A braid framing your face is a great style to try – especially for summer. The look can be easy-going or classy, stays in place, and works well with all different types of hair. Braids are also a stylish solution for keeping hair out of your face, especially for controlling unruly bangs.
How to style it: Begin by parting you hair to the side. Gather the section framing your face in a piece approximately one inch thick (take a thinner or thicker section of hair depending on how thick you want the braid). French braid sideways across the forehead and secure the end with a bobby pin above your ear or near the back of the hairline at your neck.
Here are some looks to try:
For a casual windswept look (perfect for a day at the beach), try the Hills’ Lauren Conrad’s loose braid – casual but still flattering – that she wore to an event at the MGM Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas last April.
For a slightly more formal affair, try making the braid a little tighter and neater while also slightly curling the hair to give more body as Jennifer Aniston did for her trip down the red carpet at the 2009 Academy Awards.
For a special event, such as a wedding, where you want your hair up, but also unique, try a braided updo. A braid sweeping into a side chignon is a very chic option. You can vary the size of braid for different looks – from a single large section to many tiny braids gathered and swept to one side. Nicole Richie opted for a larger braid above, while Jessica Alba pulled off a smaller plait at the 2009 Academy Awards.
The Herringbone braid is another option for dressing up a look, especially for those with long hair. Hair gathered loosely at the top makes for a more unstudied and romantic effect.
Tip: For these stylish looks, use a light gel before braiding or mist with hairspray to avoid frizz and flyaways.
