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Live up to the “rosé all day" slogan this season by shaking up one of these refreshing rosé cocktail recipes we've gathered from bars, recipe developers, and winemakers across the country. This list includes a twist on the classic French 75, a rosé mimosa, and a new version of frosé... and yes, they all star everyone's favorite pink wine! Cheers to these delightful sips when the days are long and the temps are hot. Scroll for the recipes!
Frozen Watermelon Rosé Sangria Slushies
We can't wait to combine a few of our favorite things with this drink. Slushies, booze, and watermelon – all in one sip! Freeze sliced watermelon and fresh raspberries ahead of time to make sure that the finished drink has that perfect frozen consistency. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Pink Sangria with Rosé Wine
Prep a big pitcher of this rosé-infused sangria to share with all the besties. (via Barley & Sage)
The Pink French 75 Cocktail
This rosé cocktail is a great choice for every flirty and fun cocktail drinker. And with elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and vodka or gin, it's a quick and easy fix! Pink cocktails for the win. (via The Beauty Blotter)
Raspberry and Pomegranate Rosé Cocktail
This sweet, tart drink makes for a relaxing summer evening. Pomegranate juice, fresh lime, and raspberries give the glass a fruity kick, and the gin and rosé give it the right amount of edge. (via Foolproof Living)
Always Sparkling from Ruffino
Ingredients (serves 1):
- 1 ounce cognac
- 3/4 ounce lemon juice
- 3/4 ounce strawberry purée
- 1 dash rose water
- Ice
- 1 1/2 ounces Ruffino Sparkling Rosé
- Fresh strawberries, to garnish
Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients together except for the rosé.
- Strain into a lowball glass with ice and top off with sparkling rosé.
- Garnish with a strawberry.
Lavender Lemonade Rosé Cocktails
Lemon and lavender is a match made in heaven, and we can't wait to try this cocktail! A pinch of sea salt rounds out the flavor for a full-bodied drink. (via Plays Well With Butter)
Watermelon Rosé Paloma
This fizzy, sweet sip partners up with a salty, spicy rim that'll keep you coming back for more. (via Half Baked Harvest)
No-Wait Frosé
For anyone who's a *little bit* impatient when it comes to devouring delicious recipes (we totally understand), then this is for you. This drink — which features rosé, frozen strawberries, and vodka — only takes 5 minutes to make, which makes us love it even more than we already did. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Rosé Wine Granita
The hottest of summer days deserve a sweet icy treat like this rosé slushy. It's like a snow cone, but better! (via Feast + West)
Rosé Mimosa from Kim Crawford Wines
Ingredients (serves 4):
For the syrup:
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the cocktail:
- 1 bottle Kim Crawford Rosé
- 1/2 bottle prosecco
- 8 rosemary sprigs, to garnish
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan bring the sugar and water to a boil, simmer for 5 minutes until dissolved.
- Cool and mix in the rosé, then freeze in a loaf pan, breaking up occasionally until frozen solid.
- Process in batches in a food processor until smooth, then freeze again until firm.
- Scoop into coupe glasses and top off with Prosecco.
- Garnish with rosemary and serve.
Rosé Raspberry Sorbet Mimosas
These mimosas are a unique and colorful addition to brunch or weekends with your gal pals. The drink might have sorbet in it, but we'll still pair it with dessert. (via Fox and Briar)
Strawberry Peach Frosé
As far as we're concerned, peaches are the *ultimate* summer fruit. They're juicy, sweet, and taste amazing in a variety of summer dishes. Add it to your rosé recipe to give your drink even more of a summer feel. (via Culinary Hill)
Summer's Perfect Rosé Spritzer
With strawberries, mint, and lemon, this rosé cocktail is like summer in a glass. (via The Sweetest Occasion)
Frozen Peach Rosé Slushy
Decadent peaches get frozen then blended with your best rosé wine for a drink that keeps things extra cool. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Strawberry Frozen Rosé
Because this cocktail has fruit in it, that means it's a healthy option, right?! Either way, this frosé recipe is delicious and super fitting for summertime – day or night. (via Barley & Sage)
Next time you need a drink for an evening on the front porch or brunch, grab one of these rosé cocktails. Any of these recipes will add some flavor to your spring or summer day!
Follow us on Pinterest for more classic cocktails.
