Having short hair can feel like a love/hate relationship. Though less locks make your hair easier to maintain on a regular basis (and bonus points for built-in style — we’re looking at you, blunt bob and swag haircuts!) you may feel at a loss when comes to putting that extra oomph into our everyday do. But as always, where there’s a will… or at least a short amount of hair, there’s a way! Whether you’re contemplating loping off those long tresses and trading in for some seriously short locks or are a recent pixie/bob convert, we’ve got the 16 short hairstyles that’ll have you obsessing over everything short hair — no headbands in sight.
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.
The only thing better than spending two hours with your favorite fictional characters? Spending 7 hours with them! Cruel Intentions (you know, the 1999 classic starring Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, and Selma Blair) is turning 25 this year, and Prime Video is releasing a brand new TV show inspired by the movie. And the series has a fresh twist that will keep even the most dedicated Cruel Intentions fan on their toes. Here's everything you need to know about the show!
- The Cruel Intentions TV show, inspired by the 1999 film, is coming to Prime Video.
- The cast includes Sarah Catherine Hook & Zac Burgess. While Selma Blair isn't listed, "maybe there will be a cameo."
- The series premieres on Prime Video this November.
Where can I watch Cruel Intentions TV show?
Cruel Intentions Release Date
All eight episodes of Cruel Intentions drop on Prime Video November 21, 2024. That means you can watch them all in one sitting (and then watch them again...and again) or you can spread them out over Thanksgiving week. Is there anything better than watching a new TV show with a cranberry cocktail? I think not.
Did they remake Cruel Intentions?
Jasper Savage/Prime Video
Cruel Intentions Plot
Yes, the Cruel Intentions TV show is a remake of the 1999 movie! This new adaptation takes place at a prestigious college in Washington, D.C. Step-siblings Caroline Merteuil and Lucien Belmont are determined to stay on top of the food chain — especially after a dangerous frat hazing threatens to eliminate the school's Greek Life. The best way to keep the sororities and fraternities on campus? Seduce the most unexpected sorority sister: Vice President's daughter Annie Grover.
Who's in Cruel Intentions?
Jasper Savage/Prime Video
Cruel Intentions Cast
Prime Video's new Cruel Intentions is full of standout actors, and I can't wait to see their moment in the spotlight! The cast includes Sarah Catherine Hook as Caroline Merteuil, Zac Burgess as Lucien Belmont, Savannah Lee Smith as Annie Grover, Sara Silva as Cece Carroway, John Harlan Kim as Blaise Powell, Khobe Clarke as Scott Russell, Sean Patrick Thomas as Professor Hank Chadwick, and Brooke Lena Johnson as Beatrice Worth.
The original Cruel Intentions movie stars Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon, and Selma Blair. While there's no word on whether any of the OG cast will return, I'd love nothing more than to see Reese make a cameo! Selma told Variety on October 24 that even though she hadn't been asked to join the series, she'd love to make an appearance. "Maybe there will be a cameo or something," she says. "I’m excited to see it.”
Let us know on Instagram if you want to see Reese Witherspoon or Selma Blair appear in the Cruel Intentions TV show, and check out the other November TV shows you absolutely can't miss.
It's getting to be that time of year where everyone's looking to switch up their hairroutine just a bit — it's the perfect time to try someone slightly new to welcome the new season. But if you're anything like me, then you're portably looking for something that is fun and new but still super low maintenance. I just want to be able to get a haircut that makes styling my hair much easier, not harder — is that too much to ask?
We've all gotten those haircuts that ended up being way too much work in the end, so we asked the experts to get some low maintenance hair inspo for those of us that have medium length hair. We talked toWilliam Whatley(celebrity hairstylist), Katelyn Ellsworth(The Roslyn salon), Bryce Scarlett (celebrity hairstylist), Nickie Alton (Master Stylist), Rachel Eggie (Salon owner), and Terri Rehkopf (Ippodaro Salon) for their hot takes and opinions. Keep scrolling to read their best tips!
Textured Curtain Bangs
Instagram/@brycescarlett
This textured curtain bang — where your bangs are parted down the middle and styled with soft, feathered layers that frame the face — is a super versatile haircut, as shown on Daisy Edgar Jones. These are definitely an upgrade from the classic curtain bangs you may be used to seeing all over the internet lately!
Celeb hairstylist, Bryce Scarlett, let us know that the texture adds movement and a natural, effortless vibe to the overall look — making it super easy to style! The effortless look matches the vibe of the season this fall.
Long Bob
Claire Craig
Celebrity Hair Stylist William Whatley said that transitioning to a medium length bob is going to give you so many options, whether it’s layered or all one length. And since it's not too short, Whatley mentioned that you'll be able to wear it up or pull it back, freeing your face on those days when you just can't deal with it in your face. Whether you have a fringe with the bob or you don’t have a fringe with the bob, it allows you to create some fun options with this particular hairstyle
As one of William's signature cuts, he particularly loves doing a very layered bob to create a lot more movement with just a blow dryer and a toss of the head. You get a nice style with volume by styling it that way! However, with a bob that's all one length, you can just let it dry and go. We love the sounds of that!
