For much of my childhood, nothing thrilled me more than a silk press. I had a standing appointment with my stylist every other Saturday, and it was a ritual—part pampering, part identity. By the time I got older and went off to college, I started experimenting: afros, braids, weaves, even shaving my head. Heat styling became less of a priority. In fact, I hadn’t pressed my hair in nearly three years.

But recently, the silk press called me back. This time, though, I wasn’t chasing that overly perfect, Easter Sunday press-and-curl look. Instead, I wanted something sleek, blunt, and versatile—something closer to the undone-yet-polished vibe of Zoe Kravitz, Solange Knowles, or Laura Harrier. Think movement, edge, and personality.

The difference this time? I wasn’t trying to fight my hair’s natural tendencies. I was embracing imperfection, letting my silk press feel lived-in, chic, and adaptable. And with the help of my hairstylists Shelby Samaria (Global Styling Director for Bread Beauty) and Mickiēla Mbatha, I’ve learned the secrets to making silk presses both beautiful and sustainable.

Here’s everything I’ve picked up along the way.

1. Choose a Stylist Who Gets Your Aesthetic

We’ve all been there: sitting in the chair, hoping for sleek sophistication, and walking out with curls so tight they belong in an Easter church photo. Shelby laughed when I confessed this to her because, yes, she’s been a victim too.

Her advice? Find a stylist who aligns with your taste and understands your vision. Don’t just ask for “straight” hair—be specific. She suggests using words like sleek but bodied or movement without oiliness. And if you’re bringing references, choose wisely:

• Bring one photo that matches your hair texture.
• Bring another that reflects the kind of shape or movement you’re going for.

That way, your stylist knows both your starting point and your end goal.

2. Limit the Heat (Seriously)

If you grew up in the culture of the “big chop,” you know heat damage is no joke. Once your curl pattern is fried, there’s no turning back.

The instinct to “just pass the flatiron over it one more time” is strong, but Shelby insists that less is more. If you absolutely must refresh at home, stick to these rules:

• Only pass the iron through each section once.
• Do it no more than once a week.
• Never flat iron right before bed—you’ll only sleep on it and redo it in the morning.

Mickiēla adds another key tip: always use the lowest effective heat setting. Your hair will thank you in the long run.

3. Nighttime Care is Everything

One of the biggest game-changers for me was realizing I didn’t have to wrap my hair every single night. According to Mickiēla, alternatives like satin rollers or soft Flexi rods can maintain volume and shape without over-manipulating your strands. Loose braids, soft twists, or a low chignon secured with a claw clip all work beautifully. Top it off with a silk scarf—or better yet, sleep on a silk pillowcase for extra insurance.

Personally, I like to mix methods: rollers in the front for bounce, a loose clip in the back for comfort. If I’m worried about my scarf slipping off, I double up with a bonnet. The result? Waves and shape without the stiffness of over-pin-curling.

4. Daytime Habits Matter Too

How you wear your hair during the day can make or break the longevity of your silk press. For me, that often means keeping it clipped back while running errands or working. Then, when it’s time for dinner, a party, or a meeting, I let it down for maximum impact.

If you’re hitting the gym, Mickiēla swears by sweatbands to keep edges intact. Shelby warns that too many ponytails too soon can create creases, so restraint is key. And if you’re one of the lucky few who don’t sweat through the scalp (I count myself blessed here), you’ll have an easier time maintaining the look.

5. Products That Actually Help

Both stylists agree: the right products are non-negotiable if you want your silk press to last. Their top recommendations include:

• Dry shampoo – Keeps volume alive without weighing hair down.
• Anti-humidity spray – A lifesaver against frizz, especially in summer.
• Lightweight oils (just on the ends) – Refreshes mid-week dryness without greasing up roots.
• Shower caps (yes, plural) – Double up to keep every trace of moisture out while showering.

On my end, I’ve also invested in a wand curler for quick touch-ups—it gives me the option of loose waves without over-flattening my hair again. And, of course, the holy trinity: silk scarves, silk bonnets, and silk pillowcases.

6. When the Press is Done, Have Fun

Eventually, your silk press will lose steam—and that’s not a bad thing. Shelby encourages clients to view this as an opportunity to switch things up. Some easy, stylish options:

• Braid-outs with a cream for soft waves.
• Sleek low ponytails (extensions optional for drama).
• High buns paired with statement accessories.
• Baby hairs styled with gel for a playful finish.

Instead of mourning the end of your press, think of it as a chance to explore another look.

The Beauty of a Modern Silk Press

This time around, I’m not chasing perfection. I’m not wrapping my hair into oblivion every night or frying it into submission with heat. Instead, I’m letting my silk press reflect my style—sometimes sleek and sharp, sometimes wavy and undone.

It’s liberating to embrace the in-between. A silk press doesn’t have to mean rigid uniformity; it can be fluid, versatile, and unapologetically yours.

Happy silk pressing—and if you have a secret tip, share it. We’re all learning how to keep the tradition alive while making it work for the way we live today.