All of the Beauty Looks From Practical Magic 2, Then vs. Now

In the sequel, those same textures return but are reimagined—curls are more

The long-awaited sequel to the 1998 cult classic Practical Magic has arrived, bringing with it a wave of nostalgic beauty moments that honor the original film’s iconic aesthetic. Released in September 2026, Practical Magic 2 revisits the Owens sisters’ world with updated styles that still feel deeply rooted in the ’90s charm that made the first film a touchstone for witchy glamour. Fans and beauty enthusiasts alike have noted how the film’s hair and makeup choices serve as both a tribute and a modern evolution. The beauty team behind the sequel deliberately wove in visual callbacks to Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman’s original looks, from loose, sun-kissed curls to braided styles that now carry symbolic weight. In the first film, Sally Owens’ effortless waves represented her attempt to live a normal life, while Gillian’s bold, untamed hair mirrored her rebellious spirit.

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In the sequel, those same textures return but are reimagined—curls are more defined, often styled with modern products for hold and shine, and braids have taken on a protective, almost ritualistic quality, reflecting the characters’ deeper connection to their heritage and magic. How the Braids Became a Symbol of Protection One of the most talked-about beauty evolutions in Practical Magic 2 is the shift from decorative braids to what stylists call „protection plaits.” These intricate, tightly woven styles aren’t just for show—they’re meant to visually represent the sisters’ growing awareness of the dangers that come with their power. In key scenes, Gillian’s braids are interwoven with herbs and tiny charms, a detail that mirrors real-world traditions in various cultures where hair is used as a spiritual shield.

The look was developed in consultation with cultural advisors to ensure respect

The look was developed in consultation with cultural advisors to ensure respect and authenticity, blending fantasy with real ancestral practices. What Role Does Nostalgia Play in the Sequel’s Beauty Choices? Nostalgia isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a driving force. The makeup palette leans into earthy tones, soft berry lips, and barely-there eyeliner, echoing the natural yet enchanted vibe of the late ’90s. However, modern techniques like skin-prepping primers and long-wear formulas ensure the looks hold up under today’s high-definition filming standards. Hair stylists noted that achieving the „lived-in” curl required a mix of diffusing, finger-coiling, and light texturizing sprays—products that didn’t exist in 1998 but now help recreate that effortless feel with more control. The result is a beauty language that feels both familiar and freshly enchanted. Frequently Asked Questions How did the beauty team decide which looks to reference from the original film?

They rewatched Practical Magic multiple times, focusing on key character moments, and collaborated with the original film’s hair and makeup artists to identify signature elements worth evolving. Are the braids in Practical Magic 2 based on real cultural traditions? Yes, the protective braiding styles draw inspiration from African, Indigenous, and Caribbean hair traditions where braids are used for spiritual protection and cultural identity. Did the actors have input on their characters’ beauty looks? Both Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman worked closely with the stylists to ensure the styles felt authentic to their characters’ emotional journeys in the sequel.