1. Embrace the 'Lived-In' Look
For years, the goal was hair that looked untouched by the elements: perfect, sleek, and controlled. But on recent Paris runways, from Chanel to Chloé, the opposite was true. Models sported what can only be described as “artfully undone” hair. This isn't
about looking messy; it's about embracing the natural movement and imperfection that makes hair look real and alive. Think soft, ethereal waves that aren't perfectly uniform, a few strategic flyaways that catch the light, or a day-two texture that has more character than freshly washed strands. To get the look, the key is to work with your hair, not against it. Start by using less heat. Instead of a curling iron, try braiding damp hair and letting it air-dry for loose, organic waves. A texturizing spray or salt spray is your best friend here—it adds grip and encourages that piecey separation without stiffness. The goal is to look like you have great hair naturally, not like you spent an hour styling it. It's a quiet confidence that starts at the roots.
2. Go Sculptural with Wet Looks and Gels
On the other end of the texture spectrum is the high-drama, sculptural look. This is where hair becomes a malleable medium, much like clay or metal. We've seen it in the form of the 'glass hair' trend, 'wet-look' styles that appear permanently drenched, and gelled creations that defy gravity. At shows like Schiaparelli or Rick Owens, hair is often less of an accessory and more of an architectural statement. These looks use products to create shapes, sheens, and textures that natural hair can’t achieve on its own. While a full, runway-level wet look might be a lot for a Tuesday morning, the principle is easy to adopt. Try a deep side part with the hair at the crown and sides slicked down tightly with a strong-hold gel or pomade, leaving the lengths free. This creates a powerful, polished contrast. You can also use a high-shine serum or hair oil to slick back just the front pieces, tucking them behind your ears for a sophisticated, 'fresh out of the water' vibe that’s both edgy and elegant.
3. Amplify Natural Curls and Coils
Perhaps the most significant shift on the runway has been the celebration of natural hair in all its glory. Stylists are no longer defaulting to straightening curls and coils backstage. Instead, they are amplifying them. At shows featuring diverse casts, we’re seeing models with their natural textures expertly shaped, hydrated, and celebrated. This isn't about 'taming' frizz; it's about defining patterns, creating beautiful silhouettes, and showcasing the inherent volume and beauty of coily, kinky, and curly hair. This is less a trend and more a long-overdue movement. To channel this at home, focus on hair health and hydration. Use moisturizing, sulfate-free shampoos and deep conditioners. Apply styling products like curl creams and gels to soaking wet hair to lock in moisture and clump curls for maximum definition. A diffuser attachment on your blow-dryer will help dry your hair without disrupting your curl pattern or creating unwanted frizz. The result is hair that is authentically you, just turned up to its most vibrant volume.
4. Master the Art of Contrast
One of the most modern and editorial ways to play with texture is to mix it within a single hairstyle. This is a pro-level move that immediately elevates any look. Think of the classic Valentino runway ponytail: ultra-sleek and slicked-back at the crown, exploding into a full, voluminous, and often textured ponytail at the nape of the neck. The contrast between the severe, controlled top and the free, expressive bottom is what makes the style so visually compelling. This technique is surprisingly versatile. You can try a half-up style where the top section is pulled back tightly and the bottom is left wavy and full. Or, consider weaving a single, sleek braid into an otherwise tousled, wavy look. The key is to make the contrast intentional. Use a strong-hold product for the sleek parts and a texturizing or volumizing product for the looser parts. This juxtaposition shows a deliberate and thoughtful approach to styling, signaling that you understand how to use texture as a dynamic element.
