hair therapy: create a braid bun blend

buns and braided styles aren't new, but they're so versatile. they've become especially trendy, and for good reason. with so many variations  {from casual to uber-glam, think fishtail and crown braids, or messy top knots and the perfect sock bun} and creative twists, these classic styles are so fabulous right now.

Mario Russo, owner lead stylist of Salon Mario Russo in boston has shared another how-to hairstyle with me that i know you're going to love! if you're a fan of both the bun and the braid, it's time to cue the braid bun blend.

combing the two styles, this gorgeous updo is simply elegant and can be worn everywhere from brunch with friends to date night. oh, and did you notice it’s a side bun?

 take a look at the step-by-step instructions and try this new look for your locks...

step 1:
blow-dry your hair to its smoothest state using a boar bristle brush. add volume by using a product like Bumble & Bumble Thickening Hairspray.

step 2:
part your hair slightly off to the side and begin to french braid it starting from the temple of the side with less hair. continue the braid all the way around your head until you reach the spot just beneath the ear on the other side. once you've reached this point, tie the end of the braid with a clear elastic.

step 3:
take the side of the hair that has not yet been braided, and use a curling iron to curl the hair away from the face, making sure to keep the curls loose so they take on a more wavy, beachy look. for even more texture on this side, try Oribe Texturizing Spray.

 step 4:
take a few random pieces from the curled side and form a loose twist over the ear. this is the ear that's opposite the side of the head where you started your braid.

step 5:
begin to twist the curled side of your hair and the end of the braid around each other to form a very loose side bun. fasten your bun securely, but still loosely. the look should be very whimsical. finish your style with a shine-enhancing spray like MoroccanOil Luminous Hairspray.

and there you have it ~ the update on two classic styles! i love it, don't you?

images and info courtesy of Mario Russo Salon