Beauty Trends To Rock Right Now: Plaits

Posted: 11/09/11

Katie Jones

Follow: Aw 2011, Beauty, Celebrity Hair, Hair, Plaits

Get the look: Plaits Blake Lively, Nicole Kidman and Kirsten Dunst. Photos: Getty Images

While plaits and braids might be a reminder of your school days, the versatile hair do has recently made a reappearance on the catwalk and the red carpet. Kirsten Dunst and Blake Lively have chosen braided updos as an alternative to more formal styles and both Nicole Kidman and Rihanna have been spotted with Rapunzel inspired plaits.

Back on the runways, plaits were braided into centre partings at Todd Lynn's Autunm/Winter show while Heidi-style pigtails hit the catwalk at PPQ.

At Aminaka Wilmont, Toni & Guy stylist Efi Davies also used plaits to create a Gothic twist on the classic cornrow. For a more intricate take on the style, follow Efi's step-by-step guide to the unique look she created for the show.

Plaits: How to wear the catwalk trend

Step 2
 Then release the separated hair from the centre and spritz with <a href="http://www.labelm.co.uk/uk/" target="_blank">Shine Mist</a>.
Step 4
 Interlace plaits in the back section to create the shape and pin back the sides.
Step 3
 Smooth over with <a href="http://www.labelm.co.uk/uk/" target="_blank">Advanced Pro Straightening Irons</a>.
Step 5
 Control any flyaways with with h<a href="http://www.labelm.co.uk/uk/" target="_blank">airspray</a> for extra shine.
Step 1
 You'll need: Pintail comb, straightening irons, hair brush, elastic bands. Start by taking a triangle section at the front of the hair. Then take two diagonal sections, and start scalp plaiting into a horizontal position through the back. Separate the middle triangle with a horizontal section and take two sub-sections in a triangle formation and scalp plait.