This article has been updated from a previous post.
We're officially one week into Scorpio season — are you feeling it? Is your intuition heightened? Are you super sensitive and a bit more introverted? It’s a good time to slow down, feel your feelings, and tap into the inner wisdom of your soul. Scorpio is often misinterpreted, perhaps because this season coincides with Halloween, the decreasing daylight in the northern hemisphere, or simply Scorpio’s intensity and power. A key word for Scorpio is transformation, which is never easy.
Think of the caterpillar’s metamorphosis — its time in the cramped and dark cocoon. That primordial, gooey existence is anything but comfortable. Transformation requires time, a willingness to experience discomfort, and patience before emerging as a beautiful butterfly.
Scorpio is one of the healing signs in the zodiac, and while the Sun is in Scorpio, we can make great strides toward healing ourselves and helping others. There’s nothing superficial about Scorpio — it demands depth, wanting to uncover layers and expose what’s hiding. That’s why it’s a great time to focus on your inner world and subconscious mind. All forms of therapy are beneficial during Scorpio season, but psychotherapy is especially powerful if that's an option for you.
Eager to know what this transformational energy has to offer? Read on for your weekly horoscope to understand how this can impact your sun and rising sign!
Astrological Overview For Your Weekly Horoscope
The New Moon in Scorpio occurs on November 1 at 9 degrees of Scorpio. You'll want to check your birth chart to see where 9 degrees of Scorpio falls — this is the area of your life where you can experience transformation and growth. New Moons are powerful times to plant seeds for future growth, to dream and plan for the coming month. Take time to reflect on what truly matters during this period of darkness and inward focus.
Mars, the planet of action and determination, has been opposite Pluto, the planet of transformation, for months. Both Mars and Pluto co-rule Scorpio, creating an intense and volatile energy. This opposition becomes exact again on November 3 and 4. Use this energy to propel yourself in a new direction and honor your true self. Strength and focus can harness this intensity for personal breakthroughs, but be cautious in making impulsive decisions during this time — on the global stage, tensions may rise, and there could be heightened aggression.
Adding to this turbulent energy, Mercury, the planet of communication and learning, leaves Scorpio and enters Sagittarius on November 2. As Mercury exits Scorpio, it forms a beneficial trine to Mars and a sextile to Pluto. This is a powerful opportunity for words to contribute to healing, so take care in how you communicate. Be mindful of the power your words hold, especially as Sagittarius can be blunt and outspoken. While Mercury is in Sagittarius until January 9, focus on expanding your consciousness, learning new skills, and broadening your horizons.
Key Dates For Your Weekly Horoscope
- November 1 — New Moon in Scorpio
- November 2 — Mercury enters Sagittarius
- November 3-4 — Mars and Pluto opposition becomes exact
Read Your Horoscope Based on Your Sun and Rising Signs
Brit + Co
Aries (March 21 – April 20)
You’re being asked to dig deep into your subconscious this week. Keep your eyes and ears open for messages from dreams or moments of creativity. Meditation or solitude may reveal powerful realizations. If you feel the need to make a major life change, be sure your decisions come from the heart. You’re on the cusp of a creative breakthrough, but make sure your actions are driven by authenticity.
Brit + Co
Taurus (April 22 – May 21)
Relationships are in focus for you. This is a great week for couples therapy or deep, transformative conversations with your partner. Be willing to make changes that benefit your relationships, home, and career. Your sensitivity may be heightened, so incorporate self-care and self-love into any changes you make. Don’t shy away from this potential for growth — there’s tremendous opportunity for profound shifts.
Brit + Co
Gemini (May 22 – June 21)
Good fortune and harmony are possible, but luck won’t just fall into your lap — you need to be proactive. This could show up in your relationships with others or in your relationship with yourself. Kindness, equality, and fairness are key to success. Be cautious around people exhibiting aggressive behavior. You’ll receive back what you give out, so practice kindness and ensure you’re approaching things with fairness and balance.
Brit + Co
Cancer (June 22 – July 22)
You prefer to avoid conflict, but this week you’ll have the chance to step out of your comfort zone. You don’t have to be confrontational, but a bit of assertiveness will help you move toward your goals. The seeds you plant during this New Moon will grow stronger if you add passion and creativity. Follow your intuition, especially when making important decisions. Your dreams need a touch of energy and action.
