Iconic TV shows like Friends and Game of Thrones are filled with hairstyles that are worth recreating. From the 90s’ wild and curly to the glorious dramatic and wavy locks, these tv show-inspired hairstyles are easy to replicate, with some that are, surprisingly, low-maintenance.
So, rather than just sitting on your couch with your hair thrown up in a messy bun, why not draw inspiration from these iconic looks and try them out for yourself?
Wild and Curly – Sex and the City
Sarah Jessica Parker, the actress who portrayed Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City, had many iconic looks throughout the movie. But perhaps, Carrie’s classic hairstyle is the one you see during the opening montage when she’s sporting a tutu and getting splashed with water, thanks to the NYC bus. In some way, Carrie made very curly hair cool again by the end of the 90s, where straight hair had laid hold as a contrast to the wild child hair of the 80s.
To recreate the iconic Bradshaw curls, you should have a curling wand that creates the most natural-looking curls. But, if you’re fortunate to have natural curls, you can use a dryer that has a diffuser attachment. Then, set it on a low speed with high heat after applying a volumizing formula to damp your hair.
Half-Up Double French Braid – Game of Thrones
The actress, Sophie Turner, also had an iconic hairstyle worn by her character Sansa Stark in HBO’s Game of Thrones. Her half-up, double french braid works on all hair types: wavy, curly, or straight. But aside from the very intricate braids the female leads worn that may look very intimidating to try on your own, there are also many casual braid hairstyles that will suit your everyday look.
To recreate this iconic french braid, you must first part your hair in the middle, then section off about one to two inches on each side of your part—next, french braid one section and then another. After finishing two french braids, braid the ends of both sections together. Lastly, secure the braid with a hair tie.
Chunky and Layered – Friends
If you watched Friends, then you’re probably aware of the iconic Rachel Green hairstyle. After the show’s premiere, Jennifer Aniston’s character had her haircut dubbed as “The Rachel,” which took a life of its own. The hairstyle inspired women across the country to replicate it. However, the cut described as blunt, choppy layers across the head does need some maintenance.
If you’re planning to recreate the look, you should arm yourself with a round bristle brush, an anti-frizz serum, and lots and lots of patience.
Full and Flipped – The Mary Tyler Moore Show
The character of Mary Tyler Moore in her self-titled groundbreaking 1970s television series was both a feminist heroine and contender for the best hairstyle of the decade. The full mane with an upward flip right at the ends developed to be a staple style. Up to this day, it’s still a classic look to wear during special occasions.
To attain the Mary Tyler Moore look, you’ll want to begin with some root lifter followed by a meticulous blowout with a dryer that produces salon-quality results. There may be a need for some backcombing in the hair’s middle sections, as well as a firm hold hairspray if you desire that news-producer-of-another-era fullness.
Long and Straight – Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Buffy Summers, the favorite TV show heroine played by Sarah Michelle Gellar, presented various styles over Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s run from 1997 to 2003. Buffy is most significantly associated with the long, straight hairstyle during the show’s third and fourth seasons.
You can achieve this beautiful, highlighted blonde base using a ceramic-plated flat iron. With hair technology’s advancement since the turn of the century, replicating Buffy’s hairstyle now would require a straightener with healthy hair perks, such as pure ceramic floating plates that will seal moisture.
Dramatic and Wavy – Modern
Gloria Delgado-Pritchett is easily among the most memorable and glamorous characters ever to be on television. She had desirable hair ever since the show’s first debut in 2009. Gloria’s hair is usually parted in the middle and cascades over her shoulders in delicate waves, and always very shiny.
To achieve these big, full curls, consider using a curling wand with a 32 mm barrel. To replicate that modern fam luster, try going for a shine agent.
Low Bun – Westworld
The top knot or high bun hairstyle has been receiving attention for being low-maintenance for the past years, but Westworld has brought back the low bun.
To recreate it, you must first put your hair down at the side or the middle, then pull it back and secure your hair into a low ponytail. Twist your ponytail around into a bun and use bobby pins to secure it. After, spray your hairdo with a medium hold hair spray.