Red Carpet Updo on Gwyneth Paltrow
This elegant updo, worn by Gwyneth Paltrow just before her Oscar win for *Shakespeare in Love*, is the definition of effortless glamour. Soft face-framing tendrils and an imperfect bun give the style a timeless, unfussy charm. Ideal for formal events, it strikes the perfect balance between polished and natural. With the right tools and a few simple steps, it can be recreated at home for any special occasion.
| Hair Type | Straight |
| Categories | |
| Occasion | Formal |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Styling Time | 25 minutes |
| Setting Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Hair Length | Long |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Popularity | 92/100 |
| Tags | glamorousformalcelebrity |
Instructions
- 1
Start with clean, dry hair. Apply heat protectant spray evenly to protect from styling tools.
- 2
Straighten face-framing sections with a flat iron to create a sleek finish that contrasts the bun.
- 3
Brush the rest of the hair back loosely and gather it at the crown or mid-back of the head.
- 4
Secure hair into a loose ponytail with an elastic band, leaving a few tendrils out near the face.
- 5
Twist the ponytail into a bun, keeping the texture slightly imperfect for a natural look.
- 6
Pin the bun in place using bobby pins, ensuring it feels secure without being too tight.
- 7
Gently pull a few strands loose from the bun to add softness and an undone elegance.
- 8
Adjust the face-framing tendrils so they fall naturally along the cheeks and jawline.
- 9
Lightly mist with hairspray to hold everything in place while keeping a soft, touchable finish.
- 10
Do a final check in the mirror to balance both sides and ensure the bun looks flattering from all angles.
Styling Tips
Curl the face-framing tendrils lightly with a small barrel iron for a softer romantic look.
If your hair is fine, tease the ponytail slightly before pinning into a bun for extra volume.
Use bobby pins in a crisscross pattern to ensure the bun holds securely throughout the event.
Leaving the bun slightly loose makes the style look more modern and effortless.
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