Brit + Co
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
The Mars-Pluto opposition has likely stirred up some drama in your life. Have you mustered the courage to start something new? If not, this week offers an opportunity to fully step into your authentic self and begin a new chapter. Don’t hold back, but be prepared for uncharted territory. Your relationships, particularly with yourself, may need a refresh. Self-love and self-care are essential as you embark on these transformations. You might even consider sprucing up your home or making a move.
Brit + Co
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Career growth is in focus this week, but you’ll need to find a balance between your home life and work life. You may feel the urge to do more in both areas, but it’s crucial to stay grounded. Pay attention to details and avoid overindulgence. A balance between home and work will lead to the best results — be sure to tend to both areas without letting one consume the other.
Brit + Co
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Your finances and values are the focus this week. Now is the perfect time to ensure your financial life is in order. Meet with a financial planner or make sure your will is up to date. This planning will give you peace of mind and reduce future stress. Once Mercury moves into Sagittarius on November 2, you’ll feel freer to have fun and pursue adventure, knowing that your financial security is taken care of.
Brit + Co
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Your power and determination will only grow as the week progresses. Use this time to tap into your inner authority and work toward concrete goals. There’s likely to be movement in your career, but it won’t happen overnight. Patience and sustained effort are required. Cultivate joy and focus on long-term goals — there’s no rush, but steady progress will lead to great results.
Brit + Co
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Mercury entering your sign on November 2 invites expansion and learning. If you’ve been waiting to start a new project, learn a new skill, or expand your understanding of the universe, now is the time. Subjects like spirituality and philosophy will be easier to grasp during this time. Be mindful, though — your blunt communication style could come off as caustic, so take a breath before you speak.
Brit + Co
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Mental well-being should be a priority. Use this time to focus on learning and honing your skills. Your approach to life and work is inspiring to others. If you’ve been dealing with self-doubt, discard any negative self-talk and practice self-compassion. You have a natural ability to teach others, so don’t hesitate to share your knowledge with those who might be facing something similar to your experiences.
Brit + Co
Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)
This week focuses on your community and your relationship with like-minded people. Group learning and activities will be more impactful than solo efforts. Mercury in Sagittarius from November 2 will encourage you to learn through travel and adventure. Something exciting and transformative is on the horizon — seize the opportunity for growth through connection with others.
Brit + Co
Pisces (February 20 – March 21)
It’s time to focus on your physical health. The energy of this week will make it easier to start a health regimen and stick to it. While you may become more serious about your health, don’t push yourself too hard. Take small, steady steps to make lasting changes. As the week progresses, you’ll feel more confident and enthusiastic about these positive changes to your well-being.
Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!
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Forks and knives are tired. When summer comes to town, it's all about barbecues, and that means eating with your hands. Cookout desserts like blueberry cheesecake dip and lemon lavender ice cream cones are naturally handheld, but apps can get in on the fun, too. Stick around here for 23 finger-lickin' good BBQ finger foods that could very well be the star of your next summer party!
Sausage Cheese Biscuits
Damn Delicious
Because no one ever had a bad thing to say about a biscuit — especially a biscuit peppered with sausage and cheese. (via Damn Delicious)
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Muffins
Heather Likes Food
When it comes to finger foods, it's all about the details. These bad boys don't miss a beat – they're oozing with cheddar cheese, topped with a ketchup-Worcestershire sauce, and studded with only the crispiest fried onions. (via Heather Likes Food)
BLT Bites
Salty Canary
You've seen finger sandwiches, but have you seen an open-faced BLT on a Ritz cracker? In this tiny version of the sandwich, the T is actually sundried tomato paste, and the L is lightly dressed in ranch. (via Salty Canary)
Green Chile Guacamole
Recipe Runner
Nothing facilitates conversation *quite* like good guacamole. Guests will keep coming back to this bowl for chips and chit-chat. (via Recipe Runner)
Baked Jalapeño Poppers
Live Eat Learn
You could never go wrong with jalapeño poppers. Each bite is infused with cream cheese, spicy jalapeño, and crispy breadcrumbs that'll leave you wanting more and more. (via Live Eat Learn)
Brie-Stuffed Crispy Baby Potatoes
Half Baked Harvest
Equally cheesy and starchy, this potato finger food refuses to fail. Make sure you don't forget to season these spuds with a delicious mix of garlic and thyme! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Creamy Chicken Stuffed Mini Peppers with Spinach-Walnut Pesto
Give It Some Thyme
Stuffed peppers have been a highly popular dinner recipe for health gurus as of late, so it's only fitting that they be made à la mini. Fill yours however you like, but these are packed with creamy-cheesy chicken and roasted red peppers, then topped with a nutty pesto. (via Give It Some Thyme)
Habanero Peach Grilled Chicken Wings
A Spicy Perspective
Most any sweet-savory lover will adore these wings as they heat things up. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Hot Cheesy Crab Dip in a Bread Bowl
Give It Some Thyme
Generous pieces of crab swim in a flavorfully creamy mixture of cheese, cheese, and more cheese. It's all served in a toasty sourdough bowl. (via Give It Some Thyme)
Mini Fried Chicken and Waffles
Tara's Multicultural Table
The full-size version of this brunch classic is always a greasy, sticky mess (in the best way), but when it's mini, the mess is perfectly contained in a napkin. (via Tara's Multicultural Table)
How Good Do These BBQ Finger Foods Look?
