Mary-Kate and Ashley’s Hair Stylist Reveals the Secrets Behind Their Gorgeous Waves

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have undeniably established themselves as fashion icons, with their signature wavy hairstyles becoming legendary in their own right. Their effortlessly chic waves are a result of years of careful crafting, as disclosed by their longtime hairstylist, Mark Townsend.

In a recent appearance on the “Gloss Angeles” podcast, Townsend reflected on how the sisters’ hair care routines have evolved over the past two decades, having collaborated with the Olsen twins since they were just 16.

“At first, intricate blowouts and the use of irons were critical,” he revealed. “There was a constant competition over who would be the first to sit in my chair.” He elaborated that their early styling involved a clampless iron method, supplemented with “lots of dry shampoo” at the roots and salt spray for a textured look at the ends.

As the Olsens shifted towards a more natural look, the focus moved away from heavy products to a carefree, windswept style that they are recognized for today.

“[They] began to embrace air-drying, which led to a playful rivalry over who would come to me first, as they preferred to let their hair air dry as much as possible,” Townsend recalled.

A significant moment in their style evolution was Ashley’s Met Gala look in 2013: a stunning vintage Dior gown that seemed to float down the red carpet. “It was remarkable,” Townsend reminisced. “It was entirely handmade. Women spent countless hours attaching jewels to the gown.”

Ashley was equally committed to preserving the gown’s exquisite craftsmanship, requesting that no blow dryers or similar tools be used. “[She] made it clear: ‘I don’t want heat or any tools used,’” Townsend recounted.

“I wouldn’t say she was deliberately opposing the theme,” Townsend said with a playful grin. “But the theme was heavily focused on the machine age.” The result was a style that was simple yet striking, perfectly framing her flowing gown—and ironically accomplished without any hair tools.

“I set her hair with clips and let it air dry, and it turned out perfectly,” he exclaimed. “We had a heavenly reference: Jesus.” Indeed, her look was nothing short of divine.

While Mary-Kate and Ashley often share similar fashion preferences, favoring oversized clothing, neutrals, and layers, they also possess distinct styles and hair textures.

“They have such uniquely different hair; I treat each one individually,” he noted. “I use tailored products for each. Ashley’s hair is curlier and darker, while Mary-Kate’s hair has a coarser texture.” This personalized method highlights the bespoke nature of their iconic waves.

This approach also reflects the sisters’ lasting influence on the fashion and beauty landscape through The Row, a brand inspired by the bespoke garments of Savile Row. The Olsen twins intentionally refrain from closely associating their brand with their personal identities.

“They don’t just follow trends—they often set them. They do what works best for them, what suits them best, and that applies to their hair as well,” Townsend shared in a 2013 interview with People. “Their style is so distinct; it’s incredibly inspiring and deeply personal.” It’s no wonder their looks are also seen as aspirational.