Alicia Keys’ beauty always looks fresh, whether she’s showing off her glowing skin without makeup or getting artistic with her hairstyles. As for the latter, she has already provided many inspiring ideas that you can try on your own. From rhinestone-encrusted, slicked-back buns to beaded braids, Keys seems to love a good hair accessory, and the latest example is one that’s incredibly uncomplicated to recreate. Earlier this week at the Amazon show, the singer and Keys Soulcare founder styled her natural locks in a bouncy ponytail adorned with two fragile pearls to match her corset blouse.
The ponytail was the work of Keys’ favorite hairstylist, Lacy Redwaywho has also created a number of other memorable looks recently, including Tyla’s tousled micro bob at the Met Gala and Julia Fox’s sculptural updo for Like shoot. Redway’s more editorial looks (like the gold-leaf-flecked buns at Christian Siriano’s fall/winter 2024 show or the exaggerated extensions and curls for The Blonds) are more aspirational styles, but there are elements of her A-list and runway looks that turn heads. you can pull out to create your own. And Keys’ sweetly decorated ponytail is a perfect example of this. In fact, you can achieve this in just a few uncomplicated steps.
Pearls have been in fashion for a few years now and are no longer synonymous with Stepford wives and twin sweater sets – and Keys’ head-to-toe look from the Amazon event is one of the many ways to wear this jewel. Since they’re back in a massive way, finding a pearl hair pin or ponytail clip is uncomplicated (and yet it’s probably the hardest part of getting this hairstyle). Once you’ve chosen your preferred piece, simply tie or secure it to your high ponytail by pulling out a few face-framing pieces.
If you want to bring out your natural texture like Keys, add a curl-defining cream to your styling routine. For people who have naturally straight hair, prep the sections with foundation and then apply a one-inch curling iron in compact sections. Gently brush out the waves with your fingers before creating a ponytail and following the steps above. Set the style all day (or night) and finally spray it with hairspray. Extra credit (and the most Keys-like effect) if you pair your ponytail with a matching pearl-encrusted top.
