Kate Middleton is known for her bouncy blow-dry waves and for good reason. The Princess of Wales' go-to hairstyle always looks freshly done - probably because it usually is - and nine times out of ten you can count on it looking luscious, bouncy and full of life. But which of the best curling tongs can help you recreate the look?
When Kate stepped out yesterday with a new hairstyle, we took note. During a visit to the Foxcubs Nursery in Luton (to highlight her work on the importance of early childhood development), Kate opted for a modern take on her favourite style and we won't lie, we're into it.
Kate's new look involved defined, glossy waves and next-level volume, hallmarks of the copy-and-paste hairstyle that hits our screens with every season of Love Island, some might argue.
Now, we're not seriously going to suggest that Love Island and its hair trends had anything to do with the makings of Kate's recent hair revamp, but there's no denying the slight - slight - similarity. Meghan Markle has also been spotted rocking big voluminous curls, so its no doubt that this is the look of the summer.
Want to recreate the look at home? The key to killer waves is proper prep. Follow our simple steps below to re-create Kate Middleton's Love Island-esque hair waves at home. Let's start with choosing the best curling iron for you.
SHOP: The Best Curling Irons To Recreate Kate Middleton's Waves
Editor's Choice: best curling iron
beauty baywww.beautybay.com
With variable temperature control and a mineral-infused ceramic barrel, this curling wand is not only foolproof at creating killer curls – but kind to your hair too.
Customer review: "I was first tempted to buy the Dyson Airwrap but then when I set eyes on the Cloud Nine Curling Wand I instantly fell in love. I watched countless videos on YouTube to educate myself on the wand before I made my mind up and finally decided to buy it! It heats up in mere seconds which is amazing. I can safely say I wasn’t disappointed by the results on my night out and it was so effortless and easy to use the first time. I had so many comments on my hair that night I felt like some kind of celebrity! Definitely buy it I would 100% recommend it to everybody who owns a strand of hair. It also matches with my Cloud Nine Airshot Dryer and my Cloud Nine Wide Iron Straightener which is fabulous."
Pros
- Produces bouncy curls, mermaid waves and everything in between
- Created with Kinder Styling Technology for healthier, stronger, shinier hair
Cons
- It cannot heat higher than 175°C
| Temperature | 125 - 175°C |
| Barrels | 25mm tourmaline-ceramic |
| Cord | 2.7m swivel cord |
| Power | 35 watts |
| Plug | UK |
- 3 temperature settings.
- Maximum temperature 175°C.
- Optimum temperature control.
- Digital settings.
- 45 seconds heat-up time.
- Ultra-fast heat recovery.
- Heat-ready indicator.
- Ceramic coating to add shine and protect hair from heat damage.
- 25mm tourmaline-ceramic barrel.
- 2.7m swivel cord.
- Automatic safety shut-off after 30 minutes.
- Worldwide voltage - ideal for travelling.
- Mains powered.
- Includes heat-proof pouch.
- Heatproof glove included.
- Safety stand to prevent damage to surfaces.
- 35 watts.
- Manufacturer's 1-year guarantee.
The best affordable curling iron
bootswww.boots.com
This is not only a brilliant hair tool – but it's a bargain too. It has a relatively chunky barrel, so you can expect loose, 'undone' waves. There are 6 different heat settings here that reach up to 210°C. We've found this one to heat up quickly too. You also get a heat mat and protective gloves alongside the barrel.
Customer review: "Great tongs! I usually struggle as I have really long thick hair but with the larger barrel, they worked brilliantly. I like that you can amend the heat so as not to damage your hair. And no snagging. Got a lovely curl/wave from these (my hair doesn’t take to curls that great) and they stayed in well."
Pros
- The length of the barrel is suited for long hair
- Six different heat settings mean you can distribute heat where you need it
Cons
- Your curls will most likely relax into beach waves by day two
| Temperature | 160°C - 210°C |
| Barrels | Large 32mm barrel |
| Cord | 2.5m swivel cord |
| Power | 240V |
| Plug | UK |
- Up to 210°C
- 32mm true titanium barrel
- Advanced Ceramics™ heating system
- Extra-long barrel
- 6 digital heat settings
- Auto shut off
- 2.5m swivel cord
- Heat mat
- 3-year guarantee
The best customisable curling iron
beauty baywww.beautybay.com
Unlike any other curling tongs on the market, this clever tool expertly decides the heat level for you, based on your hair type. The 32mm barrel creates big, bouncy curls – just like Kate's. Featuring interactive digital buttons, you select which hair type is most like yours. The wand generates heat (there are 9 types) bespoke to your hair needs. Check out which heat setting is best for your hair here.
Customer review: "This is an easy-to-use curling iron that produces amazing, long-lasting curls. The curling iron has uncomplicated touch controls that make it very easy to use. It’s ergonomic, has a long power cord and is easy to work with. This curling iron has very accurate even heating that is very easy on my colour-treated hair. The integrated ION technology does a great job of reducing frizz and producing an intense shine that makes my hair look healthier. The quality of this iron is superb, it looks as good as it performs. This is an excellent quality curling iron that works exactly as described."
Pros
- Tongs decide the heat level for you, based on your hair type
- There's an option for chemically treated hair, textured hair and coloured hair
Cons
- It can be rather clunky to hold
| Temperature | Up to 210ºC |
| Barrels | 32 mm |
| Cord | 9 ft 360° swivel cord |
| Power | Auto World Voltage (100-240V) |
| Plug | UK |
- Comfortable thumb grip
- Cool Tip & Stand
- 1-hour auto off setting
- 2-Year Warranty
- Nine heat settings
- for use around the world (plug adapter needed)
How To Recreate Kate Middleton's Glossy Waves At Home
The key to a long-lasting curl is prep. On freshly washed hair, apply a body-boosting foam to give you a root lift that lasts. We love Hershesons' Zhoosh Foam, the innovative formula leaves zero residue and gives your style staying power.
Next up: blow-dry. The good news is, this look doesn't require you to be a pro hairdresser with a round barrel brush. If you don't rate your skills, simply use a paddle brush to help smooth and detangle lengths while you blast hair dry. Pattern Beauty's brand new Blow Dryer is ultra-lightweight and easy to use with one hand and it comes complete with four different attachments so - talk about a multi-tasker.
Time for a tong. Opt for a medium barrel for big, bouncy curls and angle the hair away from your face. If you're looking for more of a mermaid waves look, you'll want a hair waver instead.