Pretty but utilitarian headband braids were all over the Fashion Week runways, and they've been the rage among celebrities for months now. But although they might seem like a limited, one-size-fits-all kind of style, there are actually lots of ways to wear the look. Whether you have short or long hair, fine or thick, there's a headband braid that will work for you. Read more

Everyone loves a pretty braid, but creating perfectly smooth plaits is difficult, verging on well-nigh impossible for those of us with layers. Which is why the disheveled braids coming down the runway are good news. They're pretty and fashion forward, but they allow for plenty of loose strands, not-quite-right crossovers, and stuck-out pieces, too. It's a braid new world, so don't be afraid to Read more

Who needs a sleeve when you can wear your heart on the top of your head! While some tots will be sporting their Valentine's love with their clothes, lil ones with long manes can fashion their hair into the ultimate symbol of love with a heart braid. Cozy Friedman of New York's Cozy's Cuts for Kids and the author of Cozy's Complete Guide to Girls' Hair ($9), shared the sweet holiday look with us. Read more

Blake Lively has some of the best hair in Hollywood, and at the Green Lantern premiere in Los Angeles yesterday, she did not disappoint. Wearing a white Chanel frock, Blake's hairstylist, Rod Ortega, created beachy waves that were tossed back into a tousled ponytail and a trio of fishtailed braids. A gold and diamond floral hair accessory with filigree details topped off the hairstyle for a truly Read more

At the 2011 Cannes Film Festival premiere for Sleeping Beauty, Diane Kruger debuted what may be her most innovative hairstyle yet: a textured, tousled plait that was part fishtail braid, part pin curl, and 100 percent cool. To get the look, start by spritzing a texturizing spray into dry hair. Leave out sections of hair in both the front and on top, braiding the back into a loose side braid. Read more

The ponytail braid has been the style of choice for many celebrities hitting the red carpet as of late. It's a chic, carefree look, but if you're searching for some more unique ways to style these types of braids, you've come to the right place. Take Jennifer Hudson, for instance, who sported this ultralong side braid at a recent event. To get the style, snap in some thick, long extensions if Read more

Charlize Theron is always a standout, but her braided chignon at the Critics' Choice Awards was perhaps the prettiest hair we've seen in 2012. Charlize's stylist, Enzo Angileri, says he was inspired by the beauty of Spanish Flamenco dancers, but you don't have to be on a stage in Seville to get this hair. Here, Angileri gives a step-by-step on Charlize's winning hairstyle — plus, we've tracked Read more

Fishtail braids are hotter than ever. And while a popular way is to wear them is tousled and off to the side, here's something else you can do to make these pretty plaits all the more interesting: just add color. To re-create the look, all you need is a few color clip-on hair extensions and a touch of dexterity. You're well on your way to some rather festive fishtailing. Read more

From faux-fur vests to leopard-print anything, Rachel Zoe always seems to find a way to make just about any piece of clothing or accessory look covetable. And when it comes to her hair, it's the same story. At her Zoe Media Group launch party last night, Rachel combined two trends — braids and ponytails — into one style. To re-create the look yourself, start by applying a wave-enhancing Read more

Braids are a pretty big deal around here, and although they're always popular, 2011 was a huge year for plait lovers. We saw everything from a sudden fad for rainbow-colored braids to messy fishtails and "hidden" plaits. Which look deserves to be called the best, though? Check out the year's best trends and decide for yourself. Read more