Up-Style for a Bride

Q: Hi, my name is Kathy, and I’ll be styling a bride’s hair in an updo for her trial tomorrow. I really want to make it perfect for her, so I’d love some guidance.

The look she’s going for is a firm, high, and tight up-style - what some used to call "with a bit of tomatoes" on top. From what I understand, it’s a voluminous, polished updo with all the hair swept back and a large bun on top. The bride has thick hair that falls to her shoulder blades, so it’s quite long and dense.

Could you walk me through the steps to achieve this style? I want to make sure it stays secure and elegant all day. Any tips would be greatly appreciated!

A: What you’re describing sounds like a sophisticated take on the classic French Twist, but with extra height and volume at the crown - hence the playful "bit of tomatoes" reference, which hints at that rounded, slightly textured fullness on top. Here’s how I’d approach it for a secure, polished finish:

1. Prep the Hair: Start by brushing the hair thoroughly to remove any tangles, working from the ends upward to avoid breakage. Use a smoothing brush or fine-tooth comb to ensure the hair is completely sleek as you gather it back from the face.

2. Create Tension: Gather all the hair into one hand, holding it at the back of the head. Use your other hand to brush through the length, maintaining even tension so there are no bumps or loose sections. Position your grip about a third of the way down the length (closer to the scalp for extra hold).

3. Secure the Base: Fasten the hair at this point with a snag-free elastic, making sure it’s tight enough to support the weight of the style but not so tight that it causes discomfort.

4. Add Volume: Separate the ponytail into two equal sections. Lightly backcomb (tease) each section at the roots to create lift and fullness. This will help achieve that signature "tomato" shape. Once teased, gently smooth the outer layer of each section to hide any teasing, then recombine them into one ponytail for a soft, polished surface.

5. Form the Twist: Hold the ponytail just above the elastic and loop it over your thumb, creating a folded shape. Then, twist the loop (like turning a key) and coil the hair inward, keeping the twist tight and controlled. As you twist, the loop at the top should naturally form that rounded, voluminous effect.

6. Pin in Place: Secure the twist with strong bobby pins, inserting them diagonally for maximum hold. Tuck any loose ends underneath and pin them discreetly. For extra security, consider using a light-hold hairspray or texture spray before pinning to help grip the hair.

7. Finish the Top: If you want a more defined bun, spread out the loop at the top and pin it into a soft, rounded shape. Alternatively, leave it as an elegant loop and enhance it with decorative pins, a veil, or fresh flowers for the bridal touch.

For added longevity, lightly mist the style with a flexible-hold hairspray and ensure all pins are firmly anchored. This is especially important for thick hair. If the bride plans to dance or move a lot, a few extra pins around the base will keep everything in place.

©Hairfinder.com

See also:

Photos of up-styles

Techniques for updos

Wedding hairstyles