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As we steadily creep into peak Barbie season, it’s only appropriate that our protective style series The Braid Up pays tribute to the original Barb—and no, we don’t mean the plastic, midcentury one. We’re referring to none other than Ms. Nicki Minaj. Over the years, the singer/icon has provided us with a zillion referential hair looks (remember her pink-wig era in the early 2010s? Ugh).
But in today’s episode, we’re showing love to Nicki’s sleek braided ponytail vibe. Something about a high ponytail *demands* respect, hence why the queen of rap regularly decides to don one. So check out today’s episode to see how the hair pro Nastacia Crooks-Brady pulled the look together, then read on for tips on how to properly maintain this Nicki-inspired style!
1. Wrap is the 🔑. Listen, these affordable paper strips hold quite some power. When your braids start looking a little old, freshen them up with a setting mousse and this hair wrap. It’ll give back your look its OG structure and your braids will get some extra hold.
2. Get pre-stretched hair. There’s nothing like some dramatic butt-length braids, so to ensure you’re getting all the inches you can out of your braiding hair, buy packs that are specifically labeled as pre-stretched.
3. Add beads. This look can be taken a step further with knickknacks, y’all! Hair accessories like rings, cuffs, and beads on the ends will one hundred percent elevate your inevitable ponytail flips.
4. Be gentle on your edges. Since this is a pretty slicked-back look, there’s a major spotlight on your baby hairs up front. When you’re swooping and styling them, use a delicate edge brush. It’ll smooth down your hair easily, with soft bristles that won’t damage it.
Shine ’n Jam Magic Fingers for Braiders
Hair: In collaboration with Stasha Harris of Magic Fingers Studio
Stylists: Latosha Star, Chastity Morales, and Monique Williams
Makeup: Ashley Johnson
Videographer: Rob Mroczko
Production assistant: Jay Aguirre
Director of digital series: Tara O’Connell
Annabel Iwegbue is an assistant editor at Cosmopolitan who covers lifestyle, beauty, and astrology. Just, you know, all of the things. Before joining Cosmo, she wrote for Harper's Bazaar, The Knockturnal, and Black Film. You can check out some of Annabel’s work here and also find her on Instagram and Twitter.
