TREND ALERT: Messy Updos at the AMAs

Sparkle and skin ruled the fashion at the 2012 American Music Awards, but how about the complementary hair? Stars kept their styles a little funky, somewhat soft and a lot playful to offset the uber glamorous fashions. Enter: The messy buns and updos. Let’s take a look at a few AMA presenters and performers who embraced the more casual--yet very much well executed--styles at the awards show.

Jennifer Morrison

The “Once Upon a Time” star was one of very few on the red carpet sporting a braided updo, but she managed to make the wraparound style memorable with its definition along the sides and aloofness and subtle twists in the back.

Want to try a funkier wraparound braided updo? Check out this one worn by Florence Welch.

Carly Rae Jepsen

Before letting her hair down for her performance on stage, the pop princess let her famous full fringe and face framing pieces take center stage with this messy, low-slung side bun.

See more fringe inspiration here.

Elisha Cuthbert

Way to set the gold standard, Elisha. Her sleek style showed off a bit of volume and polish on top and a party in the back with a slightly pulled apart and roughed up bun worn at the nape.

How do you keep a messy bun secure? Check out these tips.