Michelle Williams (Brokeback Mountain) Reese Witherspoon (Walk the Line) and Diane Kruger (Troy) sported deconstructed updos at the Oscars this year. Styles ran the gamut from low, loose buns to messy chignons, some of which were accessorized with vintage brooches. We asked Charlie Price to explain these looks for you.
Michelle Williams
“I’d apply a heat protectant before using a marcel iron to wave the hair in front,” says Price, who suggests using a bit of hairspray as you work, then spraying the hair again when you’re done. “Loosely pin the hair in back and let a few stray pieces frame the face,” he says. AG Sprayfixx Extra-Firm is a finishing spray with silk and keratin protein that adds shine and improves the condition of the hair. PureOlogy InChargePlus Finishing Spray can be used with hot irons or rollers, while Thermafuse Thermacare is a leave-in conditioning spray that’s packed with proteins, amino acids and botanicals to protect hair from heat styling damage.
Reese Witherspoon
“I’d work with her natural texture here,” says Price, who suggests finger-drying the hair and loosely pinning it at the nape. “You can also use a little wax around the hairline to hold the hair in place,” he says. KMS California Hairplay Paste Up Spray is a working aerosol paste that creates dramatic texture, separation and hold. Modern Organic Products MOP C-System Liquid Wax provides flexible hold.
Diane Kruger
“I’d work a conditioning gel through the hair and let the texture dry naturally,” says Price of this loose bun, which is secured at the nape with hairpins. GHD Wet Wax is a wet-look gel with all the properties of a wax, offering great conditioning that is perfect for defining curls and twists. Meanwhile, Hempz Styling Gel is enriched with hemp seed extract to provide style and control.