To create the perfect base for maximum volume, wash your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. Then prepare it for styling with a mousse or a thickening blow-dry cream.

Blow-dry your hair, lifting up the hair at the roots as you dry it for maximum volume. Use a large round brush while blow-drying, starting underneath and working upwards to keep creating volume.

When your hair is almost dry, use a flat brush to lift it at the roots up and away from your face for maximum volume. Direct your hairdryer towards the roots and then move the air flow upwards.

Gently backcomb at the roots to give extra support and hold the volume in place. Next, smooth back the outer layer of the hair up and away from your face with a natural bristle brush.

Bring your hair over one shoulder to create a low ponytail, and secure this with a hair elastic. If you like, cover it with an accessory. Then separate your ponytail into two sections.

Make a fishtail plait by taking a small piece from one side and passing it over the front to join it with the other side. Continue downwards, alternating left–right–left-right. Secure the end with a small elastic band, which you can cover with a pretty ribbon.