Red Carpet Glamour Meets Retro Chic: Charli XCX’s Golden Globes Hairstyle Decoded
The Golden Globes red carpet is always a spectacle of style, but this year, one look stood out for its subtle yet stunning elegance—Charli XCX’s glam blowout. But here’s where it gets controversial: while most stars opted for the predictable Old Hollywood waves or pin-straight locks, Charli’s hairstylist, Matt Benns, took a less-traveled path, drawing inspiration from a lesser-known Cher photograph. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the waves; it’s about the story behind them.
In a sea of safe choices, Charli’s look was a refreshing nod to retro glamour without feeling overly done. Her Saint Laurent dress was paired with a side-parted cascade of face-framing waves, a style that Benns describes as ‘Cher-inspired but with a modern twist.’ Bold claim alert: This might just be the beginning of a blowout renaissance in 2026. But is the world ready to embrace this throwback trend? Let’s dive in.
Benns, the mastermind behind Charli’s ever-evolving hair transformations—from green streaks at the Brat festival to voluminous extensions—took a more restrained approach for her Globes debut. Using Tresemmé’s A-List line, he crafted a look that complemented her gown, jewels, and soft makeup. ‘Our reference was a ‘90s photograph of Cher,’ Benns reveals exclusively. ‘Her hair was the starting point, but we toned down the bounce for a more contemporary feel.’
Now, here’s the real question: How did Benns achieve this effortlessly chic look? He walked us through every step, and trust us, it’s a masterclass in precision and product choice. First, he prepped Charli’s jet-black hair with Tresemmé’s A-List All-In-One Style Primer and Smoothing Cream, creating a sharp side part. Next, he blow-dried her hair with a round brush for smoothness and shine. Using a medium-sized tong, he waved each section, setting it with A-List Workable Hairspray and pins. Once cooled, he unpinned the waves, brushed them out with a wide-tooth comb and Mason Pearson brush, and voilà—soft, loose waves were born.
But Benns didn’t stop there. He added root volume with A-List Texturizing Spray, a pump of A-List Bonding Oil for extra shine, and finished with a spritz of A-List Signature Hair Fragrance. And this is the part most people miss: that fragrance? It’s a game-changer. With notes of vanilla and sandalwood, it’s no wonder we’re predicting it’ll blow up in 2026. (Plus, smelling like Charli XCX? Yes, please.)
So, what’s the takeaway? According to Benns, keep your waves loose, opt for light-to-medium hold hairspray, and don’t skip the hair fragrance. Controversial thought: Could this be the year we ditch the sleek, straight look for bouncy, retro-inspired waves? We’re betting on it. But what do you think? Are you ready to embrace the blowout revival, or is this trend better left in the past? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
