We love this glamorous alternative to the much-loved top knot: steal Julianne Hough’s super sleek samurai bun with this how-to guide from our Creative Director:

STEP 1: Prep damp tresses with a heat protect spray like EIMI Thermal Image and and blow dry smooth.

STEP 2: Separate off the top half of the hair.

STEP 3: Brush the bottom section up and away from the neck. Mist over some control spray (we love EIMI Stay Styled) and comb through before pinning out of the way.

STEP 4: Spray a little more hairspray directly onto the brush and use it to bring the top section of hair away from the face, securing in a ponytail at the crown.

STEP 5: Release the bottom section. Spritz the brush with hairspray again and brush the hair up to meet the ponytail, securing it over the top with another hair tie.

STEP 6: Take a two inch section from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide the hair tie.

STEP 7: Take another two inch section from the front and create a loop using the rest of the hair.

STEP 8: Pick up the front section of hair and wrap it around the loop, pinning into place around the base.

STEP 9: Gently bring the bun back, over the base and pin into place.

STEP 10: Finish with a mist of gloss spray like EIMI Glam Mist for added shine.

For more party hair inspiration, check out our how-to guides to creating a braided ponytail, braided updo and super glam ponytail.

(Header image: Matt Baron/ Rex Shutterstock)