I’ll never forget scrolling through my feed in early October 2025 and stopping dead at photos of Amal Clooney with her new hair. She’d chopped off inches—reports varied from two to eight—and debuted this insanely glossy, bouncy style that her hairstylist, Dimitris Giannetos, dubbed the “bubble blowout.” It looked so polished yet effortless, like a modern take on those iconic ’90s supermodel blowouts but softer and more wearable. As someone who’s always chasing that salon-fresh volume without spending hours (or a fortune), I was hooked. I tried recreating it myself shortly after, and let me tell you—it’s become my go-to for date nights and big meetings. The bounce lasts days, and the compliments? Endless.
The bubble blowout is essentially a voluminous, rounded blow-dry with sleek roots, fluffy mid-lengths, and ends that curve gently inward for that signature “bubble” shape. It’s flattering on most face shapes, adds instant glamour, and works beautifully on mid-length to longer hair. Giannetos created it for Amal after giving her a fresh chop to décolletage level with blunt ends and long face-framing layers. Ready to try it? Here’s everything you need to know, straight from the pro’s insights and my own trials.
What Exactly Is the Bubble Blowout?
The bubble blowout is a glamorous evolution of the classic salon blow-dry, emphasizing extra volume and a soft, pillowy silhouette.
According to Dimitris Giannetos, it’s “like the classic blowout on steroids—extra voluminous, extra fluffy, brushed through from the inside to create a bubble illusion.” The ends flip slightly inward for a rounded finish, while roots stay sleek for contrast.
It’s more polished than a ’90s flip-out but softer than tight curls, making it perfect for everyday elegance with red-carpet vibes.
Why Amal Clooney’s Version Went Viral
Amal debuted this look in fall 2025 after a significant chop, shifting from waist-length waves to a healthier, bouncier mid-length cut.
Giannetos trimmed inches to remove damage, amplifying volume and shine—her hair hit around chest level with subtle “toasted almond” highlights framing the face.
The result felt fresh and powerful, pairing perfectly with her events wardrobe. Fans loved how it softened her features while looking effortlessly expensive.
The Key Cut for a Perfect Bubble Blowout
Start with the right foundation—a mid-length “power cut” sitting at the décolletage with blunt ends and long face-framing layers.
This shape allows ends to curve inward naturally, creating the bubble effect without heavy layering that kills volume.
Ask your stylist for subtle removal of length (even 2-6 inches makes a difference) to refresh ends and boost bounce.
Step-by-Step: How to Achieve It at Home
Recreating Amal’s bubble blowout is easier than it looks with practice and the right tools—here’s Giannetos-inspired method.
Start on damp hair: Apply a gloss serum like L’Oréal Paris Elvive Glycolic Gloss for shine, plus heat protectant.
Rough-dry 80% with your head upside down for root lift, then section hair.
Use a round brush to blow-dry sections, directing air downward while rolling ends under—pin each to cool and set.
Finish by brushing from underneath for fluff, then lock with flexible hairspray.
Best Tools for an At-Home Bubble Blowout
Invest in these for salon results without the salon price.
Essential Brushes and Dryers
A medium-to-large round brush (ceramic or boar bristle) is non-negotiable for smoothing and curling ends.
Hot air brushes like the Revlon One-Step or Dyson Airwrap speed things up—one tool dries and styles simultaneously.
A powerful dryer with nozzle helps control direction and add shine.
Product Must-Haves
- Heat protectant and volumizing mousse for hold.
- Shine serum (Giannetos loves L’Oréal glycolic options).
- Flexible hairspray like Elnett for movement without stiffness.
Comparison: Salon vs. At-Home Bubble Blowout
| Aspect | Professional Salon | At-Home Version |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50–$200+ per session | Tools $50–$400 one-time |
| Time | 45–60 minutes | 20–45 minutes with practice |
| Longevity | 4–7 days | 3–5 days with good products |
| Customization | Tailored by expert | Adjustable to your skill/hair type |
| Results | Flawless, effortless volume | Near-salon with right tools |
Pros and Cons of the Bubble Blowout
Pros:
- Universally flattering and versatile for work or events.
- Adds instant volume without extensions.
- Low-maintenance once set—moves naturally.
- Healthier hair post-trim feels bouncier.
- Timeless yet trendy.
Cons:
- Requires some arm strength and practice.
- Best on straight-to-wavy hair; curly may need more prep.
- Heat styling means protectant is essential.
- Cut commitment if going shorter.
- Hairspray needed for hold in humidity.
People Also Ask
What is the bubble blowout hairstyle?
It’s a voluminous blow-dry with sleek roots and rounded, inward-curled ends for a soft “bubble” shape—polished yet fluffy.
How long does a bubble blowout last?
3–7 days, depending on hair type, products, and weather—refresh with dry shampoo.
Who suits the bubble blowout best?
Most face shapes, especially oval or heart; great for mid-length hair seeking volume.
Is the bubble blowout damaging?
No more than regular blow-drying—use protectant and lower heat.
Can you do a bubble blowout on short hair?
Yes, but mid-length or longer maximizes the rounded effect.
Where to Get a Professional Bubble Blowout
Book with a stylist experienced in voluminous blow-dries—show Amal’s photos and mention Dimitris Giannetos for reference.
Celebrity-favorite salons in LA or NYC often replicate it; elsewhere, Drybar-style blowout bars are affordable options ($50–$80).
Expect 45 minutes and tips on maintenance.
FAQ
How often should I get the chop for this look?
Every 3–6 months to keep ends healthy and volume high.
What hair type works best for bubble blowout?
Straight to wavy; fine hair gets amazing lift, thick needs sectioning.
Can I achieve it without a cut?
Yes, but trimming split ends helps bounce—focus on inward rolling.
What’s the difference from a regular blowout?
More internal fluff and rounded ends for that pillowy bubble illusion.
Best products Amal’s stylist uses?
L’Oréal Paris serums, Elnett hairspray, and professional dryers.
There’s something magical about nailing this at home—the way it frames your face, the swish when you turn your head. I felt a little more like Amal striding into my next Zoom call, all confidence and shine. Whether you go pro or DIY, this blowout is worth the effort. Give it a try; your hair (and mood) will thank you.