Olive and Goat Cheese Bites with Prosciutto, Lemon & Thyme
Parsnips and Pastries
Impress that friend who studied abroad in Italy during college with these refined bite-sized bites, which come together with just four ingredients. Use your favorite type of olives and goat cheese to make it more your own! (via Parsnips and Pastries)
Vegan Grazing Platter
The Edgy Veg
Grazing platters are ideal for large get-togethers, since everyone can take exactly what they want to snack on. This vegan snack board has just about everything you'd need to satisfy your guests, but of course, you can easily customize your spread. (via The Edgy Veg)
Deviled Eggs, Three Ways
Leite's Culinaria
While deviled eggs are *scrumptious* alone, there is quite literally a universe of egg-compatible toppings from which to choose. Go this route (spicy horseradish, truffle, and smoked salmon), or get creative with ingredients like bacon and fish roe. (via Leite's Culinaria)
Vegan Chicken Nuggets
Gastroplant
When we think of finger food, chicken nuggets are an obvious answer. These tofu-based ones retain the ultimate balance between an exterior *crunch* and interior softness. Set out all the condiments you can get your hands on to maximize the savory flavors! (via Gastroplant)
BBQ Cauliflower Bites
This Wife Cooks
These cauliflower bites are totally finger food-worthy because they're certifiably finger-lickin' good. Cauliflower gets coated in an easy cripsy layer before being tossed around in a tangy BBQ sauce. (via This Wife Cooks)
Yum Yum Shrimp Wonton Cups
Give It Some Thyme
To heck with shrimp cocktail – you'll want to eat an embarrassing number of these addictively crispy wonton cups, filled with well-seasoned shrimp and spicy mayo, aptly named Yum Yum sauce. (via Give It Some Thyme)
Parmesan Zucchini Bites
Give It Some Thyme
These zucchini bites taste like a cheesy veggie frittata. What makes them hold their shape so well? Good ol' Bisquick. Customize them with the fillings of your choosing. (via Give It Some Thyme)
Southern Hush Puppies
Pink Owl Kitchen
Hush puppies are ideal BBQ finger foods! These buttery, bready finger food bites pair well with seafood or burgers! via Pink Owl Kitchen)
Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms
Feel Good Foodie
Cheese goes well with *just about* anything, but Parmesan really shines against the mushroom flavors in this recipe. (via Feel Good Foodie)
S'mores Bites
Tara's Multicultural Table
Summer's greatest dessert gets packed into party-friendly bars. These babies have an intensely buttery graham cracker crust and a fudgy chocolate layer that is positively packed with marshmallows. (via Tara's Multicultural Table)
Vegan Carrot Cake Cookies
This Wife Cooks
The creamy frosting that coasts these massive cookies will keep everyone coming back for more. (via This Wife Cooks)
Watermelon Pizza
Live Eat Learn
A perfectly sweet cream cheese frosting holds everything together in this sweet treat. Get playful with the fruity toppings you add to create a rainbow-infused bite! (via Live Eat Learn)
Chewy Vegan Chai Cookes
Munching with Mariyah
Crispy on the edges and outside, and buttery-soft on the inside. That's *exactly* how we like our cookies! Your BBQ guests will praise you for making this delectable dessert recipe. (via Munching with Mariyah)
Follow us on Pinterest for more easy + delicious bbq recipe ideas! This post has been updated with additional reporting by Paige Johnson and Meredith Holser.
