How to get beachy waves with a curling iron

It's so easy to get beachy waves like the ones pictured on me here. The trick is to curl your hair like normal, (if you need a refresher, see my quick video tutorial on curling) with one small change.

The only change - pay attention now - is to twist each section of hair one time around your finger before wrapping it around the curling iron. And that's the key to beachy waves!

So easy right? My wonderful hairstylist taught me this trick. I love trying new things! It's a nice change that's super simple to execute, especially for ladies like me who curl their hair often.

Okay, that's all for now.

Have you ever styled your hair this way? If not, will you try it? Please let me know if you do! I'd love to see the results!

I got a haircut! Come see...

So my hair was getting out of control long and split-endy. It had been more than five months since my last haircut, so I was definitely due. The length isn't much different now, but a lot of hair came off and the ends are all nice and clean. I also curled my hair differently in the "after" photo. It's more of a beachy wave, rather than a traditional, spiral curl that I usually don.

What do you think? If you all like the beachy wave look, I'll film a tutorial video.

Pain is beauty? Check out my worst curling iron burn ever.

If you're a regular Prettied Up reader, you probably already know that I curl my hair every morning. In fact, I have been curling my hair every single day for approximately the past ten years! So, it's a wonder that I haven't really suffered too many burns over the years except for the occasional slip of hot the curling iron on my forehead or neck. (Side note: Have you ever suffered a curling iron burn on your neck that looks like a hickie? Embarrassing!)

Well, I'm sad to say that my lucky streak ended this week. While I was wrapping the cord around the handle of my still-hot curling iron, it somehow slipped out of my hand and the hot barrel landed directly on my arm. Check out the results:

Ow! Even though the hot curling iron only made contact with my skin for about a second, it was enough to leave me with a burn down the inside of my whole left forearm.

I immediately put my arm under cold running water and took some Tylenol. I have been putting burn relief gel on it for the past two days and I'm really hoping it doesn't scar! Luckily it was just a minor burn so I really don't think it's going to leave any lasting marks.

Anyway, the incident was a good reminder about the importance of being careful when using hot hair appliances.

Have you ever suffered a curling iron burn?

Four festive (and easy) hairstyle ideas for your next tailgate

Football season is upon us and that means many of you will be heading out to root for your favorite teams. When going to the big game or a viewing party, us fashion-minded ladies usually pick out the perfect outfit, but taking a few extra minutes to whip up a cute new hairstyle can really add to your look! To make it a little bit easier for you, I've compiled some of my favorite hairstyles for game day. 

1. Wow the crowd with a half-up style topped off with an adorable ribbon or barrette. This is the most ambitious of all four styles, and could take some work to pull off. To achieve this look, I suggest curling your hair using my curling technique then pulling back the top layers into a half-ponytail. You may or may not want to leave a few pieces down in the front, like the cheerleader in the photo. Finish off the look with some hairspray and a cute ribbon or barrette in your team's colors. 

2. Try the hottest hairstyle of the moment: the side braid. This style has been gaining popularity over the last year and it would be perfect for a game. To prep your hair for this style, part it on the side or down the middle, then work some mousse from the roots to the ends. Gather your hair over one shoulder and braid, then secure it with a thin elastic that is the same color as your hair. It should be noted that this style may not work on those with layered hair, as some of the pieces may fall out. 

3. For a cute and quirky look with tons of personality try a bohemian-style headband. You're sure to be the coolest looking girl at the game with this hippie-inspired style. Tons of stores carry woven or elastic boho headbands in a variety of colors and styles nowadays. Keep in mind that the boho headband generally looks best on those who have long hair and no bangs. The model in the photo is wearing her hair stick straight but boho headbands also look great with loose, bedhead-y waves. 

4. The easiest hairstyle of all is the hat-and-braid combination. If your friends are rushing you out the door to get to the game or you're not sure what to do with your hair, try this foolproof style! Part your hair down the middle and loosely braid each side then secure with a thin elastic that is the same color as your hair. Top it off with your team's hat, and you're all set.  

Are you planning to go to a football game this year? If so, how do you plan to style your hair? 

A quick video tutorial on curling!

Hey loves! Thanks for checking in today to see what's new here on Prettied Up. I have a special surprise for you all!

I recorded a video tutorial on curling! After curling my hair every single day for many years, I have the technique down to a science. I find that a lot of my friends do not know the correct technique, and as a result, they think curling is an annoying, time-consuming task. It really only takes me about ten minutes to curl my whole head of hair and it's super easy.

Here's the secret -- the key to quick, easy and perfect curls is to curl from the top down not the bottom up!  I hope you enjoy the video!

Thanks for watching! Let me know if you have any questions at all.