It could be a result of the wild, gusty hurls of wind of late, or maybe the pouring rain has ruined one too many perfect blow dries. Who knows? But it’s certainly safe to say we’re feeling very affectionate towards this season’s go-to ‘do: slick on top, tightly secured at the back.
The style
A runway favourite, this slick, tight hairstyle oozes a French vibe. The hair is glossy, tightly secured and oh-so-sleek. But it’s not just a one trick pony-style. Mix things up and take your pick when it comes to placing your part on the side or in the centre, just make sure it’s straight and sharp. A center-part will add a touch of edginess to the style, while a deep-side part will impart a feminine finish on this somewhat dramatic ‘do.
The tools
A good, strong-hold hairspray is enough to ensure straight, fine hair stays smooth and sleek – just spray some onto a clean blush brush (truly!) and run it over your hair from the top of your hair to ear level and watch your flyaways disappear.
bh recommends: ELEVEN Australia Give Me Hold Flexible Hairspray, VO5 Humidity Resistant Extra Hold Hairspray, Taft Styling Hairspray Strong Hold, Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray, TIGI BedHead Flexi Head Strong Hold Hairspray
Curly, unruly or thick hair will need a little more attention, starting with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner to really tame the cuticle. When it comes to styling, apply a straighten balm and frizz-fighting serum before blow-drying smooth. A teeny tiny bit of shine-inducing gel on dry hair will also allow for a truly steek, frizz-free finish.
bh recommends: TRESemme Keratin Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner, A’kin by Al’chemy Rice Aminos & Wheat Protein Intensive Moisture Shampoo and A’kin By A’lchemy Avocado and Calendula Re-Moisturising Conditioner
The celebrity adopters
It’s not just Hollywood’s A-listers donning this sharp ‘do – some of the runways most famous faces are adopting this hair trend, too. And while Adriana Lima, Erin Wasson, Dakota Fanning and Rooney Mara all appear to bat for Team Center-Part, the divine Emma Watson and model Izabel Goulart are certainly doing their ladylike best to lure you over to Team Side-Part.
Don’t know which team you’d like to join? Or maybe you’re not yet convinced this style is actually a divine winter ‘do? Check out our gallery below for some sleek, pulled-back hair-spiration…
Rooney Mara
Rooney is doing more than simply following a hair trend – she’s allowed her stunning make-up and detailed frock to take centre-stage by wisely opting for this slicked back ‘do.
Adriana Lima
High necklines usually call for an updo, and this tight, sleek centre-parted hairstyle gives the Victoria’s Secret model’s rather demure dress an edgy touch.
Izabel Goulart
How does one add a touch of femininity to a sharp black suit? With a deep side-part, bold brows and a sexy smoky eye, of course.
Erin Wasson
Flowing locks would’ve stolen all the attention away from Ms Wasson’s geometric frock, so we’re stoked she smartly opted for a slick style at this red carpet event.
Emma Watson
This plunging black frock and sleek ‘do could’ve created a rather cold finish, but the lipstick, defined brows and fluttery lashes keep Emma looking wonderfully feminine.
Hilary Rhoda
Keeping the attention on her black and white neckline, those sunflower-like earrings and bold lips, this slick, tightly pulled-back style complements Hilary’s outfit perfectly.
Jourdan Dunn
This model definitely knows how to play the sexy game. By partnering her sheer outfit with a sleek, simple ‘do, she keeps her whole look rather classy, without a touch of trashiness.
Vanessa Hudgens
Vanessa perfectly contrasts her soft, pink palette makeup with a polished and sleek bun. To keep the look girly she opts for a nude lip which also makes the slick bun more feminine.
Dakota Fanning
Actress Dakota Fanning lets her lips do the talking. Her bold red lip is teamed perfectly with this middle part sleek, low bun. The perfect hair and makeup pairing for a glam red carpet look!
Rosie Huntington-Whitely
Supermodel and beauty lover Rosie Huntington-Whitely’s sleek, low bun is an ethereal dream. We will defnitely be adding this one to our bridal Pinterest boards.