Bold Braids, Bright Beginnings
As we bid farewell to 2023 and welcome 2024, New Year's Eve calls for a celebration filled with sparkle, glamour, and, of course, fabulous hair. If you're looking to make a statement as the clock strikes midnight, a braided hairstyle might be your pick! From intricate updos to playful braids, here's a guide to help you dazzle the night away with beautiful braids on New Year's Eve.The elegant crown braid:
Start the year feeling like royalty with an elegant crown braid. This timeless style exudes sophistication and works well with various hair lengths. Whether you opt for a tight and polished crown or a looser, bohemian variation, this braided look is sure to turn heads as you dance into the New Year. To style your crown braid, begin by parting your hair down the center or slightly off-center, depending on your preference. Brush your dry hair from the bottom, working your way up to ensure a smooth and sleek starting point. Start the braiding process by taking a small section of hair near your hairline, dividing it into three strands, and weaving them into a regular braid. As you progress, gradually incorporate additional sections of hair from along your hairline into the braid. Continue this pattern around your head until you've created a complete crown, securing the ends discreetly with bobby pins. For a polished finish, tuck the ends of the braid beneath the crown, concealing them for a seamless look. To add a more volume, gently pull on the edges of the braid to create a more relaxed and voluminous look. For a romantic twist, leave a few strands loose around your face to frame it delicately. A mist of R+Co Bleu's Featherlight Hairspray will keep your crown braid in place, ensuring a regal and sophisticated hairstyle all night. 
Images via Pinterest. Original sources from L to R: How to Wear Fashion, Pinterest, rpzl.com
Accent braids:
Accent braids are a fantastic way to infuse a touch of boho charm or edge to your NYE look, and they offer endless possibilities for personalization. To style accent braids, begin by selecting the section of hair you want to braid—this can be a small section near your face, along your part, or even framing a bun or ponytail. Divide the chosen section into three strands and start braiding, keeping the weave tight for a clean look or loosening it for a more relaxed, boho vibe. You can experiment with various braid types, such as a classic three-strand braid, a fishtail braid, or a Dutch braid, depending on the look you desire. The versatility of accent braids allows you to unleash your creativity and personalize your hairstyle.
Images via Pinterest. Original sources from L to R: Pinterest, Pinterest
Bubble braid:
The bubble braid, also known as the "bubble ponytail" is a fashionable style option for NYE. The style gained prominence in the early 2000s as a fresh and creative take on traditional ponytails and braids and its evolution is rooted in the versatility of braiding techniques. The bubbled effect is achieved by securing sections of a braided ponytail with clear elastic bands at regular intervals, creating a distinctive and eye-catching pattern. This technique allows for customization, as the size and spacing of the bubbles can be adjusted to suit personal preferences and the desired level of playfulness. For a full tutorial on how to style your bubble braid(s), visit our bubble braids blog post here.
Experiment with accessories, colors, and textures to create a look that reflects your unique style and sets the tone for a fabulous year ahead. Cheers to a glamorous and braided New Year!Shop R+Co products and support ash salon here.