Bold Braids, Bright Beginnings
As we bid farewell to 2023 and welcome 2024, New Year's Eve calls for a celebration filled with sparkle, glamour, and, of course, fabulous hair. If you're looking to make a statement as the clock strikes midnight, a braided hairstyle might be your pick! From intricate updos to playful braids, here's a guide to help you dazzle the night away with beautiful braids on New Year's Eve.The elegant crown braid:
Start the year feeling like royalty with an elegant crown braid. This timeless style exudes sophistication and works well with various hair lengths. Whether you opt for a tight and polished crown or a looser, bohemian variation, this braided look is sure to turn heads as you dance into the New Year. To style your crown braid, begin by parting your hair down the center or slightly off-center, depending on your preference. Brush your dry hair from the bottom, working your way up to ensure a smooth and sleek starting point. Start the braiding process by taking a small section of hair near your hairline, dividing it into three strands, and weaving them into a regular braid. As you progress, gradually incorporate additional sections of hair from along your hairline into the braid. Continue this pattern around your head until you've created a complete crown, securing the ends discreetly with bobby pins. For a polished finish, tuck the ends of the braid beneath the crown, concealing them for a seamless look. To add a more volume, gently pull on the edges of the braid to create a more relaxed and voluminous look. For a romantic twist, leave a few strands loose around your face to frame it delicately. A mist of R+Co Bleu's Featherlight Hairspray will keep your crown braid in place, ensuring a regal and sophisticated hairstyle all night. 
Images via Pinterest. Original sources from L to R: How to Wear Fashion, Pinterest, rpzl.com
Accent braids:
Accent braids are a fantastic way to infuse a touch of boho charm or edge to your NYE look, and they offer endless possibilities for personalization. To style accent braids, begin by selecting the section of hair you want to braid—this can be a small section near your face, along your part, or even framing a bun or ponytail. Divide the chosen section into three strands and start braiding, keeping the weave tight for a clean look or loosening it for a more relaxed, boho vibe. You can experiment with various braid types, such as a classic three-strand braid, a fishtail braid, or a Dutch braid, depending on the look you desire. The versatility of accent braids allows you to unleash your creativity and personalize your hairstyle.
Images via Pinterest. Original sources from L to R: Pinterest, Pinterest
Bubble braid:
The bubble braid, also known as the "bubble ponytail" is a fashionable style option for NYE. The style gained prominence in the early 2000s as a fresh and creative take on traditional ponytails and braids and its evolution is rooted in the versatility of braiding techniques. The bubbled effect is achieved by securing sections of a braided ponytail with clear elastic bands at regular intervals, creating a distinctive and eye-catching pattern. This technique allows for customization, as the size and spacing of the bubbles can be adjusted to suit personal preferences and the desired level of playfulness. For a full tutorial on how to style your bubble braid(s), visit our bubble braids blog post here.
Experiment with accessories, colors, and textures to create a look that reflects your unique style and sets the tone for a fabulous year ahead. Cheers to a glamorous and braided New Year!Shop R+Co products and support ash salon here.
‘Tis the Season to Updo
From ancient civilizations to modern times, updos have played a central role in shaping the narrative of beauty and style. And what a perfect way to embrace an updo than during the holiday season. Make a statement with a beautiful updo that reflects your personal style and adds extra interest to your look.Let’s start with choosing the right updo:
1. Consider Your Outfit: Before selecting an updo style, take a moment to think about your outfit. The neckline and overall style of your clothing can influence the choice of your hairstyle. For a classic and versatile option, a low bun or a sleek chignon works well with most outfits. For an extra fun and glam look, try a voluminous updo inspired by old Hollywood.
Hairstory Powder
2. Face Shape Matters: Different face shapes complement various updo styles. For example, those with a round face might opt for a higher updo to add vertical height, while individuals with a square face may prefer softer, side-swept styles to balance facial features.3. Hair Texture: The natural texture of your hair can impact the overall look of your updo. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, there's an updo style that can enhance your unique texture. Experiment with braids, twists, or curls to find the perfect match for your hair type.Styling Your Updo:
Prep Your Hair: Start by washing and conditioning your hair to create a smooth base for styling. Then apply a styling powder for extra grip and hold. Hairstory's Powder refreshes hair and adds volume without aerosol or talc. This powder will ensure that your updo stays in place.Choose Your Updo Style: Popular updo styles for the holidays include the classic bun, braided updos, twisted chignons, and elegant ponytails. Select a style that complements your outfit and personal taste.Secure Your Updo: Use bobby pins, hair ties, and hairpins to secure your updo in place. For a more polished look, consider hiding the pins within the hairstyle, creating a seamless and elegant finish.Accessorize: Elevate your updo with the right accessories. Consider adding statement hairpins, jeweled clips, or a delicate headband to enhance the festive feel of your holiday look.Finishing Touches: Complete your updo by misting it with a light-hold hairspray to keep it in place throughout the festivities. A spritz of shine spray can add a healthy sheen to your hair, making it look lustrous and polished.Shop Hairstory and support ash salon here.
How to Style Glamorous Waves
Glamorous waves have a magical quality that effortlessly combines sophistication with a touch of romance. They also add volume, movement, and an undeniable sense of glam to your overall appearance. Glam waves gained momentum in the 1930s, with Hollywood starlets like Jean Harlow and Greta Garbo showcasing luxurious waves in their iconic roles. Over the decades, glamorous waves have remained a timeless and versatile hairstyle, evolving with modern variations while retaining their association with vintage allure and red carpet glamour. Today, this classic hairstyle continues to be a go-to choice for those seeking a touch of old Hollywood charm. And, they are perfect for any holiday occasion.Before you dive into styling your glamorous waves, it's important to prepare your hair properly. Begin by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to create a solid foundation for your waves. We love R+Co's Dallas Shampoo and Conditioner. This thickening duo adds vitality to fine, flat hair while nourishing and strengthening from root to tip. Towel-dry your hair and apply a heat protectant to shield your hair from any potential damage caused by styling tools. R+Co's Hot Spell transforms on contact to a protective smoothing cream. It's infused with plant-based ingredients, it tames unruly hair, stubborn curl patterns and helps fight frizz and delivers 450°F heat protection.To start styling, use a curling wand or a curling iron with a barrel size that compliments the length of your hair. Smaller barrels create tighter waves, while larger barrels result in looser, beachy waves.Begin by sectioning: Divide your hair into 1 to 2 inch sections, working from the bottom to the top. This ensures that each strand gets the attention it deserves.Take the small sections of hair and wrap them around the curling wand or iron, holding for about 8-10 seconds before releasing. Alternate the direction of the curls for a more natural look.Once you've curled all your hair, let the curls cool completely before running your fingers through them to loosen the waves. Set the style with R+Co's Outer Space Hairspray; a flexible-hold hairspray to keep your glamorous waves in place throughout the festivities. Shop R+Co products here and support ash salon.