Holiday Hair Tutorial: The Crown Braid

Make the crown braid your go-to style this holiday season. (Photo: Zoltan Tombor)

Looking for a festive ‘do for holiday party season? The crown braid is the answer. Celebs like Jennifer Lawrence, Elle Fanning, and Chloë Moretz have all sported the style on the red carpet — and it’s super easy to do on your own — no salon appointment required. We asked Deycke Heidorn to share her tips for mastering the style in time for your next soiree.

Start by creating a center part using a wide-tooth comb. Brush hair smoothly to each side and slide into two low ponytails. Heidorn recommends using a thin, rubber hair tie that matches the color of your hair — you can find these at your local beauty supply store or pharmacy. Braids usually work best on second-day hair, but if you’re working with clean hair, add volume and texture to the ponytails using a texturizing spray like Amika Un.Done Texture Spray ($24).

Do a classic three-strand braid on each ponytail and secure the ends with another hair tie. Now it’s time for some bobby pins. Place your first braid over the crown of your head and secure the ends with pins. Take the second braid and place it over the crown of your head, tucking the ends under the first ponytail. Heidorn recommends those with very long hair should twist the braids together over the crown and then secure. Once your crown braid is secure, pull out a few hairs to add texture and volume and finish with hair spray (we like Dove Style + Care Strength & Shine Extra Hold Hairspray, $4). If you’re in the mood to add some extra glam to the look, Heidorn says it’s a perfect style for adding a hair accessory, so don’t be afraid to add a decorative pin, brooch, or headband as a finishing touch.

(Photo: Zoltan Tombor / Hair: Tamas Tuzes / Makeup: Deanna Melluso / Stylist: Janelle Olsen / Model: Kristina O’Connor)

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