7 Steps to Achieve Cherry Valance's Iconic Hair from The Outsiders

Cherry Valance from The Outsiders

If you’re a fan of The Outsiders, you know that Cherry Valance is one of the most iconic characters. Her long, flowing hair is one of her signature features, and it’s a look that many people have tried to recreate. If you’re looking to channel your inner Cherry, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do her hair.

Start by washing and conditioning your hair. Once your hair is clean, apply a volumizing mousse and blow it dry. This will help to create the volume and body that Cherry’s hair has. Once your hair is dry, use a large-barrel curling iron to create loose curls. Let the curls cool completely before brushing them out. This will help to create a more natural-looking wave.

To finish the look, apply a light-hold hairspray to keep your curls in place. You can also add a few drops of hair oil to give your hair a glossy shine. And there you have it! With a few simple steps, you can achieve Cherry’s signature hairstyle. So go ahead and channel your inner greaser girl!

Gather Necessary Materials

To recreate Cherry Valance’s iconic hairstyle from The Outsiders, you’ll need the following essential materials:

Tools:

Hairbrush or comb
Teasing brush
Bobby pins
Hairspray

Products:

Volumizing mousse or spray
Finishing spray
Hair gel or pomade (optional)

Optional Styling Aids:

Item	Description
Curlers or hot rollers	To create loose, defined curls
Extension clips	To add volume and length
Headband	To keep bangs in place

Section and Prepare the Hair

Before beginning to style your hair like Cherry’s from The Outsiders, it is crucial to properly section and prepare your hair for the process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you get started:

Create Sections

Divide your hair into three horizontal sections: top, middle, and bottom. Secure the top and bottom sections using hair clips or ties to keep them out of the way while you work on the middle section.

Detangle and Smooth

Thoroughly brush or comb your hair to remove any tangles or knots. Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner or hair serum if necessary, to help smooth and detangle your hair.

Blow Dry

Next, blow dry your hair using a round brush. Use a high heat setting and concentrator nozzle to create a smooth, bouncy finish. Focus on the middle section of your hair, as this is the area that will be most visible when styling.

Product	Purpose
Leave-in Conditioner	Smooths and detangles hair
Round Brush	Creates a smooth, bouncy finish
Concentrator Nozzle	Directs airflow for targeted drying

Apply Petroleum Jelly to the Parting Lines

To achieve the greaser look, it’s crucial to create slick, defined parting lines. Using petroleum jelly is the secret to keeping these lines sharp and in place. Follow these steps to apply petroleum jelly effectively:

Gather Your Tools:

Item
Petroleum jelly
Cotton swabs
Mirror

Instructions:

Part Your Hair: Part your hair into the desired style for Ponyboy’s look. The iconic style features a deep side part with lines running along the sides and back of the head.
Apply Petroleum Jelly to the Parting Lines: Dip a cotton swab into the petroleum jelly and carefully outline the parting lines. Make sure to apply the jelly evenly along the edges of the partings. Dab any excess jelly with a tissue.
Smooth the Jelly into the Hair: Use a fine-toothed comb or brush to gently smooth the petroleum jelly into the hair along the parting lines. This will help hold the lines in place and prevent them from smudging or blurring.

Brush the Hair

To begin, brush your hair thoroughly. This will remove any tangles or knots and help to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair.

Use a wide-tooth comb

A wide-tooth comb is best for brushing wet or dry hair, as it will help to prevent breakage. Start at the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots, being careful not to pull or tug on your hair.

Use a leave-in conditioner

If your hair is dry or damaged, you may want to apply a leave-in conditioner to help detangle and nourish your hair. Apply the conditioner to the ends of your hair, working your way up to the roots. Avoid applying conditioner to the scalp, as this can make your hair look greasy.

Use a boar bristle brush

A boar bristle brush is a good choice for distributing natural oils throughout your hair. Brush your hair in long, even strokes, starting at the roots and working your way to the ends. This will help to smooth your hair and give it a healthy shine.

Apply the Cherry Wax

To achieve Cherry Valance’s iconic hair look from “The Outsiders,” you’ll need a few essential products and some styling skills.

