Jackie Kennedy's Iconic Bouffant: First Lady of Style

Jackie Kennedy is renowned for her iconic sense of style and elegance. As the First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963, she captivated the nation with her fashion choices and set trends that are still influential today. One of her most famous hairstyles was the bouffant, a voluminous updo that became synonymous with her name.

The bouffant was a departure from the sleek and simple hairstyles that were popular at the time. It featured a full, rounded shape with height at the crown, creating a look of sophistication and glamour. Jackie's bouffant became her signature hairstyle, and she was often seen wearing it for formal events and public appearances.

So, how did Jackie achieve her iconic bouffant? The secret lay in the styling techniques and products she used. To begin with, she would backcomb her hair at the crown to create volume. Backcombing involves teasing the hair towards the scalp using a fine-toothed comb, which creates texture and height. This technique gave Jackie's hair the lift it needed for her bouffant.

After backcombing, Jackie would then smooth down the top layer of her hair to create a polished finish. She would use a brush or her hands to gently brush over the teased sections, ensuring that the hair looked neat and well-groomed. This step was crucial in maintaining the elegant appearance of the bouffant.

In addition to backcombing and smoothing, Jackie would also use hairpins to secure her bouffant in place. These hairpins would be strategically placed to keep the hairstyle intact and prevent it from falling flat. The hairpins were often hidden underneath the hair, ensuring that the bouffant appeared effortlessly chic.

Another factor that contributed to Jackie's iconic hairstyle was the use of hairspray. She would spray her hair with a generous amount of hairspray to hold the bouffant in place and ensure that it lasted throughout the day. Hairspray not only provided the necessary hold but also added shine and texture to the hair, making it look lustrous and healthy.

Jackie's bouffant was not only a testament to her sense of style but also a reflection of the fashion trends of the era. The 1960s were known for their larger-than-life hairstyles, and the bouffant was the epitome of this trend. It symbolized glamour, confidence, and a departure from the conservative hairstyles of the past.

Jackie's bouffant also played a crucial role in defining her public image. The elaborate hairstyle added an element of grandeur to her overall appearance, elevating her status as a fashion icon. It became a part of her identity, showcasing her impeccable taste and sophistication.

Today, Jackie's bouffant continues to inspire and influence hairstylists and fashion enthusiasts alike. Many women still seek to recreate the timeless elegance of her iconic hairstyle. With the right techniques and products, achieving a bouffant reminiscent of Jackie Kennedy's is entirely possible.

Whether you have a special occasion or simply want to add a touch of old Hollywood glamour to your everyday look, the bouffant is a hairstyle that never goes out of style. So why not take a cue from the queen of fashion herself and try out the iconic bouffant?

How to Achieve a Jackie Kennedy-Inspired Bouffant

Now that you're inspired by Jackie Kennedy's iconic bouffant, it's time to learn how you can recreate this timeless hairstyle. Here are the steps to achieve a Jackie Kennedy-inspired bouffant:

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

Start by washing and drying your hair. It's best to work with clean, dry hair to ensure that your bouffant stays in place. If your hair tends to be oily, you can use a dry shampoo to freshen it up before styling.

Step 2: Backcomb at the Crown

The key to a voluminous bouffant is backcombing or teasing the hair at the crown. Section off the hair at the crown and use a fine-toothed comb to backcomb towards the scalp. This creates texture and height, giving your bouffant its signature lift.

Step 3: Smooth Down the Top Layer

After backcombing, gently smooth down the top layer of your hair to create a polished finish. Use a brush or your hands to comb over the teased sections, making sure that the hair looks neat and well-groomed.

Step 4: Secure with Hairpins

To keep your bouffant in place, use hairpins to secure it. Place the hairpins strategically underneath the hair, ensuring that they are hidden. This not only keeps your bouffant intact but also adds to the effortless chicness of the hairstyle.

Step 5: Set with Hairspray

To ensure that your bouffant lasts all day, generously spray your hair with a strong-hold hairspray. This will not only provide the necessary hold but also add shine and texture to your hair, giving it a lustrous and glamorous finish.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once your bouffant is secure, take a moment to perfect the overall look. Gently tousle the hair at the sides to create soft waves, framing your face beautifully. You can also add a headband or a decorative hair accessory to further enhance the elegance of your bouffant.

And there you have it – your very own Jackie Kennedy-inspired bouffant! With these steps and a little bit of practice, you can achieve a hairstyle reminiscent of the iconic First Lady.

Rock the Bouffant with Confidence

Now that you know how to recreate Jackie Kennedy's iconic bouffant, it's time to rock this glamorous hairstyle with confidence. Here are a few tips to help you embrace the bouffant:

Choose the Right Occasion

The bouffant is a bold and glamorous hairstyle that often works best for special occasions and formal events. Whether you're attending a wedding, a dinner party, or a gala, the bouffant adds an element of sophistication and style to your overall look. Save it for those memorable moments when you want to make a lasting impression.

Pair with Classic and Elegant Outfits

When styling your hair in a bouffant, it's important to complement it with outfits that are classic and elegant. Think tailored dresses, chic pantsuits, or a timeless little black dress. The bouffant is a statement hairstyle that deserves to be paired with equally stylish ensembles.

Play with Accessories

While the bouffant looks stunning on its own, you can always take it to the next level with the right accessories. Whether it's a headband, a decorative hair clip, or a sparkly barrette, accessories can elevate your bouffant and add a touch of personal style.

Confidence is Key

Lastly, remember that confidence is what truly makes any hairstyle shine. Embrace your bouffant with confidence and poise, and you'll exude the same timeless elegance as Jackie Kennedy herself.

The Legacy of Jackie Kennedy's Bouffant

Jackie Kennedy's bouffant is more than just a hairstyle – it's a symbol of timeless elegance and grace. Her iconic look continues to inspire and influence hairstylists and fashion enthusiasts around the world.

While the bouffant rose to prominence in the 1960s, its influence can still be seen today. Celebrities often sport bouffant-inspired hairstyles on the red carpet, showcasing a modern twist on this classic look. The bouffant has become a go-to choice for those seeking a glamorous and sophisticated hairstyle.

So, why not embrace the elegance and charm of Jackie Kennedy's iconic bouffant? With the right techniques and a touch of confidence, you too can channel the First Lady's sense of style and make a statement wherever you go.