How to Recreate Jennifer Lawrence’s 2013 Oscars Hairstyle

How to Recreate Jennifer Lawrence’s Iconic 2013 Oscars Hairstyle

When Jennifer Lawrence graced the red carpet at the 85th Academy Awards in 2013, her look became instantly legendary. From her Dior Haute Couture gown to her flawless makeup and romantic, textured updo, every detail sparked worldwide admiration. While her acting talent earned her the Oscar for Best Actress, her hair inspired a new red carpet hair obsession: the soft, voluminous chignon crafted by celebrity stylist Mark Townsend. In this comprehensive guide, we break down the secrets of Jennifer Lawrence’s 2013 Oscars hair look, including expert styling techniques, the must-have products, adaptations for different hair types, and answers to your burning questions. You’ll learn how to master this universally flattering updo at home for any special occasion.

Overview: Jennifer Lawrence’s 2013 Oscars Look

Jennifer Lawrence stunned on the Oscars red carpet with a romantic, texturized updo that balanced modern elegance with effortless charm. The look featured subtle volume at the crown, loose face-framing tendrils, and a low, gently undone bun secured with visible crossed bobby pins. This ‘messy chignon’ stood out for its approachable beauty—polished yet glamorous without overly rigid structure. Her radiant complexion and blush-pink makeup amplified the look’s soft, ethereal mood.

• Hairstyle: Voluminous, textured low bun with loose twists
• Finish: Soft, luminous, romantic, never stiff
• Red Carpet Vibes: Effortlessly chic, modern princess glamour
• Perfect for: Weddings, formals, prom, or elevating a night out

Behind the Look: Celebrity Stylist Insight

The visionary behind this iconic style was Mark Townsend, who was Jennifer’s go-to hair guru for many of her most notable appearances. Townsend described Lawrence as a ‘dream to work with—fun and inspiring’ and was determined to create a red-carpet look that felt as youthful and fresh as it did timeless.

• Townsend emphasized the importance of texture for a red carpet updo to keep it modern and touchable.
• He chose products that would nourish and create shine while holding the hair in soft waves and twists.
• He finished with a light mist of hairspray for a flexible, non-crunchy hold.

Product Prep and Tools Needed

Recreating a celebrity updo isn’t about using dozens of products; it’s about choosing the right essentials for lasting hold, luminous shine, and frizz-free definition. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bobby pins: At least 8-10 (preferably that match your hair color)
• Elastic bands: Clear or color-matched to your hair
• Round brush: For blow-drying and creating smoothness
• Lightweight mousse: To add volume and grip (e.g., Dove Style+Care Nourishing Curls Mousse)
• Anti-frizz serum: To smooth and enhance shine (e.g., Dove Nourishing Oil Care Anti-Frizz Serum)
• Texturizing cream or cream-serum: To provide separation and control (e.g., Dove Style+Care Frizz-Proof Cream-Serum)
• Flexible hold hairspray: For all-day hold without crunch
• Optional: Curling iron or straightener to add wave or define curls if needed

Step-by-Step: Creating Jennifer Lawrence’s Oscars Updo

Follow these detailed steps to master the 2013 Oscars hair moment at home, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned stylist.

1. Start with Clean, Damp Hair:

   Wash hair using your favorite smoothing or moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Towel-dry until just damp.

2. Apply Your Prep Products:

   Work a few drops of anti-frizz serum evenly through your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends for manageability and a healthy shine.

   Dispense a generous dollop of volumizing mousse and run through damp hair from roots to ends, lifting sections for even distribution.

3. Blow-Dry for Volume and Smoothness:

   Using a round brush, blow-dry hair in sections, lifting at the roots for volume. Smooth any flyaways or rough sections so your texture is soft, bouncy, and manageable.

4. Add Texture:

   If your hair is naturally straight or fine, use a curling iron to create loose waves throughout. Break up the waves with your fingers so they look natural, not structured.

   Smooth a pea-sized amount of cream-serum or texturizing product through the hair to enhance dimension and reduce frizz.

5. Section and Twist:

   Take random 1-2 inch sections from above each ear. Gently twist these sections toward the back of your head, keeping them loose and soft.

