4 Steps to Your Awesome New Hairstyle: the French Faux-Hawk Braid

Seriously, guys: How awesome are the faux-hawk ponytails and braids we’ve been seeing on the red carpet lately?

This is my big must-try hairstyle of the moment, so I was psyched when Boston hairstylist Nicholas Penna, owner of SalonCapri, sent us his how-to for a French faux-hawk braid, like the one above on Selena Gomez.

“Edgy from the sides, elegant from the front, and romantic in the back, this style looks great from every angle and can offer terrific contrast to a glam dress,” Nick says.

1. Prep. Because braids hold best in hair that has slightly “grungy” texture, Nick recommends washing hair the day before styling. For added texture and volume, he uses Kerastase Powder Bluff dry shampoo at the roots and applies a coat of Shu Uemura Volume Maker.

2. Tease. Using a teasing comb or paddle brush, tease the top front section of your crown. Nick starts at the back and works forward, focusing on the roots, then secures with a light mist of Kerastase Laque Couture hairspray. You can comb a little atop the teased section for a smoother top.

3. Braid. Begin your French braid at the very top of your head, behind the teased section, carefully and tightly combing sections on the side into the braid and incorporating them as you go. Continue to braid down the nape of the neck and secure with a clear elastic band.

4. Tug. The secret to getting Selena’s rocker grunge look? Nick goes through the braid by hand and gently loosens each section, pulling out pieces where needed to create a more tousled look. Bobby-pin your braid where needed to secure the style, and finish with a full coat of spray to set your strands.