I'm On the Braid Bandwagon (These Steps Will Help You Join, Too)

I haven't worn braids since the fourth grade, but seeing celebs like Maria Menounous and Selena Gomez looking so darn cute in theirs made me want to give them a try.

Luckily, I live in New York City, where the John Barrett salon just opened "The Braid Bar" -- the city's first (and only) salon that specializes in braiding hair. I love it because you can choose from dozens of different braids featured in a catalogue and because it's quick -- my braided look took about 11 minutes from start to finish.

The look I chose is pictured here and I asked my braid stylist, Marco Maranghello, to walk me through the steps so that you guys can master this look at home.

Step 1: Part your hair in the middle and then divide into two front and one back section using the back of the ear as the "middle" guideline.
Step 2: Braid both front sections and secure the ends with a hair tie.
Step 3: Make three different ponytails with the back section of hair. The easiest way is to have them spaced evenly, with a ponytail at the crown, center, and nape.
Step 4: Braid each of the ponytails and tie off the ends with a hair tie.
Step 5: Bring the braids from the front section to the back. They don't have to be at the same height. Pin them into place near the center of the head.
Step 6: Take the three braided ponytails from the back and wrap each of them into a pin curl. Make sure the pin curl is flat, and weave a bobby pin into the curl to secure it. Get creative with where you place the pin curls and bobby pins. Depending on the placement, you'll end up with a chignon or banana twist or your very own "new" style.

You can watch me get my hair braided by Marco by clicking here, and, you can click here to watch Marco walk you through the steps.

And, if you want more step-by-step braiding tips and style ideas, check out these.