Up-doo hairstyle..where to begin
 

I have always worn my hair down for fear of looking like I have a basketball instead of a head. I would like to begin experimenting with some attractive updoos that are easy for me to do and somewhat elegant casual. I have a bob hairstyle--hair all one length beneath the shoulders. Can anyone offer any pointers?

When I had a shoulder length bob I used to put mine up in a french roll. You can find clips at the store where the hair accesories are that make this really easy. They are clips, about the length of a finger that open up, clip the hair---out away from the scalp, and then you roll it up on the clip until you are against the scalp, then 2 pins always held mine in place.

I love french rolls, I think they are uber-elegant

I think up-dos are nice when you have some hair that can fall out and frame the face ... on me, I thought all hair pulled up/back was a little too extreme.

I agree, the French roll/twist is elegant and easy. You can make them more casual by leaving more pieces out and making them look 'tousled'.

Do you know how to braid, or French braid?

Thanks ladies for the tips. I also agree about the french roll. I just Googled a picture and know exactly what you mean. I also agree with letting some of the hair sort of frame the face--maybe even a soft curl here or there to make it look less **** and more feminine. Yes, definitely the "touseled" look. I guess I am looking for classic and regal without looking like I am actually trying to look that way.

Hyacinth, unfortunately, I do not know how to french braid. Yes, I can braid.

I wonder if Sally Beauty Supply has anything worth looking at or maybe Ulta? We also have a Sephora locally.

Yes, yes! There are hair sticks, all sorts of clips, bun holders, all sizes of barrettes, ponytailers, and even the occasional cheesy "scrunchie". I haven't found a great long-hair supply source, but the Sally Beauty Supply seemed to have a decent selection. I'm not sure about Sephora, but Ulta also has hair stuff, I think.

French braiding is easier than it looks. You basically just start with a tiny braid, and then each time you twist a strand into the braid, you pinch in an extra little bit of hair from the side in with that strand. I bet there's a youtube video about it somewhere.