Braids! They’re everywhere this season, and the style comes in many different varieties. Whether they’re rocking Pocahontas plaits, braided buns, a fishtail pony, or cornrows (a’la Jill Scott) these fashion-forward A-listers have the look down.
02
It’s A Wrap
At the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, model/actress Noemie Lenoir looped a long, braided piece around her sleek upsweep.
03
Braided Badu
Promoting her new album on ‘106 & Park,’ Erykah Badu wore thick, mile-long braids loosely gathered into a side ponytail.
04
Tougher Than Leather
The Pussycat Dolls’ Melody Thornton sporting a long, sexy braid snaking over one shoulder. The severe style looks perfect with her tough, studded motorcycle jacket.
05
Grecian Goddess
Alicia Keys recently hit the red carpet wearing a Grecian goddess-inspired updo accentuated with a skinny braided wrap.
06
Pretty Plait
For a casual chic look, Thandie Newton pulls her long locks into a loose, over-the-shoulder braid. We love the cheeky black ribbon!
07
Sleek Chic
Ciara rocked a head full of pristine, sleek cornrows during an exclusive performance at a pre-Grammy bash.
08
Up & Away
At Oscar de la Renta’s Spring 2010 fashion show, the designer outfitted models in braided headbands woven with multi-colored fabric. Here, Joan Smalls flaunts the Swiss Miss-inspired look.
09
Fierce Fishtail
At London’s prestigious Love Ball, Leona Lewis rocked a perfectly imperfect fishtail pony, leaving out some sexy, face-framing strands.
10
Sixties Siren
Sanaa Lathan arrived at the NAACP Image Awards wearing an oversized bun paired with a thick, braided band—very ’60s era Liz Taylor.
11
Easy Elegance
Actress and ESSENCE.com blogger Joy Bryant is the picture of unstudied glamour in this easy-breezy, side-swept braid.