I abandoned braids as a suitable style after a lengthy sixth grade pigtail phase that earned me the nickname Pippi Longstocking.

Hardly juvenile anymore, pretty plaits appeared on Spring/Summer runways at Erdem, Alexander McQueen and Givenchy, weaving their way on to the list of must-try summer styles.


Backstage Spring 2011: Behnaz Sarafpour, Erdem (via Marie Claire and Glamour)


Spring 2011 Runway: Lela Rose, Georges Chakra (via Primped and Marie Claire)


Red carpet braids, clockwise from top left: Jessica Alba in February at a London awards ceremony; Teresa Palmer at a movie premier in March; Karen Gillan at an awards show last year; and Kirsten Dunst at Cannes (via Celebuzz and Glamour)

Always wanted to master a fishtail braid with (count ‘em!) just two hands? Or wear a French braid without looking like you’re making a guest appearance on Big Love? This is the summer to do it.

If you can’t take another top knot-induced migraine and you’re so over beachy waves, we’ve rounded up hands-on tutorials for loose and lovely braided styles. Bonus: they should be a little messy and require minimal tools – perfect for summer’s hazy, humid days.


Pretty Side French Braid/Low Updo Hair
This slightly left-of-centre French braid is a definite do for fuss-free fancy hair. Wear this style on a date or to a summer celebration like a wedding or graduation. Instructions, more photos and a video for this look are at ...Love Maegan.


Maiden Braids
These maiden braids may fall into man-repeller territory, but can you think of a more suitable style to try on a sticky, sweaty summer day? Try this one out yourself by following the steps at A Beautiful Mess.


Fishtail Braid
If there’s a long-haired girl alive who hasn’t wanted to get this look, reveal yourself. ...Love Maegan makes it look effortless in her video tutorial.


Triple Trouble
This style combines the best of two trends: braids and ballerina buns. (Don’t miss this blog’s other simple styles), and you can find full instructions (beyond photos) in Hair Romance's e-book 30 Days of Twist & Pin Hairstyles.

Will you try this trend?

By Heather Watterworth