Hair How-To: Natalie Portman's Sculptural Updo (It's Perfect for that Upcoming Wedding!)

Self Magazine

by Alexandra Samuel

Getty Images
Getty Images

There's been a lot of buzz around the office about the new Thor flick. Maybe because we're Marvel fans. Maybe because we're Chris Hemsworth fans. Either way, we found something else to love about the new movie, too: Natalie Portman gracing the film's red-carpet opening in Germany this weekend, specifically that sculptural, modern updo that is making me jealous with hair envy. (Also, we're digging the caramel color, Nat!) Lucky I've got a wedding coming up this weekend I can wear it to. But the reason I really love this updo is because it's versatile -- it works just as well for a power meeting in the office as it does walking down the aisle. I played around and figured out how to recreate this look. All you need to do is follow along -- and reap the benefits!

CREATE: Start by combing a deep part over your left eyebrow's arch, and clip newly parted hair out of the way.

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VOLUMIZE: Lift the front half of your right side's strands and hit the foots with some volumizing powder. (I love Kevin.Murphy Powder.Puff.) Back comb roots slightly to tease and add a little extra lift.

SMOOTH: Take just-teased strands, plus a boar-bristle brush, and smooth towards the nape of your neck, clipping in place. Then, smooth hair on the left side of your head towards the nape, unclip the right-side's strands, and tie all of your hair into a pony approximately one inch above your hairline using a clear elastic.

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STYLE: Twist the length of the pony and fold in half -- more if your strands reach below your breasts -- and tuck ends into hair elastic. Lay the twist against the back of your head, roll it to the left once, and pin securely in place. Wanna make sure those pins stay? Spritz 'em up with hairspray before you apply. Works. Every. Time.

Would you rock Natalie's modern updo? Tell us below or tweet us @AESam and @SELFmagazine!

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