I’ll be honest, I was sceptical. Sam McKnight’s The Big Set looked… well, ridiculous. Imagine hair rollers on steroids, a gold hood (that expands) with a slightly sci-fi vibe, inspired by uber-celebrity stylist McKnight’s own backstage kit. But within 20 minutes, my scepticism turned into awe, this thing delivers serious salon-level results.

Here’s how it works

A woman with straight, shoulder-length blonde hair styled by Sam McKnight poses for a close-up selfie. She is wearing a black top, some hair partially covers one eye, and she has a neutral expression in a well-lit indoor setting.

You slot your hair into the rollers, spritz a load of hairspray over your hair, cover it with the hood, attach the hood to your hairdryer and leave it to set for 15–20 minutes. Yes, it gets a bit warm inside, but on a chilly Winter’s day, it’s surprisingly comforting.

Any hairdryer can be connected to the tube on the hood, so it doesn’t matter which one you own, no special kit is required. Bonus: you can scroll on your phone, catch up on emails, or plan your week while your hair is working its magic. Sadly, though, Netflix is off the table. The Big Set is a little noisy while it heats up, and since it’s attached to a hairdryer, you can’t exactly wander around the house mid-set.

Bonus: you can scroll on your phone, catch up on emails, or plan your week while your hair is working its magic.

Aside from The Big Set itself, all you need is a strong hairspray (go for something that really locks in volume) and, of course, your trusty hairdryer. That’s it. No complicated routines, no endless styling, just effortless, bouncy, salon hair vibes at home.

And here’s the kicker

Although it’s portable and deflates into a tiny matching-gold travel bag, perfect for trips, it actually works. You’re not compromising on performance just because it’s compact. I’ve recommended it to family, friends, and anyone who will listen. It’s the kind of product that makes you rethink salon appointments entirely.

Best £50 I’ve ever spent. Ridiculous looking? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. Smooth roots, bouncy ends, and texture that survives a day of commuting and schlepping kids to and from after-school activities. I can’t stop raving about it, and neither will you once you try it.

Shop The Big Set

A woman with straight, shoulder-length blonde hair styled by Sam McKnight and light skin looks directly at the camera. She wears a black top and a necklace, set against a neutral, light-coloured background.

Complete the look

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