Rapunzel, rapunzel...

Lately, there has been a huge surge of braids (or 'plaits') all over the runways and across the web. From high-end designers to the pin boards of Pinterest, these classic hairstyles are making a big splash. While braids have always been a good go-to hairstyle for warm weather, they have become a huge trend this year and I think will continue to be a major style throughout the spring and summer. From perfect braids, to messy braids, long braids, intricate braids or braided up-dos, the options seem to be limitless. BellaSugar did a story on Fashion Week messy braids from designers like Ann Yee to Creatures of the Wind. The story spotlights braids that spiral around the models' entire head, low ponytail braids, upside down braids, criss-cross 'headband' braids and messy braided chignons.

Aside from the runways, braided 'how-tos' and artsy pics have been bursting all over the internet on sites like Pinterest and on numerous fashion blogs. So I figured that I would pick my favorites and try to replicate them myself. [Either with my own hair or with my model's hair.] Below are the braids that I've done and the inspiration photo that I worked from -- ENJOY!

 **Also, if you want to learn how to do any of the below braids, just click on the name of the braid to link to a step-by-step tutorial. I did some searching and found videos that I thought were the most helpful and straightforward. Or you can always search the name of the braid in YouTube and thousands of step-by-step tutorials will pop up! But if you can't find what you are looking for, feel free to comment below with your questions and I will help you out the best I can.

[TIP: For messy braids, you can run your hands over the braid and/or pull out random strands to give it a tousled look.]

THE WATERFALL BRAID

 

THE MODIFIED WATERFALL BRAID (there are many different ways to end this braid)

THE REVERSE/DUTCH, UPSIDE DOWN FRENCH BRAID

REGULAR REVERSE FRENCH BRAID [with invisible bobby pin end]

THE ZIG-ZAG FRENCH BRAID

THE CROWN/MILKMAID BRAID

Pinterest

Of course you are all most likely aware of Pinterest by now, but I just finally got an account started for myself. Although I knew about the site since spring 2010, I didn't feel like setting up my own page just yet. Plus no one else I knew was really into it at the time. However, I've found that it's a great way to collect all of your inspirational images and display them in one place. Not to mention you might lend some inspiration to other people in the process. Whether you are looking at the latest fashion trends, admiring fashion editorials or just browsing through art, there's really nothing quite like it. So, since I've decided to take this on, I'm going to change up the layout of AmandaVogt.com. Since I have Pinterest page based solely on inspirational (mainly fashion) images, I am going to get rid of that section on my website and instead have a portfolio page with examples of my work, writings and other published articles. This way I can make the most out of the space I have here, and also see what inspires you all. I linked my blog to my Pinterest account from the main page of AmandaVogt.com for easy access. So in case you are wondering where my inspirational images went, now you know! And be sure to check out my Pinterest page, and follow me if you have an account of your own. [If you don't, I highly suggest you start one up!]