Get the Look: Kate Mara’s Short-Hair Braids

Fantastic Four and House of Cards star Kate Mara made an appearance on The Late Late Show With James Corden last night, and while we tuned in for “Carpool Karaoke” with Britney Spears, we found ourselves obsessing over Mara’s sexy pinned-back braids. It can be hard to mix up short-hair looks, and we love this creative option.

Stylist Nick Stenson created the look, and he shared with us how you can create it at home.

Apply Matrix Style Link Blow Out Big Queen* evenly through damp hair. When blow-drying, use a round brush vertically to add texture to the hair.

Once dry, apply a small amount of Matrix Style Link Texture Builder into hair for grip. On the right side from the hairline, create a braid to the curve of the head. Pin the tail of the braid at the nape.

Repeat on the opposite side, leaving small pieces of hair out between the braid and the hairline. Secure the braid.

Take a one-inch Marcel iron (a small curling iron) and wrap random sections of hair around it, leaving the ends loose. Once the hair is curled, apply a small amount of Matrix Style Link Mineral Booster to loosen curls and add texture.

Finish by tucking the hair behind the ear and spray with Matrix Style Link Style Fixer Finishing Hairspray.

*This product will not be available to the public until September.