Whether they're delicate or voluminous, braids are still having a moment. Here, four easy styles to test-drive this summer, with Garnier Fructis celebrity stylist Tommy Buckett.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
1
The Technique: Woven Braid Crown
Hellin Kay
"Brush the hair back into a low ponytail, and separate it into two smaller ponytails," instructs Buckett. "Wrap ribbon around one small section of hair from each pony, and use it to create two basic three-strand braids. Crisscross each braid around your head, and pin them into place."
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
2
The look
Hellin Kay
So elegant, plus, the pop of color in the crown brightens up any outfit.
"Create two braids at your temples and pull them straight back; just below the crown," Buckett says. Tie those braids together, and crisscross the remaining strands back toward the temples. Pin them in place, then create two more braids. "This time, pull the hair from a little further back." Repeat the crisscross-and-pin process, tucking the second set of braids underneath the first. Et voilà!
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
5
The look
Hellin Kay
Curl chunky sections in the back for a wavy, boho effect.
"Loosely pull your hair back, low, and off to one side before creating a classic four-strand fishtail braid," Buckett says. Pro tip: Don't plait your hair too tight; you want the braid to feel full and robust when you're done.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
8
The look
Hellin Kay
Soft, but structured. Also, this plus-size plait can look pretty for days, but when you're ready for a whole new look, simply take it down for a messy-on-purpose second-day-style that's loaded with texture.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
9
Get the look
Hellin Kay
"Quickly blow dry your hair with a thickening lotion before you start braiding," says Buckett. "It creates a dry, gritty texture that helps the braid hold up and gives it that lived-in, runway look." Try:Garnier Fructis Full & Plush Mega Full Thickening Lotion ($4.29 MSRP)
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
10
The Technique: Slick Braided Bun
Hellin Kay
"Blow dry your hair straight, and double down with a few passes of the flat iron," Buckett says. "Brush it back into a low, tight ponytail, and braid it all the way down to the ends. Pull the braid up—directly up the center—and tack it down with a few pins."
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
11
The look
Hellin Kay
A super sleek base with a simple pinned up braid is a fresh twist on the traditional braided chignon. "Tuck in the end of the braid to so it looks and feels polished," Buckett says.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
12
Get the look
Hellin Kay
"Mist damp hair lightly with a prep spray," suggests Buckett. "It'll control flyaways and secure the base so everything stays exactly where it should." Try: Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Sleek Primer Style Prep ($4.29 MSRP)