Need advice on finding styling products

[Tiina]

Well, I have a few formal events coming up this winter. I plan to do updos but the problem is that all my hair does reach where it is supposed to go but because it is a slippery 1b it doesn't all stay there for long. When at home I don't mind that a fourth of my hair slides out but I'd prefer it to look more put together when going out. I haven't used any styling products in my entire life since I've kept my hair short so I have no idea what I should get. Basically I want something that has a decent hold but at the same time does not make my hair look greasy or visibly stiff.

Any advice on what brands and products are good for coarseish but smooth straight hait?

[kwaniesiam]

Here's a stylist secret that has saved me many a time doing updos on slippery hair.

Put some firm hold mousse through your DRY hair, and blowdry it on low heat. If you have a round or bristle brush to brush it as you're drying the mousse in, even better. This will make your hair much more pliable and any updo should hold with just a light misting of hairspray. This won't make your hair look stiff or greasy at all. Good luck!

Personally I love aquage uplifting foam but it's a bit pricey.

[Tiina]

Thanks for the tip, kwaniesiam. Price is not an object but it seems like Aquage isn't sold in Europe...