Instagram's explore page is a treasure trove of beauty inspiration. While scrolling today, this bedazzled updo on Vanessa Hong (@thehautepursuit) caught my attention. I hit the 'save' button. Then, my editor Leah mentioned she saw the look in person while watching Chanel's Metier d'arts Show and it was, indeed, a show stopper. The pristine twist! The sparkling sea shells! I stared at it long enough before I realised I should go straight to the source, hair stylist Mischa G, to get all the details.
The hairstyle came about a bit last minute. It was just hours before the show when she and Hong were connected by a mutual friend, colourist Douglas. '[Hong] sent me a few images of a braided bun and a ponytail with scattered jewels. She was wearing a HUGE pearl and crystal necklace so I decided on pearls accented in silver and small tear drop and round crystals,' the hair stylist says. 'I rushed to my favourite bead and findings store and in about 30 minutes glued 64 jewels to a variety of hair pins based on the weight of the jewel. I wanted an organised but random arrangement of jewels.'
The gorgeous updo shape came about because of the shell accessories—Hong suggested doing a conch shell-like twist. The sleekness was achieved using Amika Brooklyn Bombshell Blowout and Reverie Rake Styling Balm for grip. Then, G smoothed Bumble and bumble Does It All Hairspray all over before twisting the hair up.
'Since I had texture and backcombing the pins had a base to stick into! I finished with Bumble and bumble Strong Finish Hold Hairspray,' G adds. The style is even better in motion:
Hello, holiday hair inspiration.
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