HOW-TO: Miss Universe’s Crown-Worthy Updo

Did you watch the Miss Universe pageant? You may have noticed the regal updo worn by Miss Angola Leila Lopes, a business student, who eventually took home the crown during the 60^th Annual Miss Universe^® Pageant broadcast live from São Paulo, Brazil.

Leila, who intends to work for HIV/AIDS awareness during her reign, says that she purposely set out to make a big statement with her selected hairstyle for the evening. “I chose this updo to highlight sharp features in my face, and to stand out from most other contestants who chose to wear their hair down,” she explains.

Leila’s decision to forego long, flowing waves for a more formal hairstyle was completely her own, says Farouk Systems PR Manager Elizabeth Yong. “For all the contestants, they decide for themselves what they want. Stylists don’t make any recommendations because if they lose, they can’t blame it on their hair or their stylist.”

The elegant updo was created by Tammy Mixon, Farouk Systems Global Artistic Board and lead pageant stylist, who shares her steps below. Not only is the style easier than it looks, but adds Leila, “The crown fits perfectly around this hairstyle!”  

 

Here are Tammy’s steps:

1. “Leila has thick hair, and I prepped it with Farouk Royal Treatment by CHI Pearl Complex to replenish and add moisture.

2. For a sleek finish, use a CHI Ceramic Hairstyling Iron to smooth the surface layer before securing hair into a high ponytail. If hair is heavy like Leila’s, start with pulling top and sides back into a high ponytail, and pull remaining hair to it and secure.

3. Use Farouk Royal Treatment by CHI Ultimate Control Hairspray to slick down loose hairs for a smooth surface.

4. Attach circular filler behind the ponytail, and distribute hair evenly to cover the filler and pin ends underneath.

5. Finish with Farouk Royal Treatment by CHI Rapid Shine.”