Stop What You're Doing and Hit Up Shopbop's Epic "Event of the Season" Sale Now
Apr 10, 2019
I didn't know I'd be saying J.Crewand Christopher John Rogers in the same sentence this year, but that's what surprises are all about! I'm always on the hunt for the latest exciting collection as an avid shopper, but this collaboration makes me feel all tingly inside. It's honestly enough to make me question my budgeting goals — it's so freakin' good!
We know J.Crew is the quintessential brand for all things cool and collected, but somehow Christopher John Rogers has managed to capture the brand's signature appeal while adding his own creative flair. Below, find the inside scoop on what led to this amazing collaboration, the inspiration behind it, and shop my favorite pieces before they sell out!
Shop Faves From J.Crew x Christopher John Rogers:
- Pleated Dress In Sequins
- Topcoat In Red Vinyl
- Colorblock Dress In Stretch Viscose Blend
- Girls' Pleated Mini Dress In Multistripe Stretch Taffeta
- Lamé Gold Barn Jacket
- Structured Button-Up Shirt In Duchesse Satin
- Sculpted Skirt In Duchesse Satin
- Topcoat In Herringbone Bouclé
- Relaxed Blazer In Duchesse Satin
- Cotton Poplin Shirtdress
- Sculpted Dress In Duchesse Satin
How did the J.Crew and Christopher John Rogers collaboration come about?
CJR x J.Crew
I can't help but get into the juicy details about this collaboration because it's the one thing no one saw on their bingo cards. Yet, it's such a seamless relationship at the same time! Olympia Gayot, J.Crew's creative director of womenswear and kids, says this about the partnership, "The collaboration with Christoper came together naturally, driven by our mutual love for the joy of fashion. I've long admired his work, and there was an undeniable synergy between our brands — J.Crew as a timeless purveyor of joyful, classic American style and Christopher as a trailblazer for the next generation of American designers."
Christopher John Rogers is known for creative bright, bold designs that bring out the color in whoever wears his pieces, making him unafraid to go against the grain in fashion. He most notably won the CFDA Emerging Designer Award in 2020 and the American Womenswear Designer of the Year Award in 2021. Since then, celebs such as Anne Hathaway, Gwyneth Paltrow, Rihanna, and Zendaya have been seen in his designs (via The Zoe Report).
Gayot says, "That mutual respect and shared values made the partnership feel effortless. We worked closely with Christopher at every step, not just blending our creative influences, but also collaborating on styling, photography direction, and artistic inspiration. It was essential to balance our core brand codes with his bold, contemporary vision, resulting in a collection that feels fresh, distinctly Christopher, and yet unmistakably J.Crew"
What makes this collection so unique?
CJR x J.Crew
We've seen a plethora of fall collections emerge this year, but none have captured the stylish, yet freeing energy that J.Crew and Christopher John Rogers have tapped into. Gayot says, "The collection is a joyful celebration of vibrant colors and dynamic textures. From striped cashmere sweaters to lamé barn jackets and sequin party dresses, every piece embodies a unique fusion of our two brands."
I say this a lot, but there's truly something for everyone in this collection. You'll still find tailored silhouettes, but you'll also see them in elevated patterns and fabrics. "We've reimagined classic J.Crew staples with a modern twist, encouraging individual expression and creativity while keeping them effortlessly wearable for any wardrobe. The trust we built through our shared creative vision allowed us to take bold design risks—like oversized stripes, new shapes, and unexpected textures—that turned out even better than we imagined," Gayot shares.
However, she says the most exciting thing is they "didn’t just create a holiday capsule; these pieces, though perfect for the season, are designed to be versatile enough to wear year-round.”
CJR x J.Crew
We can all agree that the past four years have been unprecedented in ways that have left us haggard at times. However, it seems this collection is touching on the hopeful and joyful nature that seems to be seeping back into society. Not only that, but there seems to be a genuine appreciation for those who are unafraid to mix tradition with modernity.
"Our goal with this collaboration was to create something that speaks to our modern consumer, who has a diverse appetite for style and design – someone who loves their tried-and-true classics, but also can experiment and play with color, unique silhouettes, and bold styling. We wanted it to appeal to both long-time J.Crew fans and those drawn to Christopher’s fearless and trailblazing Ready To Wear," Gayot says.