Long Layers
Nickie Alton
Another amazing style for our girls with medium length hair? Some long layers. Hair stylist, Nickie Alton recommends these because of how they make your hair flow when styling. According to Alton, these long layers will help to add some “movement” in your every day style.
Long layers also tend to grow out seamlessly, giving a more effortless lived in look. This style is one of my personal go-tos because of the endless styling options — you can wear it messy and lived in, straight, or curled. The world is your styling oyster!
Textured Short-Medium Length Cut
Nickie Alton
Alton also recommends this short and sweet hairstyle! It's on the shorter side of medium length hair, and we're fully obsessed with it! This haircut will really help to frame your face, and define your features. Plus, with the texture from the layers, it will be so easy to style! Easy maintenance = big win for us lazy girls!
Soft Layers
Rachel Eggie
Rachel Eggie Gibbs, Owner of EGGIE Salon Studio, recommends these beautiful soft layers and long bangs to help enhance your natural hair texture. This means that you can embrace your natural wave or curl pattern without extensive styling, making it easy to manage. So this is curly-haired girl approved, which we love to hear! This also require less trims, because the more it grows out, the easier it is to maintain!
Light, Layered Strands
Katelyn Ellsworth
Katelyn Ellsworth, of The Roslyn salon, also gave us some great tips for medium length of hair. She let us know that you want to cut for the texture of their hair specifically. If you consider yourself low maintenance, then you're most likely not doing a lot of heat styling on a regular basis, so you want to cut your hair keeping that in mind, too. (AKA get a hair cut that is great for air drying!)
Given the unique texture needs, these layers will differ from person to person! Face framing layers are good that fall naturally and create some style without daily effort. Lightly layered strands are also a great call as these don't require a lot of styling. Whatever you go for, this easy look is A+ for sure!
Blunt Cut
Katelyn Ellsworth
Lastly, Ellsworth recommended this blunt cut for low maintenance gals! She says that this cut is also a great option because it makes your hair look healthy and thick without having to style! I, personally, love getting a blunt cut because it makes my hair look so much more luscious and full!
Subscribe to our newsletter to see more hair inspo!
While I've been keeping up with all the buzz surrounding Demi Moore's The Substance, and definitely understood it was THE feminist movie of the fall, I remember opening X in mid-October, seeing an unhinged photo of Margaret Qualley as Monstro Elisasue, and thinking to myself, Wow, apparently I do not know what this movie is about.
If you're in the mood for a new, edgy horror movie that you can watch anytime of year, then do I have good news for you: The Substance is streaming now! Here's everything you need to know about the flick, including how to watch it this weekend because it will definitely make a great Halloween movie.
- The Substance is streaming now, but it's also still available to see in theaters following its September 20 release date.
- The movie follows an actress supposedly past her prime who takes matters into her own hands with a powerful serum called The Substance.
- The cast includes Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid.
Where can I watch The Substance 2024?
The Substance Release Date
The Substance is streaming on Mubi and is available on Fandango at Home. You can also see the movie in theaters now. The Substance premiered on September 20.
What is The Substance movie about?
Mubi
The Substance Plot
In Coralie Fargeat's new movie, Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore) is a used-to-be A-lister who's horrified when studio head Harvey (Dennis Quaid) fires her from her own fitness TV show. (The audacity!) When she learns about The Substance, a new drug that promises youth and beauty, she immediately buys in.
A single injection and suddenly she's Sue, a twenty-something (played by Margaret Qualley) who's exactly what Hollywood is looking for. There's just one rule: you can only spend a week in each body at a time or things go very, very wrong.
Who's in the cast?
Mubi
The Substance Cast
The cast of The Substance includes all-star names like Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid.
What is the meaning behind The Substance?
Mubi
The Substance confronts all the different pressures placed on women: to look young, to act mature, to constantly reinvent yourself. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, writer-director Coralie Fargeat explains how Margaret's Monstro Elisasue "represents the monstrous part that we try to hide so much because we feel that we can't adapt or fit."
The end of the movie, in which (spoiler!!) Elisabeth basically melts into a pile of flesh on top of her Hollywood Walk of Fame star, frees her from any and all expectations. "It’s the first moment where she’s able to love herself. It’s the moment she sees herself and it’s not disgust, but in fact it’s as if she’s seeing her true self for the first time," Coralie says. "There’s self-indulgence, tenderness. It’s the first time she looks at herself in the mirror and doesn’t criticize herself. She decides, okay, I’m going to go out there, this is me, I have my right to have my place in the world."
Wondering what to watch next? Check out the 10 New November Movies We've Been Waiting All Year For!
