Are These Inverted Chignons The New Top Knot?

 

Out-of-the-box braids have been huge at this season’s Miami Fashion Week’s swimwear shows. First, at Mara Hoffman, mini braids were accessorized with a single palm leaf. Then, We Are Handsome sent models down the runway in not one, but two different plait styles. TIGI Global Creative Director Nick Irwin must have spent the whole weekend braiding hair! 

 

While Irwin kept one of the styles at We Are Handsome a bit more simple with a low, asymmetrical braided ponytail, the second look was not as basic. Irwin created this braided, inverted chignon that kind of looks like a braid turban. It’s a fun take on a classic top knot that is actually easier to recreate than you think. We’ve got the step-by-step right here. 

 

 

Step 1: “Brush clean, dry hair towards the hair line, securing an asymmetrical ponytail over the arch of the right eyebrow close to the hairline,” says Irwin.

 

Step 2: “Use Catwalk by TIGI Work It Hairspray to gently smooth the hair to the head, while maintaining a bit of imperfection.”

 

Step 3: “Spray the ponytail with Catwalk by TIGI Transforming Dry Shampoo to create a matte texture; then, using a 3-strand technique, braid the ponytail and secure the end with a clear elastic. Use fingers to separate and loosen the braid, creating your desired texture.”

 

Step 4: “Fold the braid over onto itself and lay it along the hair line, securing with a pin above the ear; then tuck the ends of braid into itself, in efforts to create the illusion that the braid has no end or beginning.”

 

Step 5: For added shine, apply a small amount of the Catwalk by TIGI Camera Ready Shine Spray to the back of the head, creating dual texture reminiscent of the multi-faceted We Are Handsome girl.”