For some people, gift-giving is a love language—something they take pride and joy in, no matter how small or elaborate the gesture. We all want a friend, relative or partner who’s a natural gift-giver (sadly, my love language is “quality time,” which fills zero Christmas stockings). Then there are type-B operators who casually pick up whatever chic salad bowl set mum’s been hinting at for summer barbecues, entirely unfazed—if not slightly eye-rolly—at the general chaos of December shopping.

And then there’s the rest of us. The instigators. The perpetrators. The victims? Panic buyers. I tend to straddle both scenarios. Perhaps even more so now as I, again, bid London adieu for another hot (hopeful thinking) Melbourne homecoming. Do I brave the undulating winds, the brusque Brits, the gawking tourists—for a field trip to Fortnum & Mason or Liberty? Or, do I swap suitcase space for last-minute stress—haphazardly driving around Brighton or South Yarra from mid-December? Or, take it extra chill with a wine, crisps, and online shopping eve… really at any time, with everything at my “click to cart” disposal?

So here it is: my edit of beautiful, clever, trendy, classic, considered, or quietly joyful things worth giving (or keeping—because you’ve made it through another year, yipee). You’ll find objects that spark nostalgia, bottle hedonism, inspire getaways, or simply remind you that taste, also in the literal form (yes, we’ve got olive oil in here, folks)—like generosity, can't be rushed.

[Note to reader: A different kind of Shelf Life this week, but gift guides are a trend in themselves. Consider this a curation of trend-less joys, each worthy of a place on your vanity, carry-on etc. etc. All prices are listed in AUD unless otherwise noted.]

For the Hedonist:

A dollop of indulgence for the everyday—from silk pjs, to boutique fragrances, artisanal chocolate, and other quietly lavish pleasures.

Sleeper: Party Pajamas Set with Detachable Feathers in Red = $690

Vogue cigarette; Glenfiddich 12, neat; a conversation pit you definitely don’t need but desperately want (allow me to whet your appetite…), a “therapy session”; Marvin Gaye humming away in the background—optional, though, highly recommended to complete the fantasy.

Loco Love: Holiday Collection = $88

Like candles, chocolates can get a bad rap as the “basic gift.” But Love Loco? For Christmas? It’s so bad, it’s devilishly good. Two tiers of animalistic hunger; 12 morsels of pleasure. A gift you absolutely won’t want to share.

Matilda Goad: Wave Matchbox Sleeve, Brass = £60

Whether you smoke, cinematically smoke (through my rooftop’s trap door, I confess), or prefer mood lighting over basic electricity, a matchbox sleeve is the perfect display-worthy and practical companion—a little brass poetry for your Balzac coffee table. And if you’re in London, even better: you can get this baby engraved for peak affection or cheek. (I’ll be carving “no big lights allowed” on my next visit.)

Hôtel Costes: Home Fragrance Brown = €60

Just a few sprays of Olivia Giacobetti’s signature Costes fragrance (the same nose behind Diptyque, L’Artisan Parfumeur, Guerlain, Hermès and more) is enough to transport you straight to the velvet-draped rooms, lacquered wood surfaces, and dark leather lounges of Costes. It’s baroque, intimate, spicy, dare I say… a little indecent—with notes of waxed wood, rum, mahogany, bitter orange peel, paprika, and oak moss capturing its after-dark mood.

Assouline: Brigitte Bardot: Intimate = $205

On screen, Brigitte Bardot radiated intimacy and unapologetic sexuality; off screen, she kept her private world firmly under lock and key (for the uninitiated, please find a primer here). But thanks to a new Assouline title, we’re granted a rare peek behind the gates at La Madrague, Bardot’s reclusive Saint-Tropez estate.

Drawn from a suitcase of unreleased negatives found in the attic of photographer and longtime confidant, Ghislain “Jicky” Dussart, the book paints a deeply personal portrait of the original “sex kitten”: smokey eye, just-bitten pout, voluminous fringe, bare décolletage and all… as well as the softer, more halycon moments away from the spotlight.

For the Bon Vivant:

A feast for the eyes, a vessel for the food—pleasure your inner chef with everything from decadent olive oil to boutique aprons.

Mesa sorbetes - ice cream coupe (short) = $20

Whether you’re basking in an Australian summer, celebrating a friend’s birthday, or simply a-sweet-treat before bed kind of person, you never need an excuse for gelato. But if you’re looking for an excuse to buy chic new tableware—consider this it. Mesa’s polished stainless-steel coupe brings a sleek modern touch to whatever you serve: small desserts (hello affogato), aperitivo bites, even the jewellery you abandon at your side table.

