How to Wear A High Ponytail

What do A-listers like Iggy Azelia, Katy Perry, J. Lo and Rihanna have in common?  They've all been spotted rocking a fashion forward high ponytail this summer like it's no one's business.  The edgy look is a perfect way to keep long hair off of your neck in the summertime. NYC Stylist, Jan-Marie Arteca, gave me tips on how to pull it off.

"This look is perfect for anyone who has long hair and likes wearing it off of their face," explained Arteca.  Of course, personally, I could never get away with wearing my hair up that high, but kudos to you if you can.  I do love it!  "This ponytail is all about smoothness and placement."

Starting with damp hair, use a mousse like Oribe Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse for added volume and blow dry with a round brush.  This type of ponytail can be worn pin straight or curled, but prep is essential in order for it to look done.

If you'd like to keep it straight, lock in shine with a flat iron before pulling it up. Otherwise, use a 1 1/2" curling iron and curl your hair.  Finally, pull it up and secure it over the oxibidal bone.  In order to hide your elastic, take a piece of hair from underneath and wrap it around securing it with a bobby pin.  As a finishing touch, add a light-weight shine serum to the top keep frizz at bay.

Wearing a high pony tail is a fashion statement.  Wear it well.

How to Create A Blake Lively-esque Bubble Ponytail

Never mind diamonds. Ponytails are really a girl’s best friend. Long, short, messy, clean, high, low – the list goes on – but how about creating a bubble effect in your pony? The "it" bubble ponytail was be seen on Blake Lively at the Met Gala as well as on the runway during this year’s Valentino show.  With a little help from Redken Celebrity Hairstylist, Jenny Balding, we got the scoop on how to get the look.  From runway to red carpet and now, to real way... because who doesn't want to look like Blake Lively?

1. Smooth hair into a ponytail and secure tightly with a hairband
2. Brush the ponytail to make sure there is a sleek smooth surface
3. Start at the base, brush backwards underneath the pony, and tease it out to create a puffy texture
4. Use a small hairband and starting at the bottom of the tail, tie all the way up to create desired amount of “bubbles”

Depending on what you're wearing or how you do your makeup, this bubble ponytails can be edgy or sophisticated.  If you're blonde like me, try using black hair ties for an edgy look and clear for a more polished style.  A brunette like Jeannine, or any other hair color, using clear elastics or ones that match your hair color are best.

Style Solutions for Rebellious Hair

Doesn't it always seem like no matter what you want your hair to do it does the opposite?  Happy Monday.  The latest crop of stylers that landed on my desk are far from ordinary. These style solutions are for rebellious hair.  I mean it.  Check out the latest... you can thank me later.

Problem: Fly-Aways

Solution: Shu Uemura Art of Hair Detail Master

This directional fixing spray is used to target hairs that may be out of place.  It's a fierce hold hair spray that leaves nothing but shine.  Yes, just shine.  Despite it's strength, it doesn't leave a sticky or crunchy residue.  Tip: Spritz some on a toothbrush and comb over fly-aways for a softer look and sleek finish.

Problem: Dry, Brittle Strands

Solution: Leonor Greyl  L'Huile De Leonor Greyl

This pre-shampoo treatment consists of a blend of copra oil and mongongo oil, which protect and regenerate your hair from the summer's elements.  Think chlorine and sun. It's also great for color treated hair.  Instead of working with dry, unruly tresses, say hello to hydration!

Problem: Frizz

Solution: Kerastase Maskeratine

If frizz is your problem, this mask is your solution.  After shampooing, let it sit on your strands for about five minutes.

Kate Bosworth's Braided Updo How To

How stunning is Kate Bosworth's braided updo? I love the way she looks with her hair pulled off of her face. Good news is, her chic, braided style is super simple to achieve as it only takes three braids and a few bobby pins. Her stylist, Bridget Brager, gave me the step-by-step to creating her "intricate and romantic" updo.

Spray a volumizing spray like Phytovolume Actif Volumizing Spray from roots to ends, then blow dry your hair using your hands concentrating on lifting it away from the scalp to create texture.

Create a "disheveled deep part" and starting at the crown, along the part, braid forward so the braid falls toward your forehead concealing your hair line.

Start your second and third braids at your temples, braiding back on each side.

Use Kevin Murphy Easy Ride or a light weight pomade to tame fly aways and add a bit of shine, then loosen the braids with your fingers to make them appear more romantic.

Weave the braids together in the back and pin them low to give a halo effect and there you have yourself Kate Bosworth's braided updo.