I turn to Instagram for mainly two things: hilariously adorable pet videos to share with my daughter before bedtime — a nightly ritual we started a year back — and a steady stream of home decor inspiration. Having studied interior design and spent years writing about stunning spaces, my love for beautiful interiors runs deep. The home decor bloggers I follow offer a mix of styles and experiences, from cozy vintage vibes to refined and sophisticated homes and rooms. Whether you’re looking to refresh your space for the season or simply find joy in nesting at home, there’s a little something from everyone here to inspire you. Happy decorating!
PrettyOnFridays
Writer Deema Tabbara Lopez's Friday newsletter, Merci Ktir, offers a glimpse into all the pretty things bringing her joy each week. Her home is so cozy, filled with vintage charm and lovely DIYs and how-tos (and stunning paint colors!). You'll want to dive into her feed for all the inspiration this fall.ThisHouse5000
Home decor enthusiast Elena Lohse and her handyman husband have been renovating their 1935 home in Toronto’s west end, the Junction, for the past 4+ years. Her style is clean, fresh, and never boring. I love her DIY videos, and her blog follows their travels too through a unique design lens.
Kismet House
For a masters in warm, cozy traditional spaces, follow Erin and Matthew of Kismet House who share tips and tricks for creating homes that feel unique and full of character.
Michael P.H. Clifford
a1000xBetter
Designer Kirsten Blazek creates rooms that are authentic, stylish, and so comfortable. She really thinks about spaces you want to live in. I'm still swooning over this kitchen of hers that we featured. Her first book A1000xBetter: A Rebel By Designshowcases her eclectic interiors and love of vintage treasures along with her design inspirations and tips.
𝗦𝗮 𝗚𝗿𝗮̂𝗰𝗲
Principal designer Ithabeleng Mothabeng has such a talent for creating stunning interiors. She blends a timeless elegance with modern touches and the result is always gorgeous and sophisticated.
Sam Arneson Home
Sam Arneson, an LA-based realtor, brings a thoughtful approach to design with a focus on sustainability and slow living. Her soulful feed is full of inspiration, from mid-century modern gems to cozy woodsy cabins.
OEZLEM OEZSOY
This Hamburg, Germany-based photographer and home decor enthusiast is known for her sophisticated eye for vintage and mid-century decor, creating beautifully curated neutral spaces.
The Organic Bubble Vase, Théophile Candle Holder, and Cadoret Bowl
Christiane Lemieux
NYC-based Christiane Lemieux is an author, designer, entrepreneur and the founder of LEMIEUX ET CIE, a luxury home furnishings brand. If you're looking for elevated interiors with a smidge of fantasy and the unexpected, her feed is the place to be. She was also the co-host and a judge on Ellen’s Design Challenge on HGTV and is a regular guest on MSNBC.
Some other favorites to look out for:
- @amberinteriors
- @beckiowens
- @carleypage
- @danishhomedecor
- @grillodesigns
- @houseofhoney
- @lucyalicehome
- @nestingwithgrace
- @patriciarodi
- @rapsodiaw
- @saraish
- @sansnovazuhause
Subscribe to our newsletter for more home decor inspiration!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
From Kamala Harris-inspired bobs to silky Lindsay Lohan-esque tresses, the season of the silk press (or straighter hairstyles) is officially here! It's been fun watching watching TikTok videos of women going to the salon to get their hair straightened, but it made me ask myself if people truly know how to maintain this style at home. It's one thing to watch a licensed hairstylist work their magic, but the upkeep may not be as straightforward for some people!
Luckily, celebrity hairstylists, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew and Natalie Lamorena, are here to answer all my burning questions. Sturdivant-Drew has over 20 years of experience working in the film and commercial industry, styling clients such as Kerry Washington, Lucy Liu, and Ashley Graham. She also worked on TV series like Suits and the Oscar-nominated film Ray. Lamorena owns Polished Pub Hair & Nail Bar— not to mention she invented the viral "Headicure" service for clients who love the idea of getting a manicure while receiving the best blowout of their lives. And with all that experience, the two of them have plenty to say about silk presses.