Golden Groves: Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil = $45

I recently read that instead of bringing wine to a dinner party, you should bring a really good bottle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Obviously, budgets vary—some EVOOs cost more than a decent bottle of red—but the sentiment sounds chic. And if you are going to do it, make this one from Golden Groves.

It’s a distillation of southern Greece in all its full-bodied, peppery, verdant glory. Certified organic and high phenolic, each olive is handpicked and pressed within 48 hours for maximum nutritional payoff. It also comes from a generations-old family farm on the Mani Peninsula—which somehow makes it taste even more like liquid gold.

Damson Madder: Apron—Mixed Stripe = £36.00

Unless you’re as poise as Queen Nigella, chances are you’ll need an apron during everyday kitchen conquering. Damson Madder’s cross-back iteration blends artisanal charm with actual practicality— hand-painted stripes, adjustable straps, deep front pockets, all carved from 100% organic cotton. Kissing the cook is more than encouraged in this ‘fit.

Sonos: Move 2 Portable Speakers = $599 (currently on sale)

Like the Big Light, I’m also allergic to “silent” dinner parties. Set the mood properly with Sonos’ Move 2 Portable Speaker—streamable via WiFi and Bluetooth®, with up to 24 hours of uninterrupted playback for the all-day, all-night hosts. It’s dust and water resistant too, making it perfect for poolside hangs (and if you are poolside, I fully expect an invitation please and thanks).

West Elm: Albee Bar Cart = $699

Ever fancied owning a bar? Can’t say I have—but a bar cart? Bien sûr! This West Elm number channels full Art Deco glamour with its slim metal frame, bottom mirrored shelf, and antique brass finish. Two open tiers and smooth wheels (for smooth operators) make it equal parts function and fabulous. Wherever the party goes, your dirty martini will dutifully follow. (If your budget is a bit more roomy, I also recommend this divine Mid-Century Bar Cabinet.)

For the Professional Homebody:

The club, the cafe, the experimental new canteen diner could never. Reward the island-living girl with objects that make staying in a lifestyle, a vibe.

MALIN+GOETZ: Tomato Home Spray 147ml = $90

For the person who decorates the table with tomatoes…. or puts tomato sauce on absolutely everything—a tomato-scented room spray feels poetically on brand. MALIN+GOETZ’s iteration captures the green, sun-warmed scent of San Marzano vines, instantly cutting through any unsavoury dinner smells with something fresh, clean, and herbaceous. (No apologies for the sudden craving for Bolognese.)

Bespoke Press: 2026 Petite Linen Bound Planner = $47.46

If she practises gratitude, keeps a journal, or refuses to migrate to Google Calendar (hi, it’s me!), she’s probably a physical diary girl through and through. Ease the load of her big 2026 goals with Bespoke Letterpress’ petite linen bound planner—complete with all the writerly quirks: gold gilded edges, satin ribbon markers, and perfectly bound pages that lie flat as she writes.

Inside, you’ll find a-week-to-page appointed planner, month-at-a-view calendar, key date reminders and holiday references to keep her head clear and ensure she never forgets your anniversary.

Kit: Gua Sha Facial Tool = $40

If she worships at the altar of the “everything shower” more than the Friday knock-off drink, she’s probably overdue for a gua sha. This easy-to-use Kit versions relaxes facial tension, boosts circulation, and coaxes a natural healthy glow. A tiny tool with a big impact—on her skin, her routine, and sense of calm.

Flamingo Estate: Imprisoned Pear = $450

Something this rare and decadent deserves to be enjoyed entirely alone—preferably, in Italian lingerie, post-dinner, feeling vaguely melancholy (but I digress). Flamingo Estate’s Imprisoned Pear, traditionally known as Poire Prisonnière, pays homage to one of France’s most treasured, slow-preservation rituals: a golden pear picked and bottled in spring, then bathed in pear brandy and left to slumber for a full year. The result’s something truly magnifique: a rich, dynamic, aromatic liqueur that’s dry but delicate, vanilla-kissed but verdant. The perfect after-dinner sip for someone who appreciates a little theatre with their indulgence.

Brick: Phone lock = $93

Not to speak for all Professional Homebodies, but if you’re anything like me, you’re probably hopelessly devoted to your phone during hibernation season. Enter: Brick. A true last resort tool, this tiny device (akin to an AirTag) works with a paired app to block the most addictive corners of your phone. For me, that’s Instagram—for you, maybe TikTok. The only way to “connect” (whatever that looks like for you), is to physically tap your phone against the device, whether it’s across the room… or across the city. Consider it wellness for the chronically online.

