Lisa Lobosco just returned from leading 30 shows at both New York Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week. Lobosco, Creative Director for Ecru New York, has mastered the art of creating interesting ponytails and braids, the frequently requested finish from many fashion designers. “There are little things you can do to make the hair look tasteful and effortless,” Lobosco says, “while still offering that professional touch.”
MODERN stopped by to visit Lobosco while she was prepping for a class at the Ecru New York Academy in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. Lobosco was recreating several looks from the shows and was spending most of her time creating long braids to be used to add interest to the hairline and then to be married into the hair to create length and texture.
“You don’t need expensive hair for these braids,” Lobosco says. “It isn’t necessary for accent braids like this.”
Lobosco points out that this is a two-man job, or, if necessary, you can attach the extension to a mannequin head to both secure, add tension and to elevate. “I start braiding from the center and then work down to the end. Then, return to the center, turn the braid over, and repeat.” Lobosco points out that you should use cheap shears to cut away the center band holding the extension together. “Don’t waste your good scissors on that!”
Before any show, Lobosco preps dozens of braids in many different colors so that she is set for any and all situations, including models with existing extensions, fine hair, poor condition or inconsistent hair color.
Check out this video as Lobosco demos how-to create the braids. In it she adds important tips and tricks along the way:
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