Get the look with Monae Everett x Design Essentials

To mark 35 years of textured hair innovation, Design Essentials teamed up with Monaè Everett to create three texture-forward looks using the Almond & Avocado Collection and pro tools from the Artist on the Go Bag.

Note: All looks began with the same foundational prep, then customized by structure and styling technique.

“These looks were inspired by the power of texture to tell stories—whether sculptural, playful, or glam. I drew from both red carpet trends and my backstage experiences to reimagine what high-performance hair can do in front of the camera.” – Monaè Everett

About the 5-Section Technique
Monaè’s signature 5-section method divides the head into strategic zones for maximum styling control: one crown section, two sides, and two stacked sections at the back (upper and lower). This approach offers strong foundational balance for everything from blowouts to updos.

Prep for All Looks
• Cleanse with Almond & Avocado Sulfate-Free Detangling Shampoo
• Condition with Almond & Avocado Moisturizing & Detangling Conditioner
• Apply Almond & Avocado Leave-In Conditioner to hydrate and prep for styling

Look 1: Rapunzel’s New ‘Do

Sectioning
• Divide hair using Monaè’s 5-section method
• Section 1 (crown): From tail of each brow to the highest point of the head
• Sections 2 & 3 (sides): Braided into fine, forward-facing cornrows (pie formation)
• Sections 4 & 5 (upper & lower back): Braided together to form the ponytail anchor

Molding & Styling
• Mold each section using Compositions Foaming Wrap Lotion layered with Contours Protein Styling Gel
• Wrap braided base (Sections 4 & 5) with synthetic coily hair
• Add editorial accessories from the Artist on the Go Bag around the ponytail base
• Apply jewels to front cornrows for sculptural detail
• Finish with DIAMONDS Oil Sheen Spray for shine

Look 2: Curls Just Want to Have Fun

Sectioning
• Use 5-section method, combining Sections 2 & 3 for balance
• Pull Sections 1, (combine 2+3), 4, and 5 into ponytails and braid each

Molding & Styling
• Mold each section using Compositions Foaming Wrap Lotion layered with Contours Protein Styling Gel
• Wrap braids with synthetic coily hair, leaving coils loose
• Twist braided ponytails into a stacked mohawk shape
• Use foundationless styling pins from the Artist on the Go Bag to secure shape

Finishing
• Spray coily ends with Formations Finishing Spray
• Perfect the hairline using Sleek MAX Edge Control
• Add accessories from the Artist on the Go Bag to the mohawk for added detail

Look 3: Textured Topknot Glam

Blowout Prep
• Apply Compositions Foaming Wrap Lotion and Agave & Lavender Weightless Thermal Protectant Serum before blow-drying
• Blow-dry hair straight (not bone-straight) to maintain natural texture

Sectioning & Braiding
• Use a variation of 5-section technique
• Sections 4 & 5: Side-by-side, each braided and pinned across to form a U-shape
• Sections 2 & 3: Combined into a braided ponytail
• Section 1: Smoothed with Sleek MAX Edge Control and braided

Styling & Detail Work
• Wrap ponytails with extensions and form topknot
• Add extensions to Sections 4 & 5, then spray with Formations Finishing Spray and DIAMONDS Oil Sheen
• Curl extensions using 1” cordless iron from the Artist on the Go Bag
• Add accessories at front hairline for stage/editorial finish

Design Essentials 35-Year Celebration
Design Essentials is giving away $1,000 a day throughout June 2025—supporting stylists and creators who continue to set trends, build careers, and celebrate texture in all its forms.