If you’re getting tired of managing your hair or you just want a stylish look that’s easy to maintain, braided hairstyles are a very good option. While it’s true that they take time, braids afford you the option of choosing between many different styles without the need for cutting.

There are many braided hairstyles available, and one of the most popular is still the traditional single plait. Combined with a fringe that sweeps to the side, a single plait is a classic hairstyle that may never go out of fashion. Another of the most popular braided hairstyles is micro braid. These are very thin plaited braids that can be worn by both men and women.

French braids are slightly more complex than a simple plait, but benefit from that in terms of elegance. They weave tightly around the back of the head so as to gather all the hair together but flow into a single plait nearer the bottom.

The ‘Basket-Weave’ style’s popular among those wishing to achieve an interesting look on a special occasion. These braids form a criss-cross pattern on the crown of the head and consist of many smaller plaits. Loose hair beneath the neck level can be curled and tied into a bun, and the overall effect is one of complexity and sophistication.

For a feminine look, many women choose ‘Fishtail’ braids. Also popular for children, this type of braiding is not dissimilar to French braids except that strands of hair gathered from the back are very thin.

There are many African braided hairstyles that combine intricacy with colour and vivacity. One of the most popular is the ‘Zulu Knot’. This involves the hair being divided into rectangles or triangles across the scalp and then tied into a knot and braided.

On Sunday, July 25th the cast of the hit series “Mad Men” took to Duffy Square in New York City for the much-anticipated Season 4 Premiere. Actress January Jones sparkled on the red carpet in a haute couture gown and a modern Grecian-inspired hairstyle that complimented the look. Sebastian Professional Stylist Design Team Member Thomas Dunkin tended to the tresses of the leading lady, and shares a step-by-step “how-to” for achieving the actress’ slightly undone updo with modern texture:

1. Starting with damp hair, saturate strands from root to tip with Sebastian Professional Volupt Spray.
2. Tousle hair with fingers while blow-drying to work in volume to maintain a look of “yesterday” texture.
3. Once dry, run hands through hair while spraying Sebastian Professional Re-Shaper throughout for added texture and hold.
4. Randomly select pieces to set with a curling iron for another dousing of texture.
5. Section off hair starting at the top slightly to the right of center.
6. With each section, apply a dab of Sebastian Professional Matte Putty and twist the hair from front to nape making sure to keep a random, textured effect.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 across the whole head, securing each section with clear Blax bands and bobby pins.
8. Massage the hair over the whole head, pulling slightly, for a disheveled finish with a modern twist.