Mastering the London Hairstyle Men Messy Bed Look: A Guide to Effortless Style

The “London hairstyle men messy bed” look has become a ubiquitous style choice for men across the globe, embodying a sophisticated blend of nonchalant cool and meticulously crafted detail. This guide delves into the nuances of achieving this effortlessly stylish look, exploring the techniques, products, and considerations necessary to perfect this trend. Understanding the key elements—texture, volume, and a touch of controlled chaos—is crucial to mastering the London messy bed hairstyle.

Understanding the London Messy Bed Hair Trend

The London messy bed hairstyle isn’t just about waking up and heading out the door. While it projects an air of relaxed sophistication, it’s a style that requires careful planning and execution. It’s characterized by its textured, voluminous appearance, a slight dishevelment that adds character, and a generally unkempt, yet stylish finish. Think less “just rolled out of bed” and more “effortlessly chic.” This look thrives on a balance—structured enough to avoid looking sloppy, yet loose enough to maintain a sense of casual cool that defines the London aesthetic.

Hair Types Best Suited for the London Messy Bed Style

While adaptable, the London messy bed hairstyle works best with certain hair types. Men with medium-to-thick hair will find this style easiest to achieve, as the texture and volume are more readily attainable. Those with fine hair may need to employ volumizing products and techniques to achieve the desired fullness. For those with very thick, coarse hair, a pre-styling treatment to soften the hair might be beneficial to achieve the desired level of control and texture.

Styling Products for the London Messy Bed Look

• Sea Salt Spray: This adds texture and grip, essential for achieving that tousled, lived-in look. It’s perfect for creating volume and enhancing natural waves.
• Texturizing Paste or Clay: These products provide hold and definition without making the hair look stiff or overly styled. They are crucial for shaping individual strands and creating the desired level of controlled chaos.
• Hair Wax or Pomade: Depending on hair thickness and desired level of shine, these can add definition and subtle hold, particularly for smoother finishes to the London messy bed look.
• Hairspray (Optional): A light-hold hairspray can provide extra staying power, especially in humid conditions. However, avoid over-spraying, as it can make the hair look crunchy and unnatural.

Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving the London Messy Bed Hairstyle

1. Start with Clean, Dry Hair: While some may recommend slightly damp hair, starting with clean, dry hair offers better control and precision in styling.
2. Apply Styling Product: Distribute your chosen product evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the roots for volume and the ends for texture. The amount of product used will depend on your hair type and length. [See also: Choosing the Right Hair Product for Your Hair Type]
3. Rough Dry or Air Dry (if damp): If you prefer a slightly more textured look, rough dry the hair using a diffuser attachment on a hairdryer, creating lift at the roots. Air drying will also lead to a natural, slightly less structured appearance.
4. Create Texture: Use your fingers to scrunch and tousle the hair, creating movement and separation. This is key to achieving the messy, yet intentional look. Avoid brushing, as it will create a smooth, less textured finish.
5. Style with Fingers: Continue to shape the hair with your fingers, creating peaks and valleys as needed. Focus on strategically placing the texture to emphasize face shape and features. [See also: Finding the Best Hairstyle for Your Face Shape]
6. Finishing Touches: Once you’ve achieved the desired look, you can lightly spritz with hairspray for added hold, but again, avoid overdoing it.

Maintaining the London Messy Bed Hairstyle

The beauty of the London messy bed hairstyle lies in its low-maintenance nature. However, to keep it looking fresh, a regular hair washing routine is essential. Ideally, wash your hair every 2-3 days to avoid build-up of product. Regular trims are also crucial for maintaining the shape and preventing split ends. Using a moisturizing conditioner will help keep your hair healthy and manageable, enabling the style to last longer.

Variations of the London Messy Bed Hairstyle

While the core concept remains consistent, there’s room for variation within the London messy bed hairstyle. Experiment with different parting styles—a side part, center part, or even a no-part look can create subtly different feels. The length of the hair also influences the overall aesthetic; shorter lengths tend to create a more rugged look, while longer lengths can provide more voluminous texture. Consider incorporating subtle highlights or lowlights to add depth and dimension to your hairstyle, enhancing the already texturized finish.

The London Look Beyond the Hairstyle

The London messy bed hairstyle is more than just a hairstyle; it’s a reflection of a certain aesthetic. The overall look is often complemented by a well-groomed beard (if applicable), sharp clothing choices, and a confident attitude. It’s the embodiment of effortless style, suggesting a sophisticated, yet unpretentious lifestyle. It’s a style that blends the refined with the relaxed, resulting in a look that is both fashionable and attainable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I achieve the London messy bed look with straight hair?
A: Yes, but it may require more effort. Use volumizing products and techniques to create texture and lift.

Q: How often should I wash my hair to maintain this style?
A: Washing every 2-3 days is recommended to avoid product buildup while maintaining the style’s texture.

Q: What if my hair is too thick or coarse?
A: Use a pre-styling treatment or consider layering to make the hair more manageable.

Q: What are some alternatives to sea salt spray?
A: Texturizing sprays or mousses can provide similar texture and hold.

Mastering the London hairstyle men messy bed look requires practice and experimentation. By understanding the key techniques and product choices, you can confidently achieve this effortlessly cool style and add a touch of London chic to your own personal aesthetic.