The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has become synonymous with elegance—not just in her fashion choices, but also through her iconic hairstyle. Ever since she publicly stepped into the spotlight beside Prince William in 2010 to announce their engagement, Kate’s luscious brunette locks have captured the attention and admiration of people around the world. Her distinct style, marked by its fullness and soft curls, has established her as a figure of hair envy, inspiring countless individuals to seek out similar looks.
The hairstyle that initially launched Kate into the fashion zeitgeist is known as the ‘Chelsea blowdry,’ a creation of hair stylist Richard Ward. This styling method was pivotal in ushering ‘big hair’ back into fashion after a period of more subdued styles. The technique particularly focuses on the use of various brushes to achieve that coveted volume. Today, hair trends continue to evolve, with the ‘Dallas’ blowdry taking center stage, particularly among younger audiences. This new approach to voluminous hair, prominently seen on platforms like TikTok, showcases a modern interpretation that appeals to today’s generation.
Insights from Experts: A Styling Breakdown
To delve deeper into the current popularity surrounding these hairstyling techniques, we consulted Michael Gray, the creative stylist at John Frieda. He describes the Dallas blowdry as an intricate process where sections of hair are taken as large as the round brush itself. This technique emphasizes blow-drying hair upwards to maximize volume and fluidity. The method of wrapping and pinning sections allows the hair to cool before being brushed through ensures that the bouncy waves maintain their shape.
Kate has a knack for mastering this technique, often employing a heavy side part to enhance the illusion of volume. Additionally, her tendency to tuck her hair behind her ears not only accentuates her facial features but also adds a polished finish that complements her dresses beautifully. This blend of effortless style and understated elegance illustrates how accessible yet sophisticated a good blowdry can be.
Kate’s contribution to hairstyling isn’t limited to everyday looks; her wedding hairstyle also stands out as a moment of inspiration for many brides. The ‘demi-chignon’ she wore, styled by Richard Ward to accentuate her Alexander McQueen wedding gown, captivated audiences and set trends for bridal hair around the globe. Richard describes her as relatable and down-to-earth, much like any bride envisioning their special day.
In sum, the Princess of Wales has solidified her status as a style icon—not merely through her choice of clothing but also with her enchanting hairstyles. As trends ebb and flow with time, Kate’s versatile and timeless hair looks continue to inspire new generations. Whether it’s a chic blowdry for a charity event or a regal updo for her wedding, the techniques behind her hairstyles serve as a guiding light for those in search of elegance and refinement in their own hair care routines.