Khaite, renowned for its downtown chic style, has always embodied the essence of a woman on the move. For a perfect example, one need not look beyond the iconic snapshot of Katie Holmes in a cashmere bra and matching cardigan from the brand back in 2019 – a lasting image that continues to inspire.
In the pursuit of crafting their spring 2024 beauty look, founder Catherine Holstein and her trusted collaborator, Guido Palau, boldly challenged convention. After only considering two hair options, they decided on an unconventional choice – a wet-look updo. This hairstyle exudes sleekness in the front but features a touch of chaos with untucked ends at the back.
“Opting for a wet, messy knot is a surprising departure for this show,” Palau notes. “It seems counterintuitive for a woman wearing impeccably crafted clothing, but this downtown updo is one of those instances where unconventional becomes the new standard.”
It’s akin to stylist Allison Bornstein’s “unconventional shoe theory,” which posits that adding an unexpected shoe to a fashion ensemble infuses it with character. Imagine how different the atmosphere would have been if Khaite’s spring 2024 collection, described as “fierce” by Vogue’s Nicole Phelps, had paraded down the runway with softly styled, romantic hair.
The secret behind achieving the wet-hair appearance on 44 models, with no access to a shower within the Park Avenue Armory where both the preparations and the show unfolded, is Tresemmé’s Extra Hold Hair Mousse. “You need to thoroughly saturate the entire head of hair,” Palau advises. “And just when you think you’ve added enough mousse, add a little more for good measure.”
Following that, employ your hands to gather the hair into a mid-back ponytail and secure it. Then, twist and fasten with pins. “Leave a few tendrils hanging loosely,” Palau instructs. “That’s where the rebellion and edginess come into play.”
If you’re hesitant about venturing out with genuinely wet hair, don’t worry. The mousse merely mimics the appearance of wet hair, and once it’s finished with Keratin Smooth Shine Serum, it will maintain the illusion of being drenched for hours.
Palau goes on to celebrate the Khaite woman’s coolness. “She’s a captivating blend of modern contrasts,” he declares. “Impeccably attired in luxurious garments, yet in terms of her hair, she’s too busy to fuss over it. So, she effortlessly pulls it up and heads out the door.” It perfectly aligns with the season’s theme of cosmopolitan women always on the move, striding confidently ahead.