Kendall Jenner: Get Her Ponytail

Unless my hair is professionally blown out, chances are that by the end of the day, it's in a ponytail.  Ladies, if you're anything like me, we need to step our pony game up.  Check out Kendall Jenner's sleek ponytail (pictured above).  She was heading to the Vogue Foundation Gala in Paris last week and made a statement with her sharp center part and the sophisticated slickness to the style.  Here are tips from her stylist, Christian Wood, (check out his Tweet) on how to rock the look – no more gym styles necessary.  It's that simple.

"As soon as I saw the dress I thought a super slick and shiny ponytail would give a tough modern edge to the gorgeous Balmain dress,"  Wood commented.  He was right.

Here are the exact steps Wood took to complete Kendall's style.  Yes, they're easy enough to do at home.  Promise.

• When hair is damp, use a pin tail comb to part it down the center.  The end of the comb will help make sure you have a dramatic, precise part.  Then, blow dry straight.

• Rub a small dollop of Moroccan Oil onto the top and sides of your hair and use a brush like a Mason Pearson to slick the hair into a low, tight ponytail.  Secure with a bungee elastic.

• Wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic and secure with a pin to cover.

• Spray Frederic Fekkai Sheer Hold Hairspray all over and quickly comb the hair into the ponytail to create a super slick, tight and fly-away free look.

• Spritz a glossing mist or shine spray on the part, almost the same way one would use makeup highlighter to really pick up the shine under lights.

• Finish by using a straightening iron (Wood used the T3 Straightening Iron) over the ends of the pony for a poker straight glossy finish.

With a little bit of effort, a ponytail like Kendall's can look super chic.  And I told you it's really simple.  Using a flat iron at the end is surely the icing on the cake.  I'll definitely be trying it for a night out.

Stylish & Easy Summer Braids

In case you missed the memo, we’re obsessed with braids. Not only are they an easy way to tame unruly (read: frizzy!) strands during the hot summer months, but they’re chic as well. Here are a few of our favorite  easy summer braids that will redefine your go-to summer look all while staying cool and stylish, whether you’re hanging by the pool or on the beach.

The Side Braid Chignon

A great way to keep bangs in place, the side braid flatters any face while the chignon elevates the look to a whole new level. Keep it loose and pull out a few strands for a refreshing update on a classic summertime style.

The Fishtail

This edgy braid tames frizzy locks while capturing a flirty and fun summer vibe, perfect for long days on the beach. Start at the crown and pull it over one shoulder, loosening sections as you go, for a pretty boho look.

The Crown

For those who can’t stand the heat when the summer sun comes out, a braided crown keeps hair tucked up and away without sacrificing style. Start on one side of your head and braid around, bobby pinning any strands threatening to pop out, for a whimsical and fun final look.

The Half-Up

A good option for those who aren’t quite so adventurous, this easy summer braid style features two small braids (one on each side of the head) connected in the back. This flattering look pulls back those annoying front pieces that frame your face while still allowing the rest of your hair to flow with summertime ease.

Curly Hair Styling Saviors

Curly hair can be a beast to live with. My particular type of curl is among the worst, because I’m somewhere in between corkscrew curls and serious beach waves, with a touch of frizziness. When it comes to maintenance, I’m extremely picky about the products that I use in hopes of controlling that frizz without the added hassle of greasy roots from heavy product. Over the last month or so, some pretty awesome products have made their way from Jeannine’s desk to mine that have revolutionized my daily hair routine in a big way, so it would be a crime not to share these curly hair styling saviors!John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Nourishment Leave-In Conditioner, $5.99 at Ulta.com

This spray not only smells fantastic, but works wonders on tangly curls post-shower. Typically us curly-haired girls fight with our strands for hours just to get a comb through it, but this product eliminates the struggle and leaves behind a blissfully knot-free mane. Added bonus? This vitamin-infused tonic also works as a heat protectant, eliminating another step to your morning routine.

Paul Mitchell Curls Ultimate Wave Beachy Texture Cream-Gel, $20 PaulMitchell.com

Using any product with the word “gel” in it typically spells certain crunchy doom to any girl with curly hair, however this product is an exception to the rule. Lightweight and non-greasy, this gel adds just the right amount of body to curls without the extra crunch of a traditional gel. Scrunch a nickel-sized amount through damp strands for all day humidity control and an added tousled wave look.

