Laid back beach waves are synonymous with summer, but an edgier style has been giving the classic look some competition. It’s the sleek, slicked-back ‘do we've been seeing on “it girls” everywhere, from street-style stars, to supermodels and celebs. It's a bolder look that is just as sexy and summer-worthy as tried and true tousled beach hair. The slicked-back look is ultra-trendy and works for any summer occasion, especially an outdoor event where you want your hair away from the face.
While the edgier look is ideal for summer, there's something about the messy, cool-girl vibe that mermaid waves evoke. The effortless style flatters all face shapes and hair types, and most people can get a few days out of the look. It’s hard to tell which style is ultimately reigning this season, so while you ponder, check out our guide on how to achieve both looks, and then decide for yourself.
The slicked back look is very chic. It portrays sophistication and confidence, and you have to be bold to be able to rock it. Here's how to get the style.
Use a small boar-bristle brush to blow dry your hair up at the roots at the crown of the head to add volume. Blow dry the sides smooth and back. Pin back the sides of your hair using no-crease clips and keep the top volumized. With the pins in place, use a 1” ceramic flat iron to smooth your hair, adding Schwarzkopf essence ULTIME® Omega Repair™ 11-in-1 Leave-In to each section afterward to keep the strands sleek. After all your hair is straight, back-brush your hair at the front hairline and at the crown to create volume. Then smooth the top back with a fine-tooth comb, molding and shaping to create the amount of height you would like. Finish with a strong-hold by using Schwarzkopf styliste ULTIME® Amino-Q Hold™ Hair Spray.
Over the past few years, the tousled beach wave look has proven to be much more than a passing trend. It’s a hairstyle with staying power, possibly on its way to iconic status. The look is seemingly effortless, but unless you are actually on the beach, achieving this style usually takes some effort. Here’s how to get it.
Start by prepping damp hair with Schwarzkopf styliste ULTIME® Crystal Shine & Hold™ Heat Protection Spray. Blow dry your hair using a round brush for a smooth finish. Then use a 1.5” wand or curling iron, and wrap your hair around the barrel in small sections (between 1 and 1.5” pieces). The more space you leave between each section of hair, the looser the wave will be. Alternate sections going away and toward the face to give a tousled look. Once you’ve finished with the curling iron, run your fingers through your hair and shake your head to loosen the waves, giving them a more natural look.
Which look do you think will come out the winner this summer? Stock up on all your favorites from the Schwarzkopf ULTIME line and find out!