Ever caught yourself watching an award show, jaw dropped, and thought, “How do their hairdos look THAT flawless, even after hours under bright lights?”
While most of us aren’t stepping out of a limo or waving to paparazzi anytime soon, there’s no reason you can’t bring a touch of red carpet magic to your own bathroom mirror—especially with tips straight from celebrity hairstylist and Britt Lower’s husband, Kenna Kennor.
Kenna’s the stylist big names call when they want hair that says, “I’ve arrived.” Whether it’s a perfect wave or a sleek updo, his looks manage to be polished but never fussy, glamorous yet somehow effortless. So, next time you want to wow at a party (or just at Sunday brunch), here’s a little Kenna-inspired roadmap.
Prep Like the Pros Do (It’s Really That Important)
Kenna never starts a style on limp, tired hair. He recommends a little pre-game pampering: use a hydrating hair mask the night before you style, and don’t skip the heat protectant before you bust out your curling iron or straightener. Healthy hair is naturally shinier and holds a style longer.
If you want that major bounce, spritz some volumizing spray at your roots and give yourself a solid blow-dry, flipping your head upside-down a few times for lift. Kenna swears this is the base of almost every “big reveal” red carpet blowout.
Create a Strong Foundation, No Matter the Look
Planning on waves, a silky ponytail, or an intricate braid? Section your hair, and don’t rush the process. Kenna’s trick is to break hair into manageable, even parts. When curling, use a medium-sized barrel, alternate directions for each section, and let the curls cool before touching. This sets the shape—way better than tonging all over and brushing straight out.
For updos, Kenna is a fan of teasing at the crown then gently smoothing the top layer. It’s that little bit of hidden volume that makes a messy bun look red carpet-worthy instead of “quick trip to Target.”
Products—Less Is Actually More
Don’t drown your hair in spray, mousse, or gels. A tiny dab of pomade or shine cream at the ends will give hair that “expensive” finish. To lock things in without helmet head, Kenna recommends a mist of flexible-hold hairspray all over as the final step. You want movement, not stiffness—picture hair that could (almost) stand up to a big onstage hug or a breeze.
Finesse Your Finish Like a Stylist
Kenna’s signature move? A quick tousle with his hands or a boar-bristle brush to break up waves, soften an updo, or just add “lived-in” texture. Sometimes he even pulls a few wisps out at the hairline or temples for a not-so-perfect, camera-loveable look. It’s about personality, not perfection.
And for those fancy Hollywood accessories, Kenna suggests choosing one special element—maybe a sparkly pin or a velvet ribbon—so you get “wow” without “overkill.”
Channel Celebrity Confidence (the Best Finishing Touch)
Let’s be honest, half of the red carpet vibe is attitude. Take your time, toss on your favorite lipstick or jacket, and walk out like your invitation just read “VIP.” Even a casual day can get a huge lift with a little extra confidence and a hair flip.
Bottom line: red carpet hair is totally within reach—just borrow a little from Kenna’s playbook and have some fun. Who knows, the next stunner on everyone’s feed might just be you.
