Hair style trends come and go, but the top knot appears to be here to stay. Some of the hottest celebrities from Emily Blunt to Rachel McAdams embraced this look in 2013, rocking it on the red carpet or just in everyday life. That’s the beauty of the top knot: It’s effortless enough to look casual but can also appear impossibly elegant. It works year round, and for a variety of occasions, making it a chic and easy option when you just can’t deal with having your hair down.

So if you haven’t already, it’s time to try this trend in 2014. Take some inspiration from your favorite stars and follow these steps:

Bedhead beautiful

A top knot can come in and save the day when you just don’t have time to shower. In fact, this messy version looks best on a ‘do that’s one or two days old.

Start by applying dry shampoo on your scalp and combing through to soak up any excess oil and give your strands some texture. After fluffing your hair to enhance its natural body, sweep it back with your fingers into a ponytail. To ensure the pony isn’t too tight, tug at the top and sides a little. If you’re going for maximum volume, back-comb your hair with a fine-toothed comb and mist with hairspray. Begin twisting your tresses about halfway down the pony and then coil onto your head into a half ballerina bun.

While holding the half bun, grab the rest of the hair that’s hanging loose and spread it out over the bun to create a mussed up, tousled look. Secure an elastic around the entire bun, twist it and pull it over the top a second time. For bigger impact, tug some strands out of the bun.

Sleek and sophisticated

The key to a polished top knot, like the one seen on countless runway models this year, is first getting the perfect neat ponytail. Apply a shine serum to your strands and brush them back, securing with an elastic near the crown of the head.

Next, divide your hair into two sections and start twisting them around each other to create a rope braid. After you’ve reached the ends, twirl the braid around the elastic at the base of your ponytail. If there are any wild pieces sticking out, carefully tuck them into the braid and under the elastic. Finish with a generous application of strong-hold hairspray to keep your ‘do locked into place and flyaway-free.