John Frieda Frizz Ease Nourishing Oil Elixer, $11.99 Drugstore.com

I know, I know…another John Frieda product? Trust me when I say that John Frieda knows curls, and this Argan- based oil completely proves that. Perfect for combating frizziness, this oil coats and protects strands while adding a beautiful shine to finished hair. Pro Tip: mix one pump of oil with that nickel-sized amount of the Paul Mitchell Curls Cream-Gel for a totally life-changing combo, just be sure to apply from mid-shaft to tip to avoid greasiness at the scalp.

Mark. That’s Beachy Texturizing Surf Spray, $14 at MeetMark.com

This spray is literally beach hair in a bottle. This delicious smelling tonic adds incredible volume while defining curls in a way that I have yet to see from anything short of actual ocean water. It’s super lightweight and I find that I can spray it all over, from root to tip, with no fear of greasy residue once it’s dry. All that is left is beachy bombshell hair that will be your go-to style for summer. The best part? It’s only $14, a total steal compared to higher-end brands and delivers way more bang for your buck.

Biolage Volumizing Whipped Mousse, $19 Drugstore.com

Similar to gels, mousses tend to be extremely hit or miss when applied to curly hair. This mousse adds volume and a little goes a very long way in even the thickest of tresses. Pump a dollop into your palm and work through damp hair for a touchably soft wavy look, sans any crunch. Not only does this mousse feature a medium hold, but it also strengthens strands with macro-lipids and Ceramide without added weight or grease. The 250 mL size will last you a lifetime, making it recessionista-approved.

Bridesmaid Hair Styling Tips from Kim Kimble

Bridesmaid hair can be chic and elegant or it can go horribly wrong.  Most of the time, the stylist is out of your control as they're chosen by the bride and styling the whole bridal party.  Going to be a bridesmaid anytime soon?  I spoke with Celebrity Stylist, Kim Kimble, to find out exactly how to ensure your style will be modern no matter who's hands you're in.  Here are her bridesmaid hair styling tips.

How can you be sure you're not going to look like a cookie-cutter bridesmaid?

Do your research before the big day.  Look to a variety of sources for inspiration in addition to bridal magazines, such as movies, red carpet, the runway, style blogs, etc. Your hair will look its best if you go with the style that works for you and makes you feel great. If a style doesn't jump out at you in a bridal magazine, don't be afraid to explore other options for inspiration.

How can you make sure your hair looks it's best on the big day? Dreaded bridesmaid hair usually stems from over-styled, over-processed, unhealthy hair. If you use too much product, you will end up with a crunchy mess. The best way to avoid this is to start with healthy hair. Use products well-suited for your hair type and always take the extra step to protect your hair during the weeks leading up to the wedding.  For example, I love Pantene's Heat Shield collection—the Shampoo, Conditioner and Heat Potion Serum when used before heat styling will keep hair healthy, soft and shiny.

How should a bridesmaid prep their hair for wedding day styling? For up-do or half-up styles, I usually have my clients start with clean hair, but then I’ll add a bit of product to create a little bit of texture so hair is easy to work with. To create this effect, run a small amount of the Pantene Stylers Texturizing Sculpting Wax through freshly washed and conditioned hair and then spritz a bit of Pantene's Root Reboot Dry Shampoo before styling. This will add texture and volume to the hair, which is ideal for twisting and pinning and holding an up-do type of style in place.

What if you don't like your end result? I highly recommend doing a test run before the big day to prevent ending up with a style you're unhappy with. This way you can see what you envisioned firsthand and decide whether it works for you. If you don't have time for a test run or end up really unhappy with your style, you really can't go wrong by pulling hair into a low chignon. It's beautiful, simple, classic style that will stand the test of time in the wedding photos.  You can always do your own take on this style as well by adding a side braid at the crown before pulling back or adding an accessory like a sparkly bobby pin or a fresh flower.

 Check out my wedding day hair Pinterest board for bridesmaid hair styling inspiration.  I of course, emailed it to my bridesmaids!

