This feature originally appeared in the September 2017 Issue of ESSENCE Magazine
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Say good-bye to your basic Pocahontas braids and take the plaited duo up a notch. Yes, grown-ups can wear braids, too. Make a center part and pull out one-inch sections of hair on each side to frame your face. Curl, crimp or wave those pieces to add texture.
After creating a braid on each side of the head, secure the ends with a velvet bow across your chest for a fun little twist that doubles as a unique neckpiece. One option: L. Erickson USA Double Skinny Tie Headwrap in Cobblestone Velvet ($48, franceluxe.com). Don't fret if your strands aren't down to your waist. This style works best when pieces are added for length.
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Sometimes getting messy isn't so bad—especially when it comes to your hair this fall. This runway hybrid of a classic topknot and untidy bun is great for dressing up or down, and still hits the mark for a five-minute do when you're on the go. Whether your hair is curly or straight, the key to mastering this style is keeping it soft and tousled.
Use your fingers or a comb to gather your strands into a loose ball at the top of your head. Then pull out tendrils around your hairline and nape of your neck. If you want to add a bit of edge control, use TGIN Smooth & Hold Edge Control ($10, target.com).
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Cool-weather accents don't have to be frumpy and boring. This chic hat is inspired by a show in which black leather berets ruled. To add romantic Parisian flair to this look, pair the accessory with loose waves from pin curls or a curling wand.
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If you are daring and love experimenting with color, this style's for you. From look-at-me yellows to power pinks, electric locks were seen all over the catwalk this season. To rock these hot hues in real life, we used a temporary spray that gives a bold pop of color until your next wash.
Opt for softer tones like light pink and barely-there purple to make this hairdo appropriate for both work and play. To apply, section hair and spritz color wherever you want. Try Joico InstaTint Temporary Color Shimmer Spray in Orchid and in Pink ($10 each, ulta.com).
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