Ashley Olsen is always early on the trends, so we weren’t surprised to see that she started experimenting with boho braids back in early 2005. She attended Zac Posen’s fashion show wearing a single braid across her hairline and the rest of her hair pulled back into a messy bun. Sienna Miller was spotted the following year walking in New York City with her hair in two small, loosely assembled, face-framing braids. The bohemian beauty stayed true to her understated style and let the rest of her hair dry naturally—an earthy touch we appreciate. Peaches Geldof varied the style in 2007 when she attended an LG party in London wearing pinned-back boho braids. Her hairstyle combination of unstructured waves, heavy fringe, and a pair of petite braids was very hippie chic.

Right now, the most popular version of boho braids is definitely a long and loose version of Olsen’s style. Lindsay Lohan wore a front French braid to a soiree on a yacht in Cannes last month. Her thick braid is more of a statement look and is an excellent party hair option (especially in the humid months). Our final example of the lingering boho braid phenomenon is the always well-coiffed Lauren Conrad. As devotees of The Hills no doubt know, Conrad has been trotting out various versions of the boho braid over the past few months. Seen here in the Washington D.C. airport, Conrad reminded us of the true beauty of the boho braid—its adaptability. Whether it’s elevating a casual outfit of jeans and t-shirt or accompanying a dressier look, the boho braid is always a festive touch.

Braids are the ultimate summer style because they won’t come undone in high humidity and can help keep unruly hair in place. No wonder so many starlets have recently been seen rocking the plaited look! Here’s how to do it:


1. There's no "right" way to braid. "Since every woman is unique with her own hair type, you can modify the braids to suit your style," says Strahan. Feel free to do as many braids as you want and to play around with where you place them.

2. Practice the braid and tuck. Start with dry hair that has a wavy texture, which will hold the braid. Take small sections of hair at your part or hairline, then braid to the ends. Secure with a clear elastic and lightly spritz the braid with a spray gel. We like Herbal Essences Set Me Up Spray Gel. Loosely tuck the bottom of the braid under other pieces of hair so that the ends aren't visible.

3. Fray it out. For a more romantic look, lightly tease your hair so that the braid will look slightly undone, then spray on a flexible hold hairspray to give the style staying power without freezing it in place.

Want to see how you'd look with boho braids? Give yourself a virtual makeover and try on hairstyles in our Braids & Twists Look Book.


Tags: boho braids, lauren conrad, asymmetrical haircuts, stephanie pratt