Attending a formal event calls for an elevated beauty look that makes you feel confident and glamorous. For one client, a recent fundraiser gala was the perfect occasion to transform her everyday style into something spectacular.
The Hair Transformation: From Heavy to Voluminous
The client, named Erin, has naturally dense, straight, auburn hair that had recently been enhanced with blond and copper tones. However, her cut was feeling heavy and lacked movement. The goal was to wear her hair down with more body and texture.
The transformation began with a strategic haircut. The stylist maintained Erin's length but used a circular cutting technique to remove bulk while simultaneously adding texture and movement. This reshape was the foundational step for the voluminous style to come.
Step-by-Step Styling for Touchable Texture
Before heat styling, Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray was applied throughout to build all-over body. A key change was shifting Erin's part from the side to the middle, which better framed her facial features.
After blow-drying with a round brush for volume, her hair was protected with Oribe Gold Lust Heat Protection Spray. The stylist then used a two-inch barrel curling iron to create curls. To amp up the glamour, Oribe Dry Texture Spray was applied at the roots and mid-lengths.
The final touch was brushing out the curls with a paddle brush and misting with Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray. The result was a perfectly tousled and touchable bombshell hairstyle with incredible body and shine.
Crafting the Perfect Soft-Glam Makeup Look
For the makeup, the artist opted for a soft-glam aesthetic to complement the glamorous hair. The focus was on a flawless, even complexion achieved with a full-coverage foundation.
The eyes were defined using warm-brown eyeshadows, and wispy strip lashes were added to the outer corners for subtle volume and drama. The face was sculpted with bronzer for contour, then warmed up with a peachy blush. The look was finished with a sophisticated nude lip.
The Complete Product List
Primer: MAC Strobe Cream in Pinklite.
Foundation: Make Up For Ever HD Skin Long-Lasting Natural Matte Foundation.
Concealer: MAC Studio Fix Conceal and Correct Palette in Light.
Eyes: Glow Skin Beauty Stay Shadow Stick in Keepsake with MAC Powder Kiss Soft Matte Eyeshadow in These Bags Are Designer.
Eyeliner: Essence Stay & Play Gel Liner in But First Espresso.
Bronzer & Contour: Glo Skin Beauty Contour Kit in Medium.
Blush: Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Powder Blush in Captivating.
Lips: MAC Lip Liner in Oak, Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Bare Affair #044, and Stila Heaven’s Dew Lip Gel Oil in Rain Drop.
This detailed makeover, published on December 21, 2025 by beauty expert Nadia Albano, provides a complete blueprint for anyone looking to elevate their hair and makeup for a wedding, gala, or any special night out. By combining the right cutting techniques, volumizing products, and a balanced makeup approach, you can achieve a red-carpet-ready look that feels both glamorous and authentically you.