TL;DR
- You should rely on professionals for the majority of your silk presses, but you can maintain them at home with "the right tools and products."
- Different hair types require different temperatures and products — be sure to research and check with your hair dresser to make sure your treating your hair the right way.
- Don't get a silk press if you've recently straightened your hair.
- Heat protectant is key for any silk press or hair straightening.
- Naturally curly or textured hair should limit silk presses to once or twice a month; other hair types should keep it to no more than once a week.
- Be sure to wrap your hair correctly and use a bonnet to maintain your style.
How do you know when to straighten your hair at home or go to the salon?
Desperate times call for desperate measures when you're due for a hair appointment and can't book one. I'm sure all of us have turned into an armchair hairstylist by giving ourselves a trim, quick haircut, or dye job. You've probably even watched a few tutorials about how to give yourself a homemade silk press or blowout. I know I've recently purchased a few things to help me maintain my hair at home, but should we be straightening our hair at home?
Lamorena says, "While it’s possible to straighten hair at home, I’d recommend going to a professional for the best results. Stylists know how to work with different hair types, adjust heat settings accordingly, and use high-quality products that protect your hair." If we decide to forego a stylist's expertise, she says we can "accidentally cause damage with uneven heat or over-processing."
Sturdivant-Drew agrees that it's best to see a stylist "for the first few silk presses," but it's not impossible to safely straighten your own hair. "If you have the right tools and products, along with research, you can achieve this hairstyle at home," she says.
How should different hair types approach a silk press?
Just like everyone doesn't have the same skin complexion or undertones, hair types can differ too. This means someone with a fine hair isn't always going to have the same routine as someone with thicker strands — which is why all silk presses aren't the same. "There's definitely no one-size-fits-all approach. The technique used depends on the client’s hair type and texture," Lamorena confirms. This isn't to scare you, however!
Sturdivant-Drew says, "The process of getting a silk press is pretty standard — prepping the hair with shampoo, conditioner, and heat protectant, followed by straightening with a blow dryer and flat iron, and finishing with a lightweight oil or serum."
She and Lamorena do agree that some hair textures require a little more than others though. Lamorena says you could only need "a simple blowout and flat iron" while someone may need "more intensive treatments like keratin or a Brazilian blowout for longer-lasting results." If your hair is very curly or textured — and you're ultimately not seeing the results you want — she says chemically straightening your hair is another option. However, Sturdivant-Drew reminds me, "Stylists usually adjust heat settings based on their client's hair health and texture."
Either way, we always recommend you check with your stylist before making any permanent or lasting decisions!
What should you avoid doing before getting a silk press?
Getting a silk press doesn't always involve chemicals, but there are still things you need to avoid before your appointment. Unlike the steps you may follow at home, Lamorena wants you to "avoid loading your hair with a bunch of heavy products " because this can "make the straightening process less effective and lead to more heat being used" than you need. Also, she doesn't want you to wash your hair because "natural oils protect your hair from the heat."
It probably goes without saying, but you also shouldn't book a silk press appointment if you've already straightened your hair. "...that can make it harder for the stylist to work with and could increase the risk of damage," says Lamorena. Besides that, Sturdivant-Drew advises against "using color or relaxers should be avoided before getting a silk press" because "this could lead to a lot of breakage."
What increases a risk of heat damage with this style?
As gorgeous as silk presses are, it's possible to use "too much heat," according to Lamorena. She says, "People tend to crank up the heat on their flat irons and blow dryers, but that can seriously damage the hair cuticle, especially if your hair is fine or already fragile." Something I've learned over time is that a licensed and experienced hair stylist has better knowledge of what's really going on with our hair. They're able to have a clearer view of your scalp, roots, split ends, and more.
The other thing that contribute to damage is not protecting your hair. Lamorena implores that heat protectant products are "are crucial for minimizing damage." Even if you use the right products, you could be straightening your hair way too often. It's normal to want to have straighter hairstyles for a little while, but you should keep in mind that you don't want to overdo it.
"Not prepping or using a heat protectant on your hair will cause a lot of damage. Silk presses require a lot of heat, so it's best to use good heat protectant," adds Sturdivant-Drew. She personally prefers to use Smooth Moisture's Thermal Hair Strengthener because "their system is built for silk presses specifically." She loves that it truly upholds against heat and "adds a nice shine to the hair" once you apply it.
