Slick shiny strands

From Emma Watson to Jennifer Lopez, Uma Thurman and Jessica Chastain — a number of stars have been giving their mane a sleek makeover. Termed as ‘Shellacked hair’ after high gloss Shellac manicures, this look usually created with plenty of gel and hairspray, and in the form of chignons or ponytails is fast becoming a popular choice. The recent CFDA awards saw both models and actresses with tightly pulled back dos that are ideal to beat the humidity. Actress Rooney Mara is said to be a big fan of the trend and sported a sidecombed faux-fringe and wound the rest of her hair in a tight coil at a film premiere, while Linda Evangelista sported a sleek braid wrapped bun at the CFDA.

Easy to recreate
Najeeb Ur Rehman, PPS Manager,  Schwarzkopf Professional India says this look is hassle-free, elegant and polished. “It’s very easy to achieve, moist your hair completely, apply hair gel on the locks, comb or fingerstyle all your hair back and let it dry naturally. Spray a little bit of shine spray to complete your hairstyle.

If your hair is long, ponytail your hair after applying the styling gel on wet hair.

You can twist the pony and roll it around the base, accessorise with fresh flowers or a hair accessory,” he says. For medium-length locks, he suggests to roll the ponytail inwards to give a neat one roll effect. Women with shorter lengths, can have variations to play around with or without a parting.

Works with all hair types
This look works both for a formal as well as a personal event, says Anisha, Technical Educator — Hair at Enrich Salons and Academy. “It works easily on any hair type. You can create a bun with different partings, can mix it with tight ponytails or braids to add versatility. Always start with clean washed hair that eliminates excess oil which could make it look greasy when it comes to styling.

Further, before applying a gel-base product spread out the product evenly on your hands to minimise heavy clumps,” she adds. It’s essential to apply product on the hair, starting from the nape of the neck to the top of the head, till properly coated to ensure adequate hold throughout the hair.