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Quick & Easy Updos: Go-to guide for hassle free hairstyles

Mar 14, 2024

Quick and Easy Updo Hairstyles

In our fast-paced world, time is a luxury, especially in the morning. But just because you're hitting the ground running doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style, particularly when it comes to your hair. The updo is the hero of hairstyles—quick, versatile, and elegant. It's the perfect way to look put-together on a busy morning or to add a touch of sophistication to any special occasion.

Whether you're a novice looking to master the art of a quick updo or a seasoned beauty enthusiast seeking to refine your technique, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps. From preparation to execution and all the way to variations and maintenance, you'll soon be the master of the effortless updo—ready to take on the world one twist and pin at a time.

Preparation and Tools: Setting the Stage for Style

Before you begin styling, it's essential to prepare your mane and gather the necessary tools. This initial stage is all about setting the right foundation, because a polished updo starts with healthy, well-prepared hair.

The Basics You Need

Gather these basic tools and products:

  • hairbrush or comb
  • elastic bands
  • bobby pins
  • hair donut or foam foundation (for larger buns)
  • hairspray or texturizing spray
  • dry shampoo (optional, for added texture and grip)

Preparing Your Hair

  1. Start by detangling your hair using a brush or wide-tooth comb. This step ensures a smooth and easier styling process.
  2. If your hair is particularly clean or slippery, apply a small amount of texturizing spray or dry shampoo to add some grip and help the style hold.
  3. For added volume at the crown, tease or backcomb the hair slightly. Remember, it's always easier to add more volume than to undo too much.

With the tools in hand and the hair prepped, you're all set to begin creating your quick and easy updo.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating the Updo

Whether you have medium hair, thin hair, thick hair, long hair or super long hair, Now that you're ready to style, follow these steps for a flawless, quick updo.

Sectioning Your Hair

  1. Create a clean middle or side part, whichever you prefer.
  2. Section off the top half of your hair and secure it on top to keep it out of the way while you work on the bottom section.

Creating the Base

  1. Gather the bottom section into a low ponytail and secure with an elastic band.
  2. If you're using a hair donut, slide it over the ponytail. Then, spread your hair over the donut and tuck the ends underneath, securing with another elastic.
  3. If you're not using a donut, simply twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base, securing with bobby pins as you go.

Twisting and Pinning Techniques

Use these techniques to create a secure and stylish updo.

  • The Classic Twist: Take a small section of hair, twist it, and wrap it around the base of your ponytail or bun. Secure with a bobby pin.
  • The French Twist: Instead of twisting the section, roll it tightly towards the base, wrapping over the previous roll as you go. This creates a sleeker look but may require a bit more practice to master.

Finishing Touches

Once your updo is in place, spritz with hairspray to set the style. Gently tug on the twists to create volume and a more relaxed look, if that's the aesthetic you're aiming for.

Variations for Different Occasions

Not all updos are created equal, and you can tailor yours to suit a variety of occasions.

Daytime Vs. Evening Looks

For a daytime look, a messy bun with face-framing tendrils offers charm without looking overdone. An evening might call for a neater, more structured bun or twist, which you can achieve by using more bobby pins and gel or mousse for added hold.

Adding Accessories for Special Occasions

When you want to elevate your look for a special event, consider incorporating accessories like headbands, decorative pins, or even a tiara. These can instantly transform a simple updo into a standout style.

Tips for Maintaining the Updo

An updo is only as good as its longevity, so knowing how to maintain it throughout the day is crucial.

Securing the Style

Check your updo's security by gently tugging at various sections. If anything feels loose, add an extra pin. For added security, spritz the entire updo with hairspray or finish with a shine mist.

Refreshing the Updo Throughout the Day

To keep your updo looking fresh, carry a small bag with a few bobby pins and a mini bottle of hairspray. If loose strands appear or the style starts to fall, you can quickly address it without having to redo the entire look.

Types of Updos

Here are a few popular styles that cater to various preferences and hair lengths:

The Classic Sleek Bun

The epitome of elegance and simplicity, the classic bun is versatile enough for both casual and formal events. It can be worn as a high bun or a low bun, or even to the side for a more contemporary trick.

The Messy Bun

Ideal for a laid-back yet stylish look, the messy bun embraces imperfections, making it perfect for everyday wear. This effortless style can be elevated with accessories or left simple for a minimalist approach.

The Braided Updo

Incorporating braids into your updo adds texture and visual interest. From French braids to fishtails, there are countless variations to experiment with, each offering a unique twist to the traditional updo.

The Chignon

Originating from France, the chignon is a sophisticated style characterized by a knot or twist at the nape of the neck. It's a popular choice for bridal and evening hairstyles due to its timeless elegance.

