🎄 How To Do Cindy Lou Who Hair For Kids

Creating that iconic Cindy Lou Who hairstyle brings so much joy and festive spirit.

I’ve styled countless hair looks for school plays and holiday events, and this guide shares all the practical tips I’ve learned to make it simple and fun.

You’re about to master this whimsical look with ease.

Quick Overview

This guide will walk you through transforming your child’s hair into the adorable, gravity-defying Cindy Lou Who style.

You’ll learn the techniques to achieve a secure, long-lasting look perfect for any holiday occasion or costume party.

• Time needed: 45-60 minutes (including drying time)
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• What you’ll need: Hair ties, bobby pins, hairspray, a cone-shaped party hat or paper towel roll, a comb, hair gel or styling cream, ribbon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hair

Start with clean, dry hair. This ensures the styling products can work effectively without being diluted by natural oils or old product.

Gently comb through all the hair to remove any tangles, making sure it’s smooth and ready for styling.

Pro Tip: For very fine or slippery hair, a light mist of texturizing spray or dry shampoo can add grip and volume, making the style easier to hold.

Step 2: Section the Hair

Carefully part the hair down the middle, from the forehead all the way to the nape of the neck.

Then, create another part across the top of the head, connecting the ears. This divides the hair into four main sections.

Secure the two front sections with clips for now, keeping them out of the way.

Step 3: Create the Base Ponytail

Gather all the hair from the back two sections into a high ponytail directly at the crown of the head.

Use a strong hair tie to secure this ponytail tightly, ensuring it’s as high as possible without pulling too much on the scalp.

This ponytail will form the foundation for the upward-standing hair.

Step 4: Form the Upward Structure

Take your cone-shaped party hat or a paper towel roll and place it vertically over the base of the ponytail.

The narrow end of the cone should point upwards. This object acts as a stable core for the hair to wrap around.

Ensure it’s centered and feels secure.

Pro Tip: If using a party hat, cut off the elastic string. For a paper towel roll, you might want to slightly flatten one side to make it sit more comfortably against the head.

Step 5: Wrap the Ponytail Hair

Take sections of the ponytail hair and carefully wrap them around the cone or roll, working your way upwards.

Smooth each section as you wrap it, making sure to cover the underlying structure completely.

Apply a small amount of hair gel or styling cream to each section before wrapping to ensure a sleek finish and better hold.

Step 6: Secure the Upward Spire

Once all the ponytail hair is wrapped around the cone, use bobby pins to secure the ends firmly.

Insert the bobby pins horizontally into the wrapped hair, making sure they catch both the hair and the underlying structure.

Spray generously with strong-hold hairspray to lock everything in place and combat gravity.

Step 7: Style the Front Sections

Release the two front sections of hair that you clipped earlier.

Comb them smoothly towards the sides of the head, creating the characteristic Cindy Lou Who bangs and side sweeps.

You can gently curl the ends inwards or outwards for added whimsy, or simply keep them sleek.

Step 8: Add the Signature Loops

Take a small section of hair from one of the front side sweeps, near the ear.

Loop it upwards and secure it with a bobby pin to create one of Cindy Lou Who’s famous little loops.

Repeat this on the other side, ensuring the loops are symmetrical and sit nicely against the head.

Pro Tip: For extra security, use clear elastic bands to create the loops before pinning them. This helps maintain their shape throughout the day.

Step 9: Final Touches and Adornments

Give the entire hairstyle another generous mist of strong-hold hairspray to tame any flyaways and ensure maximum staying power.

Add a festive ribbon or a small, whimsical ornament to the base of the upward spire or around the loops, just like Cindy Lou Who.

Step back and admire your adorable creation!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Securing the Base Tightly Enough

A loose ponytail base is the enemy of a successful Cindy Lou Who hairstyle. If the initial ponytail isn’t very tight and high on the crown, the entire structure will likely sag or fall over.

Always double-check that the base is as firm as possible without causing discomfort, using a strong hair tie.