   Cross one section over the other at the mid-point on the back of your head and secure with crossed bobby pins. The goal is to create an ‘X’ with your pins to hold securely.

6. Create the Bun:

   Gather the remaining hair at the nape of your neck. Loosely twist it into a low bun or chignon, allowing a few tendrils to escape. Pin in place, again using bobby pins in an X or cross pattern for added security.

7. Pull and Loosen:

   For Jennifer’s signature softness, gently tug on a few pieces around your face and crown to loosen. Allow a few delicate tendrils to fall naturally; this ease is key to red-carpet realness.

8. Finish:

   Spritz hairspray lightly across the entire updo for a touchable hold. Avoid heavy sprays that can harden or dull your shine.

Pro Tips & Variations for All Hair Types

• Fine Hair: Prep with volumizing mousse and blow-dry upside down for extra lift. Consider using a volumizing powder at the roots.
• Thick or Coarse Hair: Focus on hydration during prep. Use extra bobby pins for security, and work section by section for the cleanest results.
• Curly or Wavy Hair: Embrace your natural texture! Define curls with a curl cream before gathering into a bun for a unique twist.
• Short Hair: Fake the bun by twisting and pinning smaller sections at the nape, or tuck under with strategic bobby pins for a faux-updo effect.

Remember, the charm of Jennifer’s Oscars style lies in its imperfect beauty. Don’t be afraid to let a few pieces fall out—it only adds to the romantic, lived-in vibe.

Pairing the Hair with Makeup and Accessories

This updo shines when paired with glowing, radiant skin and understated yet feminine makeup. Jennifer wore a flushed peachy-pink blush, soft eyes, and rosebud lips, allowing her hair and dress to take center stage. For accessories, a delicate necklace along the back (as J. Law famously wore) or sparkling earrings enhances the look without overwhelming it.

• Makeup Tips: Dewy foundation, light shimmer highlighter, peach blush, soft neutral eyeshadow, and pink/nude lipstick.
• Jewelry Tips: Try a statement necklace draped down your back or elegant drop earrings.
• Hair Accessories: Subtle pearl pins or a jeweled hair comb can be added for a personal touch.

Maintaining and Refreshing Your Updo

• For all-night events, stash extra bobby pins and a travel hairspray in your bag.
• If flyaways appear, smooth with a tiny bit of serum.
• To revive the look the next day, gently undo the bun, mist with a little water and re-twist. The added texture often makes it even easier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I recreate Jennifer Lawrence’s Oscars bun if my hair is short?

A: Yes. Use small twists and pin at the nape, tucking ends under to create the illusion of fullness. Add volume with a dry texture spray or volumizing powder for extra grip.

Q: What hair products give the signature shine seen in Jennifer’s updo?

A: An anti-frizz serum paired with a flexible hold hairspray delivers both luminosity and lasting hold. Avoid heavy oils that weigh hair down.

Q: How can I make this style work for a more casual occasion?

A: Leave out more face-framing sections, twist the bun looser, or add a cute barrette. The undone finish makes it adaptable to both day and night looks.

Q: Will this updo work on curly hair?

A: Absolutely. Define your curls before pinning, then let the natural texture frame your face for a modern twist on the red carpet original.

Q: How do I keep bobby pins from slipping?

A: Use textured or matte finish pins for stronger grip, and crisscross pins in an ‘X’ to keep hair secure. Slightly tease roots if your hair is very silky.

Q: What should I do if my hair won’t hold a bun?

A: Add volume with mousse or dry shampoo, and ensure hair isn’t freshly washed—second-day hair often holds better. Tease hair lightly before forming the bun for extra staying power.

Table: Quick Guide to Styling Jennifer Lawrence’s 2013 Oscars Updo

Final Words: Red Carpet Confidence at Home

Jennifer Lawrence’s 2013 Oscars updo remains a masterclass in modern glamour—romantic, elegant, and never overdone. By following these expert steps and embracing both the technique and the spirit of easy elegance, you can recreate this A-list look for your own special events, big or small.

Tip: Experiment with different textures, accessories, and finishes to make the style truly your own—because confidence is always the best accessory for any red carpet.