The Ponytail Updo

Combining the practicality of a simple style ponytail with the chicness of an updo, this style elevates the classic ponytail into something more sophisticated. It can vary from a sleek and high ponytail to more relaxed, low styles with volume and curls.

Each of these updos can be tailored to fit the occasion, your personal style, and hair type, ensuring that you have a go-to hairstyle for any situation.

Any of these updos can be done with different textures of hair for added style, like loose curls, waves, curly locks, and straight hair. You can also add some form of braid or pattern into your hairdo for added style as well, something along the lines of a Dutch braid, lightly twist, headband, and hair pins and hair accessories.

Conclusion: Your Quick Updo Journey Begins Here

The updo is a simple but effective hairstyle choice, offering elegance, style, and most importantly, convenience. With the right tools, preparation, and a bit of practice, you can achieve a quick and easy updo that's perfect for any occasion.

Remember, the beauty of the updo lies in its versatility. Don't be afraid to try different techniques, experiment with various styles, and make the updo your own. It's a canvas for creativity that can be tailored to your personal taste and the specific demands of your day.

You can always count on M Salon for event styling or any Hair dressing services to get you ready for any special occasion or event.


Mother 's day gift guide treat mom to the trendiest hair looks at m salon

Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Treat Mom to the Trendiest Hair Looks at M Salon!

09 May, 2024
Mother’s Day stands as a heartfelt tribute to the incredible women who nurture, inspire, and empower us. It’s a day to shower them with love, appreciation, and tokens of our gratitude. Yet, every year, finding that perfect gift poses a delightful challenge. This year, why not present her with something beyond the conventional—an experience that celebrates her style and grace? M Salon is here to guide you through gifting mom the trendiest hair looks for an unforgettable Mother’s Day. Why a Trendy Hair Look? Gifting experiences, particularly those that offer pampering and rejuvenation, have gained momentum as thoughtful and memorable choices. A visit to M Salon for a trendy hair makeover transforms Mother’s Day into an event, providing not just a new look but renewed confidence and joy. It's an opportunity for mom to take a moment for herself, indulge in professional styling, and emerge feeling refreshed and stylish. The Trendiest Hair Looks for Moms This season, we’re seeing a beautiful array of hair trends that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether your mom is all about sophistication and elegance or prefers something fun and adventurous, M Salon has the perfect styling options: Soft Balayage Highlights : Ideal for moms who appreciate a subtle change, balayage offers a natural-looking way to add dimension and warmth to her hair. The Classic Bob : Timeless and chic, a bob cut is perfect for moms who enjoy a sleek and manageable style that transitions effortlessly from day to night. Voluminous Layers : For moms who love a bit of drama and movement, adding layers can refresh her look entirely, giving her a youthful and dynamic hairstyle. Beachy Waves : Perfect for the mom with a laid-back style, beachy waves deliver a casual yet polished look that’s easy to maintain. Signature Blowout : Nothing says "pampered" quite like a professional blowout. This is for the mom who loves to look effortlessly glamorous every day. Our signature blowout service leaves her hair silky, smooth, and full of bounce and volume, perfect for any special occasion or simply to brighten her everyday look. How to Choose the Perfect Look for Mom Selecting the right hair trend for mom involves a dash of thoughtfulness and consideration of her personal style, routine, and the level of maintenance she’s comfortable with. Consider what styles she has admired in the past and how much time she dedicates to her hair each day. A consultation with one of M Salon’s stylists can also provide personalized recommendations that align with her lifestyle and preferences. The M Salon Experience At M Salon, we pride ourselves on offering more than just a haircut or color service; we provide a luxury experience. From the moment mom walks in, she’ll be treated to unparalleled personalized attention, from expert consultations to soothing scalp massages, and styling tips. Our skilled stylists stay abreast of the latest trends and techniques to ensure she leaves looking and feeling her absolute best. Gifting a Salon Experience Opting to gift an experience like a salon visit emphasizes thoughtfulness, allowing mom to enjoy some well-deserved “me time.” Unlike physical gifts that might fade or be forgotten, the memories of a special day out, feeling pampered and cared for, will linger much longer, making it a truly meaningful Mother’s Day gesture. Conclusion This Mother’s Day, whisk mom away from the everyday and treat her to a slice of luxury at M Salon. It’s more than a gift; it’s an experience that encompasses beauty, relaxation, and personal transformation. Show her just how much she’s cherished with the gift of a trendy hair makeover—a token of appreciation that she’ll remember and thank you for, long after Mother’s Day has passed. Don’t wait— book your mom’s M Salon experience today and give her the Mother’s Day she truly deserves.
A bunch of hair extensions are hanging on a rack.

