The ability to turn necessity into a stylish statement is a truly remarkable human trait, and the resurgence of the wet hair look is a perfect example. It all began with the rise of dewy, glassy skin, popularized by the Korean beauty trend of ‘glass skin’ and later embraced by celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Hailey Bieber. This trend has now seamlessly transitioned to hair, becoming the go-to choice for hairstylists and brands alike.
From the Spring/Summer 2024 fashion shows to the streets, the wet-effect look has become a defining style for the season. Its sleek, aquatic-inspired allure, reminiscent of a mermaid’s mystique, offers more than just aesthetic appeal. It’s a practical choice, offering control and sleekness that tames frizz and transforms sweat into a deliberate, stylish statement. The wet hair effect exudes sophistication and effortlessness, saving you the worry of constant hair maintenance throughout the day.
The return of the ‘wet hair effect’ isn’t a fleeting fad. Over the past few years, this look has been making a strong comeback, with models sporting sleek, pool-dipped locks on the runways of Acne Studios, Balenciaga, Dior, JW Anderson, and Loewe. But in 2024, we’ve entered a maximalist era, and the wet hair effect has fully taken center stage on the SS24 runways. Designers like Miu Miu, Diesel, Dries Van Noten, Marni, Rick Owens, Yohji Yamamoto, Dior, Erdem, and Etro have embraced the wet look, adding a sophisticated, avant-garde edge to their collections.
Whether styled sleek and pulled back, dishevelled and conceptual, or sculpted into almost gel-encrusted twists, wet-look hair was everywhere – from edgy low ponytails to intricate, high-fashion interpretations. The reason hairstylists love this look is simple: it’s fast and versatile.
How to achieve the perfect wet look
To achieve the wet hair look at home, you don’t need to wash your hair again. Simply use the winning duo of hair gel and a comb. With a firm, precise hand, you can create sleek styles or even waves. Here’s a simple method:
1.
Apply a generous amount of hair gel to your damp hair.
Start by applying the gel to your roots and work your way down to the ends.2.
Use a comb to distribute the gel evenly through your hair.
This will help to create a smooth, sleek finish.3.
Style your hair as desired.
You can create a sleek ponytail, a side braid, or simply let your hair air dry for a natural, tousled look.This technique not only spares you from needing a straightener but also gives you that fresh-out-of-the-water, mermaid-esque hair. It’s a sensual style that works equally well with casual jeans or a breezy summer dress and pairs beautifully with either smoky eyes or bold, bright lipstick.
If your hair is too frizzy or unruly after a day at the beach, there’s a gentler option: simply apply conditioner to the lengths for a look that nourishes your hair while still giving you that glossy, wet effect.
Shop the look:
* Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS+ Curl Jam Curl Defining Gel For Hair Styling
* Kevin Murphy Medium Hold Styling Paste
* 18.21 Man Made Sweet Tobacco Hair Styling Wax
* Vega Tail Comb (Steel Pin), (HMBC-304)
