Flipped Ends
Flipped ends bring a playful, retro-inspired charm to modern hairstyling. This cheerful look features ends that curl outward rather than under, creating a bouncy, youthful appearance that instantly brightens any face. The style has roots in the glamorous 1960s but feels fresh and contemporary when styled with today's techniques.
What makes flipped ends special is their ability to add personality and movement to medium-length hair. The outward direction creates a flattering frame around the face while adding volume and dimension. This style is perfect for those who want their hair to look fun and polished without appearing overdone.
Multi-Angle Reference
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The Iconic History of Flipped Hairstyles
Flipped ends became iconic in the 1960s, epitomized by style icons like Jackie Kennedy and Mary Tyler Moore. The look represented modern femininity during an era of social change, projecting confidence and approachability simultaneously.
The original flip was achieved with hot rollers and lots of hairspray, requiring significant effort to maintain the perfect outward curl. Women spent hours in beauty salons achieving the look that came to define the decade's aesthetic.
Today's flipped ends draw inspiration from this vintage glamour while embracing modern, easier techniques. The style periodically resurfaces in fashion, always feeling fresh because of its inherent charm and ability to flatter virtually any face shape.
Who Should Try Flipped Ends?
Face Shape Compatibility
Flipped ends soften angular jawlines beautifully. The outward movement at jaw level creates a gentle frame that balances strong features.
The horizontal movement of flipped ends adds width, creating balance for longer faces. Position the flip at cheekbone level for optimal effect.
Oval faces suit flipped ends well, though virtually any style works. The playful flip adds personality without disrupting natural balance.
Flipped ends add volume below the chin, balancing a wider forehead. Ensure the flip hits at or below jawline for best proportion.
Be cautious with volume placement. Keep flips at jaw level rather than at the cheeks to avoid adding width to the widest part of the face.
Ideal Hair Types
Perfect For
Perfect Occasions for Flipped Ends
Everyday Wear
Flipped ends add charm to daily life without requiring formal occasions. The style elevates casual outfits with its put-together, playful appearance.
Work Settings
Professional yet approachable, flipped ends project confidence and creativity. The style is polished enough for meetings while maintaining personality.
Social Gatherings
The cheerful nature of flipped ends suits parties, brunches, and social events perfectly. The style photographs well and invites conversation.
Retro-Themed Events
For vintage parties or themed occasions, flipped ends provide authentic period style that requires no costume hair accessories.
Date Nights
The youthful, approachable quality of flipped ends creates a friendly, confident impression perfect for romantic occasions.
Maintaining Flipped Ends
DDaily Care
- Use a round brush when blow drying to maintain the flip direction
- Apply a light styling cream to keep ends pliable and bouncy
- Touch up with a curling iron if flips droop throughout the day
- Sleep on a silk pillowcase to preserve the style overnight
- Apply a finishing spray for all-day hold without stiffness
WWeekly Routine
- Deep condition to keep ends healthy and cooperative
- Clarify to remove product buildup that can weigh down the flip
- Give hair a heat-free day to recover from daily styling
- Apply a protein treatment to strengthen heat-styled ends
- Trim any split ends that can make flips look scraggly
MMonthly Tasks
- Schedule trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain healthy ends
- Consider a gloss treatment to enhance shine in the flipped sections
- Evaluate heat styling routine and adjust temperature as needed
- Consult with your stylist about layers that enhance the flip
- Assess hair health and adjust conditioning routine accordingly
Creating Perfect Flipped Ends
Prep with Product
Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This creates hold and body for the flip.
Blow Dry the Base
Rough dry hair until 80% dry, then section. Use a round brush to smooth the length, turning the brush outward at the ends.
Create the Flip
Using a flat iron or large barrel curling iron, curl ends outward away from the face. Hold for 5-8 seconds per section.
Build Volume
Backcomb slightly at the crown for added height if desired. This creates the full, rounded silhouette typical of flipped styles.
Set the Style
Apply a medium-hold hairspray, holding the can about 12 inches away. Use your fingers to adjust individual flips for uniformity.
Pro Tips from Stylists
- Use velcro rollers while doing makeup for heatless volume and flip
- Curl all sections in the same outward direction for uniformity
- A center part creates a symmetrical, mod look; a side part feels softer
- Apply dry shampoo at roots for extra lift and hold
- Keep the iron moving smoothly through ends for a seamless curve
- Flip all the way around the head or just the face-framing sections
Recommended Products
Essential Products
Optional Extras
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my flipped ends from falling?
Use volumizing mousse before styling, let curls cool before touching them, and finish with hairspray. Second-day hair often holds flips better than freshly washed hair.
Can I flip just the front sections?
Yes! Face-framing flips are a more subtle take on the style. You can flip the front while leaving the back natural or curled under for variety.
What length works best for flipped ends?
Shoulder to collarbone length is ideal. Too short and the flip lacks drama; too long and the weight pulls the curl out.
How do I flip ends without heat?
Use velcro rollers or foam rollers on damp hair, rolling away from the face. Sleep in them overnight or use a bonnet dryer for faster results.
Why do my flips look different on each side?
Your dominant hand creates different tension. Practice curling with your non-dominant hand, or have someone help with the back sections for uniformity.
Can I combine flipped ends with bangs?
Absolutely! Curtain bangs or side-swept bangs complement flipped ends beautifully, creating a cohesive vintage-inspired look.
