Up-Do How To...?

I was surfing the internet today and happened upon this photo. I totally LOVE this style, but I'm not sure if I could ever re-create it, or if perhaps my hair is too long to execute it correctly. I love the slightly messy, effortlessly sexy, youthfulness of this up-do. I think I can manage the braids, but what do you think I should do with the bulk of my hair?


type: 1b,N,ii
length: 39inches
ponytail circumference: 3.75inches
height: 5ft 9in, jaw length bangs, angled V shaped hair cut
age: 24
color: naturally mousy brown, dyed dark brown
products: what ever is on sale, currently Aussie shampoo & conditioner
tools: wide tooth plastic comb & Mason Pearson mixed
styling: I shapmoo everyday to every 3 days. I LOVE buns! Usually air dry. Blow out, flatiron, & curl occasionally.
(I will add some photos of my locks very soon.)