Glam Slam: The Friday Five – Holiday Hair Tricks

We’re less than a week away from the big Thanksgiving weekend, which kicks off the busy holiday party season. Need some inspiration for your party-worthy ‘do? Check out these easy holiday hair tricks featured in the new issue of InStyle magazine.

ADD A BITTY BRAID
When a last-minute invite lands in your lap, go with a braid, like Sarah Michelle Gellar. For a loose, boho style, dry damp hair with a diffuser. Gather a chunk from either side of your part, braid it back, then twist into a loose bun, allowing a few strands to fall out and frame the face. Don’t worry if the braid or the bun is slightly messy—undone hair is a beautiful contrast to a fancy dress or gown.

FAKE A BOB
Think of this sexy fake-out as reverse extensions: By altering your length, you get a completely new look (like Taylor Swift)—no haircut required. To create it, blow-dry hair, curl the ends under with a skinny curling iron, then brush out the ringlets to soften the texture, says Larry Sims, Gabrielle Union’s hairstylist. Back-comb, starting at the ends, and work halfway up the strands; then tuck it under to desired length and secure with U-shaped bobby pins. Final step: Gently tug hair out from pins to create the bob shape.

ADD BANGS
Sporting a temporary fringe will dramatically update your style. Plus, “bangs make everyone look younger,” says Wella Professionals hairstylist Andy LeCompte, who works with Penelope Cruz and Nicole Richie. The key to pulling them off? “Ask your stylist to custom trim the bangs for your face,” he says. Make a center part, slide them on top (about an inch from the hairline). Flat-iron the crown section and pull your hair up into a high pony.

BUMP A BUN TO THE SIDE
A side updo isn’t just easy—it’s also way more flattering than a traditional updo for most people. Separate the tail into two sections; wrap each around the base of the pony—do one clockwise and the other counterclockwise. Anchor hair with pins, hiding the ends under the coils. “Pull and spread the chignon to create a messy cluster behind the one ear,” says celebrity stylist Creighton Bowman.

GET SLEEK
A mini pompadour with sleek sides creates a fashion faux hawk. To start, apply a lightweight gel to damp hair or use a molding paste if your hair is thick. Brush strands back and let air-dry. Then brush through hair again and add a generous spritz of hairspray to hold.

For more style tips, the December issue of InStyle is on newsstands today.