WHEN Kate Middleton steps out for an engagement, her hair is always flawless—rain or shine.
Last week, the Princess of Wales, 43, visited the women’s prison HMP Styal near Wilmslow in Cheshire to meet pregnant inmates and mothers of babies born behind bars.
Despite braving gusty winds and heavy rain, Kate looked effortlessly chic in a tailored, chequered coat that fell to her ankles, paired with heeled boots.
But what truly stole the show was her immaculate hair, which remained perfectly in place despite the challenging weather.
This isn’t the first time Kate’s hair has stood up to the unpredictable Great British weather.
And now, Johan Hellström, CEO of Björn Axén – a brand awarded the Royal Warrant to the Swedish Court in 1984 – has shared his expert tips for achieving weatherproof hair like Kate’s.
“Waterproofing your hairstyle is always a top priority before any event, whether official or private,” Johan explains.
“When working with celebrities or members of the Royal Family, especially in humid conditions, I often opt for sleek and structured hairstyles.
“For a rainy day, styles like a sleek ponytail or an updo are always a safe choice.”
For those who prefer wearing their hair down, Johan stresses the importance of preparation.
It’s key to use the right styling products both at the roots and through the lengths of the hair.
For example, apply volume mousse throughout and use a saltwater spray at the roots before blow-drying or styling.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”I’ve seen Kate up close, she looks so well now & back to her best” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6368383410112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]Once you’re done, don’t shy away from hairspray – apply it generously.
“Many people worry about using too much hairspray, but with a high-quality product, layering lightly instead of applying a heavy coat ensures it’s still easy to brush out later,” he adds.
“To combat frizz, Johan recommends creating a protective barrier on the hair.”
“Use styling creams, like the leave-in products from our Anti-Frizz range, to shield the hair.
Added protection
“And if you’re going to be active, dry shampoo is a must – apply it before exercising to absorb moisture and keep your hair looking fresh for longer.”
For added protection, Johan also suggests incorporating accessories.
He says: “A stylish hat or silk scarf is always a great option. Not only does a scarf prevent frizz, but it also helps maintain a smooth finish, keeping your look photo-ready.”
For those seeking simplicity, Johan advises opting for hairstyles that are easy to maintain, starting with a glossy, low bun.
“This style works for any occasion, especially if you’re wearing a hat or headpiece,” he says.
“You can style it with or without a parting, low or higher up – it’s a classic choice we often see on the runway.”
Another go-to look is a sleek ponytail with a centre parting for a polished yet bold aesthetic.
“This style holds up well in humid weather while still looking incredibly elegant,” Johan shares.
For a more modern twist, Johan suggests embracing the wet look, which is both trendy and practical.
“A wet look not only shields against moisture but also camouflages raindrops,” he explains.
“A versatile gel product, like our Salt Water Gel, is perfect for achieving this style.”