Is it a braid, is it a bunch? Who cares – this season, we want both and the trends just happen to be on our side. Whether you go for plaits or pigtails, or even a super-stylish hybrid of both (see the Marni Spring/Summer show for serious hairspo) these easy-to-achieve styles are top of our current must-try list. Did we mention they’re also the perfect stealth holiday hair style?
With a spot of strategic styling, grown up braids and pigtails can work for anyone, yes ANYONE. It’s all down to the right execution. To avoid the ‘stolen from your little sister’ look create as much lived in texture as you can before you braid or bunch up. Once they’re in place, a touch of teasing around the hair band will work wonders. Aim for effortlessly undone rather than tightly manicured.
If you’re opting for bunches over braids, keep them low and flowing, rather than high on the head. Allowing a few pieces of hair to fall out naturally will give you more of a laid-back look. Sleek and slicked back is a no-no. ‘I find keeping them low slung and casual, rather than tight and sporty is easier to pull off and far more flattering,’ explains our editorial director Liz Hambleton; ‘the key is to keep it simple.’
And don’t forget, this is a get-up-and-go look that you can whip up 5 minutes before leaving the house, so don’t agonize too much over perfecting it.
Get braided nowFAQs
How do you make braids or pigtails look more grown up?
To make braids or pigtails look more grown up, create as much lived-in texture as possible before styling. Avoid a tightly manicured look and tease around the hair band for a relaxed finish. The goal is to achieve an effortlessly undone style rather than a highly polished one.
What is the easiest way to style hair in braids or bunches?
Braids or bunches are a get-up-and-go look you can style in about 5 minutes. These styles are simple, quick to achieve, and ideal before leaving the house. You do not need to worry about perfecting them.
How can you avoid looking childish with bunches?
To avoid a childish look, keep your bunches low and flowing instead of high on the head. Allow a few pieces of hair to fall out naturally for a laid-back style. Sleek, slicked-back finishes are not recommended for this look.
What tips help make braids or bunches more flattering?
Keep the style low slung and casual instead of tight and sporty for a more flattering effect. Simple techniques, like teasing and avoided sleekness, make the style easier to pull off for anyone. Effortless and minimal styling works best.
Are braids and pigtails suitable for holidays?
Braids and pigtails are the perfect stealth holiday hairstyle for easy, stylish looks. They are practical for travel and can be created quickly without much effort. The styles help keep hair looking fresh while away.