LOOK 1: THE DISHEVELED PONYTAIL
This is a simple way to make messy hair look chic, since unruly texture is perfect for the ends. New York stylist Conrad Dornan, who created the styles on these pages, says the whole thing should take five minutes, tops.
This feels more like shine spray than hairspray; the glossy finish it leaves only blurs the lines further.
Stylists rave about this texturizer, which roughs up hair just enough to make it look sexy-matte and bedheady.
Don't let the “gel” in the name mislead you: This is a fine root-plumping mist that defines layers without weighing them down.
LOOK 2: BOUNCY, SEXY LAYERS
Bigger, relaxed curls are the goal here, so if your hair is super-straight, be generous with styling products—you're going to need the extra hold. If your hair is curly already, you don’t need as much product—just enough to enhance your natural wave.
The barrel size is ideal for a loose, tousled look; like much pricier irons, it’s made with minerals to increase shine and fight frizz.
A liquid potion with heat protection built in that’s fantastic for long, glossy layers, and it really holds.
This finishing spray is so good it’s insane: Your hair stays incredibly malleable; no matter how much you keep spraying it on, you can still blithely rake your fingers through.
LOOK 3: WRAPAROUND BRAIDS
If you can do a French braid, you can pull this off—and if it isn’t the most amazing French braid ever, don’t worry. “Imperfections make it pretty,” says Dornan. Indeed, the style looks better a little loose—soft and wispy. (For even more tips, see our French braid tutorial.)
Add gel and this powder goes all Harry Potter on you, turning instantly to pomade.
Styling lotion that feels like leave-in conditioner—and gets the “clean hair smell” exactly right.
Our pick for updos—holds everything in place, but when you brush it out, it feels like it was never there.
IF ALL ELSE FAILS (OR YOU JUST FEEL LIKE SOME EXTRA CHICNESS): ARTY CLIPS
Quirky and statement-making, the right clip is sort of like the jacket that makes any outfit look good, whether you use one in an updo or when your hair is loose. As with all hair accessories, getting the clip to stay put is easiest when you’ve got texture: Build it with pomades, creams, or almost any other product.