Based on what I've seen, it's apparent J.Crew and Christopher John Rogers not only understand each other, but their target audience as well. It's not always easy to connect the dots when designing something new, but they've truly hit the nail on the head. With that, Gayot says, "The aim was to push the boundaries of vibrant colors and patterns—hallmarks of Christopher’s work—while blending J.Crew’s classic aesthetic to make statement pieces that feel fun and accessible. By merging high fashion with everyday wearability, the collection elevates personal style and gives everyone a chance to own a special piece of designer magic.”
Shop My Favorite Pieces From The Collection
J.Crew
Pleated Dress In Sequins
Everyone needs a good party dress! This sequined stunner is perfect for the holidays — or a Tuesday when you just wanna get all dolled up! I'd find a nice faux fur stole to drape over it — and probably a pair of chic little kitten heels, so I can dance the night away if I need to.
J.Crew
Topcoat In Red Vinyl
Go bold or go home with this gorgeous red vinyl coat. Though it has a sleek design, the vibrant color is smokin' hot! It comes with a point collar, welted pockets, and is lined so you'll stay warm while looking ultra-stylish during the holidays.
J.Crew
Colorblock Dress In Stretch Viscose Blend
Your winter outfit doesn't have to be boring, so celebrate the end of the year with this gorgeous Colorblock Dress!
J.Crew
Girls' Pleated Mini Dress In Multistripe Stretch Taffeta
And if you want to pick up something for your mini me? The J.Crew and Christopher John Rogers collection has something for the kiddos too! This dress is DARLING!
J.Crew
Lamé Gold Barn Jacket
We tried to tell you: barn and chore jackets are SO in right now. Grab this one to show the world you didn't let the news cycle damned your shine!
J.Crew
Structured Button-Up Shirt In Duchesse Satin
Who said Barbie pink was going anywhere? It's officially here to stay if the J.Crew and Christopher John Rogers holiday collection has a say in things. Despite its vibrant color, this shirt is still tailored to perfection, giving you a put-together, buttoned-up (LOL) look.
J.Crew
Sculpted Skirt In Duchesse Satin
Pair your Structured Button-Up Shirt with this Sculpted Skirt for an adorable matching set. Or, you can absolutely pair this with a knit sweater for a more toned down look.
J.Crew
Topcoat In Herringbone Bouclé
Want to go for something a little more muted that's still sure to cause a scene? Fall in love with this J.Crew and Christopher John Rogers herringbone coat. It has a bouclé texture that's perfect for winter date nights or grabbing a late dinner with your friends.
J.Crew
Relaxed Blazer In Duchesse Satin
Everyone needs a classic black blazer in their wardrobe. It's one of those capsule pieces that works every season! And of COURSE Christopher John Rogers took this classic and made it cuter than ever!
J.Crew
Cotton Poplin Shirtdress
I swear, this shirtdress was designed just for me because I've been searching high and low for the perfect one to wear during colder months. Leave it to the J.Crew and Christopher John Rogers collection to know just what you and I need.
J. Crew
Sculpted Dress In Duchesse Satin
Want to turn heads at your company's holiday party without ending up with a note from the HR department the following morning? Wear this stunning Sculpted Dress In Duchesse Satin!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
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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Call us crazy, but we're already thinking about all the best Target winter shoes we can find. It's not that we're being hasty, but it feels like fall isn't ready to commit yet, and we just LOVE a cold weather outfit! We can always count on the months of December-March to give us the chilly temps we're looking for though! We can also rely on Target to give us affordable fashion that makes our outfits look as good as our Pinterest boards! Lucky for you, we've found 17 stylish shoes to shop right now — including mules, boots, and Mary Janes because we know you need options. 😘
Target
Stemon Three Tone Block Heel Boots
Post-fall shoe haul, it's likely you already have some classic black booties — and that's where these babies come in! I absolutely love this tri-toned pair of block heels to add a dash of fun to any look. The metallic accents are super on-trend right now, and the shiny vibes are perfect for these more twinkly months. They also come in a black variation, if you're looking for something different!