Using Too Much Product Too Early

While product is essential, applying large amounts of gel or hairspray at the very beginning can make the hair stiff and difficult to work with.

Apply styling cream or gel in small amounts as you wrap the hair, and reserve the heavy hairspray for securing sections and the final hold.

Forgetting the Internal Support

Attempting to create the upward spire without an internal support (like a cone or paper towel roll) is a recipe for disaster. The hair simply won’t stand up on its own against gravity for long.

Always use a sturdy, lightweight object as a core to wrap the hair around, providing necessary structure and stability.

Ignoring Flyaways

The Cindy Lou Who look is quite polished, despite its whimsical nature. Ignoring small flyaways or stray hairs can make the style look messy rather than intentionally charming.

Keep a fine-tooth comb and extra hairspray handy for smoothing down any rebellious strands as you go, and especially during the final touch-ups.

Troubleshooting

The Spire is Sagging

If your upward spire starts to lean or sag, it’s usually due to an insecure base or insufficient internal support.

Try reinforcing the base of the ponytail with more bobby pins, inserting them deeply into the wrapped hair and catching the underlying support structure. You might also need to re-wrap a section more tightly around the cone.

Hair Won’t Stay Wrapped

If the hair sections keep slipping off the cone or roll, the hair might be too smooth or fine, or you’re not using enough styling product.

Apply a little more hair gel or styling cream to each section before wrapping, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. You can also lightly mist the cone itself with hairspray for added grip.

Loops Aren’t Holding Shape

If the front loops are falling flat, they might not be pinned securely enough, or the hair is too soft.

Use stronger bobby pins, ensuring they catch a good amount of hair and are inserted firmly against the head. Consider using a small clear elastic band to form the loop first, then pin the elastic and the hair in place.

Key Takeaways

• A very tight, high ponytail is crucial for the foundation.
• An internal support (cone, paper towel roll) is essential for the upward spire.
• Wrap hair sections smoothly and tightly around the support.
• Use hair gel or cream for sleekness and strong hairspray for hold.
• Don’t forget the whimsical front loops and festive adornments.
• Patience and good pinning techniques make all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do this style on short hair?

The Cindy Lou Who style typically requires hair that’s at least shoulder-length to achieve the height and wrap around the support structure effectively. Very short hair might not have enough length to create the spire.

However, you could adapt it by creating a smaller, less dramatic upward section and focusing more on the front loops and festive accessories.

How can I make the style last all day?

To ensure the style lasts, use a strong-hold hairspray generously throughout the process, especially after securing the spire and loops. Make sure all pins are firmly in place.

Avoid excessive touching or vigorous activity that could dislodge the hair. A final mist of hairspray before heading out can also help.

What if my child has very thick hair?

Thick hair can be both a blessing and a challenge. It provides great volume but can be heavy. You might need extra strong hair ties and more bobby pins to secure everything.

Consider using a slightly larger or sturdier internal support. Work with smaller sections of hair when wrapping to ensure even distribution and secure pinning.

Is this style comfortable for kids?

When done correctly, it should be reasonably comfortable. The key is to avoid pulling the hair too tightly at the scalp, especially around the ponytail base.

Ensure bobby pins aren’t poking the scalp. The internal support should be lightweight. Check in with your child periodically to ensure they are comfortable.

Our Top Recommended Finds

• Strong-Hold Hairspray: Look for a non-aerosol or fine-mist spray that offers maximum hold without making hair crunchy. This is your best friend for gravity defiance.
• Good Quality Bobby Pins: Invest in pins that have a good grip and aren’t too flimsy. Black or brown pins will blend into most hair colors.
• Sleek Hair Gel/Styling Cream: A non-sticky formula that provides control and shine will help smooth down flyaways and give a polished finish.

Embrace the Whimsy

You now have all the tools and knowledge to create a truly enchanting Cindy Lou Who hairstyle for your child.

It’s more than just a hairdo; it’s a piece of holiday magic brought to life, sparking smiles and joy wherever you go.

Gather your supplies, put on some festive music, and start creating this memorable look today!