New Sloane Ranger
This glossy ‘do encouraged women everywhere to swap straightener sessions for a weekly blow-dry, and has achieved royal status in its own right. We just can’t get enough.
Crowning glory
The half-up ‘do is making a comeback in a big way. Celebs are giving this simple style the fancy-pants stamp of approval, from Kate and Pippa at the Royal Wedding to A-listers on the red carpet (Angelina Jolie and Jessica Chastain both rocked it at the Oscars).
Royal roll
Slicked back and sophisticated, the low bun is all about swish style. The perfect match for a grown-up, gorge outfit, it’s no wonder Kate chooses this when she wants to make an impact. Celeb copycats include Lauren Conrad and Kate Winslet.
Be a copy Kate!
- New Sloane Ranger
Richard gets to work on our model The prep This style works best if you have naturally wavy or curly hair, as it will hold the tousle for longer. For a glossy finish à la Kate, it’s all in the preparation. “If you have long hair, it’s important to ensure you keep it in good condition,” he says. “Overnight treatment masks and regular trims are key.” For dry hair Kérastase Nutritive Nutri-Thermique Masque, £22.30 (1) will replenish and rehydrate your locks. Before styling, make sure your hair is freshly washed. “You’re not going to achieve the ‘Chelsea blow-dry’ with greasy hair,” says Richard.
”Next I use my Tri-Active Serum With Argan Oil, £27 (2), as it smooths hair. Section your hair into three and dispense a five-pence-sized amount of the product into the palms of your hands. Rub them together so your palms are completely coated, and then run through your hair from root to tip. Then I use a root-lifting spray,” says Richard. We love Tigi Catwalk Your Highness Volume Collection Root Boost Spray, £10.85. “Again, section the hair into three and make sure the roots are coated,” he says. If you have thick hair like Kate’s, a light spray will do, but use more if you need body.”
The blowout “For shine, blow-dry hair once it’s 20 per cent dry,” Richard says. Starting at the the nape of the neck, take small sections and blow-dry with Bumble & Bumble’s Round Bristle Brush, £25. Richard says: “Hold the hairdryer’s nozzle at a downward angle and make sure each section is dry before setting in a roller.” We heart Gold by Giles for New Look Rollers, £5.99 (3). Continue until all the hair is in rollers, taking extra care to pull tightly around the hairline for best results.
The finish Leave the rollers in for at least 10-15 minutes, then remove. Flip hair forwards and gently shake the curls with your fingers.
- Crowning glory
Kate opted for this style on her big day. “This look works best the day after your blow-dry,” says Richard, who co-created her iconic look. He recommends pulling the side sections really tight against the head and fixing into place with pins. Add instant height with JML Bumpits, £2.99. Backcomb a section of hair over the bumpit using a fine toothcomb, smooth with a brush and secure in place with grips.
- Royal roll
Kate rocked this low bun look at the races last year. To create your own version, pull hair into a low ponytail using a bristle brush to give a slick finish, and tie at the nape of the neck. “Cover the hair band with a piece of hair and fix into place with a pin,” says Richard. “This will ensure the look stays sleek.” Backcomb the pony and smooth over with a bristle brush before rolling it under itself and pinning.