The holidays are slowly approaching, and thank goodness, because it means all of the yummy fast food holiday menus are on their way. If you can’t get enough of a seasonal drink (perhaps a little peppermint action), listen up: Dunkin’s holiday menu for 2024 was just officially announced!
After rumors about the Dunkin’holiday menu for 2024 had been swirling around online, the Dunkin' Instagram account just confirmed a lot of the drink and snack predictions for the lineup, and they look extra good.
Plus, one of Dunkin's menu items is filling the void in my heart from a missing drink on the Starbucks rumored holiday menu. Hint: it involves toasted white mocha!
The Dunkin’ holiday menu for 2024 is speculated to drop on November 1, six days before Starbucks’ rumored holiday menu will hit. Scroll on to see everything joining the Dunkin’ menu!When will the Dunkin' holiday menu for 2024 drop?
Meredith Holser
According to some menu leaks and rumors surrounding the Dunkin' holiday menu, a new lineup of drinks and snacks will become available starting November 1, 2024.
The famed foodie account, @markie_devo, broke the news about the Dunkin' holiday menu leak first.
Does Dunkin' have holiday cups?
Yes, Dunkin' has holiday cups! They'll be available on November 1, once the holiday menu drops. The coffee chain posted a sneak peek of the holiday cup design on their Instagramon October 31. It appears the Dunkin' holiday cups have designs of donuts, peppermint candies, ornaments, and more. The color scheme is mostly white, orange, and pink!
Drinks On The Dunkin' Holiday Menu 2024
Dunkin'
NEW! Holiday Cookie Signature Latte
This festive new latte is made with brown sugar cookie and toasted almond syrups and topped off with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a scoop of cookie butter crumbles. Sounds like a totally sippable dessert to me!
Dunkin'
NEW! Brown Sugar Cookie Oat Iced Chai Latte
Allegedly only available to order through the Dunkin' app, the Brown Sugar Cookie Oat Iced Chai Latte sounds like it'll combine brown sugar cookie syrup with oat milk and chai to usher in the holiday season. Based on previous menu offerings, you should be able to get this drink iced or hot.
Dunkin'
Peppermint Mocha Latte
The Peppermint Mocha Latte is a classic when it comes to the Dunkin' holiday menu, so I'm not surprised it's returning this year. This bev features peppermint and mocha syrups, espresso, and milk, topped with a hefty serving of whipped cream, mocha drizzle, and hot chocolate powder. Bring it on!
Dunkin'
Toasted White Chocolate Latte
No shade to Starbucks, but their rumored holiday menu for 2024 kind of broke my heart when I saw the Toasted White Mocha from years past wasn't coming back. Luckily, Dunkin' is filling the void with their Toasted White Chocolate Latte: a sweet, white chocolate-filled sip topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and cinnamon sugar topping!
Dunkin'
White Hazelnut Bark Coffee
Available hot or iced, this coffee is prepped with a Dunkin' toasted white chocolate swirl, hazelnut flavoring, and cream. Any seasonal drink that has nutty notes wins in my book!
Dunkin'
Spiced Cookie Coffee
Another reported "in-app only" drink joining the Dunkin' holiday menu, the Spiced Cookie Coffee will likely also be available to order hot or iced. I expect this bev to taste just like a snickerdoodle cookie!
Dunkin'
Cookie Butter Cold Brew
I am so excited about this cold brew drink coming back for the holidays at Dunkin'. The Cookie Butter Cold Brew is made with brown sugar cookie syrup and topped with cookie butter cold foam and a scoop of cookie butter crumbles for extra crunch. Stay tuned, because there's a sweet snack joining the menu to match!
Dunkin'
Toasted White Chocolate Coconut Cold Brew
This rumored app-exclusive cold brew will include notes of white chocolate and coconut – I need it now.
Dunkin'
Peppermint Mocha Hot Chocolate
This anticipated app-only sip nixes the expected espresso for a very chocolatey (and peppermint-y!) effect.
Snacks + Food On The Dunkin' Holiday Menu 2024
Dunkin'
NEW! Hash Brown Brisket Scramble
Dunkin' has tested a number of breakfast Scrambles over the years, which is why I'm not totally shook by this food item coming to the holiday menu for 2024. This iteration will feature hash browns, scrambled eggs, shredded brisket, smoked cheddar cheese, poblano peppers, caramelized onions, and of course, a rich Texas queso.
Dunkin'
NEW! Almond Croissant
The holiday menu will also bring the Almond Croissant to Dunkin's breakfast lineup. It's a butter croissant filled with chopped almonds!
Dunkin'
Cookie Butter Donut
Yep – I need this in my belly ASAP. The Cookie Butter Donut is packed with a cookie butter filling, slathered with maple-flavored icing, then dipped in a delish speculoos cookie topping (tastes just like Biscoff cookies)! Sweet treat, anyone?
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the official Dunkin' holiday menu once it drops!
This post has been updated.