For the Escapist:

If you’re an annual leave hacker or the type to book trips on a whim, you’ll need these mission-criticals: an inconspicuous travel tote, chic-but-functional sandals, sun-chasing swimmers and more.

Faithfull: Olina Bikini Bottom ($140) and Arabella Bikini Top in Barragan Stripe ($120) = $260

What’s a holiday (or holiday state of mind) without a fresh pair of swimmers? Not only retro-chic with its Neopolitan-esque stripe design, Faithful’s Olina and Arabella set is also crafted from a 100% blend of recycled materials, including polyamide and elastane. The triangle top keeps a classic ‘kini silhouette (that said, you can also buy a Balconette-style underwire bra), while the vintage-inspired, low-rise bottoms are cheeky without going full cheek. Low on the waist and fitted front to back, it’s a set that’s definitely Slim Aarons approved…

Olivia von Halle: Audrey Helios Yellow Seashell Eye Mask in Cotton-Silk = $260

She sells seashells by the sea shore… and now she sells seashell eye masks. Drift into dreams of iridescent waters, margaritas by the pool, or your very own Blue Lagoon fantasy with Olivia von Halle’s cotton-silk blend mask, designed for mermaid-grade slumbers. Each one arrives in a signature Olivia von Halle box—an effortless, gift-ready touch.

Gloucusent Bookmark Style Reading Light = $17 (currently on sale)

Whether you’re sneaking in a few evening chapters without waking your travel companion or passing time on a night coach, bookworms will appreciate a little glow worm. Lightweight and bendable, it clips neatly onto a paperback and slips easily in one’s pocket. With adjustable brightness and light temperature at the tap of a button, it illuminates a full page—perfect for both skimmers and dreamers.

ESSĒN: The Sporty Slingback—Chocolate =$465

Most of us have a pair of sporty-chic trainers to take us from planes to trains, on hikes and bikes, through museums and aimless wanders (I’m loyal to Puma Speedcats)—but a great sandal is also a non-negotiable travel staple. Did I wear my little heels during Euro summer this year? Not once. Sandals took me from day to night, beach to bar, denim shorts to backless dresses—and ESSĒN’s Sporty Slingback’s are exactly that kind of MVP.

Reimagined on a moulded footbed with supple tubular leather straps—handcrafted from luxurious LWG-certified leather—and a velcro fastening, they’re chocolate-coated comfort for both the boho-chic globe-trotter and the city-slicker.

St Agni: Belt Detail Tote—Coffee = $599

If your luggage is sorted (I’d start with July or Away), your next baggage priority’s is a sturdy-chic everyday bag. I always gravitate toward classic, non-travel-looking designs—they feel less obvious from a pick-pocketing perspective, I suppose?—and they’ll see you through everything from a weekend in Rome to a Tuesday morning commute. And this season, I’m lusting over St Agni’s Belt Detail Tote. Crafted from smooth bovine leather and lined with cotton twill, it’s as contemporary as it functional—featuring a detachable belt, magnetic closure, and an internal leather zip pouch for your beauty and travel arsenal. (If you’re a minimalist, you might get away with the on-trend Baguette iteration.)

For Him:

Whether he’s your embarrassing boyfriend, husband, bestie, dad, or bro… you’ll find something here to satisfy the man in your life—from quiet luxury classics to tummy fillers.

Gozney: Dome (Gen 2) = $2,999

If he’s king of the home barbie, he’ll absolutely conquer Naples—the birth home of pizza—with a seriously cool upgrade: the Gozney Dome. Gozney’s live-fire outdoor ovens are the ultimate pizza cheat sheet, turning normies and novices into hot chefs. I’ve got the Gozney Roccbox back at home in Melbourne (their OG game-changer), but the new Dome 2.0 is turns up the heat: a Wood-Fire Control Kit that lets you manage flame and stone temperature via a digital interface—plus more space to cook two pizza—or meats—at once.

A party trick, a restaurant-grade experience, and the closest thing to flying to Italy without leaving your backyard.

Aēsop: Moroccan Neroli Shaving Duet = $117

A little morning luxury. Upgrade his routine Woolies purchase with Aēsop’s Moroccan Neroli Shaving Duet—a hydrating blend of neroli blossom, sandalwood and bisabolol that softens, soothes, and smells irresistible. Australian-made and cruelty-free, it helps prevent razor rash and ingrown hairs while turning an everyday chore into a tiny ritual. If it’s for the lover in your life… you’ll be pecking at this one.

