Get super creative with a crisscross bun

You have a lot of choices when creating an updo. Ponytails, braids and twists can all form the base of a beautiful off-your-neck style. When you want a casual style with a little extra flair, combine all three into one eye-catching look.

This crisscross bun has it all. Two three-strand braids are pinned in the back, and a low ponytail gets a stylish twist before being pinned into place. As with most updos, this style is easier to create on second-day (after washing) hair. If you have thin, fine hair, spritz it with texturizing spray to give it extra hold.

Materials
- Hair elastics
- Bobby pins
- Texturizing spray (optional)

Instructions
1. Part your hair down the middle, and leave one-inch sections loose on each side near your face.

2. Create a three-strand braid right behind one loose section, and create a similar braid on the other side.

3. Gently pull the braids apart, so that they have more volume.

4. Wrap one braid around your head, and secure it in the back with a bobby pin.

5. Wrap the braid underneath the section you just pinned, and secure it in place. The single braid should now look like you have two braids.

6. Repeat steps four and five by pinning the other braid in place.

7. Combine all the loose hair in the back into a ponytail, and secure it with an elastic. Tip: Spritz your hair with texturizing spray for added grip and volume.

8. Divide the ponytail in half, and twist each section in different directions.

9. Wrap the twists around one another, and then twist them into a coil to form a bun atop the middle of the braids. Secure the bun with more bobby pins.

Stay pretty!