How I style my hair to get messy waves…is what many of you wanted to know 
Ever since I cut my hair short, I’ve received quite a few requests to share how I style my hair. This is as good as it gets because you guys do not want to wait lol
While I always curl my hair the same way, it does not always turn out the same. It depends what products I’m using (mainly shampoo and conditioner are what changes frequently and those alone make a huge difference for my hair). With that said – technique is always the same. Results not so much…but close enough.
Update: I’ve updated the products I use and have repurchased. While I do try new products all the time, I always end up going back to my true and tried ones. I should do an updated hair post as SO much has changed since I wrote this in 2018 – I’ve been more conscious about taking better care of my hair…but until then I did update this post with my favorite hair products)
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Many of you asked me what type of hair cut I got.
I asked for a straight blunt cut. She softened the ends a little (I think this might be called a soft blunt cut or a parallel-under-cut). It may appear that I have random layers, like the ones in the back of my head that are waving at us (as seen in the pic above). Those short layers are NOT on purpose. Unfortunately, one thing that really gave me breakage big time are spiral hair ties. When you hair is already compromised thanks to bleaching and it’s dry and fragile, the last thing you need is your pony hair held by plastic. I never had this type of breakage until I started using those plastic spiral hair ties. They did not work for me and to the trash they went!
Products I Use
I’m always trying new Shampoos and Conditioners. My FAVORITE Ouai detox shampoo is a must-have, specially if you use dry shampoo.
I have repurchased Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo and Conditioner (I don’t use it every time I wash my hair. When I do, my hair feels soft and healthy).
After washing I wrap my hair in a cotton tee or tank (less harsh than a towel) just for a few min and then use Bauble and Bumble Thickening Full From Volume Mousse which I’ve repurchased many times. It works wonders on thin hair (a little goes a long way. don’t use too much or your hair will feel icky). Another one I love and have repurchased over the years is Aveda Thickening Tonic (update: year 2022 ((can’t believe it has been 4 years since the original post)) – the Aveda thickening tonic is what I’ve been using for the last six months or so and am repurchasing again).
Next I use a little bit of Alterna Caviar CC cream 10-in-1 Complete Correction. Update: I repurchased Moroccan Oil and have been using it regularly. Alterna is great but I haven’t repurchased. Instead I’m using up products I already have but the oil is an old favorite (I love it way more than Olaplex Bonding oil). Ouai hair oil is also good too but the smell is stronger, more like a perfume.
Since I have semi curly/wavy hair I straighten by “bangs” and also the ends.
Last year I decided to splurge on the T3 whirl trio and while it is pricey it is amazing. No regrets.
Since I cut my hair short I pretty much just use the 1 inch barrel.
1. Separate the hair for easier curling. Hold the wand upside down and wrap the hair around leaving ends out, about 1-2 inches. Leaving the ends uncurled is the key. Make sure the hair is spaced out on the barrel as seen in the picture below. Curl all the hair.
2. Let the curls/waves set, don’t touch them for a few minutes.
Next, run your fingers through to loosen the waves, starting at the roots…this will give it a slightly messy look (also shake up the roots a little).
3. Next I spray with magic – Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. That’s what makes my thin hair look thicker and adds amazing texture and volume (I only use this when my hair is on the shorter side, like it is currently) . Without it I can’t achieve the look you usually see…the messy curls. It is $$ (I originally bought a travel size spray to make sure I like it). No other texturizing spray works as good, for me, as this one.
Lift up sections of your hair with your fingers and spray underneath (I usually tilt my hair to the side Spray more if needed. Lift the roots with your fingers for a slight messy look.
Basically there are two important steps: Leave the ends out when you curl (a couple of inches), run your fingers through and spray with the magic texturizing spray. That’s really it. Super easy!
Update: Since my hair is longer right now, I follow the same curling process including straightening my ends with a straightening iron (mainly because my hair is naturally curly/wavy and the ends curl more now).
Keep in mind that everyone’s hair is different. What works for my hair, might not work for yours. Trial and error peeps. 
If you don’t achieve the look you’re going for the first time don’t give up. Practice makes perfect
p.s. if you’re looking to go shorter, definitely check out @anhcotran on Instagram. Amazing shorter hair inspiration. I discovered him after I cut my hair. He’s amazing!
“Invest in your hair. It’s the crown you wear every day” (This applies to products to keep your hair healthy
I haven’t done muc
love this! i have a similar cut and never understood how to do it righr
I'm not on insta but would love the spray. I had it sitting in my cart since you mentioned it a few posts back.
It's a good length to play with and figure out what looks the best
Perhaps I'll do the giveaway on here and Instagram.
Love it! thank you for sharing xoxo
Thank you Ruby
I'm so glad you posted this hair tutorial. I love your style. I just followed your IG and would love to try the Oribe spray.
Thank you so much
Stayed tuned for the giveaway.
Can't wait to give this a try! I don't space out my curls on the wand like you do – am going to see if it makes a difference!
With shorter hair I see the difference. I didn't pay much attention to this when it was longer
Your hair is always so lovely, I’m glad you’ve shared how you do it! I’ve been contemplating a similar fresh “cut” lately, so your tutorial may give me the extra boost to do it! I’m glad you mentioned how you use the oribe spray, too. I’ve been curious about it…
Thank you Melissa! Go for the cut! I never thought I would cut my hair this short…ever…but I'm loving it.
Do you blow dry your hair? After the products go in? Or do you diffuse? If you could explain how you get your Hair dry would be so helpful! Thanks Lilly!!!
I do blow-dry it…(usually once it's about 60-70% air dried). I try to blow dry it straight but I end up looking like Zach Galifianakis in Masterminds (minus the beard) lol. I always straighten my "bangs" with a straightening iron and just used a curling iron to create loose waves but now I have to straighten a bit more with this hair cut (smooth it over a little and straighten the ends).
Love this tutorial! This is the cutest cut on you!
Thanks so much Teresa
Haven’t tried Instagram, need to! I love any product that gives texture or adds volume to my thin hair. Thanks- will be looking for these to purchase
Instagram can be good as long as one knows when to turn it off
I'm definitely a hair product junkie, tried SO many products over the years and just love this spray and Bumble and Bumble thickening mousse. have repurchased both.
I've been wondering about your hair, it looks phenomenal! Pinning this post!Heidi || Wishes & Reality
Thank you Heidi
Love your hair Lilly! I will have to try that Oribe spray! I'm hopeful for a solution to my thin hair and lack of volume. Jess | http://www.whatjesswore.com
Thank you Jess! I've tried SOOO many products over the years and I'm really loving this spray. And the bumble and bumble thickening mouse (my sister loves it too).
I never would've guessed that you have thin hair!!!! Thanks for sharing – I'll be trying out these products soon since I have relatively thin hair myself!
Products give it life and make it appear thicker…that's why I'm willing to spend a little extra $ on the "crown"