A thick, messy braid is perfect for days when you want to hide your unwashed hair. Before you style, mist your scalp with a texturizing product like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray, $39. It gives you the benefit of dry shampoo without the powdery residue, says New York City hairstylist Ben Thigpen. Here’s how hairstylist Philippe Depeyrot of the Cristophe Salon in Washington DC says to get the look:

1. Start with dirty hair to give your braid some grip. Use a rattail comb to tease the top section of your hair. Simply lift up your hair and backcomb underneath several sections to add texture.

2. Gather all of your hair to one side and hold it loosely in your hands.

3. Separate your hair into three sections. Starting from your collarbone, braid your hair all the way down until you reach the ends. Make sure you keep the braid loose near the top and tighten it as you go.

4. Secure the braid with a thin elastic, and use your hand or a soft brush to pull at the braid and soften it for a carefree finish.

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