Credit: Instagram/dior
Every Valentine’s Day, we seem to focus on what outfit and makeup we’ll be wearing. And by the time we get to thinking about our hair, we’re out of time – and ideas. So we end up with our usual everyday wash-and-go.
This year, we’ve got you covered.
And we know that since no one wants to spend hours perfecting every curl or wave, we’ve found these easy hairstyles you can pull off, regardless of hair length and texture. Even better, none of these styles are so over-the-top that you can’t wear them to work or any day after V-Day too.
Sleek and skinny
While schoolgirl plaits can be a little too Little House on the Prairie, it’s still a wearable look even for Valentine’s Day, especially if you’re spending the day outdoors.
Instead of perfectly done, sleek and skinny plaits, give them a modern update by keeping them looking more natural and even a little haphazardly done. And of course, if you’re heading outdoor, don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat to complete the look.
But if full braids aren’t your thing, there are other ways to wear the trend. Braids can look ethereal and goddess-like, like what the models wore at the recent Dior Haute Couture Spring 2020 show. Add a braid across the crown while keeping the rest of your hair loose. It’s a date-worthy look that’s feminine and romantic.
Alternatively, try two braids hidden in your hair. To achieve this, give hair some beach-y waves and braid two skinny sections a few inches away from the face or along the sides at the front to frame your face like a picture.
It detangles, nourishes and protects hair from heat-styling tools. Plus, it adds some texture to hair, to provide better grip when braiding it.
This texturising spray gives hair that “lived-in”, slightly unwashed look without you having to skip a shampoo. Ideal for ponytails, up-dos and braids. Also contains coconut oil and sunflower extract to nourish hair.
Available at Sephora and www.sephora.sg
A blend of oils – mafura, jojoba, sweet almond, rose hip and argan – gives hair extra moisture and nutrients, preventing dryness and frizz. Spritz over braids to protect hair and lock in hydration.
Available at Sephora and www.sephora.sg
When it comes to adding volume to hair, giving it added texture is always welcome. And when it comes to waves, it’s bygone eras that inspire the trend.
Hollywood Glam
Old Hollywood glamour ruled with retro-chic sculpted waves, from the Golden Globes to the SAG awards and the recent Oscars. Instead of crisp sharp waves, create softer waves with a flat iron. Finish by setting the look with a light misting of hairspray so the style lasts through the night.
Need more inspiration? Just look at these Hollywood celebs – Margot Robbie, Michelle Williams and Priyanka Chopra.
If you’re looking for something with a little more texture, take your cue from the fashion runways. Shaggy, Woodstock-like waves are a great look for those with long, straight hair.
Make the curling iron your best friend or do a whole bunch of braids in the morning, then untie and run your fingers through to achieve tousled waves for date night.
Easily adds texture and volume to hair. And it’s also oil-free, so it won’t leave hair feeling greasy or heavy. Spritz onto hair ends for an extra tousled effect.
Available at Shiseido Professional salons – Hair Atelier by Shunji Matsuo at #04-04 Ion Orchard; Cosmo Hair & Beauty Salon at #03-120 Great World City; Hair Inn at #03-33 Nex. For a full list of stockists, visit https://www.shiseido-professional.com/en/salon-locator
Define curls and achieve soft waves with this – your bestie when it comes to getting that Hollywood glam look.
Available at Kim Robinson at #02-12 Ngee Ann City; NK Hairworks at #B2-56 Nex; Hair Mechanics at #02-12 Plaza Singapura; Formula Cut at #05-86 Far East Plaza; and all authorised L’Oreal Professionnel salons.
Containing three different waxes – lanolin, carnuba and yerba mate – this flexible paste conditions and nourishes hair while adding volume and shine. You can easily work it into your hair, giving it a bit of texture to create different styles.
Available at Plink Studio at #05-15 Far East Plaza; Hera Hair Beauty at #03-08A Tanglin Mall; and Hair Atelier by Shunji Matsuo at #04-04 Ion Orchard. For a full list of stockists, visit https://kevinmurphy.com.au/salon-locator/
This is the easiest way to add glamour to your ‘do. While not all of us can be Charlize Theron and have a US$15,500 diamond bracelet as a hair accessory (though we applaud her hairstylist for his wit in using the bracelet to hide Theron’s growing-in roots), there are still other ways to add a little sparkle and shine to your hair.
From pearls and crystals to bows, scarves and even fresh flowers, anything can be a hair accessory. And there is no one medium – you can opt for hair slides, pins, clips or simply just stick loose gem pieces onto loose waves, braids, ponytails or buns. The options are endless. And if you’re in a hurry? Just slip on an embellished hairband and you’re good to go!
Worn above your ponytail band or to hold hair back at the sides, this adds a dash of glamour to your ‘do. Our fave way? Sweep and part hair to the side, and secure with this bling clip.
Available at Chanel boutiques.
The delicate double row of golden flowers and berries gives your hair an ethereal look. Pair with soft waves to complete.
Available at Net-A-Porter.
Dress up your ‘do with these hair slides. Worn with tousled waves or even a loose up-do, the clusters of freshwater pearls lend a touch of elegance.
Available at Net-A-Porter.