Elevate Your Look with Hair Extensions | M Salon | Houston TX

02 May, 2024
Hair extensions have emerged as a game-changer, empowering individuals to transform their appearance instantly. Not just a trend among celebrities, luxury hair extensions have found their way into the daily routines of beauty enthusiasts and salon professionals worldwide. With an array of types and styles available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide is designed to enlighten you on the opulence of luxury hair extensions, exploring their types, benefits, and care tips to ensure you make an informed choice that elevates your look effortlessly. Understanding Hair Extensions Hair extensions are not just about adding length or volume; they're an investment in high-quality, durable materials that blend seamlessly with your natural hair, offering a stunning and realistic finish. The finest extensions are crafted from premium human hair, meticulously processed to preserve their natural texture and integrity. This segment sheds light on the paramount importance of materials, quality, and manufacturing processes in determining the luxe quotient of hair extensions. A Look at Different Types of Hair Extensions Clip-In Extensions Clip in hair extensions are the epitome of versatility and convenience. Perfect for those seeking a quick transformation for special occasions or daily wear, these extensions can easily be clipped in and removed without professional help. Pros : No commitment required, easy to install and remove, minimal damage to natural hair. Cons : May not offer as seamless a blend as more permanent options, frequent application and removal can be time-consuming. Tape-In Extensions Tape in hair extensions provide a semi-permanent solution for those desiring length and volume over an extended period. These extensions are applied by bonding thin strips of hair to your natural strands using a special adhesive tape. Pros : Lightweight, comfortable, and relatively easy to maintain. They offer a more natural look compared to clip-ins. Cons : Requires professional installation and removal, adhesive may cause damage if not cared for properly. Sew-In Hair Extensions Sew-in hair extensions, also known as weave hair extensions, are among the most traditional and durable methods available. This type involves braiding the natural hair into cornrows first, and then sewing the extension wefts into the braids using a special needle and thread. Pros : Offers a secure and long-lasting solution; ideal for those with thicker hair seeking a full transformation. Provides a very natural appearance as the extensions are completely integrated with the natural hair. Cons : The process is quite labor-intensive and must be done by a professional to avoid damage to the natural hair and scalp. It's also important for individuals to ensure their natural hair and scalp are healthy enough to handle the tension created by the braids and sewn-in wefts. Micro Link (or Bead) Extensions Micro link extensions involve attaching small wefts of hair to your natural strands with tiny silicone-lined beads, offering a secure and adjustable method of hair enhancement. Pros : No heat or glue required, allowing for healthier hair; adjustable for the perfect fit. Cons : Application is time-consuming; microbeads can be visible if not installed correctly. Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions Pre-bonded hair extensions, also referred to as fusion hair extensions, are known for their durability and the seamless blend they offer. These extensions are applied by using a heat connector to melt a small bond to your natural hair. The bond is typically made from keratin, a protein that mimics the molecular structure of human hair, ensuring a strong, yet safe attachment. Pros : Provides one of the most natural-looking finishes; bonds are small and virtually undetectable. These extensions can last for several months with proper care, making them a great long-term investment in your hairstyle. Cons : The application process is time-consuming and must be carried out by an experienced stylist to prevent damage to your natural hair. The removal process can also be intricate and requires a professional touch. Additionally, because they are bonded to the hair, these extensions require regular maintenance and careful styling to prevent the bonds from weakening over time. Human Hair Extensions vs Synthetic Hair Extensions When choosing luxury hair extensions, a critical decision is between real human hair extensions and synthetic options. Human hair extensions are praised for their authenticity, offering a natural look and feel that is hard to distinguish from your own hair. They can be styled, dyed, and treated just like your natural tresses, providing flexibility and durability. On the other hand, synthetic hair extensions offer an economical alternative, with advanced fibers that mimic the appearance of human hair to a remarkable degree. However, they lack the versatility of human hair; styling options are limited as they cannot withstand high temperatures from styling tools, and their lifespan is shorter. While synthetic extensions are ideal for temporary wear or those on a budget, human hair extensions remain the gold standard for those seeking longevity, realism, and the ability to customize their look. How to Choose the Right Hair Extension Type for Your Hair and Lifestyle Consider factors such as your daily routine, desired level of maintenance, and the health of your natural hair. Consulting with a professional hair stylist can provide personalized insights and recommendations, ensuring that your choice complements both your lifestyle and hair goals. Maintenance and Care Tips to Ensure Longevity and Quality Luxury hair extensions require a dedicated care routine to maintain their allure. Regular washing with sulfate-free shampoo, gentle brushing with a soft-bristle brush, and avoiding excessive heat styling are pivotal steps. Additionally, investing in regular professional check-ups can prolong the life of your extensions.  M Salon M Salon , with their extensive experience in hair extensions, stands as a beacon of professionalism in the installation and maintenance of various hair extension types. Their seasoned team is adept at catering to a wide array of client preferences, ensuring each individual leaves with a smile and confidence in their new look. For those contemplating which hair extension method might best suit their lifestyle and hair type, M Salon offers personalized consultations. Contact M Salon today to discover how they can accommodate your preferred hair extension options, and take the first step towards achieving your dream hairstyle.
There is a difference between a balayage and highlights side by side.

