Why we’re totally digging the wet hair look

Thought the wet hair look was just for the boys? Well, think again. Wet-look hair is actually a great way of styling your mane. In fact, when done correctly, this look boasts both glamour and edge – the most perfect combination for cocktail hour and party season, if ever there was one.

Want to know more about why everyone’s loving this unlikely hair trend right now and, more importantly, how you can get the look at home? Then just keep scrolling for our simple guide on the wet hair look, below.

The wet hair look: In a nutshell

What is the wet hair look?

Many modern hairstyles can be rather confusing (we’re looking at you, braids!), but the good thing is, there’s no mistaking the wet hair look.

This distinctive look imitates the appearance of wet hair (with the help of hair products, of course!). For men, wet look hairstyles initially became widespread with the advent and rise in popularity of hair gels and pomades in ’50s, but it wasn’t until a little later that wet look hairstyles became in vogue for women (think of the women in Robert Palmer’s Simply Irresistible music video!).

So, why is everyone digging wet look hair right now?

Recently, the fashion crowd, in particular, has developed a soft spot for the wet hair look. Kim Kardashian and Gigi Hadid are just a couple of A-list names who favour the ‘do for red carpet outings, while designers like Marques Almeida and Julien McDonald have also been featuring models with sexy wet hair and wild, damp manes in their runway shows. So like they say, if the cool kids are on board – so are we!

The best products to help you get the look

Wet hair look for curly hair

TRESemmé Make Waves Sculpt & Define Spray Gel (£5.50*) is a lightweight spray gel that’s brilliant for minimising frizz and flyaways.

Liberally apply onto damp hair, then use a wide-tooth comb to create a sleek look. Let your hair air-dry and then finish with the VO5 Sublime Sleek Creation Hairspray (£3.99*). Not only will it help hold the look, but it’ll give your hair a sublime, high-shine finish, too!

Wet hair look for short hair

Want to style your pixie or short bob? Try the VO5 Classic Styling Soft Moulding Wax (£2.99*), which is great for adding definition and taming frizz. The best part is that while it gives your tresses shine, it won’t leave your hair feeling sticky (yay!).

Start with a small scoop of product, rub it in between your palms and evenly coat your hair. Rake your fingers through your tresses for a more casual look, or use a comb for a more polished, groomed feel.

Wet hair look for frizzy hair

Is your mane frizzy? Then the VO5 Classic Styling Mega Hold Gel Spray (£2.99*) might be the answer to your hair issues. This gel spray can help you create and fix your hair with its mega-hold formula that fights humidity without flaking.

Just spray the gel onto towel-dried hair, making sure to spray evenly. Then work the product through using just your hands and style as you like. Let your hair air-dry and you’re done!

The alternative wet hair look

Looking to create a slick and smooth hairstyle a la Kim Kardashian? To get this red carpet-worthy wet hair look, start by combing your hair back and applying a few pumps of the Toni&Guy Casual Radiating Tropical Elixir (£9.99*), which will give your hair a glossy, frizz-free appearance. Then grab the VO5 Sublime Sleek Creation Hairspray (£3.99*) and lightly mist over your hair to help hold the ‘do and give it a defined, gel-like finish.

*RRPs are Unilever suggested retail prices only, it is at the discretion of the individual retailers to set the actual price.