We tell you how to get Rachel McAdams’ pretty updo from the Sherlock Holmes red carpet

By Paige Dzenis | December 8th, 2011 | 9:00 am

Photography by Steve Granitz/WireImage

Rachel McAdams’ hair looked so very pretty at the Los Angeles premiere of Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows. Yes, there are dozens and dozens of ways to properly describe this updo, but “pretty” just about sums it up, right? It has a little bit of the perfectly messy, loose tease that was on the runway for Louis Vuitton Spring 2012 (otherwise known as: what happens only when you pull back your hair and are not trying) with enough volume through the crown to keep it modern and youthful. At the back, there’s a series of twisted buns that start at the middle of McAdams’ head and work down to almost the base of her neck.

If you’re going to try this stunning look at home, we suggest starting with hair that was washed the day before and has been curled. Begin by sectioning off the top of your hair—start at your ears and pull up through to the crown. Then, use a teasing comb to lightly add volume, followed by a teasing brush, like the Marilyn Teasing Brush ($15, marilynbrush.com) to take out some of the roughness. You’re going to want to pull this top section of hair back, and twist it into a few loose, messy buns. Roll the hair between your fingers to twist it into a bun, and pin it into place. Now, start on the bottom section of your hair, doing the same: lightly teasing section by section, and rolling into loose buns. The messier the better—meaning, don’t focus too hard on what you’re doing as you go along. Finish off with a light mist of a hairspray that will keep your hair in place without overly coating it—try L’Oréal’s Elnett ($15 at drug stores)—and you’re ready to hit the red carpet.

: Photography by Steve Granitz/WireImage

: Photography by Steve Granitz/WireImage

: Photography by Steve Granitz/WireImage

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