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#6: Plaited in the Front, Party in the Back

This half back French plaited style is so perfect for everyday life to keep your hair out of your face but still have some down. It’s the perfect way to transition to start wearing your hair down if you’ve been in a messy bun rut. Just braid the whole side back like you’re pulling it into pigtails but stop braiding when you get to your ear and pin it underneath the bulk of your hair in the back.

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#7: Messy Plaited Top Knot

When your braids are extra-long and come in your way, try tying them up in a top knot. But before you pin it into place, pull some looser to give you more volume and texture. Then, use an oil or leave in conditioner on the ends you leave out to tame any flyaways and moisturize your braids.

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#8: Sleek Mohawk Plait

If a regular Dutch or French plait feels a little bit too casual for your event try sectioning a 3-inch-wide section down the middle of your head all the way to the back and slick the other sides back. If plaits like this intimidate you because you can’t get your hair smooth enough, try braiding damp hair with oil to get the sleekness and shine.

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#9: Plaits on Plaits

A really cool way to style box braids is to braid them. You can treat each big braid or a few thin braids like a strand and incorporate it into French braids, fishtails, waterfalls, etc… into your style. This photo features thin box braids brought up into a high pony and twisted into a chic fishtail braid for an event. But you can also finish off with a simple side braid for a more casual approach.

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#10: Infinity Braid Updo

Twisting the ends of your plait up and hiding them under is such a cute way to style shorter hair that may not fit into a full updo. This is also a cute workout hairstyle for when you’re tired of your ponytail sliding out and you don’t want hair touching you.