The Evolution of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s Signature Wavy Hairstyles
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have long been recognized as style icons, and their signature wavy hairstyles have become a hallmark of their effortlessly chic look. However, these waves didn’t happen overnight. According to their longtime hairstylist, Mark Townsend, the sisters’ iconic hair has been carefully refined over the years.
Speaking on the Gloss Angeles podcast, Townsend shared insights into the evolution of the Olsen twins’ hair routines. He revealed that he had been styling their hair since they were just 16 years old, and he has witnessed their hairstyles evolve over two decades.
When Townsend first began working with the Olsens, their hairstyles required a lot of work and attention. “At first, meticulous blowouts and ironwork were essential,” he explained. This involved a lot of styling with a clampless iron technique, along with “tons of dry shampoo” to give the roots volume and salt spray to add texture to the ends. In the early days, there was even a bit of competition between the twins about who would sit in the stylist’s chair first.
As Mary-Kate and Ashley became more focused on a natural look, their hairstyling routine became less about heavy products and more about achieving the effortless, wind-blown texture they’re now famous for. Townsend shared that the sisters began experimenting with air-drying their hair, which became their preferred method for styling.
“There was always a fight about who had to come to me first because they wanted to air dry as much as possible,” Townsend recalled.
One of the most memorable moments that showcased this shift was Ashley’s 2013 Met Gala look. She wore a vintage Dior gown that seemed to float down the red carpet, paired with her signature wavy hair. Townsend shared how the gown, which was handmade with hundreds of hours spent encrusting jewels, was meant to be complemented by a very natural hairstyle. Ashley had requested, “I don’t want to use heat, I don’t want to use tools,” a request that added an extra challenge for Townsend.
Despite Ashley’s no-heat approach, Townsend managed to create a simple, stunning look that fit perfectly with her couture gown. “It was an ironic outcome given her ‘no hair tools’ policy,” he said.
Mark Townsend also explained that he tailors his approach to the twins’ different hair textures. “They have such different hair; I approach it completely differently,” he said. Ashley’s hair is curlier and darker, while Mary-Kate’s hair is coarser. Townsend uses different products for each twin to achieve their signature waves, underscoring the personal and tailored nature of their styles.
This individualized approach to hair reflects the Olsen twins’ broader fashion philosophy, which is also rooted in individuality. Their fashion brand, The Row, is known for its bespoke garments inspired by Savile Row tailoring, and the Olsens avoid tying their personal identities too closely to their brand.
“They don’t follow trends — they are usually setting them,” Townsend said in a 2013 interview with People. “They do what works best for them, what looks best on them, and it’s the same with their hair.” Townsend also described their style as “amazing” and “inspiring,” noting how personal their approach to fashion and beauty is.
This personal, unique style is part of what makes Mary-Kate and Ashley’s looks so aspirational. It’s not just about following trends; it’s about creating something that feels authentic and individual to them. That, perhaps, is what has made their signature wavy hairstyles timeless and influential.
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s iconic wavy hairstyles are a product of years of refinement and experimentation. From meticulous blowouts to air-drying for a more natural look, their hair has evolved alongside their personal style. Mark Townsend, their hairstylist, has played a key role in creating their effortlessly chic waves, adjusting his techniques to suit each twin’s unique hair texture. Their approach to beauty reflects their broader philosophy of doing what works best for them, setting trends rather than following them. This timeless, personal style continues to inspire and influence the fashion and beauty world.