Chinatown Country Club: Stripe Button Up Cardigan = $430

Men in turtleneck or cardigans? Hot. Very hot. Give your man the gift of soft power and subtle sex appeal with Chinatown Country Club’s striped button-up—a mid-century classic in versatile neutral. Size up for a little street edge or go full prep with a slimmer fit. Either way, it’s non-threatening (again, hot), subversive and absolutely timeless. Just ask Harry Styles or Jacob Elordi.

Code Black: Ex-Wife Espresso Blend Subscription = $36 per bag (frequency from every 2-6 weeks)

Sold by the name alone—it’s giving Mob Wife alimony—Code Black is one of Melbourne’s OG boutique coffee roasters. The Brunswick born label (because of course it is) sources quality green beans from long-term partners locally and at origin, roasting everything from single origins to signature blends and even decaf alternatives. Their Ex-Wife Espresso Blend—made even better as a subscription so you never run dry—is charming but fierce: perfect for milky coffees and anyone who needs a slap in the face before 9am. Expect hints of dark chocolate, caramel sweetness, and a whisper of Amaretto to wake the senses.

Tom Ford: Ombré Leather Fragrance = $386 for 100ml

I won’t apologise for any unintended primal urges triggered by Ombré Leather. Inspired by the wild landscapes of Tom Ford’s Texan upbringing, this floral and leather-laden scent carries notes of patchouli, cardamom, jasmine sambac, black leather and amber—for a deeply expressive, sensual experience. It’s the kind of fragrance that lingers, leaving you longing and hungry for hidden fantasies.

If you’re after a few festive bottles to elevate the season…

• Bird in Hand: 2022 Nest Egg Syrah = $99 (Aromatic and delightfully spiced, perfect for Christmas dinner.)

• Penfolds: St Henri Shiraz 2022 = $135 (Iconic, rich, and decadently bold.)

• Don Julio 1942 Añejo Tequila = $305.99 (A sophisticated statement, worthy of slow sipping or crisp cocktails.)

• Billecart-Salmon: Le Reserve Champagne = $104.99 (An elegant and harmonious blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier from three different years.)

• Claridge’s Negroni Gift Set = $219 (London hospitality at home, with a smooth yet rich Negroni flavour profile.)

• Hibiki Harmony Whisky = $179 (Floral yet refined, an ideal entry into the Japanese whisky world.)

• Katkoot Italia: Prosecco Asolo Superiore Docg Brut = $274 (Boasts a unique terroir… and the chicest removable base: a bronzed ash tray.)

• Grey Goose: Original Vodka = $91 (The French classic that never disappoints… in small, civilised quantities.)

• Papa Salt Coastal Gin = $87.99 (An easy-drinking, nostalgic gin—reminiscent of slow salty days.)

But when it comes to my hair, my unruly source of both pain and pleasure? Darlings, that’s where I bring the personality. And the wallet. We all have our vices, right?

Fortunately, for my tender tresses (because I semi-regularly fry the old girl with dye and heat), I recently struck gold — receiving the new Dyson Airwrap Coanda 2x weeks before its local release. It might as well be the gates to hair heaven.

As a writer based in London — one of the great metropolises of the world, sometimes I have access to major products and events ahead of their Australian launch — so when Dyson reached out to offer me the new Airwrap with no strings attached, I obviously said, “Ah, sorry — yes?” (I promise there was a “please” and “thank you” amongst the giddiness.)

But as one of the first Aussie owners, who’s also an Airwrap devotee (I own the 2022 Multi-Styler), I thought: why not make a big deal of it? Especially, when it’ll sit so nicely on my new Substack’s Shelf Life series — all about exploring the longevity of trends across culture, fashion, beauty and travel. So here I am, staying true to my self-made promise of critically editorialising the new Coanda 2x. What I didn’t stick to? A shorter word count. This always happens to me — too many words, too many thoughts. But I promise I’ll get better, Post-by-Post.

If you’re curious to invest in an Airwrap, want to compare models, or are skeptical about the price given a few popular dupes floating around (because, it is very expensive) — I’ve got you covered. Here’s how things are going almost two weeks into new mum mode à la Coanda 2x.

Making Sense of It

[A quick note before we get into it: If you’re not here for the Dyson lore — the brand’s history, how the Airwrap came to be, and why everyone from influencers to engineers are obsessed — feel free to skip ahead to the juicy review stuff at “At First Swipe.” No hard feelings. I get it. x]

It all began with a vacuum. The appliance, yes — but arguably, also the one swirling inside founder James Dyson’s head: an obsession with sustainable engineering and aerodynamic technology. A means to an end, the eponymous brand was born in 1993, out of a desire to fix a vacuum that kept on losing suction. James, a British engineer and inventor, grew increasingly frustrated with his device — so he, rather casually — invented a revolutionary Dual Cyclone technology, inspired by dust-extracting systems used in sawmills. Over five years, he built 5,127 prototypes in his garden shed, before finally landing on a design that worked: the G-Force.

