The braided Updo

Everywhere I look these days I am seeing braids. On the runway, movies, television, and in all the gossip mags braided looks are everywhere! I hate to admit it, because I love the braided look, but I get the feeling that Lauren Conrad from The Hills (or rather her hairstylist) has had a lot to do with this resurgence of the braided updo. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure she is a lovely girl, but she's hardly the person I like to think of as a style icon! Regardless of who I have to thank, the braid is back and I'm in a happy hair world!

As far as braids go, there is something for everyone - it doesn't matter if your hair is long, medium or short, a braid can always be added. Check out the pics to the right for braided looks that work with ALL types of hair lengths.

Paris Hilton's braid has been woven right into the side of her updo using the french braid technique, adding a lot of dimension and texture to a haircut that is hard to do different things with.

Jessica Alba's updo also features a braid that has been placed along the side of her updo to create a focus point and a lot of interest. I love how young, carefree, and bohemian this braided updo looks, while still managing a chic factor!

And then there's gracefully, classic Penelope Cruz who is totally glamming it up on the red carpet with a full braided updo. Although this look seems like it would be so hard to recreate, if you are able to buy hair extensions it is actually super easy!! It's the perfect updo for a wedding or prom!

By the way, you can see all these pictures along with amazing step by step instructions on how to create the updos, and a store to buy the extensions all on the web at Hair Updo Styles. Check the link below:)