In Defense of Cheap Shampoo: Why Highly Glamorous Girls Love an Under-the-Radar Label

Patricia Garcia

Recently, a friend was visiting me in New York and stayed at my apartment. We were heading out to dinner one evening when I commented on how great her hair was looking. "Thanks, I stole some of your shampoo," she replied. "I can't believe you use Tresemmé. I would never in a million years have thought to buy that." When she went out and got a bottle for herself later that weekend, I strangely felt vindicated.

SEE MORE: 10 Best Beauty Looks for All Ages

My trusty Tresemmé has been a longtime favorite, yet whenever I'm asked what shampoo I use, I find myself hesitating. Shouldn't I be using something French and budget-imploding and incredibly hard to find? After being called out on my secret drugstore beauty staple, however, and finding out that Vogue.com's Sally Singer is a fellow Tresemmé fan, I've decided to say it: Loving an inexpensive shampoo should not make you feel cheap!

Just consider the case of Gisele Bündchen, who recently signed on as the face of Pantene Pro-V, as proof. Her hair is practically legendary-and she's not the only model who openly swears by the affordable label. "I like Pantene shampoo and conditioner, because my hair is so straight and I find it gives me a little lift," says Jacquelyn Jablonski, whose own thick, glossy, espresso-colored mane has been known to inspire a serious case of hair envy. Others covet a low-priced shampoo (which, in some cases, may contain the same high-tech science and next-generation polymers as its pricier counterparts) for other reasons. "My go-to is Herbal Essences for dry, frizzy, or unmanageable hair," says designer Pamela Love of the early aughts favorite. "It smells amazing and really does tone down any frizz."

SEE MORE: Vogue Editors' Fashion Week Beauty Essentials

A quick survey of the Vogue offices turned up plenty of color-treated devotees who swear by John Frieda's Sheer Blonde and Brilliant Brunette products, too. And if you're still skeptical, Taylor Tomasi Hill's signature (and often-photographed) flame-colored mane may just turn you into a believer. "I purchase my shampoo, Joico's Color Endure, which is sulfate-free, at Ricky's," she says, referencing the cult New York beauty supply boutique. "It's only $12.99 and lasts me months!"

More from Vogue:
Best Met Gala Looks of All Time
100 Under $100: Fall Fashion Guide
Michelle Obama's Best-Dressed Moments
What The 2014 Oscar Nominees Should Wear on the Red Carpet