A loose updo is the epitome of effortless elegance. It combines the sophistication of an updo with a relaxed, modern softness, making it perfect for countless occasions. While it may look like it was put together in moments, achieving a style that is both beautifully dishevelled and securely in place requires a few key techniques. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from creating the perfect base texture to ensuring your style lasts, so you can master the art of the chic, loose updo.
Preparation is Key for Texture
The foundation of a great loose updo is the right hair texture. Hair that is too clean or silky can be difficult to style, as pins will slip and the shape will not hold. It's often best to work with hair that was washed the day before. The natural oils provide a bit more grip, making the hair more manageable.
Create the Perfect Canvas
If your hair is freshly washed or naturally very smooth, you'll need to add some texture before you begin. A texturising spray or a light mist of sea salt spray worked through the lengths will give your hair the necessary 'grit'. Alternatively, a small amount of dry shampoo applied at the roots can absorb excess oil and add instant volume and texture. For an even better hold, consider creating a subtle wave or curl throughout your hair with a styling tool before you start pinning. This base movement will help the sections interlock and stay in place more effectively.
Building a Voluminous Foundation
Volume is crucial for a loose updo to look full and balanced rather than flat. The lift should start at the roots and extend through the body of the hairstyle. There are several ways to achieve this without making the hair stiff.
Gentle Teasing for Lift
Backcombing, or teasing, is a classic technique for creating volume. The key is to be gentle to avoid damaging your hair. Take a small section of hair at the crown, hold it straight up, and use a fine-tooth comb to gently push the hair down towards the scalp in two or three short strokes. Focus this teasing only at the roots where you need the lift. Repeat this on a few sections at the crown and sides before lightly smoothing over the top layer of hair to hide the backcombed sections.
Strategic Product Application
Volumising products can be a great help. A volumising powder tapped directly onto the roots and massaged in with your fingertips provides an instant, non-sticky lift. If you are starting with damp hair, applying a volumising mousse before blow-drying can create all-over body. When blow-drying, flip your hair upside down to direct heat at the roots, encouraging them to stand away from the scalp for natural-looking volume.
Mastering the Art of the Bobby Pin
Bobby pins are the invisible architecture of any updo. Using them correctly is the difference between a style that falls apart in an hour and one that lasts all day. Forget simply sliding them in; a little technique goes a long way.
- Choose the Right Pin: Match the bobby pin colour to your hair colour for a discreet look. Larger, more rigid pins are great for securing the main structure, while smaller pins are ideal for tucking away finer stray hairs.
- The Locking Technique: For maximum hold, insert the bobby pin against the direction the hair is flowing. Then, rotate it and push it back in the direction of the hair, catching a small piece of the base hair from the scalp as you do. This creates an anchor.
- Criss-Cross for Security: To secure a twist or a bun, use two bobby pins and insert them to form an 'X'. This provides significantly more hold than two parallel pins.
- Wavy Side Down: Always insert your bobby pins with the wavy or ridged side facing your scalp. The ridges are designed to grip the hair and provide a stronger, more secure hold.
Constructing the Perfect Loose Updo
With your hair prepped and voluminous, it's time to style. The key to a 'loose' look is to avoid pulling the hair tightly. Work with gentle hands and allow for softness.
Start by gathering your hair loosely at the nape of your neck or higher up, depending on the desired style. Instead of creating a tight ponytail, you can twist the entire section and coil it into a messy bun, pinning it in place as you go. Another approach is to work in sections. Create a small, loose ponytail with the top half of your hair, then incorporate the bottom sections by twisting them up and around the base, pinning them loosely. Once the main shape is secure, gently pull on small sections of the bun or twist to increase its size and create a softer, more 'undone' look. Finally, pull out a few face-framing tendrils to complete the romantic, effortless feel.
Ensuring Your Style Lasts
The final step is to set your creation without losing its soft, airy quality. A cloud of the right hairspray is your best friend. Choose a flexible-hold hairspray rather than a super-strong one, as this will prevent the style from looking stiff or feeling crunchy. Hold the can about 30 centimetres away from your head and mist it lightly all over. This creates a fine web of hold that controls flyaways without weighing the hair down. For extra security on key pinned areas, you can give them a slightly more targeted spray. Your beautiful, voluminous updo is now ready to look effortlessly chic all day or night.
