If there’s one question I hear again and again, it’s about my hair. So today, we’re talking hair—this time with a little help from my go-to stylist, Celeste at Anushka Spa & Salon in West Palm Beach. Because let’s be honest, our hair is such a big part of our lives. (Cue the hair flip.)
One of my biggest transformations came when I started chopping my hair shorter—first to my collarbone, then my shoulders, then all the way to my chin. And now? Bangs. It’s been a journey in phases. But through all the changes, my philosophy has stayed the same: hair, like personal style (and honestly, life itself), should feel effortless. It should make sense for you, not work against you.
That goes for color too—but today we’re focusing on texture and styling.
Learning to Love Straight Hair
My hair is naturally pin-straight. If I go to bed with it wet, I’ll wake up with hair that looks like I flat-ironed it. Growing up, I envied girls with curls. I longed for that big, bouncy texture. But over time, I’ve learned to embrace what I have—and even better, I’ve figured out how to fake that easy, tousled vibe when I want it.
My Step-by-Step Routine
Here’s how I style my hair for that natural, undone-but-still-polished look:
- Start with clean, dry hair.
If your hair is naturally fine, thick, curly, or coarse, you may need to blow it out first. Add a dollop of mousse for volume if your hair is fine, or use your favorite serum or oil to smooth things out if your hair leans coarse or curly. - Grab your curling iron or wand.
I use a 1-inch curling iron (this one’s a favorite). In the past, I also relied on a budget-friendly Remington wand. Either tool works—the goal is the same: loose, natural waves. The trick is not to curl the ends. Take a 1-inch section, wrap it around the barrel, and leave the tips out. If you’re using a wand, hold the ends with your fingers (and definitely wear a heat-protective glove). - Work your way around.
Curl sections all over your head, then let them cool completely. Don’t stress about making every piece perfect—this look works best when it’s a little undone. - Add some texture.
Once the curls have cooled, spritz your roots with a texturizing spray or dry shampoo. My favorite? Oribe’s texture spray. Spray section by section at the roots and try to avoid the ends. If your hair tends to get dry, look for a product that includes oil so it nourishes as it styles. - Shake it up.
This step is key. Either tuck one piece neatly behind your ear for a slightly polished finish or loosen everything up by running your fingers through the roots. Give your hair a little shake, scrunch with your hands, or finger-comb it (especially if you have fine hair). The goal is movement and that “effortless” feel. - Finish with a light mist.
A little hairspray helps smooth things out while keeping the style intact.
Bonus Tip: Day-Two Hair Is Even Better
If your hair is like mine, don’t wash it the next day. A little dry shampoo at the roots will refresh your style and give you that “I woke up like this” texture. Honestly, some of my best hair days for blog shoots are on day two.
Why the Cut Matters
No amount of curling, spraying, or scrunching can make up for a cut that doesn’t suit you. A great hairstyle starts with the right haircut, so work with a stylist who understands your texture, face shape, and lifestyle. If you’re local, Celeste at Anushka is my go-to for that reason.
Hair doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and a few tricks, you can get that lived-in, tousled texture without spending hours in front of the mirror. Remember: effortless is the goal. And when your hair feels easy, everything else seems to fall into place.
Happy styling!