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While fancy dresses and bows and glitter and velvet and curls get a lot of attention this time of year, there’s something to be said for the more casual side of holiday dressing. The meet-cutes in Hallmark movies almost always happen when the protagonists are dressed down for a quick hot chocolate run or utilitarian tree-cutting excursion.
Yes, it's still ~the holidays~ even if you don't have a party to go to.
Thus, the newest star of your festive beauty mood board should be none other than Katie Holmes, who was spotted on December 18 in all her simple-glam glory. Walking through New York with a wrapped present in her tote, she showed off a perfect side braid that the average person could emulate much easier than one of Cindy Lou Who’s updos.
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With the top of her head hidden by her beloved black beanie (wintery, practical, and the best accessory for a bad hair day), the rest of Holmes' long brunette hair was twisted into a braid that fell over her left shoulder. The plait was secured with a thin dark elastic, allowing a couple of shorter strands to escape and frame her face in a sweet ringlet.
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The rest of her glam was equally toned down; there was no nail polish in sight and, thanks to the oversized sunglasses covering her face, her only visible makeup was a wash of lipgloss (she's said to favor Chanel's Rouge Coco line).
However, if you do want to dress up your braid, The Dawson’s Creek star can still be your inspiration. Last February, she stepped out in the same hairstyle (sans beanie) for the opening of a new Chanel boutique. Instead of her gloss, she chose a deep red lipstick—the quintessential festive makeup look. And yes, it worked all the same.
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Holmes for the holidays—it just feels right.