When would it be recommended that a client avoid getting a silk press?
Here comes the not so fun part. As much as you don't want to hear this, your hair may not be able to handle getting a silk press right now. "If your hair is already damaged, it's best to hold off on straightening. Hair that's brittle, dry, or over-processed can be further damaged by heat styling," says Lamorena. What you can do in the meantime is help strengthen your hair by giving yourself "deep conditioning treatments," according to Lamorena.
This is completely up to you and your stylish, but Lamorena suggests staying away from having your hair straightened "during really humid months...if you're prone to frizz" because "the style may not last as long."
Is there a limit to how often clients should receive a silk press?
I'm not an expert, but even I know too much of something can become a bad thing. In the case of using excess heat, I can imagine the implications of that over time. Lamorena says, "There's definitely a limit. You don't want to be straightening your hair too often," and shares her rule of thumb for textures:
- Naturally Curly or Textured Hair — Limit silk presses to once or twice a month to avoid weakening the hair or losing your curl pattern.
- Other Hair Types — Keep it to no more than once a week.
All hair types are capable of experiencing "long-term damage," but giving "your hair a break between sessions helps maintain its health," Lamorena says.
Sturdivant-Drew stresses, "Taking a break between silk presses is important in allowing your hair to recover and maintain the health of your hair. I recommend limiting your silk presses to every 6-8 weeks."
How can clients maintain this style at home during the fall?
Even though cooler temperatures means you won't have to fight against possible frizz, you still have to take care of your silk press. "Maintaining a straight style during the fall can be tricky with cooler weather, wind, and dryness in the air, but it’s doable," says Lamorena. She suggests that you use:
- Use a flat iron with adjustable heat settings to avoid unnecessary damage. Tools like the Dyson Corrale or GHD Platinum+ are solid options
- A wide-tooth comb is great for detangling without pulling or breaking the hair
"Keeping up with a regular routine and using the right tools and products can really help your style last, even through the challenges that fall weather brings," she says.
No matter what your hair type is, Sturdivant-Drew suggests "wrapping your hair correctly and using a bonnet" as they're "key to maintaining" a silk press. Similar to what Lamorena said earlier, Sturdivant-Drew believes "humidity is your worst enemy...so try to avoid humid environments as best as possible!"
Shop Other Expert Silk Press Recommendations
Amazon
Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer
"Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools. Some favorites include Oribe Royal Blowout and Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer," she says.
Amazon
Moroccanoil Treatment
"For taming frizz, try an anti-frizz serum like Moroccanoil Treatment," suggests Lamorena. or John Frieda Frizz Ease.
Amazon
John Frieda Frizz Ease
Another option you can use to beat the frizz is John Frieda's Frizz Ease. It's another one of Lamorena's recommendations that will "help seal in moisture and keep your style sleek even in windy fall weather."
Amazon
Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime
Lamorena says, "A good leave-in conditioner is key to keeping hair smooth and hydrated; Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime works wonders."
Amazon
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day
"To extend your style without washing, use dry shampoo. This is a great option to absorb oil without having to restyle with heat," she says.
Our Silk Press Recommendations
Amazon
Giovanni Frizz Be Gone Serum
This anti-frizz serum will not only keep humidity from messing up your silk press, but it'll help improve your hair's elasticity over time and will even add an extra boost of shine to it.
Amazon
Wavytalk Professional Hair Dryer with Diffuser
If you decide to straighten your hair at home, you need a good blow dryer that'll work with your texture. Wavytalk has an inexpensive option that comes with a comb attachment, diffuser, and nozzle to help you dry your hair no matter what style you're wearing. It also has the right amount of heat settings that'll lessen the chance you cause any damage.
Amazon
CHI 44 Iron Guard Heat Protectant
Not only do I personally love this heat protectant, so does our Affiliate Writer Meredith Holser! It's been our go-to product whenever we straighten our hair because it truly does a great job of protecting our hair from heat and has a slightly fragrant smell we can't get enough of. In my experience, a little goes a long way so you'll get plenty of uses out of it.
Follow our Amazon storefront to see which hair products we'll always keep in our bathrooms.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.