Credits: Sasha La’Brooy

Whether you’re the bride, the maid-of-honour or even the mother of the bride, there is a braided style to suit you. Braids have been around since time immemorial and have always been a hot favourite with brides, both Western and Indian alike. It started out as a simple three strand twist; today, the braid has evolved into (for the better, I might add) more complicated and intricate styles.  If the look you are going for is elegant yet stylish, the braid is definitely for you!  Here are a few styles you could consider!

 

The Braided Chignon

Inspired by Grace Kelly, the braided chignon is subtle yet elegant. Although the name seems complicated, the braided chignon is a simple braid wrapped into a bun at the nape of the neck. Top it off with a sleek tiara, a bejeweled comb or flowers to add a touch of contemporariness to the look.

 

The Braided Bun

 

A little less princess and a little more queen, the braided bun is for the bride who wants to look absolutely regal on her BIG day. This slicked back style is a braid coiled in epic proportions with the help of a more than a few extensions. We definitely recommend it for the traditional Indian bride!

 

The Fishtail Braid

This one is a hot favourite among the PYTs of both Hollywood and Bollywood. Perfect for the contemporary, new age bride (western or Indian), the fishtail is a combination of classy yet current.  You can spice it up with a reverse French braid around the head to give the style some volume. Add a tiny dose of sexy by making it purposefully messy. The style suits both a simple tiara and flowers, whichever you prefer.

 

The Sideswept Braid

 

If simple is what you have in mind, try the side swept braid. Absolutely easy to do and maintain, it is a low key yet interesting take on the normal pinned back braid. Perfect for the Indian bride.

 

The Waterfall Braid

Having an outdoor wedding? The waterfall braid is perfect for you! A little complex but totally stunning, the waterfall braid will definitely give your down do that outdoorsy look. Forego the accessories and pretty it up with a few pretty wild flowers. If you must have a veil, opt for a back veil.

 

The French Braid

Big in the 90s and an all time favourite, the French braid is classy, elegant and stylish. If you are going the traditional route, pretty it up with flowers and beads. It you are inclined to be slightly more experimental, you can always do a side swept French braid.  And for the completely contemporary, yet regal look, try a French braid bun – we recommend a hair trial for this one!

 

The Briad-y Bunch

 As cheesy as the name sounds, if you are looking for an interesting, regal hair-do – this is it! The not-so-simple style is in essence a bunch of braids (the number can vary depending on how intricate you want it) pinned up over each other just above the nape of the neck. A style that suits both Indian and western brides alike, you can dress it up with flowers or a veil or even a jeweled clip.

 

The Halo

Very popular with western brides and flower girls, the halo involves two or three braids wrapped across the head similar to a hair band.  Accessorized with delicate flowers or a simple tiara, the halo is ideal for brides with wavy hair. To add a little interest to the style, combine it with a loose chignon.

 

 

There are many things you can do with braids. The key is to choose a style that suits your features. In the run up to your big day, we definitely recommend discussing your favorite styles with your hair dresser, trying out a few, and if you have an exceptional hair dresser (lucky you!), maybe even playing around with the styles to find one that suits you best. And of course, the cardinal rule for everything you do with regard to your wedding attire applies here too – take someone who will give you an honest opinion along!