Hair is a main feature of a person's appearance. Daily we worry about how our hair looks and how we can style our locks, whether we are going for the 'red-carpet glamour' look, or the 'just got out of bed but really spent hours fixing' style. A timeless style is the plait. Braiding and plaiting hair is a look that just doesn't fail, and this season's catwalks have seen some of the latest and greatest versions of the classic look.
Obviously the simplest way to wear a plait is by simply separating the hair into three strands and weaving them in with each other. To make this look not-so-simple, why not experiment with the positioning of the plait? If you usually have the plait dead-centre, shift it to one side while keeping the strands the same size to add some dimensions to your style, or alternatively if you are used to wearing your plait on the side, centre it - a side parting and central style is all the rage this season!
An easier look to pull off with longer hair is a romantic side style plait. Inspired by the Romans as well as an updated input from Jean Paul Gaultier, the side style plait can be achieved with a side parting acting as the very top of the plait, starting to braid from the top and letting the plait run from the parting, behind the ear down to the nape of the neck and gradually making its way throughout the entire length of the hair. This look can be dressed down by scrunching sections of the plait to look more natural, or dressed up with stylish accessories.
Those with shorter hair shouldn't worry about being left out of the favourite fad either. An excellent way to incorporate plaits with shorter hair is by scattering them thinly from the parting. Start to braid at the roots in any order, whether it be randomly or positioned neatly. To add more volume and impact, add some braids to layer underneath too.
A favourite of fashionistas from all time periods is the plaited hair band. Although typically longer hair is required to achieve this look, hair pieces are widely available and easy to purchase to create the same brilliant result. A plaited hair band style can run all the way across the hair line, or, for those with a side parting, just the fringe section can also be braided.
A final look that is beautifully created using plaits is the up-do. Not only can they be added to strengthen the structure of any up style and keep it in place, but the look can be entirely created by plaits. This is a more individualised look and can be different every time - try it!
Don't let hair loss stop you from achieving any look you want. Invest in a hair system today!
Daniella Clowd
Bloomsbury of London
Hair Harvest