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Cocktailing: The Curl Routine Upgrade You Didn’t Know You Needed
If you’ve ever layered leave-in conditioner with gel, or spritzed your roots before scrunching in mousse, you’ve already been cocktailing your products. For curly girls, it’s a survival skill: one product rarely does it all. The issue? Crunchy ends, frizz that won’t quit, or buns that fall flat by lunchtime.
PATTERN Beauty, founded by Tracee Ellis Ross, just put a name, a spotlight, and a system behind what the curl community has been doing for generations. Their latest ad even reunites the cast of Girlfriends, celebrating not only friendship but the hair rituals that connect us. Cocktailing is more than a trend; it’s a love letter to textured hair and the women who style it their way.
What Exactly Is Cocktailing?
Cocktailing is the art of mixing and layering stylers and finishers to get results tailored to your own hair needs. No two curls are alike, so why should your routine be one-size-fits-all? Think of it as customizing your drink order – except this time, you’re blending formulas for volume, shine, definition, or hold.
PATTERN makes it easy with product combos designed for specific results. Whether you want a juicy wash-and-go or a slicked-back bun, there’s a cocktail recipe for you.
Cocktail Recipes for Every Curl Mood
For a Juicy Wash & Go
- Start with Leave-In Conditioner on soaking wet hair to lock in moisture.
- Layer Curl Gel for definition and frizz control.
- Scrunch ends to help curls clump naturally.
For a Slicked-Back Bun
- Apply Styling Cream at the roots.
- Smooth with a bristle brush.
- Finish with Strong Hold Gel for polished, all-day hold.
For Soft Volume
- Spray Hydrating Mist or apply Moisture Milk at the roots.
- Work Curl Mousse from mid-shaft to ends.
- Diffuse upside down for lift without crunch.
Why PATTERN?
Beyond performance, PATTERN products are vegan, cruelty-free, and packaged sustainably. Plus, 1% of every sale goes to a nonprofit organization you choose. You also get free US shipping on orders over $75 and 10% off your first purchase when you sign up for emails or SMS.
It’s beauty that not only supports your curls but also your values.
The Takeaway
Cocktailing proves that your curls don’t have to fit into anyone else’s mold. PATTERN Beauty’s curated routines give you the freedom to experiment – whether you’re going for definition, hold, or volume – with products designed to play well together.
