Unlock the Secret: Master the Iconic Victoria’s Secret Bombshell Waves at Home

The allure of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show extends far beyond breathtaking lingerie and dazzling wings. For years, the runway has not only showcased the world’s most stunning models but also cemented an iconic beauty standard, particularly when it comes to hair. The signature Victoria’s Secret bombshell wave is a coveted style, synonymous with glamour, volume, and effortless sex appeal. It’s a look that manages to be both perfectly polished and beautifully undone, making it a dream for anyone wanting to elevate their everyday style or achieve a show-stopping finish for a special occasion.

While recreating the runway walk or the sculpted physiques of these supermodels might be a challenge, their legendary wavy hair is surprisingly attainable. This comprehensive guide will reveal the backstage secrets, expert techniques, and essential tools required to achieve those envy-inducing, voluminous curls, straight from the professionals who craft them for the likes of Taylor Hill, Candice Swanepoel, and Kendall Jenner. Prepare to transform your tresses and embrace your inner Angel with waves that are full of life, bounce, and undeniable charm.

The Enduring Appeal of Victoria’s Secret Waves

What is it about the Victoria’s Secret wave that makes it so universally desired? It’s more than just a curl; it’s a carefully orchestrated symphony of volume, texture, and movement. Unlike stiff, defined ringlets, VS waves are characterized by their soft, flowing nature, often starting a few inches from the root to maintain a natural lift. They frame the face beautifully, creating a youthful and radiant glow, and possess a certain “je ne sais quoi” that makes them appear both sophisticated and playful. This versatility is key to their enduring popularity, allowing them to complement everything from a casual daytime outfit to the most glamorous evening attire.

Models like Taylor Hill, with her youthful charm and captivating presence, perfectly embody this signature look. At just 19, she showcased her runway beachy waves at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show on December 8, effortlessly pairing them with a neutral smoky eye and bold brows. Her choice to wear the style for such a high-profile event underscored its versatility and universal appeal, proving that these volumized curls are a true style statement that can be recreated in minutes, making them a perfect choice for anyone looking to add a touch of glamour to their appearance.

Behind the Scenes: The Master Stylist and Her Secret Weapon

The magic behind those flawless waves often starts with a visionary stylist and a game-changing tool. Backstage at the VS Fashion Show, the legendary Sarah Potempa was the mastermind responsible for crafting the iconic hair look for every model. From seasoned veterans like Candice Swanepoel to rising stars such as Kendall Jenner, Sarah ensured every head of hair exuded that signature bombshell allure. Her secret weapon, a tool that has revolutionized home styling, is the Beachwaver curling iron.

The Beachwaver stands out for its innovative rotating barrel, designed to simplify the curling process and make those coveted cool, textured waves accessible to everyone. Sarah Potempa expertly utilized this tool to create consistent, beautiful waves on a diverse range of hair types – from super straight strands that typically struggle to hold a curl, to naturally curly hair needing definition and polished texture. The Beachwaver’s unique design allows for effortless, uniform curls with just the press of a button, eliminating the awkward arm angles and inconsistent results often associated with traditional curling irons. This groundbreaking tool truly brings the professional salon experience right into your hands, making it easier than ever to achieve runway-ready hair.

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Preparing Your Hair for Picture-Perfect Waves

Achieving the perfect Victoria’s Secret waves starts long before the curling iron even touches your hair. Proper preparation is paramount to ensure your curls are not only beautiful but also long-lasting and full of bounce. Begin with clean, dry hair. While some prefer second-day hair for better hold, freshly washed and thoroughly dried hair works just as well with the right products.