How to Wear Your Hair in A Hat

Whether you’re about to throw on floppy sun hat, fedora or graduation cap, styling your hair underneath can be a challenge. One that we were excited to take on!  While your hat may be your main accessory, don't let your hair just sit underneath.  Here are five ways to wear your hair in a hat, fun styles to try this summer, BeautySweetSpot approved. Giant Side Fishtail:  A side ‘do is a great way to wear your hair in a hat, because it allows you to show off your hairstyle from the front, instead of hiding it under the hat and in the back. And we’re obsessed with this giant fishtail braid so we highly encourage using this look. To achieve the beachy vibe, take the bottom end of a comb and use it to pull out little sections of the braid to loosen it up. Low Pony:  A low pony is a great way to pull your hair back when a hat sits on top. Think fedora.  I used to always question how I was going to wear my hair in a hat, but this is the simplest way! Amp up your average low pony by giving it volume. Just because it’s a low on your head doesn’t mean it can’t have volume. Tease out your hair where it meets the hairband and spray some texturizing spray like Bumble and Bumble’s Surf Spray.Wavy Side Chignon: Who said you couldn’t wear your hair up if it’s in a hat? This wavy side chignon is flat enough to wear a hat over, low enough to show underneath, and on the side enough to be visible from the front. Bye, bye hat hair!  When creating this look, there is no need to use hair ties, especially when trying to keep it this flat. Create two sections of your curled hair low on the side of your head and tie the two pieces together. Just continue to wrap, twist tuck and bobby pin until you’ve achieved you’re idea side chignon. Messy Pigtail Braids: These messy pigtail braids are great for a day on the beach with a baseball cap on to keep your scalp from burning. To achieve the perfect amount of messiness, while still looking chic, don’t use a brush when separating your hair. Keep your hair at its natural texture, parting it however it best falls. Pull out desired pieces of hair when finished. Sleek Side Pony: If you are looking for a more slick pulled together look, this side pony is great. Parting your hair in a clean deep side part is where you’ll need to start. To then get it this clean, use a little bit of hair oil such as Kerastase Elixir Ultime The Imperial Treatment Oil. Rub the oil in your hands, cup your pony and run your hands along the top of the pony smoothing down all runaways.

Festival Inspired Beauty Looks to Rock All Summer Long

Just because Coachella has come and gone doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to all of it’s awesome beauty looks. No matter how far out there some may seem, there are more realistic ways to wear them.  Here are some of our favorite beauty looks from this year’s festivals with some tips and tricks on how to get them— Some crazy, some simple, but of course, all gorgeous.  Hey, you can rock these festival inspired beauty looks all summer long.

Colored Hair

Channel your inner Lauren Conrad and rock a subtle hint of pink lowlights... or purple, or green, or red or whatever color you want. To achieve a subtle look, pull out small sections of hair from underneath, and use hair chalk instead of dye to get as bright of the color a you desired.

Mismatched Nails

Can’t chose what color to paint your nails? No need to! Combine multiple bright colors within the same vibrancy to give of a youthful, carefree vibe. The more mismatched the colors, the better. That way its obvious it was done on purpose.

The Flower Crown

Flower crowns are an essential festival accessory and can also be great for summer party. However, size does matter when it comes to bringing them home. Just make sure it stays as an accessory and doesn't overpower your head.  Remember, you're not wearing a costume.  You just want it to be nice accent to your look.

Flower Braid

This is cute, different and above all, simple. Woven in and out of a small crown braid, it adds just a hint of an accent to an otherwise simple day-to-day look. You can take two pieces and braid them into your hair, than you can use them to tie the sides together and let them fall in the back with the pony.

Face Jewelry

We love this look.  Love, but you should definitely keep the press on rhinestones to side for music festival outings.  If you want to sport this same sparkly crown look for an average summer day, try wearing a thin, delicate head wrap for the same effect.

So, we basically stalked Coachella, and definitely plan on embracing some of these looks as the weather warms up.  Which festival inspired beauty look is your favorite?

John Frieda Broadens Frizz Ease Serum Collection

A good hair day sets the tone for the day, which is precisely why I have blowouts booked every Saturday and Sunday morning throughout April in case one of those days is my surprise bridal shower.  Obvi, I don't want to risk it as I'm not very savvy with a round brush.  Remember when John Frieda first came out with Frizz Ease and it saved your life? Well, now they have new forms of the genius frizz tamer that'll help you have a good hair day, everyday.

With the proper use of the right products, good hair days aren't hard to come by as long as you know how to blow out your hair.  The two new additions are – Expert Finish for dry hair and Extra Strength that has added proteins in it for weak or damaged hair.  When using, remember a little bit goes a long way and apply a dollop onto damp hair.

They also began a campaign called "Never Pull Back."  Think beyond the ponytail... a bad hair days as we know, can set you back in life!  Also, check out this clever video.  I didn't get it at first, but the end made me say "Ahhh!"

