With the tenets of the minimalist aesthetic heralding a look that is all about the power of simple yet striking pieces, the emerging AW beauty trend is for hair that injects high-drama femininity into androgynous looks.
Whether the overall look errs on the ethereal or more clean-cut and austere, AW11/12 minimalism is all about length – in the clothes and in the hair. Adding an almost fairytale quality to the AW runways, the possibilities for hairstyles quite literally knew no limits. At 3.1 Phillip Lim, glossy, mermaid-like locks cascaded to the waist, and as was also the case at Rag & Bone, the natural hair of the models was enhanced by temporary extensions.
With hair of such an exaggerated length, shape and body are hugely important. On the runway, two key looks that experimented with structure emerged as an alternative to blunt, straight cuts that could look lank and flyaway. Voluminous, undone plaits and ponytails showcased a laid-back approach to wearing these long styles off the face, whilst waves varied from uniform barrel curls to zig-zag crimp effects when worn loose. At Rag & Bone AW11, plaits were the go-to style. Varying from chunky, plaited ponies to loose pigtails, both versions of this braided look started below the nape of the neck with wisps of hair falling forwards to give a soft, romantic edge. For a look that is perfect for the evening, a single fish-tail plait works best with longer hair. The key is to keep things looking effortless and natural – taking sections of hair in varying widths and pulling a few strands free from the braid prevents plaits from looking too ‘salon perfect’.
For hair worn loose, the emphasis again is on a natural, low- maintenance approach. At 3.1 Phillip Lim AW11, super long tresses were worn in a soft, kinked wave to create movement and stop hair from appearing weighed down. To achieve this look without heated styling tools, plaiting the hair loosely and applying a light fixing spray will give hair a natural wave. Once the braid is undone, run fingers through to separate and apply a shine spray to re-create the high gloss finish seen at Chloe. For a more matte, daytime style, look no further than the hair seen at Alexander Wang this AW. In true homage to the ‘just got out of bed’ aesthetic, tousled hair was nonchalantly looped through an off-centre band and teased free at the roots to give lift and body.
But what if you’re not naturally blessed with a Rapunzel-esque head of hair? As someone with over-processed locks that break off faster than they grow, I know that no matter how low-maintenance the style, long hair doesn’t always come easily. However, faking it like the catwalk stylists is no longer as expensive – or as obvious – as it once was. Hair extensions in the form of clip-in hairpieces and ponytails are a commitment free and financially painless way of getting thicker, longer hair that, crucially, looks natural. Hershesons ponytails come in at 26 inches, with a clip and drawstring fastening that’s easy to use and blend in with your natural hair. The plaited pony is ideal for re-creating the AW runway braids, and takes the hassle out of perfecting a loose yet long-lasting chunky plait. Extensions in the more traditional form are the best answer to getting lengths that rival those seen at 3.1 Phillip Lim, with clip in hairpieces allowing for a swift change (and an extra few inches) from day to night.
Whether you can master flowing waves and swishing ponies au natural, or with a little help from add-ins, this look is not one for the wallflowers. Hair is making a statement this season, but say it with the style – keep colour natural, make-up minimal and use styling products sparingly.