First, apply a volumizing mousse or spray to your roots and mid-lengths. This will provide the necessary lift and body, which is a hallmark of the VS look. Distribute it evenly and blow-dry your hair completely, focusing on lifting the roots as you dry. Next, a high-quality heat protectant is non-negotiable. Spritz it generously throughout your hair to shield it from the heat of the curling iron, preventing damage and maintaining hair health. This step is crucial for keeping your hair looking shiny and vibrant. Finally, sectioning is key. Use clips to divide your hair into manageable sections. Typically, it’s best to work in horizontal sections, starting from the nape of your neck and working your way up to the crown, leaving the top half clipped away for later.

Step-by-Step: Mastering the Victoria’s Secret Wave with the Beachwaver Pro

Now that your hair is prepped and ready, it’s time for the main event: curling. The Beachwaver Pro makes this process incredibly simple and efficient, even for beginners. Follow these detailed steps to achieve those flawless, bouncy waves:

Sectioning for Success

Start with the bottom half of your hair. Ensure the top section is securely clipped back and out of your way. This allows you to work systematically and ensures no strand is left behind. Aim for horizontal sections, about 1-2 inches thick, across the back of your head.

Curling the Right Side

If you’re starting on the right side of your head, click the ‘R’ button on your Beachwaver Pro. This ensures the barrel rotates in the correct direction, curling the hair away from your face for a flattering, open look. Hold the iron with the clamp facing you. Take a one-inch section of your hair – consistency in section size is vital for uniform curls – and place the very end of the hair into the clamp. Once secured, press the ‘Go’ button. The wand will automatically rotate and curl your hair for you, pulling it smoothly around the barrel. Hold for a few seconds (typically 3-5 seconds, depending on your hair type and desired curl intensity) and then release the clamp. Gently slide the iron out, letting the curl fall into your hand or onto your shoulder to cool.

Curling the Left Side

Once you’ve completed all the sections on the right side of your head, switch to the left. This is where the Beachwaver’s intuitive design shines. Don’t forget to change the setting to ‘L’ (Left) when you move to this side! Again, hold the iron with the clamp facing you, take one-inch sections, place the ends in the clamp, and press ‘Go’. The barrel will now rotate in the opposite direction, continuing to curl the hair away from your face. Continue this process, working your way up your head, section by section, until all your hair is beautifully curled.

Top Sections and Face-Framing Curls

As you reach the top sections and the hair around your face, pay extra attention. For the hair directly framing your face, always ensure the curl is directed away from your face. This creates an open, soft, and flattering effect that is a signature of the Victoria’s Secret look. For the crown, you can alternate the direction of the curls (one section away from face, the next towards face) to create a more natural, voluminous, and less “perfect” look that still has plenty of bounce.

The Crucial Cooling Process: Setting Your Waves

Once you’ve curled your entire head, the most critical step for ensuring long-lasting, defined waves is the cooling process. Resist the urge to touch or brush out your curls immediately. Freshly curled hair is still warm and malleable, meaning if you disturb it too soon, the curls will fall flat. Allow your hair to cool completely – this can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your hair’s thickness and the environment. You’ll be left with super defined, almost ringlet-like curls, but don’t worry, this is exactly what you want before the next step.

For an extra boost of longevity and definition, consider lightly misting each curl with a flexible-hold hairspray immediately after releasing it from the iron. You can also gently pin each fresh curl to your scalp using a duckbill clip or bobby pin while it cools. This “pinning” technique helps to set the curl pattern more firmly and creates a stronger, more resilient wave that will last throughout the day and into the night.

Unleashing the Waves: Breaking Up and Finishing

With your curls fully cooled and set, it’s time to transform those defined coils into the soft, voluminous, and effortlessly glamorous Victoria’s Secret waves. This step is all about breaking up the curls without losing their structure, creating that signature undone yet polished finish.

Fingers or Wide-Tooth Comb?

Gently run your fingers through your curls. Start at the bottom and gradually work your way up, separating the defined ringlets into softer, more expansive waves. For a slightly more uniform look, you can use a wide-tooth comb. Be careful not to brush too vigorously, as this can cause the curls to lose definition and become frizzy. The goal is to separate, not flatten. You want to create soft, undulating waves rather than tight ringlets.