Over the next two decades, Dyson quietly morphed into a tech giant — expanding into cult fans, heaters, and air purifiers. But it wasn’t until 2016 that Dyson turned their attention to our scalps — launching the Supersonic hairdryer, valued at a hefty £299 (AUD $699) price tag. Where most dryers kept bulky motors in the head, making them awkward and top-heavy — Dyson literally flipped the design. The tiny V9 motor sat in the handle, for a lighter, better-balanced tool. Not only that, but it was the first dryer to use intelligent heat control to prevent damage, alongside amplified airflow technology. It also looked a bit like a Coperni vibrator (at least, what I imagine one would look like), with some serious sex appeal — and, let’s be real, that always sells.

The Cult of Co-anda

Two years later, the engineering king singlehandedly conquered the beauty world with the release of the Airwrap — following six years of development and more than 230 prototypes. Something of wizardry, the Airwrap used — and perfected — the Coanda effect: an aerodynamic phenomenon, first observed by Romanian aerodynamicist Henri Coandā, which sees a stream of air cling to a curved surface rather than bounce off it. In the Airwrap, the Coanda effect works to gently pull hair towards the barrel, wrapping it around like some kind of vortex, with no clamps, no extreme heat — just damn good shiny science.

Valued at £499 (AUD $799), the original Airwrap came with a few attachments (barrels, brushes, a pre-styling dryer), and was marketed as an exclusive all-in-one hair tool: a curler, straightener, and volumiser — which, unlike traditional styling tools, doesn’t use intense heat.

Social media went mad for it from the get-go. Content creators posted early reviews and how-to’s — not only legitimising the product but feeding into some of the most popular aesthetics at the time: from #MatildaDjerfHair (speaking of which, the Scandi hair babe herself also did some content for them) to #OldMoneyBob. With a designer price tag, limited stock (staggering releases by region), influencer and press gifting (positioning it as a luxury insider tool), as well as partnering with celebrities from BLACKPINK’s Jisoo to legendary hairstylist Jen Atkin, and even collaborations at major fashion weeks and Hollywood awards shows (the Airwrap lusciously set Jeremy Allen White’s curls at the 2024 Golden Globes) — what do we get? Scarcity hype. Dyson tactfully and rather effortlessly triggered FOMO, transforming a product into a status symbol. We see this all the time now — from re-releases of It-sneakers, to Hermès Birkin bags and even the Dubai chocolate craze (which, in my sweet tooth opinion, is vastly overrated).

But while Dyson engineered an entirely new beauty category and gained cult status, they didn’t kick back and call it a day. Instead, they kept on coming back to the Airwrap, adjusting specs, advancing tech — much like Apple does with their products every year or so. In 2022, they introduced the Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler (my former partner-in-hair-crime) — which included new and longer barrels for a more seamless twist mechanism, as well as a diffuser for curly and coily hair. And last year they launched the Dyson Airwrap i.d. — the first smart, connected device. Rather than manually styling your hair, users could connect to the MyDyson app via Bluetooth capability for a more personalised and bespoke session — based on one’s hair type. It also offered two different kits: one for curly or coily hair, and one for straight or wavy hair.

Call it progress, call it pressure — Dyson’s decision to one-up each release on a pretty tight turnaround likely has a lot to do with dupe culture. Their biggest competitor to date? Shark Beauty. But we’ll get into that a little later. For now, read on to learn more about Dyson’s most turbocharged Airwrap yet — released just a year out from its previous iteration.

At First Swipe

“Smaller,” “lighter,” “faster,” “stronger” — are a few of the buzzwords whirling around the new Dyson Airwrap Coanda 2x, now available on dyson.com and sephora.com in the US, landing July 30 in Australia and sometime in September in the UK (unclear as yet). She’s kinda like the original babe, but “supercharged,” super cute (24 grams lighter than the Airwrap I.D.), and super expensive. She’ll set you back around £579 (AUD $999) — $150 more than its predecessor — but some genuinely cool upgrades seem to back up the price bump.

The go on tech specs

Twice the Coanda (as in: double the air pressure), at half the time (that’s the “2x” in the name), the new Airwrap Coanda 2x has been “re-engineered from the ground up,” says Dyson. The key upgrade? “The heart of the machine:” the new HyperdymiumTM motor, delivering 30 per cent more power than previous models — meaning fresh-from-the-salon-hair, whatever your style, at rapid speeds (something I can personally attest to). And despite the serious boost in aerodynamics — it literally spins nine times faster than a Formula 1 car engine — the Coanda 2x isn’t louder. It’s smarter.

