Hair

Beauty trend lesson: Rodarte's braids

Recreate Rodarte’s pretty half-up half-down braided hairstyle with these easy tips.

by : Jennifer Weatherhead Harrington- Sep 10th, 2013

Looking feminine and polished all at once has never been so easy. This fall hairstylists working the runway were obsessed with braids in all forms – braided buns at Naeem Khan, long, sleek side braids at Valentino and
messy braided updos at Viktor & Rolf were just a few that captured our beauty attention. But one of our all-time favourites? The braided half-up half-down look at Rodarte. Thin braids along the sides tied back into a mini bun can go from office-cool with a bit of shine spray and straight hair, or more casual with loose waves and a more undone texture to the braids. Either way we’re in love (and we kind of think celebrities and even new mom
Kate Middleton would also adore this look). So we enlisted the help and tips of Alain Larivee, Canadian Creative Consultant, John Frieda, to recreate this braided hairstyle look at home. Bonus: It’s actually incredibly easy.

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“I particularly love this look because it’s practical and creatively stylish,” says Larivee. “This kind of braid has made a huge comeback and doesn’t seem to be disappearing any time soon.” And braids are something Larivee sees more and more requests for in salons. “Women love this looks because it’s easy to achieve at home, which for many is very important when trying a new hair trend.” And anyone can wear this braided hairstyle, but Larivee suggests those lucky ladies with medium to thick hair have the best advantage with this particular look. “What’s great about this look is that it really can be worn to a number of events and outings,” he also explains. “Whether it’s grabbing a relaxing drink with friends or a night out to a local hotspot, it’s always on trend.”

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Get step-by-step tips on this braided hairstyle on the next page …

BRAIDED HAIRSTYLE: Rodarte’s easy updo

“This look is very simple to do yourself, but the right product really does make the difference to help the hair hold and remain in place,” explains Larivee. Prep hair by shampooing and conditioning, then rubbing a serum on your hair to give it strength while still in the shower. (Try John Frieda Frizz Ease Thermal Serum). Do not rinse out.

To
smooth hair out once out of the shower, use a straightening product (try John Frieda Frizz Ease Straight Fixation) before blow-drying hair. “This will work to smooth hair as you blow dry it making it easier to section and braid afterwards,” explains Larivee. Before braiding, finish with
frizz fighting spray to help keep fly-aways and too much frizz at bay.

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“Once your hair is dry, do a basic braid on either side of your head at your temples, braiding away from your face,” explains Larivee. “Begin a third braid, starting at the back of your head in the middle of your scalp and secure the braid with an elastic. Pull your first two braids to the back of your head and tie them in a knot above the base of the third braid. Secure them with bobby pins. For a more aerated look, I’d recommend tugging at the hair to loosen the braid a bit!”

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Like Larivee mentions above, it’s perfect for just about any occasion, but we’re loving the idea of a romantic fall date or picnic to go with the soft look.