Ditch a basic ponytail for this show-stopping updo.

Once you master this style, it's beyond impressive. The crown, or milkmaid, braid is perfect for medium-length or long hair. This 'do is best suited for curly for curly, wavy or textured hair, or locks that have seen a bit of damage from bleaching. 

Olivia Colacci, international hair and makeup artist, lays out the steps for achieving the perfect halo braid.

Step 1: "Rough up your hair with a bit of texturizing spray to give it some grip and hold," says Judy Inc hair and makeup artist Olivia Colacci. (If you have super-fine hair, also use some mousse.) Section off the front segment of hair by making a dividing part across the top of your head from ear to ear.

Step 2: Gather the sectioned-off hair in one hand; then, starting close to your right ear, begin a reverse three-pronged braid. Cross the right strand under the middle strand, then the left under the middle one; repeat once.

Step 3: Begin cornrow braiding: Before you pass the left strand under the middle strand, use your pinkie to add some more hair to the left strand. Continue adding hair to each strand, braiding up and around the edge of your hairline, then behind your ear and across the nape of your neck, picking up the back section of your hair as you go.

Step 4: Once you've completed the crown, you mght have some har left over, depending on your length. Braid it, then tie off with a clear elastic. Secure the end under the halo braid with a bobby pin.

Tip: "Massage the braid. Plyaways and frizz give it a contemporary edge."

Toolbox

Kerasilk Repower Volume Plumping Cream, $36, goldwell.com. John Frieda Luxurious Volume Perfectly Full Volumizing Mousse, $13, johnfrieda.ca. OGX Gravity-Defying & Hydrating + O2 Lifting Oil & Hydration Tonic Spray, $10, shoppersdrugmart.ca.

Have super curly hair and looking for an updo?