Materials:

Item	Quantity
Cherry Valance hair wax	1 jar
Wide-tooth comb	1
Water spray (optional)	1 bottle

Steps:

Prepare your hair. Wash your hair and blow dry it straight. If your hair is naturally curly or frizzy, use a flat iron to straighten it.
Section your hair. Divide your hair into two sections, one on each side of your head.
Apply the Cherry Valance wax. Using your fingers, scoop a small amount of wax and work it into one section of your hair at a time. Start from the roots and work your way down to the ends, smoothing the wax evenly throughout the section.
Comb your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the wax evenly and remove any excess.
Shape and style. Use your fingers or a comb to shape and style your hair into the desired look. Cherry Valance’s hair is typically worn in a sleek, straight style with a slight wave at the ends. To achieve this, run your fingers through your hair while it’s still wet with the wax and gently create a slight wave at the ends. You can also spray a small amount of water onto your hair and comb it through to help set the style.

Comb the Wax

Once the wax is applied, it’s time to comb it. This is done to distribute the wax evenly throughout the hair and help it set in place. Use a fine-toothed comb for this step, and be gentle so as not to pull out any hair. Start at the roots and comb towards the tips, making sure to get all the way down to the scalp. If the wax is too thick, you can use a blow dryer on a low setting to help it soften and become more pliable.

Tips for Combing the Wax

Use a fine-toothed comb.
Be gentle and avoid pulling out hair.
Start at the roots and comb towards the tips.
Use a blow dryer on a low setting to soften thick wax.
Comb the wax until it is evenly distributed and set in place.

Troubleshooting

If you’re having trouble combing the wax, here are a few things you can try:

The wax is too thick: Use a blow dryer on a low setting to soften it.
The comb is not fine enough: Switch to a finer-toothed comb.
You’re combing too hard: Be gentle and avoid pulling out hair.

Create the Spikes

The final and most iconic element of Cherry’s hairstyle is the spiky top. This step requires a steady hand and some practice to get just right. Here’s a detailed guide to creating the spikes:

Section the hair: Divide the top section of the hair into small, 1-inch squares. Secure the rest of the hair out of the way with clips.
Apply product: To each square, apply a generous amount of a strong-hold hair gel or pomade. Work it in evenly, distributing it from roots to tips.
Comb in place: Using a fine-toothed comb, rake the hair straight up into a spike. Hold the comb in place for a few seconds to set the shape.
Hold and secure: Once the spike is formed, use a mini bobby pin to secure the base of the spike against the scalp. Push the pin in at an angle to keep it hidden.
Repeat: Repeat this process for each square, creating multiple spikes all over the top section.
Check for symmetry: Once all the spikes are in place, step back and check for evenness and symmetry. Adjust the spikes as needed to create a balanced look.
Finish with hairspray: To keep the spikes in place all day, spray them with a firm-hold hairspray. Spray from a distance to avoid weighing the hair down.

Tips for Creating the Perfect Spikes:

Tip	Benefit
Use a strong-hold gel or pomade	Ensures the spikes stay in place all day
Comb the hair straight up	Creates sharp and defined spikes
Secure the spikes with bobby pins	Keeps the spikes from falling or frizzing
Use a fine-toothed comb	Prevents the hair from tangling or snagging
Finish with hairspray	Locks the spikes in place and adds shine

Spray the Hair with Hairspray

The final step in achieving Cherry’s signature style is to spray the hair generously with hairspray. This will lock in the volume and waves, preventing them from falling flat or becoming frizzy. Use a strong-hold hairspray to ensure the style lasts all day.

Tips for Spraying the Hair

Hold the hairspray can 6-8 inches away from the hair.
Spray evenly all over the hair, making sure to saturate the roots and tips.
Allow the hairspray to dry completely before touching or styling the hair further.

