Jan 09

A Chat with Celebrity Hairstylist, Laini Reeves

This year at the 2019 Golden Globes, Mary Poppins star, Emily Blunt, turned heads on the red carpet with her Alexander McQueen dress and effortless updo created by Laini Reeves.

Reeves started her career in London working in top salons, before relocating to the U.S. after being named Worldwide Creative Director of Toni & Guy Hairdressing in the early 2000’s and currently works on hairstyles for editorial and red carpet events.

We spoke with the creative force behind Blunt’s hairstyle, to find out what inspired it and how to recreate it.

“The Alexander McQueen dress was intricately designed and textured, so we aimed to replicate a textured look in Emily’s hair as well,” said Reeves.

“The Dutch braid, also known as a fish tail, was the final look we landed on, because it showed femininity with an undone texture.”

Reeves explains that this particular hairstyle was inspired by Joan of Arc; a strong and feminine warrior.

“Emily is a dream to be around. She’s kind and fun and we all work wonderfully and easily together,” she said. “I’m fortunate to work with a unique team and brilliant beautiful talent.”


Here’s how to recreate the look using FHI Heat styling tools and Frederic Fekkai liquids.

  1. To start, apply The One by Frédéric Fekkai One to Believe In Leave-In Conditioner and blow dry using the FHI Heat Platform Limited Edition Chrome Hair Dryer in Rose Gold.
  2. Once the hair is dry, twist strands around fingers to begin creating texture. Use the FHI Heat Platform 1 1/2” Professional Curler to make the hair even more wavy.
  3. Once heat styling is complete, add the The One by Frédéric FekkaiOne and then some dry texturizing spray and rake through fingers, so hair would swell up, and create a thicker texture for a bulkier, fuller braid.
  4. To finish the styling, secure the braid in a halo or horseshoe shape at the back of the head and use the FHI Heat Platform Plus Curve 1” Styling Iron to smooth the layers framing the face.
  5. Note: Neil Lane vintage jewels were entwined in Emily’s braid to add a glamourous touch!
  6. To hold the look in place, lightly spray The One by Frédéric Fekkai One to Hold Hairspray. In Emily’s case, hairspray was used to maintain the texture, not to secure flyaways which were part of the look.

Photos: Getty/Jenna Jones

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