We're Obsessed: Braid Bars

Self Magazine

by Alexandra Samuel

Getty Images
Getty Images

Can we take a second to talk about how perfect braids are for winter? Not only do they stand up to major hat head, they are so versatile that you can rock it at the gym, at a super-chic holiday party (BTW, here's your makeup game plan for those) and anywhere else your life might take you. But, self-plaiting isn't everyone's strong point, and with blow-dry bars taking the nation by storm, it was only natural that a new hairstyling fad hit town: braid bars.

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Basically, instead of getting a full-on wash and blow-out pre-party (or whenever you need to look gorg), you roll in to the salon with second-day hair -- it has better grip for styling -- and a stylist creates a gorgeous braided 'do. Then, you leave with a killer look that's equal to the price of a blow-out or less. Oh, and like a blow-out, a good braid can last more than a day. And these braid bars, guys, are all over the country! A few of my faves:


* The Braid Bar at the AMS Luxury Salon; Philadelphia
* Fluff Bar; Denver
* Nine Zero One; West Hollywood, CA
* Maxine Salon; Chicago
* John Barett Salon at Bergdorf Goodman; NYC

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There are all sorts of braids taking center stage right now, but I'm personally taking inspiration from the romantic, feminine plaits seen at the Rodarte Fall/Winter 2013 show, pictured above. (Sidenote: So did SELF's Web Features Editor, Rachel Jacoby Zoldan, for her recent wedding.)


Want the how-to? Maybe you're looking for a Katniss-style braid instead? Tell us in the comments below and we'll share a tutorial ASAP!

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