How To: Pinned Side Sweep

The pinned side sweep is a timeless, elegant hairstyle that is versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual day-to-day wear to more formal events like weddings or parties. This style is not only chic but also easy to achieve at home with minimal tools. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you master the pinned side sweep.

What You’ll Need:

• Hairbrush or comb
• Bobby pins (preferably in a color that matches your hair)
• Hair spray or styling gel (optional for added hold)
• Curling iron or straightener (optional for additional styling)
• Decorative hair accessories (optional for embellishment)

Step 1: Prepare Your Hair

Start with clean, dry hair. If you have freshly washed hair, ensure it’s completely dry before beginning the styling process. If your hair is naturally straight, you might want to add some waves or curls for added texture. Use a curling iron to create loose curls or waves, which will give the hairstyle more volume and movement. For those with naturally curly or wavy hair, you can enhance your natural texture by applying a curl-defining cream before drying.

Step 2: Create a Deep Side Part

Use a comb to create a deep side part on the preferred side of your head. The depth of the part will influence how dramatic the sweep appears, so adjust it according to your desired look. A deeper part creates a more striking and sophisticated look, while a more subtle part will keep the style soft and casual.

Step 3: Smooth and Sweep the Hair

Once you’ve established your part, brush or comb the larger section of your hair across your forehead, sweeping it over to the opposite side. Smooth down any flyaways or uneven sections as you do this. The goal is to create a sleek, smooth sweep that lies flat against your head, with the ends of your hair falling naturally on the opposite side.

Step 4: Secure the Side Sweep

After positioning your hair, secure it in place using bobby pins behind your ear. It’s important to insert the pins in a way that they are hidden under the hair for a seamless look. For added security, cross the bobby pins in an “X” shape. If your hair is thick or heavy, you might need to use more pins to ensure it stays in place.

Step 5: Add Volume and Texture

For those who want more volume, consider backcombing the hair at the crown before sweeping it over. To backcomb, lift a section of hair from the crown, hold it taut, and use a fine-tooth comb to gently comb the hair down towards the scalp. This will create a cushion of volume that will give your side sweep a bit more height and drama. If you’ve curled your hair, gently run your fingers through the curls to break them up and create a more natural, tousled texture.

Step 6: Lock the Style in Place

Finish the look by spraying a light layer of hair spray over the sweep to hold it in place. If you prefer a more natural look, use a flexible hold spray that will keep the hair in place without making it look stiff. For those with finer hair, consider using a volumizing spray or a texturizing spray to give the style extra hold and body.

Step 7: Optional: Add Accessories

To elevate the style for a special occasion, consider adding a decorative hair accessory where the bobby pins are placed. This could be anything from a simple, elegant hairpin to a more elaborate piece with pearls or rhinestones. This adds a touch of glamour and can tie in with your outfit or the theme of the event you’re attending.

Final Touches and Adjustments

Take a final look in the mirror to ensure everything is in place. Adjust any loose strands and smooth out any areas that need it. Ensure that the sweep is even and that the pins are well hidden.

Tips for Different Hair Types:

• Fine Hair: If your hair tends to be fine and slippery, try using a texturizing spray before you start to give your hair more grip, making it easier to work with and helping the bobby pins hold better.
• Thick Hair: For those with thick or heavy hair, you might need stronger bobby pins, or even small clips, to secure the style. Additionally, using a smoothing serum can help tame any frizz or flyaways.
• Curly Hair: If your hair is naturally curly, embrace the curls in this style! You can either leave the curls as they are for a textured look or smooth the front section of your hair for a sleek contrast.

With these detailed steps, you’ll be able to create a pinned side sweep that is polished, stylish, and perfectly suited for any occasion, whether casual or formal. This hairstyle is not only easy to achieve but also allows for personal touches, making it a versatile choice for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their look.