Balayage vs. Highlights Side by Side: What's the Difference?

25 Apr, 2024
Hair color is a defining feature of our personal style, speaking volumes about our personalities and how we present ourselves to the world. Among the myriad of coloring techniques, balayage and highlights are two favorites that make for lustrous locks and Instagram-worthy images. But what sets these two techniques apart, and which one might be the right choice for you? This comprehensive guide will help you discern between balayage and highlights, ensuring you make an informed decision for your next salon visit. Balayage Highlights Balayage Technique Balayage, a French word meaning 'to sweep' or 'to paint,' is an artistic coloring technique that involves freehand painting of the hair, typically without the use of foils. This method creates a natural, blended transition between the colored and non-colored sections, mimicking the look of sun kissed strands. What makes balayage truly unique is its ability to provide a soft, regrowth line, making it a lower maintenance option than traditional highlights as it doesn't start from the roots. Versatility Across Hair Types One of the great features of balayage is its versatility for various hair types. Regardless of your hair length whether you have longer or shorter hair, straight, or curly hair, balayage can be tailored to enhance your natural texture and it adds depth and dimension. It can be particularly stunning on darker hair, creating a striking contrast that looks incredibly contemporary. Popular Balayage Styles From the classic caramel balayage favored by brunettes to the more dramatic rose gold for the color adventurers, there’s a balayage style to suit any taste. For those who prefer a more subtle change, the sunkissed look is achieved by applying hair colors a few shades lighter than your usual hue, while the Ombre balayage gives the illusion of a more significant gradient from root to tip. The Art of Foil Highlights Defining Traditional Highlights Highlights, on the other hand, can refer to a variety of techniques but are generally created by isolating thin sections of hair strands in a lightening process and applying a coloring agent to those strands. The use of aluminum foil ensures a more uniform coverage, with the goal usually to lighten the full length of the section from root to end, unlike balayage. Different Types of Highlights There are several types of highlights, including Foilayage (a hybrid technique using foils similar to traditional highlights but with the application method of balayage) and Babylights (extremely fine highlights that mimic the natural look of a child's hair, giving a soft and dimensional result), which are suitable for different preferences and hair goals. Who Suits Highlights Best Highlights are excellent for those looking for a brighter overall look and are ideal for fine and straight hair, where the added texture can make the hair appear thicker and more voluminous. They also work well to mask the appearance of regrowth for those with straighter hair textures. Side-by-Side Comparison Application and Coverage Balayage, with its hand-painted application, usually colors less hair than highlights that apply color to every strand in a selected section. This results in a more original and more irregular color pattern compared to traditional highlights that usually follow a consistent pattern. Maintenance and Cost Differences For those who prefer a lower maintenance option, balayage's more natural, blended look allows for longer periods between salon visits. Highlights, requiring a more defined retouch on the regrowth, may necessitate more frequent touch-ups. Cost-wise, balayage can sometimes be more expensive due to the artistic skill and time required for the technique. Which One Is for You? Consider Your Personal Style and Lifestyle Your personal style and lifestyle play a significant role in determining whether balayage or highlights are the better fit. Balayage, with its relaxed and casual appeal, might be the choice for individuals with a busy schedule who want a stylish yet effortless look. On the other hand, traditional highlights could be the go-to for those looking for a more polished and structured appearance. Discussing Options with Your Hairstylist When in doubt, your hairstylist is the ultimate guide to helping you choose the best course of action. Providing them with images and discussing your daily routine, as well as your preferences for your hair, can ensure you're both on the same page and the color results are something you'll be delighted with. Conclusion Navigating hair color can seem overwhelming, but getting to grips with techniques like balayage and highlights makes it easier. Consider versatility, maintenance, and cost to find your fit. Enhanced color makes you feel your best. Want a natural glow or bold statement? Consider balayage or highlights. Ready for a change? Visit M Salon for a professional consult to explore your options like never before.
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