How to Style Shoulder Length Hair
Shoulder length hair is a versatile and flattering length that can be styled in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking for a casual everyday look, something more formal, or even a romantic hairstyle for a special occasion, shoulder length hair provides ample opportunity for creativity. Here are some styling tips and ideas to help you make the most of your shoulder length locks.
1. The Basic Blowout
For a sleek and smooth look, start with a basic blowout. After shampooing and conditioning your hair, apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage from the blow dryer. Rough dry your hair until it's about 80% dry, then use a round brush and blow dryer on medium heat to smooth and style your hair. Direct the airflow down the shaft of the hair to minimize frizz and create a sleek finish. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to lock in the style.
Styling Products for Shoulder Length Hair
When styling shoulder length hair, it's important to have the right products on hand. Look for volumizing mousses, smoothing creams, and texturizing sprays to add body and control to your hair. A good quality hairspray is also essential for locking in your style and providing all-day hold.
2. Beachy Waves
For a more casual, effortless look, try creating beachy waves. Start by spraying your hair with a saltwater-infused texturizing spray or wave spray. Scrunch your hair gently to encourage wave formation, then let it air dry or use a diffuser on your blow dryer to speed up the process. Once your hair is dry, you can use your fingers to separate the waves and give them more definition. Finish with a light hairspray to hold the waves in place.
Tools for Creating Beachy Waves
To achieve perfect beachy waves, consider investing in a few key tools. A diffuser attachment for your blow dryer can help distribute the air evenly and create a more natural wave pattern. Wave clips or hair curlers can also be used to shape and set your waves while they dry.
3. Elegant Updo
For a more formal occasion, an elegant updo is a great choice. Start by smoothing your hair with a brush or comb, then gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail into a bun shape and secure it with bobby pins or a hair elastic. You can also leave a few tendrils loose around your face for a softer look. Finish with a strong hold hairspray to keep your updo in place all night long.
Dress up your elegant updo with some sparkling hair accessories. A pretty hair comb or barrette can add a touch of glamour to your look, while a sleek hairband can help keep any loose hairs in place.
4. Half-Up, Half-Down
For a cute and casual look that's perfect for everyday wear, try a half-up, half-down hairstyle. Start by sectioning off the top layer of your hair and securing it with a small elastic band or clip. Leave the rest of your hair down and style it as desired. You can curl the loose hair for a romantic look or leave it straight for a more minimal style. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep everything in place.
Experiment with different variations of the half-up, half-down look by changing the position of the top section or adding accessories like headbands or barrettes. You can also try braiding or twisting the top section for a more unique take on this versatile hairstyle.
5. Side Braid
A side braid is a charming and romantic hairstyle that's perfect for shoulder length hair. Start by brushing your hair to one side and dividing it into three sections. Begin braiding from the top of your head, incorporating new sections of hair as you work your way down. Secure the end of the braid with an elastic band and gently tug at the edges to loosen and soften the look. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep your braid in place all day long.
Braiding Tips for Shoulder Length Hair
To create a perfect side braid, make sure your hair is smooth and tangle-free before you start. Use a detangling brush or comb to remove any knots or snarls that might hinder the braiding process. It's also helpful to spray your hair lightly with water or use a smoothing cream to tame flyaways and frizz, ensuring a neater braid.
When braiding shoulder length hair, it's essential to keep the sections even and not too thick, as this can make the braid bulky and difficult to manage. Start with smaller sections at the beginning of your braid and gradually incorporate more hair as you work your way down. This will give your braid a more gradual and natural appearance.
To add volume and texture to your braid, gently pull and tug at the edges of each section as you braid. This will create a looser, more romantic look that's perfect for casual occasions. For a more polished and sleek braid, use a flat iron or smoothing iron to straighten your hair before braiding.
If you find it challenging to keep your braid neat and tidy, consider using bobby pins or small clips to secure any loose strands or sections that might be sticking out. You can also use a small amount of hairspray or pomade to smooth down any flyaways and give your braid a more finished look.
Remember, braiding is an art, and it might take some practice to perfect your technique. Don't be afraid to experiment with different braid styles and variations to find the look that best suits your hair type and face shape. With a little patience and creativity, you can create beautiful and unique braid styles with your shoulder length hair.
