With “Wuthering Heights” buzz hitting a fever pitch, and Jacob Elordi stepping into a brooding, anti-hero era as Heathcliff, the actor's tousled, lived-in locks are triggering swoons the world over.
Crafted as a modern “Darcy” moment, the look leans long, dark, and undone; romantic at its core, with just enough grit to keep it interesting.
For the film's press tour, Elordi’s hairstylist Jill Halouska subtly evolved the actor's now-signature look: softer, longer, and intentionally windswept.
Ahead, New York-based editorial stylist Andrew Zumbo breaks down how to pull off the romantic, run-your-hands-through-it coif.
Start with the cut: a 70s-inspired mod-mullet (mutton-chop sideburns are optional).
Fortunately, variations of this shag style can be customized to complement individual texture, thickness, head shape and facial features.
Styling Step-by-Step
1 — Build the Foundation (Lock in the Texture)
“This look isn’t about stiff styling but more about natural flow. Start with damp hair and mist in a lightweight prep product such as a heat protector or texture spray,” Zumbo says.
“This evens out porosity, adds subtle control, and gives you that soft, natural movement the style depends on. Scrunch that into the hair for an even distribution.”
Zumbo's Fave: Start with American Crew Prep & Prime Tonic to create a smooth, workable base.
2 — Dry Like You Didn't Try (Shhh, Yes You Did)
“Blow-dry using a diffuser for added shape, or let it air dry. Use your hands instead of a brush and give it a few scrunches to bring out natural texture,” he says.
“Lift at the roots, push the hair back loosely, and let the front fall where it wants. The main aim here is controlled imperfection by encouraging a lived-in effortless feel and vibe.”
Zumbo's Fave: American Crew Alternator as your blow-dry support for added texture and easy movement.
3 — Finish Like a Romantic Lead (Messy, Moody, Main Character)
“You want the style to last, but still move when the wind hits,” Zumbo says. “Use a lightweight cream or styling paste to encourage separation and lived-in texture.
“Focus on mid-lengths and ends to encourage the hair to bend and flow.”
Zumbo's Faves: American Crew Fiber Cream for hold without stiffness. Or, finish shaping with a small amount of the brand's Forming Cream to give that “I woke up like this — on a stormy hillside” energy.