ANGIE SHEEP
<Staff Writer>
My past articles have primarily focused on fashion in terms of clothing, leading me to realize that one vital periphery has indeed been overlooked. In this issue, therefore, I want to highlight another important aspect of one’s professional “look” – hairstyles – because uniquely coiffed styles can brighten up any look and secure your polished image. This article was inspired by fellow Ozzie style icons, Lindsay Marie Bec and Hannah Biesterfeld, who always have impeccable hairdos that draw attention from their peers. They share their secrets behind their coifs below so every Ozzie can try out an effortless yet sophisticated up-do at their next wine and dine event.
Lindsay’s Donut Bun:
Both of Lindsay’s styles are perfect for the busy Ozzies since they take less than ten minutes. The donut bun is extremely simple and the steps are illustrated in the tutorial below. It is also one of the most professional, versatile, and clean coifs that has been featured on countless runways. All you need is an elastic, bobby pins, and the sponge circle (left), available at most hair accessories stores. A little hairspray might also come in handy to secure those fly-aways. Lindsay informed me that the sponge comes in 3 different sizes, so make sure to select one that matches your length – the longer the hair, the bigger the sponge.
Step 1: Make a ponytail with all your hair.
Step 2: Thread the ponytail through the sponge.
Step 3: Begin wrapping 1 inch sections of your hair over the bun and securing it into the ponytail with bobby pins.
Step 4: If your hair is longer, like Lindsay’s, wrap the ends around the base of the ponytail before securing it.
Step 5: Continue sectioning and pinning your hair until every strand is neatly in place.
Step 6: Show off your beautiful bun.
Lindsay’s Circle Braid:
For those of you who are more adventurous and love texture, the circle braid is an ideal option. The finished product looks refined and impressive, yet, as Lindsay has affirmed repeatedly, it really does not take more than 10 minutes to complete. What is better than an easy hairdo that exudes an air of sophistication and leaves many in awe? A prerequisite to this style is the knowledge of French-braiding. If you are not familiar with this braid, there are countless tutorials on YouTube to peruse, and it is quite easy to learn. There are two basic styles of French-braids: inner and outer; the latter is required here, so you must cross the middle strand of the braid over the outer strands. This is important since doing so will allow the braid to “pop”, adding volume and dimension.
Step 1: Section off only the top half of your hair and begin the French-braid about half an inch from the back of your ear. If you are a lefty, start on the left side and vice versa.
Step 2: French-braid horizontally across your head from one ear to the other. Only add hair from the top half that has been sectioned off in step 1, leave the bottom section for now
Step 3: Once you have braided across your crown and reached the same distance (i.e. half inch) from your other ear, make a U-turn with your braid. On the way back to the side where you had started the braid, incorporate the bottom section into it until all loose strands have been secured.
Step 4: Finish braiding the remaining tail and secure with a hair tie. Lindsay personally prefers clear Goody elastics since they are invisible and dependable.
Step 5: Fill in the gap in between the two rows of braids (i.e. the “U”) with your braided tail. Depending on how long your hair is, you may need to tuck the end of the braid underneath the French-braided part. Secure with Bobby pins.
Step 6: Voilà! Enjoy stares of curiosity and admiration while you walk around campus.
Hannah’s Twisty Bun:
Some of you may remember Hannah from the Then & Now article, where she pulled her hair back to create that sharp professional look for the firm tour. She has shared her secrets with us in this issue and like Lindsay’s hairstyle suggestions, Hannah’s up-do can also be completed quickly and pain-free.
Step 1: Section off a third of your hair at the front and pull it to the back of your head.
Step 2: Give the section a half turn to create volume and secure it in place with bobby pins.
Step 3: Gather all your remaining hair into a bun and pin that in place just below the half-twisted section
Step 4: Finish with a maximum hold hairspray. Hannah personally favours L’Oreal Elnett Satin which provides reliable all-day hold.
There you have it, Ozzies: some recommendations with elaborate instructions for your hairdo at the next event. I have always found it mind-boggling to think of different ways to wear my hair up, but with the help of Hannah and Lindsay, my “hair life” has become a lot easier. I hope it will be the same for you. One key thing to remember is the importance of a “clean” look. That is why I usually prefer to put my hair up for special events since it not only gets it out of my face but also radiates a mature vibe. Happy braiding, twisting, and pinning!