Anne Hathaway made waves at Ralph Lauren’s Fall 2025 runway show, but it wasn’t her outfit that had social media buzzing — it was her hairstyle.
The 42-year-old actress appeared in the front row with a sleek, high ponytail that revealed radiant, taut skin, sparking a flurry of online speculation. Was it a facelift? Botox? Or just a well-executed hair trick?
Among the theories circulating online were a brow lift, a mini facelift, and cosmetic injections. But others credited a more old-school tactic: a tightly pulled ponytail, known in hairstyling circles for its subtle lifting effect on the face — sometimes nicknamed a “hair lift.”
Hathaway’s hairstylist, Orlando Pita, confirmed in an interview with Marie Claire that the look was intentional. He called it an attempt to create an “AI version” of the star — pulled, polished, and precise. His secret weapon? A double elastic band, which provides strong enough tension to mimic the effects of more invasive treatments.
The viral moment came as no surprise to stylists familiar with the trend. “Tight, face-lifting hairstyles have become increasingly popular in recent years,” said Israeli hairstylist Or Atias Yalo. “They used to be reserved for red carpet events, but with the rise of TikTok and accessible beauty tools like lifting tapes, anyone can try it at home.”
According to Atias Yalo, the technique works by pulling back the top third of the face, creating the angular “fox eye” effect that has surged in popularity. “It’s flattering, it’s elegant, and it pairs well with anything from business meetings to evening gowns,” she said.
Still, stylists urge moderation.
“Overdoing it can lead to hair breakage, shedding, and even temporary bald spots — especially around the temples and hairline,” Atias Yalo warned. “And tension headaches or migraines are a real risk if the hair is pulled tight for hours on end.”
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She also cautioned against daily use of heavy styling products like wax and spray. “They help hold the look, but used too often, they can damage the hair.”
Her recommendation for those experimenting with the trend: wear it tight, but not for long. “Enjoy the look for a few hours, then let your hair down and wash out the products to give your scalp a rest.”