An elegant updo is more than a style for special occasions; it's a versatile tool for everyday chic. The secret isn't a professional stylist, but knowing how to work with your hair's natural texture. Here’s how to master them.
Secrets to a Long-Lasting Updo
Before jumping into specific
styles, a few universal rules can make any updo more successful and durable. First, updos hold best on hair that isn't freshly washed. The natural oils of second-day hair provide better grip and texture, preventing pins from slipping. If you must start with clean hair, add some grit with a texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots. When securing your style, don't be shy with bobby pins, and consider misting them with hairspray before use for extra hold. Finally, the single most important rule is to keep your hands off the finished style. Constant touching can loosen the structure and create frizz.
The Effortless Messy Bun
The messy bun is a timeless classic for a reason: it's effortlessly chic and incredibly versatile. It can be piled high on the head for a casual look or gathered at the nape of the neck for a softer, more romantic chignon style. The key is to avoid perfection. For fine hair: To create the illusion of fullness, start by teasing the roots at your crown. A texturizing spray will add grip. When you form the bun, keep it loose and pull out a few face-framing pieces to soften the look. Using a mesh donut can also add significant volume. For thick hair: Your natural volume is a huge advantage. You can create a substantial bun without much effort. Gather your hair into a ponytail, twist it loosely, and wrap it around the base, securing with an elastic and pins. Don't over-tighten; let the bun have movement and texture. For curly hair: The messy bun is perfect for showcasing your natural texture. Gather your curls loosely, securing them with a soft hair tie to avoid tension and breakage. Let individual curls spill out for a playful, undone finish.
The Modern French Twist
A French twist is the epitome of elegance and is surprisingly achievable for a polished everyday look. This style involves sweeping hair to one side, twisting it vertically, and tucking the ends into the roll. For fine hair: Fine hair can make a French twist look sparse, so building volume is key. Backcomb the front section of your hair before you begin twisting to create some lift. Use bobby pins along the seam of the twist to keep it secure and prevent it from collapsing. For thick hair: Thick hair provides a great foundation for a full, secure French twist. After gathering your hair, brush it all to one side and insert a vertical line of bobby pins to create an anchor. Then, twist the hair back over the pins and tuck the ends in, securing the roll with more pins. For curly hair: A French twist on curly hair offers a beautiful, textured result. Loosely comb your hair back with your fingers to preserve your curl pattern and roll the ends inward toward your scalp, pinning as you go. The texture of your curls will help hold the style in place.
The Textured High Ponytail
A high ponytail can be a powerful and chic statement, moving far beyond the gym. The trick is to give it texture and polish. For fine hair: To avoid a limp ponytail, create two ponytails stacked on top of each other; this gives the illusion of more volume. Teasing the base of the ponytail and adding waves or curls with a curling iron will also make the hair appear fuller. For thick hair: A high ponytail highlights your hair's natural fullness. For a polished finish, wrap a small section of hair from the ponytail around the elastic to conceal it, securing the end with a bobby pin. This simple trick instantly elevates the look. For curly hair: The 'pineapple' is a popular and easy high ponytail style for curly hair. Gather your hair at the very top of your head and secure it, letting your curls fall forward and around your face. Using a scrunchie can help prevent breakage and frizz.
The Braided Crown
A braided crown, or milkmaid braid, is a romantic style that works beautifully for a variety of occasions and hair types. This look involves creating two braids and wrapping them over the top of your head like a halo. For fine hair: To make braids appear thicker, gently pull on the edges of each section after braiding. This 'pancaking' technique creates the illusion of more volume. Using a texturizing spray before you braid will also help add grip and fullness. For thick hair: Thick hair creates naturally full and dimensional braids, making it ideal for a crown style. You can create two simple braids and pin them across the crown, or try a more intricate French or Dutch braid that starts at the hairline for a more integrated look. For curly hair: A braided crown is a great way to protect your curls while looking stylish. The texture of your hair will add beautiful dimension to the braids. For an even more elaborate look, you can braid along the sides of your hair and gather the rest into a low bun or ponytail.
