High Fashion Braided Hair Making Trends Today
Not so long ago, it seemed only a few groups of people wore braids since they were more for function than for style. In fact, up until recently, people considered a braid old-fashioned and out of style. Things have certainly come a long way since then. Today’s braids range from sophisticated and glamorous to messy and just plain cute. Here are some of the most popular high fashion braids making headlines today.
The Side Fishtail
Side fishtail braids are incredibly versatile. You can make them look sleek and polished or messy and fun – the choice is up to you. This braid, by its very name, looks a fish’s tail. It is not as complicated as a traditional braid, either, since it requires sectioning your hair into two parts rather than three. To do it, pull your hair to one side and pass a piece from the left to the right, and then a piece from the right to the left. Use a good styling spray that provides shine for a polished look, or consider a matte pomade if you want a beachy braid.
The Milkmaid Braid
This braid takes its name from Dutch milkmaids who have worn their hair in this fashion for centuries. The style is making a massive comeback, and stylists continue to find ways to make it unique and fun. The idea involves creating a thick braid around the top of one’s head, much like a headband. It is easy enough to do, too. Just divide your hair in half, braid both sides, and secure the braids around your head in a headband-like style with bobby pins. For extra flair, braid in a headband or thin scarf.
Snake Braids
Despite the name, a well-crafted snake braid will not make you look like Medusa. In fact, these braids are beautiful and refined, and many women choose them for wedding styles. It is incredibly simple, too. Just braid a section of your hair in the classic three strands almost down to the ends, leaving about two inches. Then, combine the three sections into two so you have one thicker section and one thinner one. Slide the thinner section upward toward the top of the braid, then slide it back down again. This creates a loose braid in the shape of an “S”. Wrap the braid around and pin it as desired.
The “Braidhawk”
Although braids have a reputation for being flirty and romantic, a braidhawk can certainly kick things up a notch. It is perfect for days when you feel adventurous and you want a new style without a semi-permanent commitment. Just start at the top of your hairline and create a classic Dutch braid. Toward the end, pull the sections apart to create a tighter, flatter look. Then, starting at the top, pull the edges out farther on one side of the braid at a time to create the “Mohawk” effect. Tuck the ends into a bun and pin them into place.
As you can see, today’s braids are far from the Laura Ingalls braids of the past. You can create any number of styles with braids, whether you want to appear classy and chic, romantic and fun, or edgy and wild.