Quick question: how are you styling your hair these days? At the moment, my nine-month-old baby Emiliano is going through the “grab and yank everything” phase, so I’ve been scouting for styles that keep my hair safely tucked away.
Over the past year, I’ve been partial to claw clips (channeling my inner Rachel Green? Absolutely.) However, recently, I’ve been spotting women with sleek buns and romantic twists, with an elegant French pin peeking out from the top. Here are a few examples:
A snug twist, ideal for dinner dates.
A neat bun for casual days at home or entertaining friends with snacks.
This relaxed, tousled twist with loose ends reminds me of Julie Delpy in Before Sunrise.
Feeling inspired, I attempted a twist. My hair was on day two of a salon blowout, so I wasn’t shocked when every strand held its place. If you’re aiming for a sleek twist as well, blow dry and smooth out any waves with a straightener before wrapping it up. (If you twist air-dried hair with layers, some may escape, resulting in a lovely tousled finish.) Here are tutorials for long and short hair.
Next, I experimented with a top knot. I realized that to keep it secure, you should insert the pin into the section of the bun that is above the bun tail, then weave the pin beneath the tail and directly into the bun. This method secures your hair effectively. I really like this TikTok video, which provides detailed instructions.
Lastly, allow the pin to show. Part of its allure is having that lovely pin visible at the top, wouldn’t you agree? I’ve been enjoying the grip of this one from Target, and I’m also eyeing this stylish tortoise pin.
What are your thoughts? Would you wear a French pin (or have you)? I plan to sport these easy updos throughout the fall.
P.S. Three tips for parting your hair along with insightful advice on beauty.
(Photo by Deborah Pagani.)
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**Explore This Effortless and Stylish New Hair Trend | Cup of Jo**
In the constantly changing landscape of fashion and beauty, hair trends cycle in and out, yet occasionally, a fresh look arises that is both effortlessly stylish and universally appealing. Introducing the latest hair trend that’s been making a splash through social media, salons, and fashion blogs alike: the “Soft Shag.” This contemporary interpretation of a classic cut is straightforward, fashionable, and ideal for anyone wanting to revitalize their look without making any drastic changes. Let’s explore why this trend is becoming popular and how you can personalize it.
### What is the Soft Shag?
The Soft Shag represents a modern twist on the classic shag haircut that initially rose to fame in the 1970s. While the original shag was recognized for its daring, choppy layers and rock-and-roll essence (think Joan Jett or Mick Jagger), the Soft Shag is a more polished, wearable variant. It showcases gentle layers, soft texture, and a relaxed, lived-in vibe that aligns with the natural flow of your hair. The outcome? A style that is both edgy and elegant, featuring a hint of effortless cool.
### Why is the Soft Shag So In Demand?
1. **Minimal Upkeep**: One of the primary attractions of the Soft Shag is its appealing low-maintenance nature. In contrast to more structured cuts requiring frequent trims and styling, the Soft Shag embraces a touch of messiness and imperfection. The layers are designed to grow out beautifully, allowing you to extend the time between salon visits without compromising on style.
2. **Adaptability**: The Soft Shag is suitable for a variety of hair types and lengths, making it a versatile choice for almost anyone. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, this cut can be customized to fit your texture. It also harmonizes well with both short and long hair, offering flexibility to match your personal style.
3. **Movement and Texture**: The layers in the Soft Shag introduce movement and dimension to the hair, making it an excellent option for those with fine or flat hair. The layers create depth and lift, giving the illusion of thicker, more voluminous locks. Conversely, if your hair is thick, the layers can help to alleviate bulk, making your hair feel lighter and easier to manage.
4. **Carefree Styling**: One of the standout features of the Soft Shag is how straightforward it is to style. You won’t need to dedicate hours battling a blow dryer or straightener to achieve the desired look. In fact, the charm of this cut lies in its unrefined, tousled aesthetic. A spritz of texturizing spray or sea salt spray is all you need to accentuate the natural waves and achieve that sought-after “I just rolled out of bed” look.
### How to Style the Soft Shag
Styling the Soft Shag involves embracing your hair’s inherent texture and simplicity. Here are several suggestions to help you nail the look:
1. **Air Dry or Diffuse**: To boost your hair’s natural movement, let it air dry or use a diffuser on your blow dryer. This technique will help create gentle waves and minimize frizz.
2. **Texturizing Sprays**: A quality texturizing spray or sea salt spray will be an invaluable ally when styling the Soft Shag. These products add grip and definition to your layers, lending your hair that piece-y, tousled finish. Just spritz the product onto damp or dry hair and scrunch with your fingers for added texture.
3. **Welcome Flaws**: The Soft Shag is all about projecting a laid-back vibe, so don’t fret over achieving a perfectly sleek finish. Actually, the more unrefined and natural your hair appears, the better. If a few flyaways or messy strands happen to show up, embrace them!
4. **Optional Bangs**: Many individuals are choosing to pair their Soft Shag with curtain bangs or wispy fringes for an extra flair. Curtain bangs, which frame the face and blend seamlessly into the layers, provide a lovely way to soften the overall appearance while adding a bit of retro style.
### Who Can Embrace the Soft Shag?
The strength of the Soft Shag is its remarkable adaptability, making it fit for various face shapes and hair types. Here’s how you can modify the cut to flatter your distinct features:
– **Round Faces**: If your face is round, request longer layers that fall below the chin from your stylist. This technique will help elongate your face for a more balanced look.
– **Square Faces**: Soft, feathery layers and curtain bangs can help soften the angles of a square face, giving you a more feminine and delicate appearance.
– **Heart-Shaped Faces**: For heart-shaped faces, choose layers that start around
