Formal Hairstyles for Coarse Hair

Vivica Fox's updo is super easy and it's going to stay in place -- no matter what. Get the look: 1. Start by using a gel on damp hair. 2. To do the twist: Begin in front with a small section of hair and make a couple of twists. Then, take another small section and twist this into the original twist. Keep picking up hair and twisting it in until you reach behind your ear. Secure the end of the twist with a bobby pin.3. Take the rest of your hair into a side ponytail, just behind your ear. 4. Braid the ponytail and make into a chignon.5. Tuck the end of the twisted section under the chignon.6. Put on a little shine spray to smooth away any frizzies.

Keyshia Cole's swept-back, twisted hairstyle is a fun, faux updo for short hair. Steal her style: 1. Start by blow drying your hair straight, brushing it toward the back as you dry. 2. Once hair is dry, lift a 2-inch section and tease just at the roots. Next, loosely twist the section before pinning it in place. 3. Continue teasing, twisting, and pinning sections until all hair at the crown is off of your face. 4. Spray with hairspray to hold.

Keyshia Cole's sleek bun with its crown of curly-cues is perfect for weddings and proms. Get her style: 1. To create this look, begin with flat-ironed, perfectly straight strands. Brush hair back into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic band. 2. Separate the hair coming out of the ponytail into several thick sections. Twist each into a cinnamon bun-like (mmmmm, sticky buns) shape and pin in place at the base of the pony. 3. Spray the style with a strong hold hairspray to secure.