How Hilary Duff’s Look for Her Headlining Debut at Madison Square Garden Was Made for ‘Hair Flipping’ (Exclusive)

**Behind the Scenes of Hilary Duff’s Spectacular Madison Square Garden Performances**

Renowned hairstylist Barb Thompson has offered insight into the dazzling preparations for Hilary Duff’s much-anticipated concert at Madison Square Garden, part of Duff’s ongoing The Lucky Me Tour. The event took place on 5th August 2023 and marked Duff’s return to the iconic venue after a two-decade hiatus.

This ambitious concert featured a compelling two-hour setlist, showcasing songs from her new album, *Luck…or Something*, alongside fan-favourite hits from the 2000s. The show was not just a showcase of music; it included surprise appearances, notably from Good Charlotte, making it essential for Duff’s looks to be perfectly maintained throughout the energetic performance. Thompson, who has been styling Duff’s hair for almost three years, played a pivotal role in achieving that.

Thompson’s strategy for the Madison Square Garden show involved creating a hairstyle that complemented the dynamic nature of Duff’s performance. Acknowledging the significance of the return to such a monumental stage, Thompson opted for a look that felt both familiar and classic for the artist, rather than experimenting with something completely new. “We wanted Hilary feeling her very best,” she remarked, highlighting her focus on comfort and confidence.

Collaboration with haircare brand Redken proved crucial in crafting the perfect look for the evening. Thompson curated a selection of essential products that ensured Duff’s hair could withstand the intense activity of the concert. Having previously worked with the singer for her earlier *Small Rooms, Big Nerves* tour, Thompson felt confident in her approach to Duff’s hair colour and curl routine.

The preparation began with a robust foundation, with Thompson using Redken’s Root Tease to boost volume. Her technique includes a unique method of styling curls, which involves having Duff flip her hair over to brush it out. Steps like these add both dimension and texture, resulting in a bouncy, glamorous hairstyle. “Using Shine Flash to define and separate the ends helps create a more lived-in look,” Thompson explained.

Thompson advised that fans looking to replicate Duff’s stunning look at home should rely on a range of vital products. Her go-to items include the All Soft Leave-In Conditioner for hydration and heat protection, and the Brushable Hairspray, which she credits as the “secret weapon” for ensuring longevity throughout the concert.

A notable feature of Duff’s appearance during the concert was her strikingly vibrant blonde colour. Thompson combats any signs of brassiness with Redken’s Shades EQ Hair Gloss. Her custom formula artfully combines different tones to achieve a shimmering shade, which perfectly highlights Duff’s personality and style.

Backstage, the atmosphere was charged with excitement, with Duff and her team engaging in various rituals to ease pre-show nerves while keeping spirits high. Thompson shared that simple games like Mahjong and music from the 90s were part of their warm-up routine, fostering a supportive environment. She often took on the role of DJ, ensuring the right tunes were playing before the show commenced.

The camaraderie among the team members was evident, with Thompson describing her relationship with Duff and her stylist team as a powerful collaboration. This synergy proved to be instrumental in crafting not only the concert’s visual aspect but also in establishing a positive and uplifting atmosphere throughout the tour preparations.

With the successful execution of the Madison Square Garden shows, Thompson reflected on the milestone, expressing her exhilaration at being part of such a significant moment for Duff’s career. “I had never been to MSG, and now I’ve gotten to see Hilary sell it out!” she enthused, encapsulating the joy and excitement of the event.

As Hilary Duff continues The Lucky Me Tour, her team remains committed to delivering an engaging and memorable experience for her fans, with Barb Thompson playing an essential role in ensuring that the singer shines both on and off stage.