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Eva Longoria, Natalie Portman and Zöe Saldana are all seductive brunettes with a flair for chic, yet simple hairstyles. Though these celebs have twisted their long locks into glamorous red-carpet hairdos, they have also sported less complicated styles that can be created by regular folks. From a volume-heavy ponytail to a half twist, these seductive styles can be done at home without the need for a celebrity stylist or fancy professional tools.
Pumped Up Ponytail
A simple hairstyle that features a lot of volume around the crown area, the pumped ponytail can add a touch of glamour to an otherwise casual hairdo. Section the hair at the top of the head, from temple to temple. Gently tease this crown section, starting about 1-inch away from the hairline. Once you have a solid poof going, gently gather the hair into a ponytail at the middle of the head — moving carefully, as to not deflate the volume. Add a healthy dose of holding spray and the ponytail is complete.
Slicked-back Loop
If volume is not your thing, you can always go the sleeker route with a back loop. The style is a more relaxed play on the chignon — which can require more prep work. Add a dollop of holding pomade to dry hair, before parting the hair on one side (close to the temple). Keeping the part intact, brush the tresses towards the back of the head and secure the ponytail with a hair elastic. Divide the hair in half, folding one side under the base of the ponytail and pin it close to its base. Next wrap the remaining hair around the ponytail’s base and pin it down to finish the slick hairdo.
Half Twist
Sometimes it is great to have the elegance of an updo, with a more tousled, sexier effect. A half twist uses a similar concept as the French twist, sans the need for a copious amount of pins. After washing, blow the hair out with a paddle brush (just to give the locks a bit of body). Section the bangs, from ear to ear, and pull the rest of the hair towards the nape of the neck. Gather the hair and twist upwards, until you reach the center of the head. Pin the twist in place leaving the top out, and the tresses to hang loose. Curl the hair framing the face with a 1-inch barrel curling iron to create soft waves.
Center Part
For a simple and chic hairstyle, abandon the Botticelli-esque waves for straightened locks. What makes this style is the center part, which gives it a more retro-inspired boho-chic look. Part the long tresses down the center of the head and then across from ear to ear. Start flat ironing each section with large 2-inch flat iron, maintaining the center part. Once each section is pin straight, spray the tresses with a finishing spray — which will heighten the shine and make the hair appear to be glossier.
