By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset (*Pure Editorial, Non-Paid Post,*)

With the popularity of the fishtail braid and sock bun, it is no secret that braids and buns are enjoying the spotlight in the hair world; but trust us, the star power is even stronger when you combine the two styles.

To help you achieve the perfect Braid Bun blend, Mario Russo, owner & lead stylist of Salon Mario Russo in Boston compiled step-by-step instructions for this new look for your locks – lucky you! Thanks Mario for this super chic and oh-so-unique holiday hairdo.

Mario Russo, Owner of Salon Mario Russo in Boston, MA suggest using MoroccanOil Luminous Hairspray to finish the Braid Bun Blend.

Step 1: Begin by blow-drying wet hair to its smoothest state by utilizing a boar bristle brush. For added volume, we recommend using Bumble & Bumble Thickening Hairspray.

Step 2: Part hair slightly off to the side and begin to French braid the hair starting from the temple of the side with less hair. Continue to braid hair all the way around your head until you reach the spot just beneath the ear on the other side. Once you have reached this point, tie the end of the braid with a clear elastic.

Step 3: Take the side of the hair that has not yet been braided, and use a curling iron to curl the hair away from the face. Make sure to keep these curls loose so they look wavy, and beachy. For even more texture on this side, we recommend using Oribe Texturizing Spray.

Step 4: Take a few random pieces from the curled side and form a loose twist over the ear. This is the ear that’s opposite the side of the head where you started your braid.

Step 5: Begin to twist the curled side of your hair and the end of the braid around each other to form a very loose side bun. Secure with bobby pins.

Step 6: The look should be very whimsical and loosely secured. Fasten your bun with bobby pins and finish with shine hairspray like MoroccanOil Luminous Hairspray.

Happy holiday hair!