Voluminous bangs and a messy, textured fishtail give Alicia Key's side braid oomph. Get the look with a round brush (we like the Goody Blow Dry Protect Brush) and a volumizer like Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse.

Instead of keeping her faux hawk braid short, Selena Gomez takes it to the next level with the braid running down her back instead of tucked under.

For an unexpected pop, try braiding colorful fabric into your basic crown braid, as seen on the Tia Cibani Spring 2014 runway.

Part pompadour, part twisty braid, all gorgeous. Janelle Monet shows how to work an updo with natural hair.

These Dutch braids from the Venexiana Spring 2014 runway are a step up from your typical double French braid/low bun combo. The braid sitting on top of the hair, instead of in the hair, adds dimension.