Recommended Hairsprays

Product	Hold
TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Hold Hair Spray	Extra hold
L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray	Extra strong hold
John Frieda Frizz Ease Original Hairspray	Medium hold

Troubleshooting Hairspray

Hair is sticky or crunchy: Use less hairspray or hold the can further away.
Hair is flat or holds curls poorly: Use a stronger hold hairspray or dampen the hair slightly before applying.
Hair is frizzy: Reapply hairspray throughout the day or use a frizz-control serum.

Style the Sideburns

To achieve Cherry Valance’s iconic sideburns, follow these steps:

Trim the Hair Along the Temple

Use a hair clipper with a number 1 guard to trim the hair along the temple, starting at the hairline and moving towards the ear.

Shape the Sideburn

Using a pair of hair clippers with a number 2 guard, create a defined sideburn shape. Start about 1 inch below the hairline and trim a line down towards the ear. Be sure to keep the line as straight as possible.

Thin the Sideburn

Use thinning scissors to blend the sideburn with the surrounding hair. This will create a more natural look and prevent the sideburns from looking too thick or unnatural.

Taper the Ends

Trim the ends of the sideburns to create a tapered effect. This will help to create a more polished look and prevent the sideburns from looking too blunt or boxy.

Maintain the Sideburns

To maintain your Cherry Valance sideburns, trim them regularly to keep the shape and length consistent. You may need to trim them every 1-2 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows.

Styling Tips

Cherry Valance often wore her sideburns with a slight wave. To create this look, you can use a curling iron or wand to create loose waves in the sideburns. Finish with a light hairspray to hold the style in place.

Tailoring to Your Face Shape

The length and shape of the sideburns should be tailored to your face shape. For example, if you have an oval face, you can wear longer sideburns, while if you have a round face, you may want to opt for shorter sideburns.

Temporary Sideburns

If you’re not ready to commit to permanent sideburns, you can create temporary sideburns using hair extensions or makeup. Hair extensions can be glued or clipped into the side of your head, while makeup can be used to create the illusion of sideburns.

Variations

There are many variations of sideburn styles that you can try. Experiment with different lengths, shapes, and angles to find the look that best suits you.

Finish the Look

With the right makeup and accessories, you can complete your Cherry Valance costume and look like you just stepped out of the movie.

Makeup

For Cherry’s iconic makeup, focus on creating a natural, fresh-faced look. Keep your foundation light and sheer, and apply a touch of blush to your cheeks for a hint of color. Use a light brown eyeshadow on your eyelids and finish with a swipe of mascara to define your lashes. For your lips, choose a soft pink or peach shade and add a clear gloss to make them look full and glossy.

Accessories

Complete your Cherry costume with a few key accessories. A pair of hoop earrings and a delicate necklace will add a touch of feminine style. To protect her eyes from the Oklahoma sun, Cherry often wore sunglasses, so consider adding a pair of oversized shades to your outfit. A small purse or bag will help you keep your essentials organized throughout the day.

Optional: Hair Dye

If you want to go the extra mile in your Cherry costume, consider dyeing your hair to match her signature auburn shade. You can use a temporary hair dye or, for a more permanent change, opt for a professional dye job. As always, it’s important to follow the directions on the dye package carefully to achieve the desired results.

Finishing Touches

To perfect your Cherry look, pay attention to the little details. Make sure your hair is styled neatly, and consider adding a few bobby pins or hair clips to keep it in place. A light spritz of hairspray will help keep your coiffure in place all day long. Finally, remember to have fun and enjoy your transformation into the iconic Cherry Valance!

How to Create Cherry’s Hair From The Outsiders

Cherry Valance, a prominent character in the classic novel “The Outsiders,” is known for her iconic blonde curls. To recreate her signature hairstyle, follow these simple steps:

Start with damp hair: Gently towel dry your hair after washing it to remove excess water.
Use a curling iron: Choose a curling iron with a barrel size of 1-1.5 inches. Section your hair and wrap small sections around the barrel, holding it in place for 5-8 seconds.
Separate curls: Once the hair has cooled, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to separate the curls and create a more natural look.
Apply hairspray: To set the curls and prevent frizz, apply a light- to medium-hold hairspray.

Equipment You’ll Need:

Curling iron
Wide-toothed comb or brush
Hairspray