With AI enhanced sensors and Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID), the device now monitors air temperature (never exceeding 150°C) and tells you when an attachment isn’t secure or the filter needs cleaning. (Something I routinely forget with the Multi-Styler, so the nudge is very much appreciated.)

What’s in the box?

The Coanda 2x includes six attachments, supposedly the most-ever in an Airwrap kit. There’s something to dry, something to curl, something to wave, something to straighten, something to smooth, something to volumise. Tools come in curated kits based on one’s hair type: Straight & Wavy or Curly & Coily — with individual attachments also available to buy separately, a first for Dyson.

Colourways include Ceramic Pink (coquette-core pink) and Jasper Plum (sounds like a Roald Dahl character, looks like the aubergine emoji).

Attachment glow-ups

• Anti-snag Loop Brush 2x: formerly, the paddle brush, now re-engineered with new patented bristles for a smoother finish and softer feel on the scalp.

• Round Volumising Brush 2x: upgraded bristles to help tame frizz

• Coanda 2x Curling Barrels (20mm, 30mm and 40mm): feature a new ergonomic design, a square tip and rounded barrel — for a better grip and more intuitive handling.

• Fast Dryer: matching the drying performance of the Dyson Supersonic hairdryer, takes your hair from wet to dry with high velocity airflow, and zilch heat damage.

And introducing

• The Airsmooth Straight 2x: Dyson’s new straightening/smoothing attachment. Some say it’s similar to Dyson’s wet-to-dry straightening device (I wouldn’t know). But Dyson describes it as a “finishing” tool — smoothing fringe, flyaways, baby hairs, and smaller sections.

Styling ease and breeze

For those who love screen time and/or hate doing the work (me and also me), there’s the bonus of relinquishing control to the MyDyson App. Nothing novel for Airwrap i.d. users, but for those unfamiliar with the Bluetooth connectivity side of things, and want a little extra help — it’s game-changing. All you have to do is download the app, answer a few semi-Buzfeed-y questions about your hair type and styling goals, and voilà — the app recommends optimised settings and curl sequences, creating a semi-automated styling experience.

Test drive

Here’s a little personal hair profile for you: I’ve got a lot of hair. Thick, naturally wavy, and fiercely independent hair. The kind which doesn’t respond well to the elements: humidity, rain, you name it. Most days, I keep my styling fairly minimal: a weekly wash, dry shampoo sprayed like insect repellent, a fringe brush in my bag EVERYWHERE I GO, and a claw clip sweep when it’s a little dirty. But when I want to look properly put-together (or go full bombshell), I’ll pull out my Dyson Airwrap. Pre-Coanda 2x, I was using the Airwrap Multi-Styler, which I loved as a drier and volumiser, but personally found the barrels never worked well on damp hair. The curls just didn’t hold, and the finish was kinda fuzzy — so I’d end up dry curling instead (yes, sacrilege to most Dyson Airwrap users). So when I got my hands on the new device, I was totally blown away (literally, too).

Coanda 2x: At first brush

What struck me first was the power. The 2x airflow isn’t just a flex spec, it’s a noticeable upgrade from first use. Familiar with the Airwrap, I came into my test-run a little too confident — assuming I could film some snazzy tutorial (yes, as someone who’s never created content as such) while getting ready for Lana Del Rey’s London concert that evening. “I’ll just casually document this,” I told myself. “No need for the app or instructions. I’ve got this.” I definitely did not have this. I have no decent content from that day to prove it.

After washing my hair with Ouai’s “Medium Hair” shampoo and conditioner, followed by a small pump of the brand’s leave-in Hair Oil, run through from mids-to-ends (I’ve used Jen Atkin’s haircare brand for years) and some gentle combing, I got to unboxing work. I have the Ceramic Pink model, by the way. I briefly checked out each of the attachments, fastened the Fast Dryer tool and then punched the “Auto” button (“On”) — and whoooosh. It felt a bit like the tube, when someone cracks open the compartment windows. In just a few minutes, my hair was about 80 per cent dry (mind you, it was incredibly humid that day so it was a little drier to begin with).

I quickly switched to the Anti-Snag Loop Brush to smooth it out, with no time to consider content angles, framing or narration — followed by some barrel curl work. Sectioning my hair into 1-inch pieces, I was genuinely surprised at how incredibly well my damp locks took to it compared with previous Multi-Styler experiences. It was frizz-free, polished, and bouncy. I finished with a little hairspray (nothing fancy, just the L’Oréal Paris Supreme Hold Elnett Satin to remind me of drama school days) for extra hold, and my ‘90s supermodel-inspired hair stayed fairly intact from sweaty station to sweaty stadium.

