you collect the curls together in one big finger wave, every strand is going the same way. Alternatively, you can use a foam roller with pin curls to set the section you want to get your finger wave on.

Long Luscious Retro Waves

This longer look can be achieved with gel and fingers over the top of your head, finishing with a curling iron along the lengths. The larger the barrel of the curling iron, the larger the waves. Start with creating a deep side part in your hair before incorporating gel through the roots and lengths, and then carefully creating each wave, curling away from your face when you use your iron. Gently rake through the waves to gather them together, and try a wet look spray like to give your style a super shiny and high fashion finish.

If you are stuck for finger wave inspiration, head to your nearest L'Oréal Professionnel salon to let a stylist work their magic!

Article originally posted on: http://magazine.au.lorealprofessionnel.com

How to recreate these preppy wet look finger waves

The 1920s were a decade full of fashion firsts and iconic hairstyles, of which perhaps the most well-known are the slick and shiny finger waves. With retro hairstyles as popular as ever, we take a look at how you can easily recreate the wet look finger waves at home, and give some vintage glamour to your look!

6 steps for wet look finger waves

You will need: shampoo, conditioner, comb, long bobby pins, wet look gel, hairspray.

Step 1. Wash your hair with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner such as those from the Liss Unlimited collection by Serie Expert. After rinsing, comb through your wet hair very gently to remove any tangles and make a centre part. Do not blow-dry.

Step 2. Separate a section of hair (roughly 3-5 cm wide) at the side of your head, by the hairline. Tie up the rest of the hair to keep it out of the way.

Step 2. Take a pea-sized amount of gel (or more if your hair is particularly thick/rebellious) and apply to the separated section. We recommend the . Make sure the gel covers all the section, from root to tip.

Step 3. Comb this section through and hold the ends straight with one hand. With the other, take your comb and position it in the hair, 2-3cm from the roots.

Step 4. Push the comb towards the center part so the hair naturally bends into a deep curve. Replace the comb with a long bobby pin to secure in place. Place the comb another 3cm further down the hair and repeat, with the bend forming in the opposite direction. Secure with another bobby pin.

Step 5. Repeat every 3cm until you reach the ear level, tucking any remaining hair behind your ear. Blow-dry the rest of your hair and tie into a loose messy bun.

Step 6. Once the rest of the hair is dry, carefully remove the bobby pins and use a high-shine hairspray like L'Oréal Professionnel's , a favourite for the catwalk, to secure your finger waves in place.

That's all there is to it. Shiny, wet look finger waves inspired by the 1920s!

Article originally posted on: http://magazine.au.lorealprofessionnel.com

Date Night Hairstyles: 3 Hailey Baldwin Red Carpet Looks

Image courtesy of L'Oréal Professionnel 

Looking for the ultimate date night hair inspo? Take a page out of Hailey Baldwin's red-carpet playbook.

Getting glammed up for an evening out with that special someone is all part of the date night experience. Whether it's for Valentine's Day or another occasion, the goal is to channel a look that's romantic, alluring and just a little sensual. If you're feeling stuck for hairstyle ideas then look no further than our favourite 'It' girl, Hailey Baldwin. The newly named international spokeswoman for L'Oréal Professionnel has proven time and again that she's a master of sexy statement red carpet hairstyles. Take your pick from these date night worthy looks...

Tousled top knot

It's not quite a pony tail and not quite a bun – but it's undeniably gorgeous! This fun and flirty tousled topknot almost looks like a high ponytail due to the loose locks cascading out of the base. Hailey's styling choices are spot on too – she's paired her 'do with a chic ensemble and sophisticated make-up. The best part about this look is its polished yet low-maintenance, making it a versatile look for wherever date night takes you.

Messy ballerina bun

Image courtesy of L'Oréal Professionnel

As far as date worthy hairstyles go, this feminine ballerina bun is a classic. Follow Hailey's lead by incorporating loads of volume at the roots for maximum impact. To make it happen, use a tail comb to tease the front section into a bouffant before fashioning the lengths into a ballerina bun – and don't forget to finish with L'Oréal Professionnel Infinium Hairspray. Also, note how this style shows off Hailey's artfully-placed blonde highlights. Perfection!

Sleek, chic lengths

Image courtesy of L'Oréal Professionnel

Up-do's aren't your only date night option! If you prefer to wear your hair out, then why not dabble with this sleek, wet-look hairstyle. The secret to striking the perfect wet-look finish (without going overboard) comes down to concentrating your product application around the roots. Take a small amount of gel and rub between the palms. Then slick it over the sides of your head above the ears and then use a comb to distribute.

How to get more out of your color

Perfecting your date night hairstyle is about more than just styling – it's also about making the most of your hair colour. To give your current shade a boost, try adding the L'Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil range into your hair care routine. Inspired by the tradition of Indian oil bathing, the Mythic Oil collection leaves your hair thoroughly nourished and super shiny. Take a few moments to truly indulge your locks before you get dressed up for a night on the town!

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Article originally posted on: http://magazine.au.lorealprofessionnel.com