Braids are easily my favorite accessory because they are a quick and easy way to add a little umph to any regular style. A clean and tight braid can class up a style making it more chic, while a loose boho plait can dress a look down making it feel more casual or romantic. Here are some trendy ways to incorporate plaited styles into your regime of looks.

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#1: ?hunky Fishtail

Adding a chunky fishtail to the side of a low ponytail makes it look more polished. Pro tip; add a tiny bit of oil or gel to your hands as you plait your hair to keep the fly aways in check to make it look more slick and shiny.

Related Post: How to Do a Fishtail Braid for 3 Different Fishtail Hairstyles

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#2: Small Braids

When you’re in the mood to do a slicked back side with waves, try adding in small braids or twists for a little pizazz.

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#3: Voluminous Dutch Plait

For days when your hair has enough dry shampoo to coat a village, use that texture to your advantage and pull your hair into a voluminous single braid down the back. Then lightly rough up the ends to get that messy “didn’t try too hard” look. If you can already do a French braid on your hair, try putting the hair under the middle section instead of over to put the braid on top.

Advertisement Related Post: How to Dutch Braid Your Own Hair

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#4: Plaited Top Knot

Twisting your braids into a top knot and adding accessories is an amazing way to switch up how you style your protective styles. Adding a statement headband is a good tip for bad hair days when you want the attention to be drawn to your outfit.

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#5: Romantic Side Plait

On days when you really should restyle your hair but you don’t have enough time (or energy), try a messy side braid. Pull out the pieces in the front that still look good and hit the rest with a texture spray to add grit and volume to make it look more intentionally messy and full.