*This is a sponsored post by John Frieda, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

Get Their Exact Hair Color

It's time for a color refresh!  When seasons change, one of the easiest pick-me-ups and changes we can make ourselves is to our hair.  Lately I've been bringing in pictures of Jessica Alba's color to my colorist as a hair color goal.  In case Jessica Biel or Naomi Watts is your hair color inspiration, here are their exact formulas from their colorist, Tracy Cunningham.  Try bringing this to your next appointment.

Jessica Biel

NATURAL LEVEL: 4, Medium Brown 

BASE FORMULA:

2 oz. 5WB Golden Hazel Shades EQ Cream

2 oz. 10 vol. Pro-oxide Cream Developer 

HIGHLIGHT FORMULA:

1 scoop Flash Lift Maximum Lightening Powder Lightener

1 oz. 20 vol. Pro-oxide Cream Developer 

GLAZE FORMULA:

1/2 oz. Crystal Clear Shades EQ Gloss

1 1/2 oz. 09NB Irish Cream Shades EQ Gloss

2 oz. Shades EQ Processing Solution

Naomi Watts

NATURAL LEVEL: 6, Dark Blonde

HIGHLIGHT FORMULA:

1 scoop of Flash Lift Maximum Lightening Powder Lightener

1 oz. 20 volume Pro-oxide Cream Developer 

GLAZE FORMULA:

1 oz. Crystal Clear Shades EQ Gloss

1 oz. 09V Platinum Ice Shades EQ Gloss

2 oz. Shades EQ Processing Solution

10 Daily Hair Struggles Demonstrated by GIFs

Let’s be real ladies, as if waking up isn’t bad enough, the amount of time we spend on our hair every morning to make it look even somewhat presentable is utterly ridiculous. And no, there’s totally no such thing as, “Oh I just woke up with it like this!” No matter how hard you try to sell that line... we know better.  Just know, you’re not suffering alone.

1. Honestly, the worst part of the whole charade is waking up on a day you know you have to wash your hair.

Guy vs. Girl Date Night Beauty Tips

Date night beauty can go one of two ways: 1. date night with the girls (right) 2. date night with a guy (left). Yes, each may take the same amount of effort, but it's necessary that the looks are completely different. Women appreciate trend and experimentation, while guys on the other hand, prefer a more natural, polished look. Thanks Kate for setting the standards.  Here are some ways my beauty writer friends and I change up our looks depending on who we're going out with.  Catch some inspiration... My fiance, Joe, loves it when my hair is "swirly."  In other words, he likes it when I work my wand and strands into effortless waves.  Let me tell you, they're not so effortless.  Whereas, my girlfriends appreciate the fact that Bob, (yes, if you recall we've named my bob, Bob) has grown out and they like my straight, blunt ends.  When it comes to my makeup, mascara is my finishing touch for Joe, but for the ladies it's a fun, lip look. - yours truly

For me, it's all about a lip. I find girl sexy is all about at a matte, bold lip in either red or pink. But guys would rather die than be out with you in one of those. When I know I'm going out with dudes, I keep my lip simple, with a swipe of Fresh Sugar Tinted Lip Treatment in Honey, a pinky nude. - Amber Katz, Founder of Rouge18.com

When I'm seeing the girls, I guzzle an iced coffee while I get ready. But for a night out with my husband, I whiten my smile with Crest 3D White Whitestrips Luxe Supreme FlexFit , so my teeth sparkle. I put them one while I do my hair and voila! - Polly Blitzer, Founder of BeautyBlitz.com

I'll get much fussier with it in general for my girlfriends. I mean, my friends really appreciate some really meticulous eyeliner. But Men? The amount of effort it takes lost on them, so why bother? They're simple creatures when it comes to makeup. As long as you have mascara on, I find they're pretty happy. - Beth Shapouri, freelance writer and lead blogger for the Glamour.com's Girls in the Beauty Department

I will let my hair air-dry when i am going out with the girls — it looks naturally curly and full. Gal pals love natural hair. But I will go over my spirals with a clamp-less curling wand for a date to relax my spirals and make my ‘do look more polished. The Sultra Bombshell Clipless Curling Iron is my wand of choice — it heats up fast and is a powerful tool. I always finish with beach spray like Oribe Dry Texture Spray to make it look more textured and casually cool. —Lauren Levinson, POPSUGAR Beauty Editor

At the risk of being a tad "crass" - there's sexfoliation involved in a date night with a boy vs. a girl. If i'm going to be seeing the ladies, I will maybe get a blowout, a mani, debut a new dress or pair of jeans. But if I'm seeing a boy? There'll be hours more of (deeply personal?) effort involved. You know, just in case! - Aly Walansky, ALittleAlytude.com