Something dazzling has stolen the spotlight—and if you've seen Sean Baker’s Anora on the big screen, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about. Not just Mikey Madison herself (though her electrifying performance left us utterly spellbound), but the glimmering strands of hair tinsel woven through her locks.
Justine Sierakowski, the head of hair for the film, reveals that the shimmering detail was a deliberate choice. Designed to make Anora stand out under the pulsing club lights, the tinsel offered a touch of drama without overpowering her look with a full wig. The inspiration? None other than Adrienne Maloof of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Madison, for herself opted to wear the tinsel hues of dusty rose, magenta, and deep purple to stand against her dark hair.
Perhaps inspired by Anora's iconic locks, hair tinsel is having a shimmering renaissance. TikTok feeds are aglow with DIY tutorials, many captioned with playful nods like "Sees Anora once–" before diving into the glittering trend of wearing hair tinsel. Equal parts Y2K nostalgia and contemporary maximalism, this sparkling accessory is a radiant tribute to the early 2000s and cinema.
What is hair tinsel?
Hair tinsel—a touch of sparkle woven into your strands. Delicate metallic threads that come in a variety of colours such as gold and silver, blush pink or a kaleidoscope of hues, that tie carefully near the roots of your hair. Most hair tinsel is heat resistant and will come out between each hair wash.
When did it first start to trend?
Hair tinsel traces back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, when it first emerged as a playful addition to hair styling, particularly during the Y2K era's love affair with all things glitzy and bold. The trend gained momentum alongside the rise of pop culture icons who embraced over-the-top glamour, with tinsel strands becoming a go-to for festivals, parties, and statement looks. In the late 2000s and early 2010s, Beyoncé made it famous during her Sasha Fierce era, weaving metallic strands in her hair.
Modern hair tinsel has become popularised in salons and DIY beauty culture, offering a new way to add sparkle without committing to permanent dye or elaborate accessories.
Where to buy hair tinsel?
Hair tinsel can be found at most hair salons and wig shops. Depending on the quality and price range you're willing to spend, hair tinsel can even be found at shops such as Big W and Target. Other online stockists include Milk and Honey Wigs, DAVID JONES Seed Heritage, and ELSIE Co.
Hair tinsel inspiration
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