Holiday hair
From braid crowns to polished top knots, this season’s top styles
Sure, wearing your hair in your go-to style this holiday season is easy. But what about if you want to look a little #extra?
Well, if that’s the case, hair pro Leonardo Redavid says you’re going to want to try an updo of some kind.
“Some of the hottest trends we’ve seen this season are the braided crown, twisted ponytail, double buns, mohawk ponytail braid, and the low rolled-updo,” says Redavid, the founder of the hair-care brand REDAVID Salon Products in Vancouver.
While a few of the aforementioned styles may have initiated a head-scratching moment of ‘huh?’ followed by a quick trip to Google for an explanatory image, there’s one simple style in the mix that’s worth focusing on.
“A braided crown is elegant yet casual and easy to do. Essentially, it’s a more modern take on the classic milkmaid braid,” Redavid says. “The look is as festive as it is regal, using two thick, slightly loose braids to form a crown. A great go-to for any holiday party.”
Not too into the idea of the aforementioned crown? Or maybe you’re rocking a trendy long (or shorter), bob and therefore can’t feasibly sport this festive style? Consider adorning your hair with a trend Redavid is calling “surprising.”
Say hello to railroad pins.
“This look is part of the visible hairpin trend that popped up a few years back, in which hairpins are purposely not just left visible, but actually specifically placed to create visual interest,” he says. “For example, (American actress and singer), Hailee Steinfeld placed a track of eight black hairpins just above her ears, tucking her hair behind her ears and adding that little extra something to her look.”
While detailed, Redavid says this season’s coolest looks are ones that aren’t too finicky.
“Avoid any intricate updos. There’s a reason some of the leading hair trends are simple and chic,” he says. “Another tip is to avoid over-styling, if you’re short on time, to skip the curing iron and instead opt for a simple low bun or sleek ponytail.”
Really in a rush? Redavid says it’s OK to fall back on that go-to top knot — just be sure it’s more polished than an I-woke-up-like-this iteration.
“It’s all about the right top knot,” he says. “Opt for a sleeker look using (a maximum-hold hairspray), to keep your fly-aways and stray hairs in place. Start with a high ponytail and twist hair into a tight bun for a classic look.”
Whichever style you have chosen this holiday season, Redavid says the key to styling success is to prep strands in advance.
“The best way to prepare for a seamless switch from the nineto-five look to party chic is to prep your hair the night before,” he says. “Start by curling your hair, then keep it in loose braids or a silk cap overnight. Wake up, shake the curls loose and style with a leavein hair oil.
“Your curls might be a little bit tight during the day, but by 5 p.m. they’ll be perfect.”