How to Do Bouffant Hair

A comb is the key tool for creating a teased bouffant style.

The bouffant hairstyle first gained popularity in the 1960s as a departure from the more conservative styles of the 1950s. An up-do characterized by height and fullness at the crown of the head, the bouffant style has enjoyed a resurgence in modern times. It is frequently seen on throwback singers like Amy Winehouse and Duffy, and more conservative versions of the style can be seen at many formal events. With a little practice and patience, anyone can create a bouffant hairstyle at home.

Things You'll Need

• Hairspray
• Hair gel or mousse
• Comb
• Brush
• Bobby pins

Instructions

1. Wash hair the day before you plan to create your bouffant--clean hair will be more difficult to work with and keep in place. If you must use clean hair, apply volumizing gel or mousse to wet hair and dry with a round brush, lifting hair at the roots.

2. Divide hair into a front and back section from ear to ear. Place the back section into a high ponytail.

3. Backcomb or "tease" the ponytail by holding one inch strands of hair out from your head and sliding a comb down the underside of the hair from the ends to the roots. Backcombing results in tangled-looking hair that creates the volume necessary for the bouffant style.

4. Smooth just the top layer of the ponytail with a brush. Wrap the smooth layer over the teased hair and fold the ends underneath so they touch the base of the ponytail, creating a rounded ball shape.

5. Secure the tucked ends with bobby pins and spray generously with hairspray. To achieve a tall bouffant, you'll want to secure the ends closer to the top of the head. For a subtler style, secure the ends lower down on the back of the head so that less of the teased hair is visible from the front.

6. Divide the front hair into two sections. Backcomb one section, smoothing just the visible outer layer with a brush.

7. Spray with hairspray and wrap the section around the side to the back of the head, tucking the ends underneath the back. Secure with bobby pins. Repeat this process with the remaining section of hair.

Tips & Warnings

• For added sparkle, secure the bouffant with a decorative hairclip.

• To frame the face, leave a few front pieces of hair free and curl with a curling iron.

• Don't be stingy with the hairspray. Plenty of product is the key to holding your bouffant in place for hours.

References

• HairStyle Twist: 60's Bouffant Hair How To
• UK Hairdressers: Do It Yourself Bouffant
• Beauty and the Bath: The 1960 Bouffant Hairstyle