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If you're tired of wearing your hair down, try a different kind of updo, and plait your tresses into a cute braided or cornrow style. There are tons of ways to sport braids, from simple to subtle to super creative, so feel free to have fun, and experiment with different looks.
Classic Cornrow
Make your look a little tough and edgy with a classic cornrow style. Pulling off a head full of well constructed cornrows takes skill, so if you've never tried before, it may be best to go to a stylist. To get the look, part hair vertically into many sections -- usually between six and 10. Cornrow each section back until the braid reaches the nape of the neck. Then braid the rest normally and secure at the end with small elastic bands.
Braided Bun
Try your bun with a couple of cute cornrows to spice it up. Part hair on the side. Then, start cornrowing at the part, going down and along the hairline until you reach the nape of the neck. Repeat on the other side of your part. Now, take the rest of your hair and twist it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins.
Micro-Braids
Micro-braids are way more involved than other braided styles. This is definitely one you're going to want to visit an expert for. Usually, hair is braided using your hair along with store-bought hair, into tiny sections, and braided all the way down. These braids take a long time to achieve, but you can wear them for an extended period of time. A style that's generally sported by African-American women, micro-braids can be kept in for even as long as months and styled just like your actual hair.
Angled Braid
Instead of braiding all of your hair up, try leaving some of it down. Create a deep side part and braid the smaller parted side of your hair straight down to the nape of the neck. Secure with bobby pins. The rest of your hair is just worn down. This works with straight or curly styles, so try either.

