Red Carpet Braided Hairstyles

Choose from several different formal braided hairstyles.

Celebrities' looks from the red carpet are an ideal resource for deciding on a trendy, formal hairstyle. Among the elements that are often seen are braids. Braids are very versatile and can be worn for a night out or casual affairs. There are several different red carpet braided hairstyles that you can try.

Big Messy Braids

A red carpet hairstyle that you wouldn't have expected is the big, messy braid. This braid is for a more laid-back affair, and allows for some of the hair up front to be hanging loose. Achieve this look by starting the braid half-way down your hair, and don't worry about keeping it neat or tight. Allow the hair around your face to flow freely and your big messy braid will gradually become even looser throughout the day.

Small Side Braids

A feminine and versatile braided hairstyle is the small side braid, which can be done close to the scalp near the top hairline. Celebrities like Lauren Conrad and Jennifer Aniston have worn this style on the red carpet. A formal style of the small side braid is with an up-do, and neatly done so that the braid as well as the rest of the hair is smooth and free of fly-aways.

Braided Up-do

Braids don't need to be left down to be incorporated into a hairstyle. Nicole Richie was photographed on the red carpet wearing a braided style that wrapped around the top of her head toward the back. Alternatively, start one or more braids high on the back of your scalp and twist them together when you are done, keeping them in place with bobby pins. You can also start two French braids on the sides of your head that end at the top of your head.

Cornrow Braids

Cornrows make a bold and edgy statement when incorporated into a red carpet or formal hairstyle. Cornrows usually start at the hairline and can go all the way down the scalp or stop at any point. Unlike the small side braid, cornrows are done in groups across the scalp. Two or three cornrow braids on the side of your head will add interest to a simple, free-flowing style. Use them to keep your hair out of your face or add an edge to a plain, traditional up-do.

Tags: side braid, small side braid, your head, braided hairstyles, carpet formal, formal hairstyle, incorporated into