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If you're going for an elegant, sophisticated look, a braided veil hairstyle might be just what you're looking for. To achieve the braided veil effect, sections of your hair are formed into braids and used to create a veil effect -- picture all those bridal magazines you have stashed away and you'll get the idea -- and there are various hairdos you can create with this veil added in.
Single Braid
To create the braided veil hairstyle, it's all about proper positioning. The braids are styled and secured around the crown of your head. They curve around your head where a bridal veil would typically sit, hence the name. Part your hair down the center, pull out a 1-inch wide section of hair on each side and braid down the hair, incorporating extra bits of hair into each section as you form the braid, to keep it tight against your head. Use bobby pins to secure each braid at the back of your head and finish with a bit of hair spray.
Double Braid
For a braided veil hairstyle that's twice as nice, double up on your braids. Braid one section on each side of your head as you would for the regular braided veil 'do, then add a second braid behind the first on each side, pinning them against your head at the back the same way. Make the second braids the same size, or a bit smaller or larger to enhance the texturized effect of this hairstyle.
Bun
After your braided veil is in place, styling the rest of your hair into a bun keeps up with your glamorous 'do, and besides that, it takes literally seconds to do. Even when you're in a rush, you can create this uber-elegant 'do that looks like you just spent hours in a salon chair. Pull your hair together into a ponytail shape at the nape of your neck, form it into a bun against your head and pin it in place.
Pinned Up
For short to medium-length hair, twisting the hair around the back of your head up and pinning it against your head suits the elegant braided veil you have on top. Work in sections if your hair is thick, literally rolling the ends up until you reach the nape of your neck. Use bobby pins to secure the hair in place, sliding them in over each other for the most secure hold.
Braid
Continue the braided effect in your hair by styling your loose hair into a braid too. Stick with a single braid rather than multiple braids, to avoid looking like you've just gone braid-crazy.This creates more fullness in your hair because it's all styled together, making it look more bulky and voluminous. Gather your hair together and braid down the length of it, securing the ends with a hair elastic.
Loose
You don't have to put the rest of your hair up after adding in your braided veil. Leave the rest of your hair loose to show off the full length of it and keep your look more casual. Straighten your hair for a dramatic effect between the texture of the braids and sleekness of your hair. Flip the ends of your hair under slightly to keep it looking bouncy and full, not flat and lifeless.
