You know how a ring or necklace manages to take an ensemble from "simple" to "chic"? Hair accessories deliver the same effect to our manes. Even a bad hair day can be turned around with a fun hat, bobby pin or headband. What about the mornings you can't seem to find the right hair accessory? Use your natural resources! By that, we mean use your own hair. A braided headband is the perfect upgrade to loose, natural hair and lends it a romantic twist that is super chic and perfect for fall. Hair and makeup expert Diana Shin shows us how to get this sweet and simple look.


Step 1. Curl hair with a 1-inch or 1 1/2-inch curling iron. Separate curls with your fingers, so they look loose and natural.

Step 2. Take a 2-inch section of hair from the side of the crown and braid it. (If you want to step it up a notch, try a fishtail braid!)

Step 3. Repeat with the opposite side.

Step 4. Cross the braids over each other and secure with bobby pins.

Step 5. Tuck the ends of the braids under the loose hair so they're hidden from view.

Step 6. Lightly tease the loose hair so it's full and voluminous. Finish the look by spraying with flexible hold hairspray (we love L'Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Fine Control Hairspray).

What's your favorite braided hairstyle? Sound off in the comments below!

Photography: Joshua M. Shelton
Hair: Diana Shin
Model: Diana Crisan