Google searches for 'Valentine’s Day hairstyles' jumped 160% in a single 24-hour period. This surge indicates a clear client desire for specific looks tied to seasonal events. Laura Elliott, lead stylist at Neäl & Wølf, identifies the voluminous, high-gloss side-swept blowout as the season's premier romantic style, often dubbed the ‘French Riviera Blowout.’
This trend offers a tangible service opportunity for salons. Elliott suggests that while precise cuts with long, round layers and face-framing bangs provide the best foundation, essential styling products can adapt existing styles. A volumising mousse and a shine spray are highlighted as crucial tools for achieving this client-ready look without extensive re-cutting.
The advice extends to practical application for salon professionals. Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner for individual hair types is foundational, with a caution against over-conditioning fine hair. Creating a deep side part, guided by the client’s features, is key to the signature swept look. Volumising mousse should be applied to damp hair and immediately blow-dried to prevent stiffness. The technique emphasizes rough drying upside down for root lift before refining with a brush, noting the difference metal versus boar bristle brushes make for heat and tension.
Achieving a lasting style, recommended to hold for 3-5 days, relies on finishing products. A non-sticky hairspray is suggested for initial hold, with a working spray applied section by section during drying. A final aerosol spray sets the completed shape. This focus on specific techniques and products presents salons with a clear strategy to meet this particular client demand.
