QUESTION: I love the look of braids, but is there a way to wear them that doesn't look too casual?
ANSWER: A braid is a fun twist on a traditional ponytail, and can give hair a "done" look without too much effort. While Heidi-style braids look great on teen-agers, they're generally not appropriate for women over 25 -- especially in the workplace. But there are ways to make braids look chic and sophisticated. Here, some ideas:
- A braided bun. Gather hair into a low ponytail and secure it with a covered elastic band. Then braid the length of the tail. Wrap the braid around the base of the pony and secure the ends with some bobby pins. For an even more polished look, make a deep side part before you pull your hair into the ponytail.
- A braided twist. Pull your hair into a low ponytail, but don't secure it. Braid the tail, leaving about two inches loose at the ends. Twist the tail up toward the crown of your head and secure it with a barrette. Leave the ends loose.
- A sleek braid. Smooth pomade through dry hair and sweep it back into a low ponytail. Don't secure. Braid the tail, leaving about an inch of loose hair at the ends. Secure with a jeweled or beaded pony holder. Smooth a bit of pomade over the finished braid to add shine.
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