Tired of updos that fall flat in minutes? Achieving a chic, polished hairstyle that lasts all day is easier than you think. Here are simple styles and game-changing grip tips that work for every hair type and skill level.
The Polished Claw Clip Twist
The claw clip is the ultimate
accessory for a fast and fashionable updo. For a classic look that’s more elegant than everyday, start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck as if making a low ponytail. Begin twisting the hair upward, keeping the twist snug against your head. Once you've twisted the length, fold it up against your head and secure the entire twist with a large claw clip. For those with fine or slippery hair, choose a clip with interlocking teeth for a better hold. If you have very thick hair, you may need a larger clip or you can try the 'double twist' method by sectioning and clipping the hair in two parts for a more secure base. To finish, gently pull out a few face-framing strands for a softer effect.
The Effortless Textured Bun
A messy bun can be chic, but a textured bun is intentionally stylish. This style works wonderfully on second-day hair. Start by pulling your hair into a ponytail—high for a top knot, or low at the nape of your neck for a classic chignon. For fine hair, gently tease the ponytail before wrapping it to create the illusion of fullness. For thick hair, you can split the ponytail into two sections and wrap them in opposite directions for a more controlled shape. Instead of wrapping it tightly, twist the ponytail loosely and coil it around the base, securing with pins as you go. A key trick is to gently pull on the loops of the bun to 'pancake' it, making it look wider and fuller.
The Modern French Twist
A traditional French twist can be intimidating, but a modern version is surprisingly simple. Gather hair at the nape of the neck, then twist it upward and inward, tucking the ends into the 'seam' of the roll. The secret to making this work for different hair types is sectioning. For very thick hair, create the twist in two vertical sections; twist and pin the bottom half first, then twist the top half over it to reduce bulk. For fine hair, a blast of texture spray and some light backcombing before you start will provide the necessary grip for the pins to hold. Secure the twist along the seam using U-shaped hairpins, which provide better structure than bobby pins.
Grip Tip 1: Prep Your Hair's Texture
The single most important step for a long lasting updo happens before you even start styling. Freshly washed, silky hair is the enemy of hold because it's too slippery. Updos grip best on hair that has a bit of texture. If you must wash your hair, add grit back in by using a texturizing spray or a light dusting of dry shampoo at the roots. This creates friction between the strands, giving your pins and clips something to hold on to. This step is non negotiable for fine hair but also makes a huge difference for thick hair by helping it mesh together.
Grip Tip 2: Master the Art of Pinning
Not all pins are created equal, and how you use them matters. For securing the main structure of a bun or twist, U-'shaped pins (also called hairpins) are often better than bobby pins. They work by weaving through the hair and anchoring the style to the base, rather than just clamping a small section. For maximum hold with a bobby pin, insert it with the ridged side facing down toward the scalp. The most effective technique is to create a 'lock' by criss-'crossing two bobby pins to form an 'X'. This provides a strong anchor that's especially useful for securing heavy sections or flyaways.
Grip Tip 3: Build a Strong Foundation
An updo is like a building; it needs a solid foundation or it will collapse. For many styles like buns and twists, this foundation is a well-'secured ponytail. For thick hair that feels too heavy, try using two elastics for extra support. For fine hair, a 'topsy tail' trick can create a firmer base: make a low ponytail, create a gap above the elastic, and flip the pony through it. This tightens the base and adds a touch of volume. For curly and natural hair, which has fantastic built-'in texture, ensuring the base is secure without creating too much tension on the scalp is key to both longevity and comfort.
Grip Tip 4: Finish with a Strategic Spray
The final step is to lock everything in place with hairspray, but the technique is crucial. Instead of spraying close to your head, which can create stiff, shiny patches, hold the can about six to eight inches away and apply a light, even mist. For a soft, flexible hold that tames flyaways without looking crunchy, choose a flexible-'hold hairspray. If your style needs to withstand a long day or lots of activity, opt for a strong-'hold formula, but still apply it lightly. Some stylists even spray their bobby pins with a bit of hairspray before inserting them for extra grip.
