hair therapy {how-to}: Tri-look Ponytail

when it comes to the standard ponytail, it's all about being creative. celebs like Jennifer Morrison, Behati Prinsloo and Iggy Azalea have taken things to another level when it comes to the standard ponytail by adding braids, some volume, texture, sometimes a fun accessory...

of course, these ladies have the help of their personal hair gurus, but thankfully, i know the fabulous Mario Russo, owner & lead stylist of Mario Russo salon in boston. he's shared with me his take on this trend, complete with step-by-step instructions {and lots of pics!} to create a gorgeous, summer-friendly, tri-look ponytail! it's totally DIY-friendly and something you can do at home.

take a look...

1. to start, curl hair with a wide-barrel curling iron or opt for a straighter yet full pony by blow drying hair with a large round brush.

2. slightly tease hair at the top of head to give the style some height.

3. on one side of the head create anywhere from 1-3 small braids, incorporating the hair along your scalp as you braid {similar to a french braid-style, you want the braids to be against your head}; secure each braid with a clear elastic to later be pulled into the pony.

4. gather hair into pony with all of the braids in it and secure with a clear hair elastic.

5. take a piece from under your ponytail, wrap around elastic and secure with a bobby pin that matches your hair color.

6. use a rat tail comb to loosen and pull up teased portion of hair that may have been flattened when you secured the ponytail.

7. use Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray just on the ponytail to make it look fuller and more textured.

8. to hold look, use Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray.

love it!

 remember, don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun ~ try different braid and twist variations until you feel the style is complete and chic!

if you try this ponytail, let me know! find out more about Mario Russo and the salon at mariorusso.com; for more hair inspiration and tips, follow on twitter and Facebook!

info and images courtesy of Mario Russo salon.