Adding Volume and Texture

For that ultimate bombshell volume, gently backcomb (tease) the hair at the roots, particularly around the crown and sides. Use a fine-tooth comb and work in small sections, gently pushing the hair towards the scalp. This creates an instant lift that is characteristic of the VS look. Follow this with a generous spray of dry texturizing spray throughout your hair. This product is a game-changer for adding grip, body, and that coveted “lived-in” texture without weighing your hair down. You can also flip your head upside down and gently shake your hair, then spray with texturizing spray for an all-over boost.

Finishing Touches

To seal in your style and ensure it lasts, mist your finished waves with a light to medium-hold hairspray. Avoid heavy-duty hairsprays that can make your hair stiff or crunchy. You want your waves to retain their movement and bounce. For an extra touch of glamour, a light shine spray applied sparingly to the mid-lengths and ends will enhance gloss without making your hair look greasy. Step back, admire your work, and adjust any pieces as needed. Remember, the beauty of these waves lies in their slightly imperfect, flowing nature.

Sporting the waves the night of the show, Taylor Hill beautifully demonstrated how this volumized, beachy style transcends contexts. It works just as flawlessly with chic, wintry turtlenecks as it does with the USA-themed lingerie she showcased on the runway. This adaptability is a key reason why the Victoria’s Secret wave has become such an enduring and beloved hairstyle.

Maintaining Your Bombshell Waves

Once you’ve put in the effort to create these gorgeous waves, you’ll want them to last as long as possible. Here are a few tips for longevity:

• Sleep Smart: Before bed, gently gather your hair into a loose bun on top of your head, securing it with a soft scrunchie. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can also help reduce friction and prevent your waves from flattening or frizzing.
• Refresh Day Two Hair: On day two, if your waves need a boost, spray a dry shampoo at your roots to absorb any oil and add volume. Then, use a texture spray throughout the lengths and gently scrunch with your hands. You can also use your Beachwaver for a quick touch-up on any fallen strands.
• Avoid Over-Brushing: Resist the urge to constantly brush your hair, as this will quickly undo the waves. Stick to finger-combing or a wide-tooth comb for any necessary detangling.
• Product Choice Matters: Invest in quality products – a good volumizing spray, heat protectant, texturizing spray, and flexible-hold hairspray – as they will make a significant difference in the appearance and staying power of your waves.

Why the Victoria’s Secret Look Endures

The Victoria’s Secret wave is more than just a passing trend; it’s a timeless style that continues to captivate and inspire. Its enduring popularity stems from several factors. Firstly, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and polished glamour, striking a balance that appeals to a wide audience. It makes you feel instantly more confident, powerful, and alluring. Secondly, its versatility ensures it can be adapted for any occasion, from a casual brunch to a red-carpet event. It’s a style that transcends age and personal aesthetic, making every woman feel like a supermodel.

The look has also evolved, maintaining its core essence while adapting to modern beauty trends. What started as slightly more structured curls has softened over the years into the more “beachy,” undone texture seen today, reflecting a broader shift towards more effortless beauty. This adaptability, combined with its inherent ability to add volume and movement to any hair type, guarantees that the Victoria’s Secret bombshell wave will remain a staple in the world of iconic hairstyles for years to come.

Embrace Your Inner Angel!

Did you tune in for the sensational Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show? Were you captivated by the models’ stunning hair? Now you have all the secrets and techniques to recreate those signature, voluminous waves right in the comfort of your own home. With a little practice, the right tools like the Beachwaver Pro, and these expert tips, you can effortlessly achieve the iconic bombshell look that graces runways and magazine covers.

Don’t wait to try this transformative hairstyle. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of everyday glamour or prepare for a special event, these Victoria’s Secret-inspired waves will undoubtedly turn heads and make you feel absolutely incredible. So go ahead, unleash your inner Angel, and let your hair do the talking!