“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” star Jenna Ortega is one of director Tim Burton’s current muses, but her press tour looks reference some of his originals, including Catherine O’Hara and Winona Ryder. Thanks to her stylist Enrique Melendez and beauty team, comprised of hairstylist Bobby Eliot and makeup artist Melanie Inglessis, Ortega has walked the red carpet reinterpreting iconic moments from the 1988 film to an equally dazzling effect. The hair, in particular, has been very good — with subtle and obvious nods to nostalgic moments thanks to the genius of Eliot.
The Tease connected with Eliot about his appreciation for the first movie, the extensions he swears by, and hairstyling essentials for a press tour. He also shared exactly how he created Ortega’s Catherine O’Hara-referencing hairstyle for the premiere of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” in London. Scroll for more!
The Tease: Were you a fan of the original ‘Beetlejuice’ film?
Bobby Eliot: I’m a huge fan of the original! What first drew my attention was the incredible hair and makeup/costuming. It’s camp and the use of color and the wigs are magical! And of course… Winona Ryder!
So far, Jenna’s red carpet looks have been paying homage to her on-screen co-stars, especially via her hair. How much do you let the original reference influence the modern style?
Eliot: Yes, the looks have been an homage to various iconic styling, characters and aspects of the film. We work as a team to brainstorm and collect ideas. Jenna is just effortless and confident with her stylist and it shows in the looks because she owns it. It’s a fine line between keeping it modern and cool and not taking away from the fashion.
We know you’ve been using various The Hair Shop extensions on this press tour. What do you like most about their range? And what do other stylists need to know about their offerings?
Eliot: What I love about The Hair Shop extensions is the variety in color length and overall across the board is the highest standard quality of hair! It blends seamlessly with your own hair. I’ve been really loving having the options that hair extensions can give a look.
I’ve used every type of brand when it comes to extensions and the one thing I can say to other stylists is that quality matters with extensions and The Hair Shop standard is top tier!
What are the most essential styling products and tools you’ve been using on this press tour?
Eliot: When on a press tour the most important thing is to protect your hair from heat styling! Sometimes there are multiple looks in a day and heat protection is key. I’ve been loving Fenty Hair. They have this incredible product The Protective Type, a 5-in-1 heat protectant cream that also hydrates, smooths, defrizzes and detangles. It gives a beautiful shine to the hair!
Get the Look:
- “I started off using Fenty Hair The Protective Type Protectant Styler.
- Next, I blow dried the hair sleek and straight, to emphasize shine.
- Then, I added The Hair Shop Skinny Clip-Ins for added volume.
- Next, I flat ironed the hair for a sleek and straight look, blending the extensions in seamlessly.
- Finally, as a nod to Catherine O’Hara’s iconic hair from the original movie, I detailed a swirl slick to the side of the face.”
Be sure to follow Bobby to keep up with his adventures. And if you recreate this hairstyle for your next client, or for yourself at home, be sure to tag @readthetease on Instagram or TikTok.
