We’re used to seeing Cardi B in a variety of hairstyles. Many are funky and daring, others are colorful and fun. We’re also used to the anything goes vibe of any MTV awards, where celebrities take the opportunity to wear their most ver the top outfits, hair, and makeup.
At last night’s MTV Video Music Awards, in true Cardi fashion, she shocked us by doing her own thing, wearing the complete opposite of what most fans expected. The “Press” rapper skipped the red carpet and hit the awards stage in an intricately woven dress complemented by a sleek simple long bob (lob).
“Cardi is known for her bold looks, but we kept it low key tonight,” said hairstylist Tokyo Stylez. “As a team, we decided short and shiny would be best for the hair, since the [fashion] look was busy. Cardi loves a simple moment!”
But we know that the looks that seem the simplest usually take the most work. So ESSENCE got the scoop from Tokyo Stylez on how she got the star’s look together, and how you can get your bob as silky and frizz free at home.
We’ve seen Cardi in so many creative and even over the top hairstyles, this was a departure from that.
We kept it sleek and simple this time. She was literally wearing Bantu knots hours before the VMAs look, so I was expecting something outrageous. But she allowed me to think creatively with the hair and I love a short look on her, so we kept it short and sweet.
When you’re styling for an awards show or long event, what’s the most important thing you need to keep in mind for the hair?
[Use] lots of hairspray. My Suave hairspray has saved me time and again because Cardi can’t sit still sometimes, so I need something strong to keep up with her.
Any tricks or hacks that you use for long wear? Any you used tonight?
No secret tricks I can share with you tonight, but the Suave Professionals Sleek Anti-Frizz Smooth & Shine Cream is responsible for you seeing no frizz or fly-aways.
Bob’s seen simple but are not always easy to get right. What was the trickiest part of this style and how can ladies do it at home?
I think it’s getting the middle part just right for this type of bob. You really want to make sure you’re applying an anti-frizz cream or smoothing serum to the hair to keep it in place, and then locking it in with a good hairspray.
What’s your best pro tip for achieving and maintaining healthy hair when your hair is constantly being styled and manipulated?
Try to stay away from heat as much as possible! I prefer using the Suave Professionals Moisturizing Curl Conditioner to promote healthy growth, and I love to throw some argan oil products in the mix.