Directions for Formal Hair Updos

Curls are ideal for formal updos.

Whether you are getting ready for prom or other special occasion, finding the ideal hairstyle to go with an outfit can be stressful. No matter what length or type of hair you have, pinning up your hair is an easy style that anyone can do. Pinning up your hair also allows you to customize the style through the use of jeweled clips.

Things You'll Need

• Shampoo
• Blowdryer with diffuser
• Spiral curlers (optional)
• Wide toothed comb
• Hair band
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray
• Jeweled clip-ons
• Fresh flower

Instructions

1. Wash the hair the day before the event using your favorite shampoo. Hair washed the same day as the styling will not hold as well since it is extra soft.

2. Blow-dry natural waves or curls using a diffuser attachment. If you have straight hair, set all the hair in spiral curlers to create tight curls for the updo.

3. Brush the hair when you are ready to create the updo. Use a wide toothed comb, and gather the hair above the ears into a half ponytail located at the crown of the head. Secure the ponytail into a hair band.

4. Grab the ponytail, and fold it over the band so that the curled hair is facing up towards the ceiling. Place bobby pins into the ponytail to secure it to the scalp, allowing the hair to stay in place. This will give the curls a lifted appearance and allow the ends to fall and cascade elegantly down over the hair.

5. Separate the remaining hair under the ponytail into two equal sections, as if you were creating pigtails. Grab one section of hair, and twist it. Pull it up to meet where the half ponytail was created, and pin into place using bobby pins. Repeat on the other side. This will lift the hair off of the neck, and provide all-over volume and cascading curls.

6. Spray the entire head with hairspray to hold the style. Decorate the hair by using jeweled clip-ons, or place a fresh flower behind the ear for an elegant look.

References

• Hair Boutique: Pinned Up Ringlets