Is it a braid, is it a bunch? Who cares – this summer, we want both and the trends just happen to be on our side. Whether you go for plaits or pigtails, or even a super-stylish hybrid of both (see the Marni Spring/Summer show for serious hairspo) these easy-to-achieve styles are top of our current must-try list. Did we mention they’re also the perfect stealth holiday hair style?
With a spot of strategic styling, grown up braids and pigtails can work for anyone, yes ANYONE. It’s all down to the right execution. To avoid the ‘stolen from your little sister’ look create as much lived in texture as you can before you braid or bunch up. Once they’re in place, a touch of teasing around the hair band will work wonders. Aim for effortlessly undone rather than tightly manicured.
If you’re opting for bunches over braids, keep them low and flowing, rather than high on the head. Allowing a few pieces of hair to fall out naturally will give you more of a laid-back look. Sleek and slicked back is a no-no. ‘I find keeping them low slung and casual, rather than tight and sporty is easier to pull off and far more flattering,’ explains our editorial director Liz Hambleton; ‘the key is to keep it simple.’
And don’t forget, this is a get-up-and-go look that you can whip up 5 minutes before leaving the house, so don’t agonize too much over perfecting it.
Get braided now