Beauty how to: Hayden Panettiere's fishtail plait at New York upfronts party

Hayden Panettiere proves she's not shy when it comes to making a statement on the red carpet.

The Nashville actress stepped out in a deep purple Herve Leger bodycon at an awards bash in New York last night - with a sexy slash neck that really got people talking.

But while fans of the pint-sized 23-year-old were busy ogling Hayden's curves, we couldn't tear our eyes away from her relaxed fishtail plait.

The relaxed style with a causal finish contrasted perfectly against her super-chic dress, taking her outfit from high-glam to party time.

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With teased curls on the crown of the head adding height and volume, Hayden's laidback plaited fishtail is an update from when the structured, perfectly-kept style first made big beauty news back in 2012.

Teamed with a dewy glow, rouged lips and lightly kohled eyes, the actress made sure not to over-do her make up and let her hairstyle and bodycon do all the talking.

We fell so hard for Hayden Panettiere's loose fishtail plait, we caught up with hairstylist to the stars Errol Douglas MBE, on how we can get the look at home.

"Although this appears casual in its finish, fishtail for red carpet is best prepared from wet hair so that the pattern and condition shine through," he said.

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"Hayden’s naturally wavy locks have been prepped with a hydrating/defining product like Moroccanoil Curl Control Mousse, which enables the hair to dry naturally BUT keep its shine and minimise frizz. The latter can kills this style."

Errol Douglas' five-step guide to a sexy, tousled fishtail plait:

 
1. When dry, lightly brush hair through with your hands gathering in a central point on the nape. 

2. A fishtail plait begins with ensuring that there are TWO sections not THREE (this is a common misconception) – the “under/over” manoeuvre is crucial – it’s this that gives the fishtail pattern. 

3. Two sections starting on Hayden from just below the crown weaved from under, wrapped over until about two inches is left.

4. To avoid too polished a finish, a simple band to tie the end is all that’s required here. 

5. Finish with a spray that retains movement with the hold, like Moroccanoil Luminious Hairspray.