Target
Wheedle Croc High Heeled Calf Boots
We've made it explicitly known that red is our color, through and through. So obviously I had to add these tall boots to the roundup! This pair is sexy and chic, elevating your style to the next level with the croc-embossed faux leather. Not feeling the red? You can choose from two other colors — plus, they're on sale for $59!
Target
Women's Shelby Slingback Ballet Flats with Memory Foam Insole
Now these? These are absolutely darling! Ballet flats are back and truly better than ever right now — as exhibited by this bow-embellished pair from Target. The slight shimmer adds just enough sparkle without being too much, and the bow could go with everything from a pair of jeans and a sweater to your fave holiday look! These $35 shoes also come in red if you're feeling bold!
Target
Women's Taylor Jet Studded Kitten Heel Ankle Boots with Memory Foam Insole
IDK how to explain it, but I just know Emily would slay these in Paris. She'd likely dress them in an unexpected way — I'm envisioning sweats and a beret? IDK? — and I'd immediately try to recreate the look. And while studs can make a statement, these are also just neutral enough that you can get away with a more subdued style as well. At $43, these are a total steal!
Target
Struter Embroidered Platform Fur Classic Slip-On
Uggs duuuupe! These platform slip-ons are perfect for those days when you're out and about with your Starbucks in one hand, pushing the Target cart with the other. These also come in three other colors, and they're currently on sale for $42
Target
Harness Buckle Ankle Boots
Some days require an edgier look that's even...dare I say, borderline grunge? It's our favorite way to dress when we're in a mellow mood, so if this sounds like you, slip on these cute ankle boots. The round, closed toe and cushioned footbed make them way more comfortable than they look.
Target
Women's Elsa Mary Jane Ballet Flats
Metallics are perfect for the holiday season — and throughout the rest of winter, for that matter. These are great for the days you have to double up on a day at the office and make it to the holiday party by 7. Plus, at just $30, what more could you ask for?!
Target
Ball Heel Stretch Ankle Boots
Keep it stylish with these glam boots! They heel height is only 2.25 inches, so the soles of your feet won't be under a ton of pressure as you strut through town. You get all the fun of a unique look without all the typical struggle of a unique shoe.
Target
Slip On Mule Flats With Memory Foam Insole
These flats are so gaudy, but we're mesmerized by them. They take studs to the next level — and yes, I'm thinking about Emily in Parisagain. The round closed upper won't crush your precious toes, while the backless feature will make you happy as you pad around Target looking for new things to buy.
Target
Women's Pippa Chunky Heel Ankle Boots
Love the first pair I shared, but wanna commit to the all-metallic vibe? These booties are here for you. At only $40, you'll shine bright like Eve from Life-Size. And with that block heel, you'll definitely be able to shine far while you're at it.
Target
Women's Sage Slide Slippers
You obviously need plenty of shoes to strut your stuff around the town, but you also deserve a little something chic for the house! These stylish slippers are only $15, so you can comfortably make your way from the couch to the tea kettle — and look cute while you do it!
Target
Ivette Tru Comfort Foam Pull On Boots
Normally we'd save a pair of boots like this for apple mazes and pumpkin patches, but there's no rule against wearing them during winter. They're a universal must-have in our book because of how sturdy they are, not to mention their gorgeous brown color!
Target
Junie Tall Boots
We know you'll still be wearing sweater dresses during winter because we will too! They're not complete without a pair of tall boots though. You'll love how versatile these suede pair are and may want to wear them with all of your winter OOTDS.
Target
Fur Mule Loafers
Gucci stole our hearts with their 2015 Re-Edition Women's Princetown mules, but the price tag reminded us of the budgets we've been living on. We're willing to bet you're not interested in spending over $1000 for mules, but now you don't have to! These stylish loafers are only $35 at Target, but hurry because they're selling out!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
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
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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
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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.
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Moroccanoil Treatment
"For taming frizz, try an anti-frizz serum like Moroccanoil Treatment," suggests Lamorena. or John Frieda Frizz Ease.
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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."
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Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime
Lamorena says, "A good leave-in conditioner is key to keeping hair smooth and hydrated; Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime works wonders."
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.