If you want to master braiding as badly as I do, follow these tips from Amber, Florido, and Marcus:
• Don't aim for perfection. In fact, braids usually look better when they're a little messy. • The more texture your hair has, the more likely it is to hold the braid (which is why wavy hair tends to have all the fun). Add texture with a beach spray like Fekkai Tousled Wave Spray, $24. • If your hair feels too slippery to braid or has lots of flyaways, it's probably too clean. Braids are best done on slightly "dirty" hair, so wait until the second day after you've washed it for the best results.
• If you have layers in your hair, try twisting each piece before you cross another section over it while braiding. This can help keep the layers from popping out. • Don't stress if you forget which way you're braiding (over vs. under). It doesn't really matter as long as you're wrapping each section smoothly. Plus, if you're pinning, wrapping, or twisting the braid, it will disguise any change in direction. • Get the most out of your braid. Wear it for one or two days, sleep in it, and unravel it for fun, flirty waves on the last day.
There's something so enchanting about braided hairstyles. Braids are one of the few effects that can transform a hot mess of unwashed hair into an ethereal masterpiece. To that end, I'm not ashamed to admit that I spend a good amount of time on Pinterest swooning over boards dedicated to intricate braided hairstyles.
Unfortunately, this routine also involves repeatedly muttering "but how?" under my breath and remembering that I can barely finish a French braid on myself while others can do it with their eyes closed. So, I click out of Pinterest and my hair goes into a ponytail. Again.
But if this sounds familiar, keep reading. Celebrity stylists Florido Basallo and Amber Maynard of Nine Zero One Salon (and its famed braid bar) are giving the braid-challenged (like yours truly) a glimmer of hope. The two experts were more than happy to break down seemingly complicated braided hairstyles into a handful of easy to follow steps. Actually seeing how these celebrity hairstyles came together from start to finish -- instead of just looking at a polished paparazzi shot -- makes them far less intimidating.
Combine these braided hairstyles how-tos with celebrity stylist Marcus Francis' tips for better braiding and you'll be well on your way to A-lister-worthy 'dos. Click ahead to start recreating these gorgeous celeb braided hairstyles now.
