I totally get that this is a food blog, but, since Mortadella Head is also a restaurant, we like to give industry tips here and there!
And today, we’re talking hair!
Say, what!?
As someone who’s been involved in the service industry for over a decade, I can tell you firsthand that looking put-together can make a real difference in how you feel and how you’re perceived.
And while your smile and service are key, your hair style plays a bigger role than you might think.
So, let’s dive into some of the best hair tips and styles for waitresses to try, drawing a little inspiration from the trends we see online, even on TikTok!
Practical Meets the Polished: Finding the Right Balance
When you’re constantly on the move, carrying trays, and interacting with customers, your waitress hairstyle needs to be both practical and polished.
You want something that keeps your hair out of your face, looks professional, and ideally, is relatively easy hairstyle to achieve, especially on those busy mornings.
Timeless Classics with a Twist
Some styles are classics for a reason:
The Neat Bun: A sleek bun is always a winner. It’s professional, keeps all your hair secure, and can be dressed up or down depending on your outfit. You can try a high bun, a low bun at the nape of your neck, or even a braided bun for a little extra flair.
The Chic Ponytail: A simple ponytail can look incredibly stylish when done right. Opt for a mid-height or low ponytail for a more sophisticated feel. You can wrap a strand of hair around the hair tie for a polished finish.
The Elegant French Braid: This is a fantastic option for keeping longer hair neatly contained while still looking elegant. A single french braid down the back or even two french braids can be a great choice.
Beyond the French Braid
Braids offer so many possibilities for a waitress hairstyle:
The Versatile Loose Braid: A slightly looser braid can look effortlessly chic. You can do a side braid or a fishtail braid for a different look.
The Fun Pigtail Braids: While some might associate wear pigtails with young girls, when done in a more mature way, like neat pigtail braids, they can actually look quite stylish and keep your hair completely out of your face.
The Trendy Space Buns: Inspired by TikTok users and young women, space buns can be a fun and quirky option, especially for more casual establishments. They’re also super practical for keeping all your hair up.
Short Hair, Don’t Care: Stylish Options
If you have short hair, you’re in luck! Often, a good cut and proper styling products are all you need.
Consider a sleek bob, a textured pixie cut, or even adding some soft waves for a polished yet effortless look. Make sure your hair is neatly styled and away from your face.
The Pigtail Theory and Beyond: Debunking Myths?
There’s been some chatter online, even a TikTok trend and mentions in places like the journal of economic psychology, about the “pigtail theory” – the idea that waitresses who wear pigtails might receive higher tips.
Some tiktok users have even shared their first video experimenting with this, claiming a double amount of tips or larger tips. One user might say, “guy tonight tipped so much more bc hair!”
While it’s interesting to see these trends, and some older men might have certain biases, it’s crucial to remember that professionalism and excellent service are the most significant factors in earning good tips.
Focusing on providing great customer service should always be your priority. These online theories are often anecdotal and might not reflect reality across the board.
It’s unlikely there’s a crazy reason why a specific hairstyle universally guarantees most money.
Practical Better Tips for Hair on the Job
Beyond specific styles, here are some better tips for managing your hair as a waitress:
Keep it Clean: This might seem obvious, but with the hustle of the job, ensuring your hair is clean and fresh is essential.
Secure Flyaways: Use hairspray or styling products to keep any stray hairs or flyaways in place.
Invest in Good Hair Ties: Strong and reliable hair ties are a must-have. Keep a few spares handy!
Consider Headbands or Scarves: These can be stylish ways to keep your hair off your face and add a touch of personality to your look.
Regular Trims: Keeping your hair well-maintained with regular trims will make it easier to style and look its best.
Finding Your Signature Style
Ultimately, the best hair style for you as a waitress will depend on your hair length, texture, the dress code of your establishment, and your personal preferences.
Experiment with different hairstyles to find what works best for you in terms of practicality, comfort, and confidence.
Don’t be afraid to try new things, but always ensure your hair is neat, professional, and keeps you looking and feeling your best while you provide excellent service.
You make the difference with your skills and personality, and a well-maintained hairstyle is just the polished finish!
