Simone Biles’ New Game-Day Hair Is a Lesson in Sleek Styling

When Simone Biles steps out, people notice — and her latest game-day look was no exception. Spotted supporting husband Jonathan Owens at a tense Chicago Bears match, Biles debuted a sleek, polished hairstyle that’s instantly wearable yet still red-carpet level in finish. While celebrity hair moments can sometimes feel unattainable, this one lands squarely in the “copyable” category: neat, glossy, and engineered to last through hours of cheering, cameras, and cold-weather stadium conditions.

From a UK haircare perspective, it’s also a timely reminder of why smart styling matters: a flawless finish is rarely about one miracle product, and far more about prep, technique, and choosing the right hold for the environment. Below, we break down what makes this particular look so effective — and how to translate it for different hair textures and real life.

Why this sleek, glossy finish works so well on camera

Sleek styles remain a mainstay in celebrity beauty because they deliver immediate impact: they frame the face, emphasise features, and read as “put-together” even at a distance. In stadium lighting and press photography, a smooth surface also reflects light evenly, creating that unmistakable shine that looks healthy and intentional.

Many stylists in the UK will tell you that shine in a sleek look comes from alignment — the cuticle lying flat — rather than simply adding oil at the end. Overloading with heavy serums can weigh hair down or create separation at the roots, especially in finer hair types. Instead, the most reliable route is careful blow-drying or controlled heat styling paired with a light, even finishing product.

Practical next step: if your sleek styles never look “glassy”, try switching your focus from the final gloss to your drying direction — aim airflow down the hair shaft and keep tension consistent through the mid-lengths.

Game-day hair in the real world: weather, friction, and staying power

Stadium hair is a different brief to dinner hair. Think: wind, temperature changes, scarves and hoods, plus the constant friction of turning your head, hugging friends, and moving around. A polished celebrity finish usually relies on three things:

• Base control: a smooth foundation so flyaways don’t multiply during the day.
• Targeted hold: product placed where it matters (often the hairline, parting, and ends) rather than everywhere.
• Strategic finishing: a final pass that seals the style without making it stiff or flaky.

For UK readers, this is especially relevant in winter and early spring when hair can become more static-prone, and in summer when humidity increases frizz. Many stylists recommend adjusting your approach seasonally: lighter anti-frizz products in humid weather, and more moisture-focused prep when the air is dry (particularly if you heat-style regularly).

How to recreate the look: a stylist-led approach at home

You don’t need a celebrity glam squad to achieve a similar effect — but you do need a method. The key is controlling texture at each stage rather than trying to “fix it” at the end.

• Start with a clean, well-conditioned base: A smooth blow-dry is easier on hair that’s properly conditioned. If your hair tangles easily, gently detangle with a wide-tooth comb while damp.
• Apply styling product in sections: Work through mid-lengths and ends first, then use what remains for the top. This helps avoid greasy roots.
• Blow-dry with direction: Keep the nozzle aimed downwards. Use a paddle brush for a straighter finish or a boar-bristle/nylon mix brush for tension and shine.
• Refine with controlled heat (optional): If you use straighteners, take thin sections and keep passes minimal. Many hair professionals advise using a heat protectant whenever heat tools are involved.
• Set the hairline deliberately: Use a small brush or edge tool for the front and temples if you want that crisp, camera-ready finish.
• Finish lightly: Mist hold product from a distance, then smooth with your hands. Add a tiny amount of shine product to ends only.

Texture notes: If you have curls, coils, or waves, you can still achieve a sleek finish without aiming for “bone straight”. Many stylists recommend choosing a smooth, controlled version of your natural texture (for example, a slicked-back low bun with defined edges) so the look feels authentic and lasts longer.

Practical next step: keep a small clean toothbrush or edge brush and a travel-size smoothing product in your bag — it’s the easiest way to reset the hairline after hats, wind, or a commute.

Shine, edges, and care: keeping sleek styles hair-friendly

Sleek styling can be low-fuss on the day, but repeat wear can become stressful for hair if you rely on heavy tension, frequent heat, or lots of product build-up. If you wear slick styles often (ponytails, buns, tight updos), many stylists suggest alternating with lower-tension looks and paying attention to your hairline.

On the care side, a build-up reset can be helpful. Clarifying shampoos can remove residue from gels, sprays, and waxes, but they can also feel drying for some hair types — so it’s usually best to follow with a nourishing conditioner and avoid clarifying too frequently.

If you notice persistent irritation, flaking, or breakage around the hairline, consider speaking with a qualified stylist or dermatologist. It’s not about alarm; it’s about getting personalised guidance before a small problem becomes a bigger one.

Key Takeaways

• Sleek, glossy hair photographs well because it reflects light evenly and looks intentional from every angle.
• Long-lasting “game-day hair” relies on prep, targeted hold, and a light finish — not heavy product overload.
• For extra shine, focus on blow-drying direction and cuticle alignment before reaching for oils.
• You can adapt this look for curls and coils by prioritising smooth control rather than ultra-straight results.
• To keep hair healthy, avoid constant high tension and reset product build-up with occasional clarifying plus deep conditioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a sleek look without making my roots greasy?
Apply smoothing products primarily through mid-lengths and ends, then use only the leftover product near the roots. Finish with a light mist of hairspray rather than more serum at the scalp.

What’s the easiest sleek style for beginners?
A low ponytail or low bun is the most forgiving: it needs less precision than a high ponytail and generally holds better in wind, rain, or under a coat collar.

Do I need straighteners to recreate a glossy finish?
Not necessarily. A careful blow-dry with a nozzle and a good brush can create plenty of smoothness. If you do use straighteners, keep sections small and passes minimal, and use heat protection.

How can I keep flyaways down in humid weather?
Use a humidity-aware smoothing product and set the style with a light hold spray. Press flyaways down with warm hands (not nails) or a clean toothbrush/edge brush for precision.

Is wearing slick styles every day damaging?
It can be if the style is consistently tight or relies on frequent high heat. Many stylists recommend rotating styles, reducing tension at the hairline, and prioritising conditioning to help maintain strength and elasticity.