Coanda 2x: Since first use

I’ve had the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda 2x for nearly two weeks now and can say — it is no one-hit wonder. It’s certified platinum. Over the past three washes since Lana, the Coanda 2x has delivered smooth, salon-level shine in record time — even slotting seamlessly into my usually chaotic, low-fuss lifestyle.

The curls and volume have held up much better than I expected, especially given my wavy hair’s tendency to deflate or kink in the elements — or drop just a few hours after styling with the Multi-Styler. Even on rainy, humid or windy days I’ve noticed fewer flyaways and less of that annoying frizz that sometimes creeps up after a few hours of dilly dallying around (I love a dilly dally). As James Dyson himself puts it: “The high pressure creates a longer lasting curl or straightener styles.” He’s not wrong.

The tool’s power and precision makes styling that much quicker — roughly seven minutes on my thick-ish hair — a credit to the new motor. The new barrels also grip better and tighter, and while I haven’t fully committed to the MyDyson app (babysteps), I’ve read that “the i.d. sequence” takes off all the pressure with an automatic four step process for “consistent curls with a push of the action button.” Helpful for newbies, often fighting the urge to twist their hair onto the barrel — but less of a learning curve for someone like me with some Dyson muscle memory.

I also love the ease of fringe maintenance and drying. Pre-Coanda 2x, my fringe needed so much coaxing, manipulation and muscle (it was a whole arm workout). But now? It’s all Dakota Johnson wispy and lovely: soft, smooth and effortlessly sealed. For a frizz free result, I’ll start with the fast dryer, flipping from side to side (cue Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj song), then brushing upwards with the Dyson Paddle Brush. I’ll round it out with the Round Volumising Brush, wrapping my fringe around the attachment.

While I’ve only briefly used the AirSmooth 2x, I suggest you hold onto your hair straightener. (The one you hurdled from sleepover-to-sleepover in a Country Road tote.) The AirSmooth 2x, isn’t for super sleek hair, nor wet-to-dry straightening. Instead, it’s a great touch-up tool — adding a nice glossy sheen to fringe and face-framing pieces.

Coanda 2x cons

If I had to name a few disgruntlements, it’d be that the attachments can get very hot — particularly the AirSmooth 2x — so be careful when removing or styling; and that you have to turn the “On” button after completing each hair section. It turns off between sections, making it a little awkward and annoying — but if you connect to the app, it isn't a problem apparently.

One thing that still surprises me? The Dyson Airwrap Coanda 2x — despite all its engineering — still doesn’t support dual voltage. While the UK, Australia, and Europe share similar voltage ranges, the US runs on 120V, which means your locally purchased device won’t work Stateside. A voltage converter isn’t recommended either as it can damage the motor or cause failure (and with such an expensive product, it’s just not worth testing Coanda’s limits). So unless you’re moving there and ready to buy a whole new Airwrap, you’ll have to go without while in the US. Shark Beauty, however, made sure its FlexStyle tool supports both 120V and 230V — so it’s travel-ready for the intrepid beauty.

@whattessworeUrgent PSA for any Australian and NZ people travelling with a dyson airwrap internationally #dysonairwrap #psa #travelhacks #travelhack #dyson #dysonproblems #australia #nz #ustravel #hair #fyp #publicserviceannouncment

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(For clarity on the above video, you can use your Dyson Airwrap in Europe and Asia — just not the USA.)

Can We Dupe It?

Which brings me to my next point. There’s no denying the Dyson Airwrap Coanda 2x is the Birkin of hot tools (I can see it now: “It’s not a hairdryer, it’s a Dyson”). But for nearly $1,000 AUD — it begs the inevitable question: can we find something cheaper that delivers the same results?

Potentially — and it’s got serious bite.

Enter: Shark Beauty’s FlexStyle. It’s all over social media, backed by fashion and sport (with major sponsorships at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix and 2025 Australian Fashion Week), and even staged buzzy pop-ups during Paris Fashion Week last September with celebrity stylist Chris Appleton, among other major fashion weeks. A five-in-one hair styler, it promises minimal heat damage (thanks to its own version of Coanda tech) offering fast, powerful, and easy styling — at less than half the price of the Coanda 2x.

And while I haven’t personally trialled the FlexStyle — aside from some princess treatment at Glamour on the Grid (where, to its credit, my curls held up most of the night) — I figured it was time to call in a pro: Ellen Malone.

