How-To: Retro Braided Bob by Ruth Roche

Ruth Roche sees no reason why not to combine two of-the-moment trends: bobs and braids.

Roche, artistic ambassador for Pureology Serious Colour Care, notes you'll need a client with down-to-there hair for this one; taking the time to prep the hair properly and build a foundation to support the shape will be key as well.

GET THE LOOK: RETRO BRAIDED BOB

STEP 1: Apply Pureology Root Lift to hair. Blowdry and set with a 3/4-inch curling iron.

STEP 2: Create a side-part and take a horseshoe section at the crown, angling down from sides to back, and pin up to hold.

STEP 3: Directionally lace all hair that is left down to create a solid foundation to pin the bob to.

STEP 4: Using a Mason Pearson brush, smooth the surface with the side of the bristles and your hand. The final look will have one side tucked behind the ear; the other will fall over the ear.

STEP 5: Spray Pureology Colour Stylist Supreme Control high-hold hairspray on the entire head.

STEP 6: Create a loose ponytail 3-4 inches from the hairline so that the bob sits high enough. Roll the ponytail under and secure with a pin through the circle of the elastic to the laced section.

STEP 7: Drop the top section and let it fall naturally.

STEP 8: Starting with a 1-inch section on the side the hair will be tucked, create three strands and braid left-over-right and right-over-left, releasing tension to create a slack braid that reaches the perimeter of the bob.

STEP 9: Once you reach the perimeter, add to the right section and wrap the left around. Repeat until you reach the end.

STEP 10: When you get to the front, you have the option of leaving the front section out or braiding it in. If braiding, braid to the end and secure with an elastic, then wrap the braid back on itself and secure with a pin.

STEP 11: Fishhook bobby pins working from one side to the next. Secure the braid to the  bottom of the bob all around the perimeter of the shape.

STEP 12: Finish with Pureology Colour Stylist Supreme Control high-hold hairspray.