While awards season is teeming with aspirational fashion and beauty looks, it also offers some doable takeaways—if you really pay attention. As your eyes and ears for all things style, we make it our mission to track down looks you can incorporate into your daily life. Our latest beauty find is straight off last night’s Critics’ Choice Awards red carpet. We’re referring to the chic, slicked-back hair donned by such A-listers as Gal Gadot, Kate Bosworth and Yara Shahidi. Whether you choose to go the ponytail, chignon or down-the-back route, this is a look to try ASAP—and it will literally take you minutes. Below, see how the stars did it, and get tips on how to emulate their sleek styles yourself.
No time to dry your post-shower hair in the morning? Comb some lightweight gel or mousse through it, part it down the middle and tie it into a low chignon at the nape of the neck, à la Yara Shahidi.
If you want to show off some length, take a page from Gal's book. Dampen from the hairline to the crown and spritz the area evenly with texturizing spray. Use a boar-bristle brush to sweep the hair back and blow-dry it at the crown and sides to set the look. Pin back the hair to keep its form. Smooth out loose strands with a flat iron and add some dry oil for shine. Comb some molding cream or flexible-hold gel through the top and sides to mold your look.
If you're not one for the side or middle part, try a completely pulled-back approach, as seen on Kate. Just apply some smoothing cream to dampened hair and comb strands into a low bun, pony or braid.
Another variation is the swept-back low pony, modeled beautifully by Kiernan Shipka. Just follow the directive in the first look, this time creating a deep side part and creating a low ponytail instead of a bun. Set the look with a strong-hold hair spray.
