Undone chignon updo

Photo: Courtesy of Timothy C. Johnson

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The Undone Chignon
This woven bun may look complex, but Johnson says it's totally doable. The messier, the better!

1. To keep this style from looking stiff, use Velcro or hot rollers to add body.

2. Spritz all over with a texturizing spray (we like Redken Wool Shake 08, $18, because it leaves hair soft and flexible—not sticky) and pull hair back with your hands into a low ponytail. Secure with an elastic.

3. Divide the tail into four sections.

4. One section at a time, mist with hairspray, twist and wind hair up near the base of your pony—leaving the ends out. Pin in place with bobbies that match your hair color (try matte versions that don't catch the light, like Conair Matte Minis Bobby Pins, $1.50).

5. It shouldn't be perfect, but if your low-do looks too disheveled, pin a few of the ends down. Finish with a few spritzes of light-hold hairspray (like Johnson's go-to, Sebastian Shaper)—a stronger formula can make hair look crunchy and be difficult to brush out if you make a mistake.