'The Braid Up': How to Do A Freestyle High

Jan 01, 2024

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Cuz who doesn't love a clean updo?

Sure, the mullet gets all the credit for being society's resident "party in the back" hairstyle, but today's look on The Braid Up is honestly a strong new contender. At first glance, this sleek, high-ponytail braid is pretty standardly cute, but when you turn around, it's got the coolest criss-cross rubber band situation that just demands attention.

If you find yourself leaning toward getting a high-ponytail protective style soon, today's episode is a must-watch. Stylist Sherell Gittens showed off the best method for creating this braided masterpiece, and we've got the tips you'll need to keep it looking 10/10. Read on...

1. Smooth on styling mousse. Maintaining the "sleek" part of this look post-salon visit seems like a tall ask. But just smooth a couple of pumps of mousse on your edges and scalp, then wrap it up with a silk headscarf while you sleep to keep everything (read: flyaways) laid down.

2. Look after your edges. As seen in today's episode, swooped baby hairs go perfectly with this style. Just be sure to rinse out your edge control before bed. Letting that product sit overnight can potentially damage those fragile hairs and even cause breakouts along your hairline too. Fill a spray bottle with good ole' water, spritz your edges, then lightly brush them with an edge brush to gently remove leftover gel.

3. Use the right bands. For our banded-braid situation in the back of this look, you'll want to grab a pack of soft elastic bands. They're durable enough that they won't randomly pop out while you wear this style, but they're not rough enough to break your hair.

4. Stay bonnet ready. It's the simplest way to avoid roughing up this updo while you're tossing and turning in bed, which can lead to flyaways and potential breakage with this ponytail.

Hair: In collaboration with Stasha Harris of Magic Fingers StudioMakeup: Ashley JohnsonVideographer: Rob MroczkoProduction Assistant: Jay AguirreDirector of Digital Series: Tara O’Connell

Annabel Iwegbue is an assistant editor at Cosmopolitan who covers entertainment, lifestyle, career, beauty, and astrology. Just, you know, all the things. You can check out some of Annabel's work here and, also find her on Instagram and Twitter.

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