A makeup artist and hair stylist with over two decades of experience and nearly 800,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram, Ellen’s worked on every hair type imaginable. She’s also uniquely positioned for this debate: she ran the world’s first Dyson Beauty Lab in Sydney, has used both Dyson and Shark tools professionally and personally for years. — and crucially, she’s neutral.

@askellenbeautyReplying to @Angela Bishop Dyson vs Shark: the breakdown. Let me know if you want me to teach you how to make the curls last longer 💗💗💗 #dyson #sharkbeauty #sharkflexstyle #airwrap #aussie #hair #hairtok #honestreview

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“They are both great tools,” she told me. “In my personal experience, the Dyson is more ergonomic to use in terms of button placement and arm position. This means you can usually operate the machine one handed with ease, making it a little faster to use and easier for those with mobility issues.”

When it comes to heat, Dyson runs slightly hotter — 150°C versus Shark’s 95°C — but Ellen says both sit well below the 180°C mark, generally considered “extreme heat.” That said, more heat can mean more hold — depending on your hair type. “Ultimately, longevity with air styling machines really comes down to your hair type, how you prep the hair, and how long you allow the hair to set and cool.”

Her prep tip? Apply a “hold product” like a mousse to freshly-washed, damp hair before styling with either the Airwrap or FlexStyle. Dyson also offers a pre-styling/hold product, the Chitosan range (which I’m hoping to try soon) but regardless: “Allow the curls to cool fully — you can clip them up, or use rollers if you like for extra longevity — before brushing them out.”

Durability-wise, Ellen’s had her Airwrap since 2019 and Shark since 2023 — and says both are still going strong. She also regularly cleans her filters — one of her other *extra important* tips.

So where does she land on the hair tool debate then? While admitting both products achieve “similar results” with a similar learning curve, Ellen sums it up perfectly: Dyson did it first.

“Dyson is a category creator,” she explains, when speaking on whether the brand’s status now influences and outweighs its value. “The idea of using the Coanda effect for hair styling is revolutionary in its own right, and has made a ‘bouncy blow-dry’ effect achievable for many people who couldn’t previously style their own hair easily at home.” In other words, if it wasn’t for Dyson’s six years of research and development, we wouldn’t have FlexStyle or any of the other copycats. “I think this innovation, combined with the beauty of design has made the Dyson an iconic, category creating machine.”

At the end of the day, “if money is no object” — Ellen says she would choose the Dyson for “ease of use, beauty of design and overall functionality.” However, if the cost is out of reach or you prefer the attachment options, she says “then the Shark is an excellent alternative” for something accessible that still delivers shine and bounce.

Shelf Life Score

So, is the Dyson Airwrap Coanda 2x worth the shelf space?

Value: 3/5

I’m torn on this. If you’re a blow dry lover who has the means to invest in a designer tool — I say go for it. But if you’re on a budget, a dupe like Shark Beauty’s FlexStyle is the perfect alternative.

Tech: 5/5

I mean, do I even need to explain myself again? The Coanda 2x technology is equal parts revolutionary and radiant. Powerful, precise, safe, smart — and so much SHINE.

Travel compatibility: ⅖

No dual voltage means no Airwrap usage in the US. Do without or buy one in the States. This is where the Shark Beauty FlexStyle comes in handy. But Australia to Europe, and everywhere else? Light, compact and easy-ish to pack.

Longevity: 5/5

Some serious staying power with this one. Like Dyson’s previous products from dryers to vacuums, the Coanda 2x is built for the long haul — and will likely get better over time.

Cultural Clout: 5/5

The Dyson Airwrap’s still considered the crème de la crème of beauty tools, with everyone from content creators to celebrity stylists on the Airwrap bandwagon. It also spawned a bevy of dupes — imitation is the sincerest form of cultural flattery and success, no?

Ease of use: 3.5/5

Simpler than it looks — once you’re over the learning curve. Beginners still need to adjust to a new styling technique with the Coanda effect, but a more ergonomic design and new barrels, coupled with MyDyson connectivity, makes a difference.

Aesthetic appeal: 5/5

Still the sexiest styling tool on the market. Looks, feels and is packaged luxuriously (the storage case even comes with a smartphone holder) — it’s the kind of designer good you’ll do anything to protect.

Shelf Life Score: 4.5/5

I’m now a hair wash day convert. As someone who detested washing her hair more than once a week, I can now “fake salon” in minutes. So, if you’re after achievable bouncy blow-dries at home in record times — time’s our most valuable commodity, right? — then it’s money well spent, a Bali trip worth skipping.

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