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NYFW SS20: 80’s Inspired Tresses – and how to Achieve them

By: Sarah Federico Beauty and Lifestyle Writer

W Magazine  |  Photo: Serichai Traipoom
W Magazine  |  Photo: Serichai Traipoom

New York Fashion Week SS20 sets the precedent: 80’s inspired tresses reign supreme. Runways were dotted with slicked back coifs, center-parted waves, anything-but-basic pony’s and cornrows. Flowers, feathers and sparkles set the tone, showing that details really do make the difference between simple – and stellar.

See three of the best hair trends spotted at the SS20 shows – and discover how you can effortlessly incorporate them into your daily style.

The Trend: relaxed structure at Carolina Herrera

Bold yet romantic patterns are offset by strands that are sleek on top with natural looking mid-lengths and ends. Hairstylist Guido Palau used Herrera’s own signature slicked-back style as a point of inspiration.

Serichai Traipoom
W Magazine  |  Photo: Serichai Traipoom

Get the look

Part hair slightly to the side and blow-dry the roots to achieve volume. Next, use a soft-hold gel. This delivers the perfect amount of hold without flaking. Leave ends loose and natural for the perfect juxtaposition. “There is an elegant sophistication in its simplicity,” says Palau.

The Trend: embellished and ethereal at Alice + Olivia

Known for creating statement pieces that are both beautiful and hyper-feminine, Alice + Olivia delivered a presentation overflowing with soft pastels. To complement the clothing, stylist Justine Marjan created three separate looks. “Half-up, hobo braids, to which we added a touch of lavender, sleek low ponytails and double braid styles that we finished off with diamonds and pearls,” confirms Marjan.

Elle | Astrid Stawiarz, Getty Images
Elle | Photo: Astrid Stawiarz, Getty Images

Get the look

Start by replicating Marjan’s captivating yet simple half-up braid adorned with fresh florals. Weave a half-up crown braid and mist with a light-hold hair spray. These “are actually designed to alleviate any hardness in the hair,” says Marjan. Next, add the buds of a few fresh flowers. Try baby roses or lavender.

The Trend: purposefully messy bun at Rebecca Minkoff

 In favor of creating garments that women can wear daily, Minkoff dedicated her SS20 presentation to working women everywhere. She partnered with clothing subscription service Stitch Fix to make her collection available in sizes XXS to 3XX – a range far beyond what’s offered by other designer brands. Tresses were left looking slightly unkempt – yet utterly chic.

Elle | Photo: Monica Schipper, Getty Images
Elle  |  Photo: Monica Schipper, Getty Images

Get the look

The low, messy bun created by Justine Marjan at Rebecca Minkoff is perfect for the “confident working woman who has fun on the weekends.” To achieve it, prep strands with a fine mist, light hold hairspray, creating a messy part with fingers. Next, gently bend and set random pieces of hair with a flat iron for added texture. Add volume and texture to roots with a dry shampoo by lightly massage it in. Pull hair back into a loose bun and secure with pins. Gently pull out a few tendrils from the front for a cleverly disheveled feel.   

NYFW SS20 proves that 80’s inspired hairstyles are still relevant, and surprisingly simple to accomplish. From soft and romantic to tousled, the featured trends will carry you through the seasons. So, try out one or all of these looks – and discover how switching up your style in a small way can lead to a big boost in confidence.