The answer—according to Stassi herself—is that “everyone wants to look hot AF on Instagram, and I can help with that.”
So can Redken hair artist Heather King, who works at Beauty Bliss Bar in Saint Louis, Missouri, and pegged the most “basic” hairstyle as also one of the prettiest—a flowy, sleek blowout, as seen on reality TV queens, sorority rush chairs, Pretty Little Liars alums, and definitely more than a few Hair.com staffers on a near-daily basis.
The thing we forget about blowouts, sometimes, is that even though they’re ‘basic,’ they’re also incredibly versatile.They go with almost every vibe, every occasion, and every face shape. Plus, it used to be that a blowout was always big, bouncy, voluminous hair. Now, there’s a lot more variety, including a super-sleek blowout, a beachier take on the trend, and a wispy, floaty kind of texture.
“Pictures will always help your stylist with a blowout,” King advises. “Don’t worry about the right vocabulary for the style, just bring in a few photos on your phone. Obviously, it’s best to reference women with your natural hair type or texture, but as long as you say, ‘I really like the way this looks—can we try it?’ you’ll be in a good starting place. That’s the most important thing—just ask for what you want to try!”
But before requesting a certain style, remember an obvious fact: “People forget that their stylist isn’t just for cut and color—we do blowouts, too!” King laughs. “It’s so funny, because thanks to all these blow dry places, everyone forgets that their ‘normal’ salon does the same thing. But often, you’ll pay much less at your salon than you will at a blowout bar for the exact same service. And because your regular stylist already knows your hair—I mean, they already do your hair!—their familiarity with your style and your life can get you a much better result. Your regular stylist will hook you up—just ask her.”
King recommends giving yourself a full hour for a blowout (“although you probably won’t need it”). And even if you’re not clear on your life’s purpose yet, you should absolutely know your blowout’s aim. “What’s the reason for this style? Is it an occasion? Is it so you don’t have to wash your hair for a few days while you’re traveling? Be clear on why you’re getting a blowout and you’ll be able to make it last longer and work with your lifestyle. Realistically, make sure you know how long you’re trying to make it last."
And when it comes to making it last, it’s all about the right product. King recommends making dry shampoo your MVP, not just for maintenance but for hold. “A lot of people think dry shampoo is meant to be used as a remedy, like ‘My hair is greasy and I should fix it.’ But I like using dry shampoo right out of the gate, because it sets the hair into a powdery texture, keeps the volume going, and avoids oil buildup on the scalp.” Redken’s Triple Dry 15 is a texturizing spray that adds lift to a hairstyle. A high gloss shine spray like Shine Flash 02 should be used directly after the blowout is finished to help keep it looking lustrous. And even before the blowout starts, a dynamic prep product like Guts 10 helps give roots lift. For drier or coarser hair, a naturally nourishing shampoo and conditioner like Redken’s Nature + Science All Soft range is an ideal foundation to protect and sustain length and health. “And silk pillowcases really do help extend a blowout!” says King. “They make such a difference.”
Of course, to truly embrace Stassi-level “basic hair,” maximum hair flips—maybe while walking to Starbucks or through a Target Superstore—are mandatory. “If you want more motion after your blowout goes a little flat, I like hot tools,” King says. “They can tame wayward pieces or fix bent curls. You can also use a hair oil to keep it shiny—hair flips need to be shiny!—but try only applying it to the ends and avoiding the scalp.”
After you’ve touched yourself up, keep calm and selfie away.
Looking for a fresh blowout? Use our salon locator to book an appointment with an artist near you.
