Spring summer 2011 styling trends: polished princess
Published
13th May 2011
by rachael
Glossy, glimmering locks are always in demand with groomed girls who want a polished look from head-to-toe.
Preened pin-ups including the Duchess of Cambridge, Demi Moore and Courteney Cox all wear this style well and inspire natural beauties who demand diamond-shine.
"A shiny finish is all about understated glamour," says Kerry Mather, KJM Salons, Fleet. "It's all about looking effortless, natural and full of vitality. To achieve this look, refrain from using too much product on the hair when drying - a light serum or a shine spray will suffice."
It's no coincidence that hair oils are this season's must-have product; the hydrating hair elixirs not only impart instant shine, but also work to heal and repair hair for a lasting, natural luminosity.
Sasha Habbal, Colour Lounge, Hull, explains: "Shiny hair is always a desirable look as we associate it with hair in prime healthy condition. As we approach summer, clients all want that high gloss finish. Preparation is key - I'm a huge fan of hair oils that not only leave hair super shiny but in great condition. Apply a small amount to damp hair and blow dry smooth with a paddle brush."
In stark contrast to natural styles, this season also saw shine receive a sexy modern twist as the wet-look developed in to a heavily lacquered finish, dripping with product.
The finish appeared at shows including Prada, Versace and Gucci with hot hairstyles such as heavily styled Marcel-waves lubricated with glossy gel and vinyl-finish sleek buns. Coated in layers of product, these cutting edge looks have a distinctly decadent 1920s flapper-girl feel.
Guido Paulo created the look at several shows and explains: "Think mannequin-like hair with a lacquered finish, almost as if it's painted on."
Product picks
- Mist on lightweight shine with L'Oréal Professionnel tecni.art Gloss Control (£9.10,0845 6000 122).
- Kérastase Elixir Ultime (£33.50, 0845 600 0515) adds instant shine to even coarse locks.
- Containing real silk amino acid, Joico Silk Result Shine Serum (£13.95, 0845 071 2326) leaves hair manageable and glossy.
- Give coloured hair long-lasting intensive shine with Goldwell Diamond Gloss (£8.80, 01323 432100).
- The Diva Professional Feel the Heat White Hot straightener (£71.48, 0870 850 1317) features titanium floating plates for an ultra-smooth, high-shine finish.
- Restore dry and damaged hair using Kitoko Oil Treatment (£12.47, 01794 527 111) from Affinage.
- Dry and style with the 700W BaByliss Pro Ionic Thermal Brush (£20, 0870 5133191). The ionic feature ensures hair is left smooth and shiny as well as packed with body.
- Add radiant shine to wet or dry hair with Balmain Hair Shine Spray (£8.10, 0800 781 0936).
- Get this season's must-have lacquered look by overloading Organic Colour Systems Spray Gel (£8.95, 01590 613 490) on to wet hair.
- Groom guys or give girls a glossy gamine finish with American Crew Grooming Cream (£13.34, 01282 613413).
