Have you ever scrolled through Instagram or watched the Oscars and thought, “How do they get their hair to look like that?” You’re not alone. We all marvel at celebrity updos, thinking they require a personal stylist or magical hair. But what if I told you that you could recreate these looks at home? Yes, you, with the hairbrush and the bobby pins scattered around. Let’s dive in!
In this guide, we’ll walk through simple steps to create stunning updos, recommend tools and products, and share insider tips to ensure your hairstyle stays put all day (or night). Get ready to turn heads at your next virtual meeting or grocery run!
Starting Simple: The Basics You’ll Need
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, make sure you have these essentials: a good brush or comb, a handful of bobby pins, hair ties, hairspray, and any hair accessories you want to add for that extra sparkle.
Step-by-Step Guide to Iconic Updos
- The Sleek Bun
Inspired by the likes of J.Lo and Emma Watson, the sleek bun is all about polish. Start with straight hair, gather it into a low ponytail using a fine-tooth comb, twist it into a bun, fasten it with bobby pins, and use a shine-boosting hairspray to finish.
- The Messy Bun
The messy bun is a favorite of Zendaya and Gigi Hadid. This one’s about texture. Pull your hair up in a high ponytail, tease it at the crown, then twist and wrap it loosely into a bun, securing it with bobby pins. To soften the effect, remove a few pieces that frame the face.
- The Braided Crown
Channel your inner Elle Fanning with a braided crown. Divide your hair in half, make two Dutch braids on each side, wrap each one around the crown of your head, and secure with pins. This look works well on hair that is on the second day.
- The Classic Chignon
Elegant and timeless, the chignon is a staple on the red carpet. Create a low ponytail, twist it into a bun at the nape of your neck, and secure it with bobby pins. To keep everything smooth, lightly mist everything with hairspray.
- The Half-Up, Half-Down
For those who can’t decide, the half-up, half-down look is your go-to. Think Ariana Grande, but more relaxed. Take the top half of your hair, pull it back, and secure it with a hair tie or a chic clip for an effortless look.
Making It Last: The Finishing Touches
A great updo is only as good as its staying power. Use a firm-hold hairspray to set your style, and consider using hair accessories like clips or a headband for added flair and security.
Summary
Recreating celebrity-inspired updo hairstyles at home is all about having the right tools, a bit of patience, and the confidence to experiment. Whether you’re drawn to a chignon’s elegance or a messy bun’s carefree vibe, these styles are achievable with some practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my updo from falling out?
Use bobby pins that match your hair color, and spray them with hairspray before insertion for extra grip. Also, make sure your hair isn’t too slippery (second-day hair works best).
Can I do these hairstyles on short hair?
Absolutely! While some styles may need to be adapted, accessories like hair extensions can offer more length or volume to achieve your desired look.