The Art of the Up-Do

By Joanna Douglas

We know that throwing your hair up in a bun is what you normally do when you’re on 2nd day hair, and braiding your hair is what you did in 3rd grade after a shower, but listen to these words from the wise: preconceived notions are for suckers. If leggings and blue eye makeup can go from wack to cool in a day, why can’t you wear a braid to the prom? Well, it’s a fancy braid. You’ll like it. Promise. Here are some tips to get you started.

If your aim is an ultra smooth canvas, straight straightening from step one. Try Herbal Essences Dangerously Straight Pin Straight Shampoo, which tames your kinks and comes with a matching conditioner. When creating a clean, simple look like a bun, clean hair is a must! If you like texture, rely on styling products instead of day old grease.

While your hair is damp, smooth in a therapy treatment to seal the cuticle and ensure shiny follicles.

To create a slightly more elaborate knot, make two ponytails, one just above the other. Make the top pony into a pull-thru bun, wrap the other ponytail around it and secure with bobby pins.

Most people aren’t born with needle-straight hair. Rubbing in straightening cream will ensure you don’t screw up your hair when you’re ironing it to death. Prepping is important, but don’t get antsy. Wait till hair is mostly dry before using this stuff (or apply, then blowdry) for max efficiency.

The up-do be done casually (with cotton headband) or fancier (um, without). To DIY, make a ponytail at the nape of your neck and braid it. Twist into a bun and hide the ends. We love this knot, since it looks way more complicated to create than it really is. Not that we aren’t mad skilled.

Kenzo at Spring 2007 Fashion Week had a rather tricky ‘do, but after trying once or twice we totally nailed it. Start with damp, product laden hair (see a good option next slide) and comb everything back into a tight ponytail in the middle of your head except the very front section. Divide the ponytail into 2-3 smaller ponys depending on the thickness of your hair, twist them solo and then twist them together. You’ll find they create their own cool, natural knot. Fasten the hair underneath your elastic. Finally, twist that front section tightly into a mini-pony down the back of your head and wrap around your bun. Voila.

As with most fabulous updos, hairspray is a much needed element. With braids and knots, the whole key is keeping it simple. This everyday spray is exactly what you’d need for such an occasion nothing fancy, just something that does the job right. Cuz it’s not like we were trying or anything.

Need more hands-on help? Check out our Beauty School video series!