Trend Alert! The Braidy Bunch Get Plaited in Time for Summer
Whether it’s a long, thick one down your back, a few small ones around the crown, or an elaborate work of art sitting upon your head, plaits are back and they’re here to stay – for summer 2010, at least.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been plaiting hair since I was about six. It started with simple plaiting, then became more complex French braiding. Circa 2002 (aged 15) I developed a love for rap music and consequently spent hours every night learning how to cornrow my hair into lots of tiny French plaits all over the head. This is a style rarely (and rightfully so – I looked bald) seen on non-Afro hair. The unhappy result of this phase is manifested in some very embarrassing photos which I’d like to never see again.
Thankfully for me, this skill has come back into use. Don’t panic, I’m not about to start cornrowing my fine blond hair again. But I will attempt a cute, Heidi-style plait that starts at one ear and curves over the top of the head to the other ear. Some fine, loose plaits sitting amidst wavy tresses will be perfect for completing the boho chic look at a festival this summer. Even two, ultra-neat, horsey-girl plaits on either side of the head will look great with a tailored jacket and barely-there make up. Conversely, if you’re going all-out with smoky eyes and false lashes, a long, loose plait will dress the look down. To match with the on-trend Grecian maxi dresses that are popular in the shops now, try loose, volumised waves and French-plait your fringe just over the forehead.
Trust me; you’ll love it once you’ve tried it. Plaits are especially practical on very hot days when fringes and loose tendrils can cling uncomfortably to your face (NB: Remember on Friends when they went to Barbados? Monica’s humidity-inspired braids with shells attached to the end are not an appropriate way to pay homage to this trend).
Others associated with plaits include Pippi Longstocking, Alicia Keys, Helen Of Troy, Nicole Richie and R Kelly. You decide who’s cool and who isn’t – and whose look you’ll be copying!