When Dakota Johnson stepped onto the Cannes red carpet this year, the world took notice—not just of her dramatic black gown, but of the intricate braid glimmering with diamonds. Behind that now-iconic look was hairstylist Mark Townsend, stylist Kate Young, and, quietly holding it all in place: Day Rate Beauty’s Hero Pins and Min Pins in Cocoa.
What made this moment even more extraordinary? The diamonds in Dakota’s hair weren’t just any accessory—they were part of a priceless headpiece from Boucheron’s Untamed Nature collection, a wheat leaf “head jewel” made of white gold and paved in diamonds. It’s a work of art typically reserved for display, not worn as a braid accessory under the Mediterranean sun.
But as Mark shared, there was no built-in way to attach the piece.
“When Dakota Johnson’s stylist, Kate Young, brought me the Boucheron piece, she mentioned it might work in the hair. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. After a quick conversation between Dakota, Kate, and me, we decided a side braid would beautifully show off her l
ength—and showcase the stunning brooch, which was actually a diamond-covered wheat leaf from their Untamed Nature collection.
It’s technically called a head jewel, but it came with no comb or way to attach it—so for the official photocall, I had less than five minutes to make it work. I used four Day Rate Beauty Hero Pins in Cocoa, starting above her ear and wrapping down toward her neck. I placed the brooch on top, then anchored it with six Min Pins, tucked underneath for hold. To finish, I ran more Min Pins down the braid and used five Hero Pins at her neckline to keep everything perfectly swept to one side.” – Mark Townsend
Why Hairpins Matter on the Red Carpet
Hairpins may be small, but on the red carpet, they do the heavy lifting. Professional stylists need tools that can disappear into the hair while offering serious grip—especially when you're pinning in something as delicate (and valuable) as a diamond wheat leaf.
Unlike drugstore pins that slip, bend, or leave creases, Day Rate Beauty’s Hero and Min Pins are designed for performance. Made from U.S.-sourced stainless steel and coated in a plant-based nylon for ultra-smooth application and exceptional hold, they offer stylists full control without compromise. When you're working with multi-million dollar jewelry and a global stage, you need pins that don’t just work—they elevate.
Get the Look: Diamond Braid, Simplified
While you may not be pinning in a priceless head jewel, you can channel the essence of Dakota’sCannes braid with just a few tools and a little confidence.
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Start with a deep side part and sweep hair into a side section.
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Begin a sculptural braid, working diagonally down the neck.
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Anchor key points with Hero Pins behind the ear to help build shape and keep the braid secure.
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Tuck in Min Pins as needed to control texture and keep flyaways in check.
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Add an accessory—a vintage brooch, a bold clip, or even a floral detail—to echo the glam effect.
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Finish with a light gloss or shine mist for that red carpet finish.
Pro tip: Use Min Pins vertically down the braid for structure and Hero Pins horizontally to create invisible hold at the base.
The Power of Professional-Grade Tools
This is why Day Rate Beauty was created—to give stylists and everyday users access to pro-quality tools that actually work. Our Hero Pins and Min Pins aren’t just accessories—they’re the quiet heroes behind your most complex looks.
In this case, they were trusted to hold a museum-worthy jewel—with no margin for error. No adhesives. No wires. Just brilliant design, and the kind of pin that holds everything together without stealing the spotlight.
From Everyday to Editorial
Moments like this are a reminder that hair tools are more than just functional—they’re foundational. Whether you're styling for a wedding, a gala, or just a night out, the right pin gives you creative freedom and professional polish.
At Day Rate Beauty, we believe hair tools should be as thoughtfully made as the styles they support. That’s why every detail—from the curve of the pin to the finish of the coating—is designed with intention. When you're holding a Day Rate pin, you're holding the difference between “that'll do” and “wow, who did your hair?”
Discover the Pins Behind the Look
From red carpet moments to your everyday updo, our pins are here to hold it all together—gracefully, securely, and beautifully. Explore the tools trusted by top stylists and made to elevate your routine.
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