Tell me the secret to swishy, gorgeous hair

[LittleAndOften]

What's the secret to beautiful hair? I'm in a hair rut. We are on one income so budget is tight, however I'd still like to look as nice as I can if you can help!

I have long brown hair with a slight natural wave. I wash and blow dry my hair every couple of days and it looks ok (I use Elvive shamp & cond) . However even on those rare occasions when I make a real effort with my hair, it still looks a bit meh. I don't know anything about products (although I'm also pg and trying to avoid too many chemicals atm), but I'm prepared to be enlightened!

I suppose I'm worried the secret to gorgeous locks is to throw a ton of money and chemicals at it. Am I right?

@RoastNuts how do layers help? Don't they thin your hair?

What's the secret to vinegar? What does it do? Is it okay for coloured/bleached hair?

Agree with @64632K, I have long wavy hair. Minimal gentle shampoo, good conditioner.
Recently had mine cut and hairdresser recommended to not brush when wet, minimal blow drying (as that leads to frizz). Let the waves form naturally, very happy with it now, much glossier looking. Wash every second day. I use Kind Natured Shampoo (Boots).

@PusheenLove - if you live in a hard water area the acidic vinegar neutralises the alkaline

*1. Have some layers cut in.

1. Wash it and don't use conditioner it only weighs it down
2. Comb it
3. Leave it to dry naturally
4. Don't brush it *

This is how to guarantee my hair looks as sh*t as possible

I use the Garnie Fructis range- their honey shampoo and almond conditioner. My hairdresser always comments on how soft and shiny my hair is. I also own the Babyliss big hair brush which gives me a swishy, blow dryed look every day. Some people have difficulty with the big hair brush but because my hair is so soft I have no issues with tangling etc.

Forgot to add- I leave conditioner in my hair for a couple of minutes (whilst I get on with washing body, shaving etc.) and I brush my hair with a tangle teezer whilst its wet to get all the knots out.