Tools and tips

Clean hair is difficult to style in an updo. Texturing hair is probably the most important thing you can do. Add mousse, gel, hairspray, balm whatever your preference is to give your hair grip. Back combing is a texturing method that is quite easy to do. Taking the section of hair you would like to add volume to, hold hair almost at the tip and on the reverse side that is exposed comb towards your head and push hair into an almost ratted consistancy. Hair spray is useful at this point to maintain hold. Smooth the exposed section trying not to take anything away from the teasing or back comb and continue this throughout your desired section. I refer to a princess several times in my blog.  All that means is that you section the top third of your hair and tie it off. If your hair is thin or fine like mine back combing is a helpful way to control the style or add volume and height. I prefer not to back comb because it is harmful to your hair, however, I have done it too many times, I am sad to say, in the past. If in need of height or fullness to my style I try to use alternative ways like twist and push forward or adding my own socks/nylons method which sounds ridiculous but it works.

A bungee is a tool that I do not use, however it is not for any reason other then I don't own one.  I can, however, explain its uses  A bungee is like an elastic cut in half with hooks at each end. Gather hair like a pony tail, hook into hair and wrap around for desired grip. Hook behind the elastic to secure.  If you hook in front it will not hold. This is a helpful tool for securing hair like my hawk style when you are not able to use a regular tie. What I use is a small elastic with two bobby pins on each end.  It works the same way as a bungee and its tools I already own.