Is Jennifer Lopez's updo the easiest Valentine's Day hairstyle?

This is one to bookmark for February 14th.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 12: Jennifer Lopez attends "Second Act" World Premiere at Regal Union Square Theatre, Stadium 14 on December 12, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by John Lamparski/WireImage)
(Image credit: John Lamparski/ Getty Images)

When it comes to Valentine's Day hairstyles there's something top-notch about a top-knot. 

Valentine's Day may look a little different this year but that doesn't mean you shouldn't bring your beauty A-game to the event. Even if it's a takeaway for two or a socially-distanced dinner over Zoom, this is all the inspiration you need for an easy-to-achieve hairstyle at home. 

When talking about an updo, there's the first: a sort of messy twist while cleansing over the sink. But then there's number two - the chic top-knot beloved of A-listers, often created with the best hairdryer and a large round brush. 

The beauty of this second option is that it works well for all face shapes and hair types. Jennifer Lopez is without a doubt queen of the 'knot' thanks to the  work of hairstylist Chris Appleton. She knows the power of a classic and frequently adopts the same top-knot she wore in the '90s for red carpet events today. 

And the best bit? It's so easy to do.

For a sleek top-knot, simply brush your hair into place. Mist with a lightweight hair spray (Elnett is the pro's favourite) and smooth the strands down again. 

Grab your hair as if you were putting it into a ponytail above the crown of your head. Then, wrap your bun into place and secure with a rubber band. For more control, use bobby pins to keep everything in place. Spray hair one last time.

You can leave a little hair out around the face to make things softer and play with your natural texture by losing the brush to straighten strands.

If you have a fringe, Appleton says: "I always like to spray @colorwowhair Style on Steroids to make the bang more lived in and textured ."

Beauty journalist

Fiona Embleton is an award-winning beauty director with over 15 years of industry experience and has held staff positions on Stylist, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan and Glamour. She covers all aspects of the beauty industry and specialises in long-read features, fragrance and skincare.