How to wear a modern braid

Are those really braids you see dominating the runways? Wondering how you can make the style work for you? Read on to make sure your braid is up to date and worthy of admiration.

The plait is back with a vengeance, and braided hairstyles are trending for women young and old.

Forget about the schoolgirl plait of the past. Today's braid is organic, earthy, textural, even messy.

• Messy braids signal a low-key, relaxed aesthetic that's quite easy to pull off.
• To achieve a messy, yet put-together look, take a normal braid and relax it a bit with your fingers. Pull strands loose, muss up the base and handle the braid enough to take out its overdone look.
• Don't worry about looking undone. Messy braids also work in formal situations, provided they are well-secured and executed with taste and intention.

Gone are the days when ordinary French braids or plain plaits were the norm.

• Today's braid relies on inventive styling and unconventional patterns such as the fish braid, reverse French braid, milkmaid braids or the striking waterfall braid.
• Ask your stylist about their favorite braids for plenty of inspiration, or grab a few friends for a braiding party.
• If you don't have faith in your ability to try a new braid, don't get discouraged. Browse your favourite beauty blog for a number of easy-to-follow tutorials and new styles to try.

One of the most enchanting facets of modern braids is their versatility. It used to be that only women with long, straight hair attempted a braid, but today's looser look means that braids are showing up in the most unexpected of places.

• If your hair is short, try a tiny French braid along your part.
• If it's medium-length or curly, try braiding just half of your hair.
• Blessed with long hair? Take advantage of the easy braid trend with braided chignons.
• Don't be afraid to experiment. You can improvise by adding hair pins, barrettes, scarves and other hair accessories, or add texturizing sprays to give your braid a look that's all your own.