The braid is a go-to hairstyle for busy working women, as it can be plaited fairly quickly and braided crowns are equally as popular for swanky evening dos. But it’s not often that you take the time to create a braided chignon. However, this couture hairstyle is going to be big news for spring 2014.
 
The trend. The braid is one of THE most popular styles come summertime. Simple to create with a classic touch, the braid ensures your look is always chic and effortless. Why not give the classic braid a twist this spring by copying the braided chignons spotted on the Oscar de la Renta runway? This hairstyle instantly opens up the face and shoulder area to reveal your beautiful bone structure and creates a regal look.
 
How to wear the couture braid. The couture braid combines two different trends into one style, the chignon and the braid; two staple looks for women. So, rather than sticking to wearing one at a time, mix things up and wear the two at once! Not only will your look be right on trend, but your hairstyle will stay in place all day long without needing to constantly adjust and re-clip any sections of hair.
 
Ideally, your hair should be long to create this hairstyle. Start by creating a tight French braid from the roots of your hair. Plait the whole of your head, then roll the braid back up around itself at the base of the neck. Secure this chignon into place using clips and bobby pins to make sure your style stays put. If you want to go the extra mile, try creating the wet-look version of the couture braid using a gel. Once your style is finished, take a high-shine spray and blast your style to give it a glossy finish.
 
© Pixelformula / Oscar de la Renta prêt-à-porter runway, Spring/Summer 2014 © Jean Louis David