We need to talk about Chappell Roan’s Controversial Hairstyle

Nov 28, 2024

It’s giving Victoria’s Secrets 2024 fashion show… For context, if you missed it, Victoria’s Secret took some heat for brushing out the natural curls and texture of their models’ hair for their 2024 fashion show. And a lot of people had a lot to say about it.

Victoria's Secret model Layla Etengan at 2024 fashion show
Layla Etengan, one of the many Victoria’s Secret models with burshed out curls at the 2024 fashion show. 

But to be completely honest, I feel like a lot of people are missing the beauty and the boldness of this hairstyle.

messy hair & brushed out curls: a Hairstyle fit for a lady in power

There’s a reason this brushed-out-curls hairstyle has been seen on the runways and catwalks four decades. For example, Christian Dior’s 2004 fall/winter ready-to-wear collection by John Galliano: a collection quite reminiscent of the Renaissance period and Queen Elizabeth the first.

John Galliano for Christian Dior 2004 fall/winter ready-to-wear collection
John Galliano for the 2004 Christian Dior fall/winter ready-to-wear collection.

Fast forward to today, and we have stars like Chappell Roan rocking this hairstyle on the red carpet. And in the same fashion as Queen Elizabeth I, Chappell Roan has also become known for her distinct style.

"Good Luck Babe" singer Chappell Roan at the Olivia Rodrigo "GUTS World Tour" premiere
‘Good Luck Babe!’ singer, Chappell Roan, at Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘GUTS World Tour’ premiere.

bringing renaissance back: Chappell Roan’s signature makeup & hairstyle

As her success has grown with popular hits like “Good Luck Babe”, “Femininomenon”  , and “Pink Pony Club,” Chappell Roan’s fashion and makeup looks have continued to become more dramatic and eye-catching.

"Good Luck Babe" singer Chappell Roan portrait photo
Chappell Roan poses for a renaissance-reminiscent portrait-style photo.

In general, Roan’s unique style can often be very reminiscent of Queen Elizabeth I, who was known for her dramatic, signature makeup as well as her hair–which was red, extravagant, bold, and sometimes frizzy. Fans and social media users have frequently compared her to the 16th century Queen of England.

Twitter tweet comparing Chappell Roan to Queen Elizabeth i
A user took to Twitter to draw comparisons between Queen Elizabeth I and Chappell Roan. 
Facebook user comment comparing Chappell Roan to Queen Elizabeth i
Another social media user, this time on Facebook, also points out the similarities between the 16th British monarch and the ‘Pink Pony Club’ artist.

The History of Big, Frizzy Hair & Brushed-Out Curls

This big, frizzy hairstyle has history. Throughout history, especially amongst royal courts, big hair has always been a theme. From long and teased hair to towering wigs, hair had long been associated with status and power. Centuries and decades later, it still evokes the same feelings.

Anne of Denmark painting portrait in 1612
A 1612 portrait of Anne of Denmark shows the popular tall, teased, brushed out curls hairstyle of the time.

So, although it might be controversial, you just have to appreciate its effortless, powerful allure. It’s giving regal. Renaissance. It’s giving power.

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