Fans of FX’s monumental series “The Bear” are no strangers to its captivating allure. Jeremy Allen White takes the spotlight as Carmy, a culinary prodigy on a mission to rejuvenate his late brother’s business. As Season 2 unfolds, introducing fresh terminology and star-studded episodes for ardent enthusiasts, White consistently wields his effortless charisma, effortlessly charming the digital realm. With a penchant for uncomplicated fashion, the 32-year-old actor effortlessly dons crisp white tees and well-fitted jeans, his countenance often adorned with a perspiration-born radiance that befits his hours in the kitchen. Yet, the true enigma behind his magnetic appeal lies in his flawlessly sculpted, defiant curls.
Even White himself acknowledges the mesmerizing allure of his locks, despite their potential deviation from FDA regulations. “I thought it looked great on the show, but it’s weird, a lot of people are calling out—and they’re not wrong—that I should have been wearing a cap,” he humorously shared with Seth Meyers during a 2022 Late Night appearance. “I should have been wearing something because so much of Carmy’s hair is probably in all those sandwiches.”
However, disregarding hair nets, Season 2 witnesses Carmy’s untamed mane continue to grace the screen—large, free-flowing, and imbued with a sun-kissed brilliance. If you’ve been pondering the secret to achieving hair as enchantingly buoyant as White’s, wonder no more. We reached out to barber Joe Mills, the creative force behind London’s esteemed Woolf salon, who generously shared the coveted recipe.
1. Assess Hair Compatibility
Mills emphasizes that while Carmy’s hairstyle boasts “low-maintenance and easy-to-style” attributes, its success hinges on possessing the appropriate hair type. He advises, “For those endowed with thick, slightly wavy textured hair, this cut is a match. Your locks should reach a moderate length—essentially a few inches of growth overall. The top retains slightly more length than the back and sides, necessitating a solid three to four inches at the latter for optimal results.”
2. Execute Precise Cuts
“Consult your stylist or barber to retain the length while incorporating layers, particularly concentrating the length toward the crown and frontal region. Request texturing during the cutting process to accentuate curls and define shape, facilitating subsequent styling.”
3. Double-Down on Drying
Embarking on home styling for your Carmy-inspired coif? Mills’ recommendation begins with a regimen encompassing shampoo, conditioner, and towel drying. Next, deploy a hair dryer equipped with a diffuser on a gentle speed and temperature setting, coaxing your hair’s natural curl while coaxing elevation at the front. “Invert your head and employ the dryer underneath your hair for assistance.”
4. Craft Your Personal Style
“As your hair approaches near-dryness, employ your fingers to mold it into the desired configuration, employing the hairdryer as needed. Follow by applying a finishing product, opting for a variant with subtle shine. I’d recommend Oliver Woods Blackseed Wax—dispense a coin-sized quantity, work it through your palms, then distribute it evenly. This step amplifies curl definition and offers hold without sacrificing maneuverability. For enhanced hold, consider substituting wax with pomade.”
Embarking on the journey toward Jeremy Allen White’s signature “The Bear” hairstyle necessitates meticulous consideration of hair compatibility, precision in cutting, and adeptness in styling. Through these steps, you can channel the charismatic essence of Carmy, all while leaving your own indelible mark.
