Whether you’re a fan of dissociating and planning a Euro vacation you likely won’t go on, like me, or, daydreaming about a sunny European summer hotspot if you’re regulated, Mandy Moore just gave us all the hair inspo we need to make it through.
For the 2026 Las Culturistas Culture Awards, which aired/streamed on Bravo and Peacock, celebrity hairstylist and frequent Mandy Moore collaborator, Barb Thompson, created effortless “Aperitivo Waves” for the singer-actress-cultural fixture using Surface Hair products.
“Aperitivo Waves are the polished summer update to beach waves: soft, glossy, brushed-out bends with an expensive, after-sunset finish,” says Thompson. She adds, “The look keeps the ease of summer-in-Italy hair, but adds red carpet shine, face-framing movement and a smooth, healthy-looking finish.”
Thompson tells The Tease, “For this look, we wanted the hair to feel polished yet effortless with soft movement, rich dimension, and a luxe finish that complemented the bold silhouette of the red gown… This is a glossy take on loose texture that feels softer, smoother, and more polished than traditional summer hairstyles. The style featured a center part, brushed-out S-waves, sunlit bronde dimension and a high-shine finish made for a night on the Amalfi Coast — all thanks to a great selection of Surface Hair products.”
Read on to see how Thompson put the below suite of styling products to use to create those “Aperitivo Waves.”
Get the Look:
- “I started by applying Surface Hair Awaken Blow-Dry Foam through damp hair to create lightweight volume and support while maintaining natural movement.
- Next, I layered Surface Hair’s Blowout Smoothing Balm through the mid-lengths and ends to smooth the cuticle, control frizz, and create a silky foundation for the blowout.
- Once the hair was dry, I created soft, cascading movement using a 1.25-inch curling iron from the occipital bone down. I then switched to a 1.5-inch curling iron through the crown and hairline to create a softer, more open shape around the face. I used Surface Hair’s Blowout Texture Spray through the crown area to support lift and maintain airy volume while preserving a touchable finish and natural shine.
- The look was completed with Surface Hair’s Awaken Finishing Spray to lock in the style while keeping the hair soft, brushable, and full of movement. The result is modern, effortless glamour with healthy shine and understated volume.”
If you recreate these “Aperitivo Waves,” with this how-to, don’t be shy. Tag @readthetease on Instagram and TikTok so we can see and show you some love.
