An elegant evening hairstyle is the perfect finishing touch to any special occasion outfit, conveying a sense of timeless beauty and polished grace. Creating a sophisticated updo that not only looks stunning but also lasts throughout the night is easier than you might think. With the right preparation and techniques, you can craft a look at home that appears professionally done. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from preparing your hair to the final spritz of hairspray, ensuring your style remains impeccable from dusk till dawn.
Preparation is Key: Getting Your Hair Ready for Styling
The foundation of any long-lasting hairstyle is proper preparation. Contrary to popular belief, freshly washed, silky-smooth hair can be difficult to style as it lacks the necessary grip for pins and ties. It's often better to work with hair that was washed the day before. If you must wash your hair on the day, avoid using heavy conditioners near the roots. Apply a small amount of volumising mousse or a texturising spray to damp hair before blow-drying. This will add grit and hold, making your hair more pliable and easier to manage. When drying, focus on lifting the roots to build a foundation of volume that will support your updo.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Classic Twisted Chignon
The chignon is a timeless and versatile updo that exudes elegance. This simple, twisted version can be achieved in just a few steps and is suitable for medium to long hair. Before you begin, gather your tools.
What You Will Need:
- Hairbrush and comb
- Hair ties (preferably ones that match your hair colour)
- Bobby pins
- A light-hold hairspray
- A texturising spray (optional)
The Process:
Start by brushing your hair to remove any knots. If your hair is very straight, you can create a few loose curls with a curling wand to add texture and make it easier to pin. Next, gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie. Split the ponytail into two equal sections. Twist each section individually in the same direction, for example, clockwise. Then, twist the two sections together in the opposite direction (counter-clockwise). This creates a secure rope braid. Gently tug on the sides of the twist to add volume and create a softer, more romantic look. Wrap the twisted braid around the base of the ponytail to form a bun, and secure it firmly with bobby pins. Make sure to tuck the end of the braid underneath the bun and pin it securely. Finish by misting with a light hairspray.
Techniques for Adding Volume and a Soft Finish
Volume is crucial for creating a sophisticated updo rather than a severe, slicked-back style. One of the easiest ways to add lift is by gently backcombing the hair at the crown before you gather it into a ponytail. Using a fine-tooth comb, take small sections of hair and gently push the comb down towards the scalp in two or three short strokes. Smooth over the top layer of hair to hide the backcombing. For a softer, more romantic finish, leave a few tendrils of hair loose around your face. You can give these a gentle curl with a curling wand to frame your face beautifully. Pulling gently on the finished updo can also loosen it slightly, preventing it from looking too stiff and adding an effortless, graceful quality.
Ensuring Your Hairstyle Lasts All Evening
The final step is to lock your creation in place. A common mistake is using too much hairspray, which can make hair look stiff and unnatural. The key is to use the right product and apply it correctly. Choose a flexible or medium-hold hairspray. Hold the can about 30 centimetres away from your head and spray a light, even mist all over. This provides hold without weighing the hair down. For extra security, you can spray your bobby pins with a dry texturising spray before inserting them into your hair; this gives them extra grip. If you have any flyaways, spray a small amount of hairspray onto a clean toothbrush or spoolie and gently comb them into place for a perfectly polished look.
